Moving Cost Calculator
Calculate your moving cost instantly — local, long-distance, or cross-country. Get accurate estimates from real moving company data across all 50 states.
Reviewed by MyProjectCost Team
Key takeaway: Moving costs $800–$15,000+ depending on distance and home size, with local moves (under 50 miles) running $800–$2,500 and cross-country moves costing $4,000–$15,000. The national average for a typical interstate move is around $3,500.
Definition: Moving cost is the total price of relocating household belongings — including labor, transportation, packing materials, and optional services like packing or storage. Cost varies by distance (local, long-distance, or cross-country), home size and shipment weight, time of year, and whether you hire full-service movers or do it yourself.
Who should use this calculator? This moving cost calculator is designed for anyone relocating locally, long-distance, or cross-country who wants to budget for professional movers, compare DIY versus full-service costs, or plan around home size and timing before booking a move.
Moving Cost by Distance (2026)
| Move Type | Low | Average | High | Pricing Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (under 50 miles) | $800 | $1,400 | $2,500 | Charged by the hour |
| Long Distance (50–500 mi) | $1,500 | $2,800 | $5,000 | By weight & distance |
| Interstate (500–1,500 mi) | $2,500 | $4,500 | $8,000 | Includes fuel surcharges |
| Cross Country (1,500+ mi) | $4,000 | $7,500 | $15,000 | Up to 2–3 weeks transit |
Moving Cost by State (2026)
Average cost for a typical 2-bedroom home interstate move, including labor and transportation.
| State | Low Estimate | Average Cost | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $1,700 | $2,700 | $5,500 |
| Alaska | $4,800 | $7,700 | $14,000 |
| Arizona | $2,000 | $3,200 | $6,200 |
| Arkansas | $1,600 | $2,600 | $5,200 |
| California | $3,200 | $5,100 | $9,500 |
| Colorado | $2,400 | $3,700 | $7,000 |
| Connecticut | $2,800 | $4,400 | $8,200 |
| Delaware | $2,500 | $3,900 | $7,400 |
| Florida | $2,100 | $3,300 | $6,400 |
| Georgia | $1,900 | $3,000 | $5,900 |
| Hawaii | $5,800 | $9,300 | $16,000 |
| Idaho | $1,800 | $2,900 | $5,700 |
| Illinois | $2,400 | $3,800 | $7,300 |
| Indiana | $1,900 | $3,000 | $5,900 |
| Iowa | $1,800 | $2,900 | $5,700 |
| Kansas | $1,700 | $2,800 | $5,500 |
| Kentucky | $1,700 | $2,700 | $5,400 |
| Louisiana | $1,900 | $3,000 | $5,900 |
| Maine | $2,500 | $3,900 | $7,500 |
| Maryland | $2,700 | $4,200 | $8,000 |
| Massachusetts | $3,300 | $5,200 | $9,700 |
| Michigan | $2,100 | $3,300 | $6,400 |
| Minnesota | $2,200 | $3,500 | $6,700 |
| Mississippi | $1,600 | $2,600 | $5,000 |
| Missouri | $1,900 | $3,000 | $5,900 |
| Montana | $2,000 | $3,200 | $6,200 |
| Nebraska | $1,800 | $2,900 | $5,600 |
| Nevada | $2,100 | $3,400 | $6,600 |
| New Hampshire | $2,600 | $4,100 | $7,900 |
| New Jersey | $3,100 | $4,900 | $9,300 |
| New Mexico | $1,800 | $2,900 | $5,700 |
| New York | $3,400 | $5,400 | $10,000 |
| North Carolina | $1,900 | $3,100 | $6,000 |
| North Dakota | $1,800 | $2,900 | $5,700 |
| Ohio | $2,000 | $3,200 | $6,200 |
| Oklahoma | $1,700 | $2,700 | $5,300 |
| Oregon | $2,600 | $4,200 | $8,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $2,300 | $3,600 | $7,000 |
| Rhode Island | $2,800 | $4,400 | $8,200 |
| South Carolina | $1,900 | $3,100 | $6,000 |
| South Dakota | $1,700 | $2,800 | $5,500 |
| Tennessee | $1,800 | $2,900 | $5,700 |
| Texas | $2,100 | $3,300 | $6,400 |
| Utah | $2,100 | $3,400 | $6,500 |
| Vermont | $2,600 | $4,100 | $7,800 |
| Virginia | $2,400 | $3,700 | $7,100 |
| Washington | $2,900 | $4,600 | $8,700 |
| West Virginia | $1,700 | $2,700 | $5,400 |
| Wisconsin | $2,100 | $3,400 | $6,500 |
| Wyoming | $1,900 | $3,100 | $6,000 |
How Much Does Moving Cost in 2026?
