Hiring movers is worth it when your time, safety or a long distance matters more than the extra cost. HireAHelper’s 2026 data puts a typical local full-service move at about $1,010, versus $495 for labor-only help where you rent the truck. For many local moves, labor-only movers are the best value.
Last updated: October 30, 2026. Prices below come from the dated sources listed at the end of this article and change often, so confirm current rates before you book.
How much do movers cost in 2026?
HireAHelper’s medians from more than 160,000 completed local moves (July 2023 to August 2026):
| Home size | Labor-only (you rent the truck) | Local full-service (movers bring the truck) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment | $387 (2.3 hrs) | $825 (4.1 hrs) |
| 2-bedroom apartment | $474 (2.6 hrs) | $991 (4.8 hrs) |
| 3-bedroom apartment | $563 (2.9 hrs) | $1,248 (5.6 hrs) |
| 2-bedroom house | $471 (2.7 hrs) | $890 (4.3 hrs) |
| 3-bedroom house | $561 (3.0 hrs) | $1,258 (5.4 hrs) |
| 4-bedroom house | $645 (3.3 hrs) | $1,498 (6.1 hrs) |
| 5-bedroom house | $696 (3.5 hrs) | $1,524 (6.3 hrs) |
Source: HireAHelper 2026 local moving cost methodology. Costs are medians; hours are averages.
HireAHelper says a two-mover labor-only crew averages about $148 an hour nationally, with a two-hour minimum (about $295).
Are movers worth it for a long-distance move?
| Cross-country option (1,500 sq ft home) | Typical cost | Your effort |
|---|---|---|
| Rental truck | About $3,250 | Load, drive and unload yourself |
| Moving container (PODS) | About $4,856 | Load and unload; no driving |
| Full-service movers | About $9,500 | Minimal |
Source: HireAHelper 2026 Moving Container Cost Database, last updated August 5, 2026.
Over long distances, the gap is bigger, but so is the work: several days of driving a large truck, fuel, lodging and the trip back. Compare options in PODS vs. U-Haul for a cross-country move and long-distance moving costs.
When is hiring professional movers worth it?
- You have a larger home or heavy items such as pianos, safes or large furniture, where injury and damage risk is high.
- Your time is expensive. HireAHelper’s data shows a full-service crew finishes a typical 3-bedroom house move in about 5.4 hours.
- You are moving out of state and do not want to drive a truck for days.
- You need stairs, elevators or tight timing handled by an experienced crew.
When is DIY or labor-only the better choice?
- A studio or 1-bedroom moving locally, with friends to help.
- You are comfortable driving a rental truck and want to save about half: labor-only help runs about $387 to $696 by home size versus $825 to $1,524 for full service.
- You are using a container or truck for a long move and only need help loading and unloading.
Are professional movers insured?
Interstate movers must offer two liability options. Full Value Protection covers the replacement value of lost or damaged items and is the default; Released Value Protection costs nothing extra but pays only up to 60 cents per pound per item. Before you hire, confirm the mover’s USDOT registration and avoid the common moving scam red flags.
How do you get the best price from movers?
Get at least three written estimates for the same inventory and dates, ask whether each is binding or non-binding (see binding vs. non-binding estimates), and book early for summer, when demand peaks.
Not sure if movers fit your budget? Get free moving quotes from licensed, insured movers, or call (855) 975-6961.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do movers cost for a local move?
HireAHelper’s 2026 data puts a typical local full-service move at about $1,010 and a labor-only move at about $495. A 2-bedroom apartment runs about $991 full-service or $474 labor-only.
Is it cheaper to hire labor-only movers?
Usually. Labor-only crews load and unload while you provide the truck or container, and typically cost about half as much as local full-service movers.
How much do movers charge per hour?
HireAHelper reports a two-mover labor-only crew averages about $148 an hour nationally, with a two-hour minimum of about $295.
Are professional movers insured?
Interstate movers must offer Full Value Protection, which covers replacement value, or free Released Value Protection, which pays up to 60 cents per pound per item. Ask each mover what coverage the quote includes.
Is it worth hiring movers for a small apartment?
Often a labor-only crew is the best value. HireAHelper’s median for a 1-bedroom apartment is about $387 for labor-only help versus $825 for full service.
Related guides
- Quotes from moving companies explained
- Self-service vs. full-service long-distance movers
- How to choose a reliable interstate mover
- Best moving apps for an organized move
Sources
- HireAHelper: 2026 local moving cost averages and methodology (data July 2023 to August 2026)
- HireAHelper: PODS cost and Moving Container Cost Database (last updated August 5, 2026)
- FMCSA: Liability and Protection (accessed October 30, 2026)
About the Author
This article was written by the team at Rex Direct, the owners of QuickMovingQuotes.com.
Rex Direct supports businesses and consumers throughout the moving industry by providing technology and data solutions that help homeowners compare moving services, understand pricing, and make informed relocation decisions.
Through their work with movers, relocation platforms, and lead generation services, the Rex Direct team has developed extensive insight into how interstate moving companies operate and how consumers can protect themselves during the moving process.