Q & A
Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.
How much do movers cost?
When accounting for moving costs, you can generally expect to pay around $30 to $50 per mover, per hour. However, these costs could change and you should compare movers in your city to estimate the true cost of your move.
Moving companies usually provide a team of at least two individuals depending on the size of the job and the objects to be moved. This hourly rate also changes with driving distance. And, moving specialty objects such as pianos can also drive up the cost. Some moving companies may provide a free estimate even offer a flat rate if the job.
For more information on moving costs, read Thumbtack’s cost guide on movers.
How far in advance should I hire movers?
Book movers at least two months in advance for a local move and at least four months in advance for a cross-country move. If you’re moving during the off-season, it’s best to book movers about four to eight weeks in advance. Factor in an extra two to three weeks if you have antiques or valuables that are difficult to transport.
May through September is considered peak moving season, according to the American Moving & Storage Association. If you’re moving during this time, hire movers as far in advance as possible.
What is considered a local move vs. a long-distance move?
Local moves are among the most common moves. Unlike a long-distance move, a local move is typically less than 50 miles and does not cross state lines. Generally, a local move only takes one day, and movers tend to charge by the hour.
The definition of a long-distance move may vary depending on the moving company. Generally, a long-distance considered to be any move of 400 miles or more. However, some say a long-distance move is over 50-100 miles.
Local Move | A move under 50 miles |
Long-Distance Move | A move over 50-100 miles or over 400 miles; may also be called an “interstate move” or “out-of-state move” |
Out-of-State Move | A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “interstate move” or “long-distance move” |
Interstate Move | A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “out-of-state move” or “long-distance move” |
Intrastate Move | A move that begins and ends in the same state, typically beyond 50 miles |
Interstate moves require additional legal preparation and will incur additional costs for distance, the amount and weight of your items, the preparation required and various other factors. Moving companies tend to do an initial weighing of the truck, which you should be present for.
A move that crosses state lines is considered an interstate move or an out-of-state move. Contrast this with an intrastate move, which begins and ends in the same state, but is typically above 50 miles.
To determine whether your move is local or long-distance, contact the best movers in your area.
How much does it cost for long-distance movers?
Long-distance movers transport your belongings across the country for you. No more renting a trailer and road-tripping from state to state with your entire house hitched to your bumper. Long-distance movers make the move happen so you can fly to your new home, suitcase in hand, and wait for your furniture to arrive. Nationally, the average price range for long-distance movers is $1,490-$2,230. The distance you are moving and the number of cubic feet the movers have to transport will both affect cost. Another factor in long-distance moving costs is whether you choose to pay for an exclusive move or a consolidated move.
In an exclusive move, which is more expensive, your belongings are the only cargo on the moving truck. The movers travel directly to your new house and deliver your belongings on a scheduled day. A consolidated move is more affordable because the movers transport your belongings along with those of other people, saving them time and gas — which means you save money. The downside is that your belongings typically arrive with a two-week delivery window rather than on a prescheduled day. Read reviews to make sure you can trust the company with your possessions to ensure a peaceful moving process.
Can you move furniture by yourself?
You might be able to move smaller items like nightstands, small desks, chairs and small tables by yourself. However, it’s best to get a professional mover near you to move larger items such as couches, dressers, armoires and televisions.
If you do decide to move furniture by yourself, carefully lift and lower items and take your time.
Is it cheaper to move your stuff or buy new stuff?
It often makes more financial sense to buy new stuff when you have the chance to sell furniture to offset the cost. The cost of moving your current furniture can sometimes be more than buying new things, particularly if the furniture is large or cumbersome to move. You can sell furniture online, or make a furniture donation and deduct it from your taxes (if it qualifies as a charitable contribution). Some places near you may even offer free furniture pickup when you choose to donate.
If you have valuable furniture that would be costly to replace, however, it may be cheaper to move them. To find out which option is best for you, contact professional movers in your area to receive quotes and estimates.
Should I buy moving insurance?
Your homeowners or renters insurance policy may or may not protect your belongings if they get lost or damaged during a move. If you’re moving valuable items, or if you’re moving a great distance, it could be a good idea to invest in moving insurance.
Interstate movers are required to offer you full value protection and released value protectionto help reimburse you in case of damage or loss.If you’re moving within your state, check with your state’s consumer affairs agency to see if your state has rules and requirements regarding moving insurance and valuation coverage.
How do you move large pieces of furniture?
Moving large furniture can be done with help from the best movers in your area and careful planning. First, get an idea of how much the furniture weighs and how much each mover can manage. The next step is figuring out the path the furniture will take as it exits its point of origin and makes its way to its new home. Professional movers then use dollies, furniture protectors and personal safety gear for a safe, smooth move.
How do I protect my furniture when moving?
To protect furniture when moving, get furniture protectors. These will help cushion accidental impacts that may occur while making your way through tight spaces. You can also use furniture sliders for hardwood floors, which can make moving heavy or awkward furniture across your floors a lot easier than lugging it all the way.
A professional mover near you will likely have these and other moving equipment to ensure your furniture remains intact and doesn’t damage your new — or old — home.
