Moving Cost Estimator
Estimate your moving cost based on distance and home size. Calculated from BLS OES 2023 federal labor data with regional adjustments across all 50 states. See our methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this cost estimator?
This tool provides baseline estimates based on BLS OES 2023 wage data (SOC 53-7062, $17.88/hr median) with regional adjustments. Actual moving costs vary by mover, season, access conditions, and specialty items. Always obtain at least 3 binding quotes from FMCSA-registered carriers.
Does this estimate include packing services?
No. The estimate covers labor for loading/unloading, transportation, and basic materials (blankets, shrink wrap). Packing services, specialty item handling, storage, and insurance upgrades typically add 20-40% to the base cost.
How is the hourly labor rate calculated?
We use the BLS Occupational Employment Statistics median hourly wage for laborers and material movers (SOC 53-7062), adjusted by regional cost multipliers from BLS geographic profiles. The rate includes employer overhead and workers compensation insurance.
Why does crew size change with home size?
Larger homes require more workers for efficient loading and to prevent damage. A studio or 1-bedroom move uses 2 workers, a 2-3 bedroom uses 3 workers, and a 4+ bedroom uses 4 workers. More crew members reduce total job time but increase the hourly labor cost.
Data source: BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) 2023, SOC 53-7062. Regional adjustments from BLS Geographic Profiles. For informational purposes only.
Every figure on PlainMove is computed directly from federal source data, no number is typed in by an editor. Estimates are computed directly from federal source data, no figure is typed in by an editor. See our editorial standards & corrections policy, the methodology behind these numbers, or report a data error.