What’s Included in a Standard Move
Most moving companies offer a basic package that includes:- Truck and transportation: Movers provide a truck sized for your belongings, used for loading and unloading.
- Moving crew: A team of two or more movers handles the lifting. Local moves are usually billed by the hour, while long-distance moves depend on distance and weight.
- Fuel and travel time: Many movers include fuel costs or charge travel time from their office to your home and back.
- Basic insurance: Movers must provide minimum protection of $0.60 per pound per item, meaning a 50-pound TV would only be covered for $30.
- Typical rates: Expect to pay $120–$250+ per hour for two or three movers and a truck.
Extra or Hidden Costs
Moving costs can rise quickly due to added services or overlooked details, such as:
- Packing materials and services: Boxes, bubble wrap, and packing help cost extra.
- Furniture disassembly: Some movers charge for taking apart and reassembling large furniture.
- Storage: If there’s a gap between move-out and move-in dates, storage adds to the total.
- Utilities and insurance: Expect setup fees for hydro, internet, or gas, and consider extra coverage for valuable items.
- Elevator or stair fees: Some buildings charge for elevator bookings or difficult stair access.