How Much Do Movers Charge?

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When planning a move, one of the first and most important questions you’ll likely ask is: How much do movers charge? The cost of hiring professional movers can vary significantly depending on the distance, the size of your home, the number of movers required, and any additional services.

You must know the answer in order to avoid unexpected costs and to make sure your move fits within your budget. Whether you’re relocating across town or to a different state, understanding how moving companies determine their pricing is of utmost importance.

We will together explore what affects moving costs, provide a breakdown of average prices in Minneapolis, and give you many tips to help you save money.

Factors That Affect Moving Costs

Several variables can affect how much moving companies charge, in Minnesota and anywhere else. Below are the primary aspects that affect movers Minneapolis cost.

Distance of the Move (Local vs. Long-Distance)

One of the most significant factors in determining how much do movers charge is the distance between your current home and your new location. Local moves, typically those within a 50-mile radius, are usually priced based on an hourly rate per mover, plus truck and fuel fees. These moves are often completed in a single day, making pricing more predictable.

For long-distance moves, pricing is determined by both the total mileage and the weight of your belongings. Moving companies may charge per pound of cargo or offer a flat-rate estimate based on distance and inventory. Because long-distance moves require more logistical planning, fuel, and labor, they tend to be significantly more expensive than local moves.

Size of the Move (Studio, 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedroom, etc.)

The size of your home and the number of items you need to move play a crucial role in pricing. A small studio apartment with minimal furniture will cost significantly less than moving a 4-bedroom house filled with furniture, appliances, and personal belongings.

Studio/1-bedroom apartment: Typically requires 2 movers and 3-4 hours of work.
2-3 bedroom home: May require 3-4 movers and 5-7 hours of labor.
4+ bedroom home: Often needs a larger crew (4-6 movers) and a full-day moving schedule.

The more belongings you have, the more time and manpower it will take to load, transport, and unload everything. If you have bulky furniture, and a large inventory of personal items, you can expect higher costs.

Number of Movers Needed

The number of movers assigned to your move directly affects the cost. While hiring more movers increases your hourly rate, it can also make your move more efficient, reducing the total time needed to complete the job. This balance between cost and efficiency is important.

Time of Year and Demand (Peak Moving Seasons vs. Off-Season)

The time of year has a huge influence on how much do packers and movers cost. Moving companies experience higher demand during peak seasons, which drives up prices. The busiest moving times include:

Summer months (May-September) – High demand, higher prices, and limited availability.
End of the month – Many leases end, increasing demand for movers.
Weekends – More convenient for movers, leading to higher prices.

If you’re looking for lower rates, consider moving during the off-season (fall and winter) or booking your move on a weekday instead of a weekend.

Services Included (Packing, Unpacking, Storage, etc.)

Your final moving cost will depend on whether you require additional services beyond basic transportation.

Packing and Unpacking – Can be charged hourly or as a flat rate.
Storage services – Temporary storage for belongings before or after your move.
Furniture disassembly and Reassembly – Required for larger pieces.

If you choose full-service moving, where the company handles everything from packing to furniture setup, expect to pay significantly more than a standard move. However, this can save you time and effort, especially for large or complex moves.

Specialty Items (Pianos, Antiques, Oversized Furniture)

Certain items require extra handling and equipment, which increases moving costs. Specialty items include:

Pianos – Require special tools and trained movers to prevent damage.
Antiques and fragile items – Need protective packing and careful transport.
Oversized furniture – May require hoisting, disassembly, or special handling.

Average Cost of Movers in Minnesota

This is what you can expect to pay for moving services in Minnesota.

Local Moves (Within Minneapolis and Nearby Areas)

The average hourly rate for local movers in Minneapolis (in most cases) ranges from $100 to $150 per hour.
The final cost depends on the number of movers, the amount of time needed, and extra services.
Most local moves take between 3 and 8 hours.

Long-Distance Moves (Moving to Another City or State)

The cost for long-distance moves generally falls between $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on: distance between locations, tThe weight of your household items, and, as usual, additional services/
Some moving companies offer flat-rate pricing, others calculate it in different ways.