Can you hire movers to move one item?
Yes, you can hire movers to move one item. Single-item movers are usually more than happy to give you a quote, which will likely be based on a few factors.
One of the primary things to take into consideration is the number of movers it takes to move one item. For instance, if you want to move one item of furniture, it may take several movers — particularly if it is a challenging move involving multiple floors.
Contact single-item movers near you to find out what services they offer, and get free estimates.
Reviews for Ashburn movers
Manhas N.
Total move of small single family house took under 7 hours. Movers were very thorough and careful with moving.
Harsh S.
The movers were on time and did a pretty good job in helping us with the move.
Janet W.
The guy corresponding with me in arranging the move was responsive in a timely manner. But the movers were not careful in moving my furniture and damaged two items. Otherwise a good value to go with.
Denise F.
The mover was amazing. We had about 60 or so boxes to move. He was very efficient. He moved them carefully and quickly. He was a hard worker and diligent.
Pratap V.
Needed help moving heavy equipment. Movers were professional and did a good job.
Thumbtack Customer
Everything went well the movers were responsive to us and moved everything with good timing!
Joe G.
Excellent experience. Highly recommend this moving service. Pleasant movers. I will use them again.
Thumbtack Customer
Baku Moving have done a great job. Our Movers cancelled on us last min. We booked Baku Moving at last minute! The moving was impeccable , well organized they wrapped each furniture piece in blanket and were careful while getting into apartment as well. Really pleased by their work
Thiyagu K.
Excellent service by AT Movers.
Kay S.
I hired Daniel and his team to help with a last minute move. My room was destroyed by my roommate and they helped clean the entire room and move furniture at a very affordable price. I’m impressed and I definitely will be using them for everything moving forward. I highly suggest hiring Mop and Move!!! 🤩
Jeane H.
The move with quick and easy!
Anant B.
Good job moving furniture
Thumbtack Customer
Awesome movers, very safe handlers and stable team. Came right on time and finished as per schedule. A very pleasant moving experience.
Giselle M.
The crew was punctual. very professional… could not have asked for better service. If you need anyone to move you, go with MVD Movers! *****
Harini A.
They did the work perfectly. One of the fastest move we ever did. Thank you so much for making our move easy!
Thumbtack Customer
Movers arrived promptly, were very courteous, and professional. Everything was protected well and moved without incident. Great experience, would recommend them.
Armelia H.
Bede and his crew accomplished a very difficult moving assignment and did it without complaint. Bede and crew are outstanding movers second to none. I would highly recommend them to anyone who wants their move done right. Very professional, courteous, determined, extreme excellence! i would hire him again in a heart beat. You can't go wrong with PROAH Movers!!!!!!
Upen D.
Very Happy with the work of Premium Movers!
Relia P.
These guys were amazing. Movers were on time and moved my peloton bike from storage unit to the 3rd floor of townhouse.No damages to well or equipment.
Michelle D.
Have not done the move yet. Very personable answered all my questions and provided an estimate after coming in person to see everything. Scheduled to move.
Eugene B.
I would like to express about my recent move with Pick Up Movers. They have recently moved me and it has been a wonderful experience. They are very professional and know how to treat their customers with great respect. They were really committed to their word and services. The crew showed up on time and finished the job as estimated and expected. Pierre, the sales representative was wonderful. He goes above and beyond in order to accommodate and help his customers. The movers were very nice and efficient and know how to use their time wisely. I will definitely use them for my future moves and highly recommend them to anybody looking for quality moving services.
Thumbtack Customer
Make sure you confirm your move date is reserved. There was a little miscommunication toward the beginning, but everything worked out fine. Two movers arrived with a truck thirty minutes early. This was great since I was ready to go. They moved everything quickly and double checked that any fragile items were properly packed away before taking things to the truck. They wrapped up the furniture and dissembled and resembled the bed and put everything in its place at the new location. Moving one bedroom took exactly as much time as I expected, and there were no hidden fees. Overall I would recommend this moving company for a quick move.
Sania F.
My experience was absolutely flawless! I had requested furniture items to be picked up from one location and moved to another. I was not able to be present at the pickup location. I also had to change my move date on short notice. The customer service was excellent. And the movers were extremely professional. They took care to ensure the furniture was moved with care! And they were very punctual! Would highly recommend.
Donna M.
Best moving company ever! We have used a lot of movers in the past and never had a good experience. We have a very large house and needed a moving company that met our standards. Max and his team far exceeded our expectations. They had excellent communication before the move and during the move. The team was professional and courteous. It was a very long day...... 17 hours. These guys didn't waiver in their energy and "can do" attitude. Max came twice to check on them and at the end he put on his sneakers and pitched in to help his team get it. Over the finish line. We will use them on our next move for sure!!!
Joan D.
Requested last minute help with labor for a move, after another moving company had staffing issues the day of our move. Extra Moving help was very responsive to my request. We did not end up using their service as my husband scrambled to rent a uhaul and got a couple of friends to help . We did very much appreciate their willingness to jump in and help us out though.
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