Crunch Moving Cost Estimator
Compare hiring professional movers versus renting a truck yourself. Pick your home size and distance for an instant cost range.
| DIY truck rental | $0 |
| You save going DIY | $0 |
| Move type | — |
How it works
Estimates use national averages: professional movers charge a base by home size plus per-mile for long hauls (local moves under 100 miles use an hourly-style flat rate). DIY combines a truck rental base, per-mile rate, and fuel. Results show realistic low–high ranges.
Formula & worked example
Formula: Movers are modelled as a base range by home size (a 2-bedroom base is $1,400–$2,200): a local move under 100 miles costs 55% of the base, while a long-distance move adds $2.20–$3.40 per mile. The DIY figure is a truck base plus a per-mile rate plus fuel at about 10 mpg.
Worked example: A 2-bedroom move of 500 miles: movers come to $2,500–$3,900 against a DIY truck estimate of $704–$893. Done locally instead, the same movers would run about $770–$1,210.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to hire movers or do it yourself?
DIY is almost always cheaper in dollars — but factor in your time, risk of injury or damage, and whether friends will actually show up.
What counts as a long-distance move?
Generally over 100 miles (or crossing state lines). Long-distance moves are priced by weight and distance; local moves are usually hourly.
When is the cheapest time to move?
Mid-month, mid-week, and fall through winter. Avoid June–August and the last weekend of any month.
📦 Moving for a new job?
Convert your salary offer with the hourly-to-salary converter, or check how much house you can afford at the new address.