Moving Cost Calculator

For a local move, the estimate is calculated as estimated hours × hourly rate + flat travel fee. For a long-distance move, it is (shipment weight ÷ 100) × rate per CWT + miles × fuel/travel surcharge.

The displayed range applies a 15% band around the calculated total and rounds to the nearest $25 for local moves or $50 for long-distance moves. These are editable planning estimates, not live or binding quotes — get written estimates from movers for final numbers.

Methodology and sources

Reviewed August 28, 2026. Scope: general U.S. moving-cost planning. Local-market rates and interstate tariffs vary, so every monetary field is editable.

• The initial local example uses 3 movers for 6 hours at $175 per hour. The long-distance example uses 5,500 lb over 500 miles at $22 per CWT plus $0.75 per mile. These are internal, editable planning inputs—not published national averages.
• Home-size crew, time, and weight suggestions are proportional planning heuristics designed to populate the form. Replace them with an inventory-based mover estimate whenever possible.
• The ±15% range and $25 local / $50 long-distance rounding are this calculator’s display method, not an industry rule.
• The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s consumer-rights guidance explains protections for interstate moves, and its estimating guidance explains the written estimate of transportation and additional charges a mover must provide.