Estimated Moving Costs by Home Size

Studio or 1-Bedroom Apartment:

Local move: $300 to $600.
Long-distance move: Starts at $1,500+.

2-Bedroom Apartment or Small Home:

Local move: $600 to $1,200.
Long-distance move: Usually ranges from $2,000 to $4,000+.

3-Bedroom Home:

Local move: $1,200 to $2,500.
Long-distance move: Can cost $3,500 to $7,000+, particularly for cross-country relocations.

Larger Homes (4+ Bedrooms):

Local move: $2,500+.
Long-distance move: Costs $5,000+.

Breakdown of Moving Costs

Let’s talk once again about common fees you can expect:

Hourly Rates vs. Flat Rates: Movers often charge by the hour for local moves, whereas long-distance moves are typically billed at a flat rate. Hourly rates are between $100 and $150 per hour, while flat rates are based on many factors.
Packing and Unpacking Fees: If you require packing and unpacking services, expect an additional fee. The cost of packing services can range from $300 to $1,000 depending on the size of the home and the materials required.
Truck and Fuel Costs: In addition to the labor costs, you will also pay for the rental of the truck and fuel. For local moves, this cost might be included in the hourly rate, but for long-distance moves, these costs are separate in 95% of cases.
Additional Fees (Stairs, Elevators, Long Carry Fees, etc.): Be prepared for additional fees such as: stair fees for buildings without elevators, long carry fees if your apartment is far from the moving truck, heavy item fees for particularly challenging items, etc.

These fees can add up quickly, so make sure to clarify them before the move.

How to Get the Best Moving Rates?

Moving can be expensive, but with the right strategy, you can lower your costs and secure the best deal without sacrificing quality.

One of the best ways to save money is to get multiple quotes. Instead of settling for the first local moving company you find, request estimates from at least three to five different movers. But be wary of companies offering prices that seem too good to be true. Such one could often signal hidden fees or subpar service.

Booking your move in advance is another key strategy. Last-minute bookings often result in higher prices due to limited availability, so if possible, schedule your movers at least four to six weeks ahead of time. This is a must during peak moving seasons, but it’s important always.

Decluttering before your move is another way to lower costs. Movers charge based on weight, volume, and time, so reducing the number of items you need to transport can lead to significant savings. Take the time to sort through your belongings and sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need. Large furniture or bulky items that may not fit well in your new space could be sold, too.

Last, but not least, always check for promotions and discounts. Many moving companies offer seasonal deals, first-time customer discounts, and referral bonuses, so it’s worth asking about any available savings.

How Goal Line Moving Offers Competitive Pricing?

At Goal Line Moving, we are proud of our reputation for delivering affordable, reliable, and transparent moving services for residents in Minnesota. Moving can be stressful, there is no shortcut, but we are here to make it easier for you. Our prices are competitive and our service is top-tier. Also, you can find discounts and promotions at Goal Line Moving.

We believe in honest, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Our quotes include all essential costs, so there are no surprises. If additional fees apply for specialty items, stairs, or long carries, we inform you beforehand so you can plan your budget accurately.

Our team consists of trained, professional movers who prioritize efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction. We handle every item with care, reducing the risk of damage.

In Conclusion

Knowing how much do moving companies charge and the key factors that influence pricing allows you to plan your move more efficiently and cost-effectively.

At Goal Line Moving, we’re committed to providing affordable and reliable moving services in Minneapolis and surrounding areas. Plus, with our transparent pricing, you’ll know exactly what to expect — no hidden fees, no last-minute surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much do moving companies charge for storage services?

Storage services cost between $50 and $200 per month, depending on the size of the storage unit and the length of time you need. Some moving companies include storage as part of their service for long-distance moves, while others charge separately for this service.

What is the cost difference between hiring professional movers and doing it yourself?

Hiring professional movers costs more than doing it yourself. Nevertheless, professional movers save you time, energy, and reduce the risk of injury or damage to your belongings, making it a worthwhile investment.

How much do movers charge if I need to move during a holiday season?

During holiday seasons, movers generally increase their rates due to high demand. Prices can be 20-30% higher than normal, especially if you’re moving around the major holidays like Christmas or New Year.