Skip to main content
A moving company transports household goods from one location to another. Services range from basic loading and transportation to full-service packing, unpacking, and storage. The moving industry includes both reputable professionals and fraudulent operators. Understanding how moving services work helps consumers choose reliable movers and avoid common problems.

​
What This Section Covers

Types of Moves

Local, long-distance, interstate, and specialty moving

Getting Estimates

In-home surveys, virtual estimates, and binding quotes

The Moving Process

Timeline, packing, loading, and delivery

Costs and Pricing

How pricing works and what affects your cost

Protecting Your Belongings

Insurance, valuation coverage, and claims

Avoiding Scams

Red flags, fraud prevention, and complaints

Comparing Movers

Questions to ask and what to look for

​
Why Choosing the Right Mover Matters

Moving companies take possession of everything you own. Choosing the wrong mover can result in:
  • Damaged or broken items
  • Lost belongings
  • Held-hostage situations (refusing to unload until you pay more)
  • Theft
  • Items never delivered
Moving costs vary widely, and pricing practices aren’t always transparent.
  • Low estimates can balloon on moving day
  • Hidden fees may appear
  • Damage claims can be denied
  • Deposits may be non-refundable
Moving typically coordinates with real estate closings, lease dates, and job starts.
  • Delays affect closing schedules
  • Storage costs add up quickly
  • Missed delivery windows cause cascading problems
Moving industry has higher complaint rates than many other service industries.
  • FMCSA receives thousands of complaints annually
  • Rogue movers operate without proper licensing
  • Bait-and-switch pricing is common
  • Enforcement is limited

​
Types of Moving Services

Company handles everything:
  • Packing all items
  • Loading truck
  • Transportation
  • Unloading
  • Unpacking and placement
  • Debris removal
Most expensive but least work for customer.
Customer packs; company loads, transports, and unloads.Most common service level. Reduces cost while still having professionals handle heavy lifting and driving.
Helpers load and unload your rental truck.Lowest cost professional option. You handle packing, truck rental, and driving.
Container delivered to your location. You pack and load. Company transports.Flexible timing. Good for moves where you need storage between locations.
Specific items requiring special handling:
  • Piano moving
  • Fine art
  • Antiques
  • Hot tubs and spas
  • Safes
  • Vehicles
Requires specialized equipment and expertise.

​
Regulation Overview

Moving across state lines is regulated by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).Requirements:
  • USDOT number
  • Motor carrier (MC) number
  • Minimum insurance coverage
  • Published tariff
  • Rights and responsibilities documentation
Verify licensing at FMCSA website before hiring.
Moving within a state is regulated by state authorities.Requirements vary by state:
  • Some states require licensing
  • Some have no requirements
  • Insurance requirements differ
Check your state’s requirements.
Licensed movers must:
  • Carry minimum insurance
  • Provide written estimates
  • Offer valuation options
  • Follow dispute resolution procedures
  • Be subject to FMCSA enforcement
Unlicensed movers have no such requirements.
The moving industry has significant fraud problems. Unlicensed operators, bait-and-switch pricing, and held-hostage situations occur regularly. Always verify licensing and research companies thoroughly before hiring.

​
Cost Overview

Typically charged by hour plus truck fee.Average costs:
  • Studio/1 bedroom: $400 - $1,000
  • 2 bedroom: $800 - $1,600
  • 3 bedroom: $1,100 - $2,200
  • 4+ bedroom: $1,500 - $3,000+
National average approximately $1,400. Varies significantly by location and company.
Typically charged by weight and distance.Average costs:
  • Studio/1 bedroom: $1,500 - $4,000
  • 2-3 bedroom: $3,000 - $7,000
  • 4+ bedroom: $5,000 - $14,000+
National average approximately $4,500 - $6,000. Varies significantly by distance, weight, and services.
Common add-on charges:
  • Packing services and materials
  • Stairs or elevator fees
  • Long carry fees
  • Heavy or bulky item fees
  • Storage
  • Valuation upgrades
Moving costs vary significantly by location, season, and market conditions. Always get multiple quotes for your specific move.

​
Timeline

  • 8+ weeks before: Research and get estimates
  • 6 weeks before: Book mover
  • 4 weeks before: Begin packing non-essentials
  • 2 weeks before: Confirm details with mover
  • 1 week before: Finish packing
  • Day before: Final preparation
Moving demand is highest:
  • Summer months (May through September)
  • End of month dates
  • Weekends
  • Holidays
Peak season means higher prices and less availability. Book early.

Find Moving Companies

Research licensed moving companies in your area.