Moving costs $800–$15,000+ depending on distance — local moves run $800–$2,500, long-distance moves $2,500–$8,000, and cross-country moves $5,000–$15,000+.
The cost to move varies dramatically based on distance, home size, and whether you use professional movers or DIY. Local moves (under 50 miles) typically cost $800–$2,500 for a 2-bedroom home with professional movers. Long-distance moves run $2,500–$8,000, and cross-country moves cost $5,000–$15,000 or more. The national average for a typical interstate move is around $3,500.
What Factors Affect Moving Costs?
Distance, home size, time of year, and add-on services like packing or specialty item handling are the biggest factors affecting moving cost.
1. Move Distance
Distance is the biggest cost driver for long-distance moves. Local movers charge by the hour ($100–$200/hour) regardless of distance. Long-distance movers charge per pound per mile — typically $0.30–$0.70 per pound per hundred miles. A 7,000-lb household moving 1,500 miles might cost $4,500–$7,500 in transportation alone.
2. Home Size and Volume
More belongings = more weight = higher cost. A studio apartment might weigh 1,500–2,000 lbs. A 3-bedroom home weighs 5,000–8,000 lbs. A 5-bedroom home can exceed 12,000 lbs. Decluttering before your move is one of the best ways to reduce your moving bill — donating or selling unwanted items can cut your shipment weight by 20–30%.
3. Packing Services
Professional packing services add $400–$1,500 to your moving cost depending on home size. Movers pack your entire home in boxes with proper materials. While expensive, professional packing typically means better protection for your belongings and faster unpacking. Partial packing (just fragile items or a specific room) is also available.
4. Time of Year and Day
Peak moving season runs June through August, with prices 20–40% higher than off-season rates. Moving in October through April offers the best deals. Mid-week moves (Tuesday–Thursday) are cheaper than weekends. Avoiding the 1st and 15th of the month (when most leases turn over) also helps secure better availability and rates.
5. Additional Services
Specialty items like pianos ($150–$400 extra), pool tables ($300–$600), and grandfather clocks ($200–$400) cost more to move due to special equipment and expertise required. High-rise deliveries above the 3rd floor, long carries (over 75 feet from truck to door), and storage-in-transit (if your new home isn't ready) all add to the final bill.
How to Save on Moving Costs
Get at least 3 in-home estimates from licensed movers. Book early — movers fill up 4–6 weeks in advance during peak season. Declutter aggressively before the move to reduce shipment weight. Consider a portable storage container (PODS, U-Pack) as a middle-ground option between full-service movers and DIY truck rental — you pack, they drive. Finally, check whether your employer offers relocation assistance, as many companies pay part or all of moving costs for job transfers.
How Much Does It Cost to Move in 2026?
Moving costs range from $800 to $15,000+ depending on distance, home size, and services needed.
Moving costs in 2026 range from $800 to $15,000+ depending on distance, home size, and services needed. A local move (under 50 miles) for a 2-bedroom home typically runs $800–$2,500, billed hourly by professional movers. Long-distance moves (50–500 miles) average $1,500–$5,000, while interstate moves (500–1,500 miles) cost $2,500–$8,000. Cross-country relocations covering 1,500+ miles run $4,000–$15,000 for most households. The national average for a typical interstate move sits around $3,500. These figures include loading, transportation, and unloading but generally exclude packing materials or specialty item handling. Variables like seasonal demand, building floor level, and add-on services can push costs significantly higher or lower. Use the moving cost calculator above to get a personalized estimate tailored to your home size, distance, and timing.
How Much Does a Local Move Cost?
A local move costs $800–$2,500 for most 2-bedroom homes, billed hourly at $100–$200 per hour.
A local move — typically defined as any move within 50 miles — costs $800–$2,500 for most 2-bedroom homes in 2026. Local moving companies charge by the hour, averaging $100–$200 per hour for a crew of two movers and a truck. Studio and 1-bedroom apartments take 3–4 hours and cost $300–$800. Two-bedroom homes take 5–6 hours and run $500–$1,200. Three-bedroom houses require 7–9 hours and cost $700–$1,800. Factors that increase local move costs include additional movers (each extra mover adds $50–$75/hour), stairs or elevators, parking restrictions, and long carries from building entrance to truck. Booking mid-week during off-peak months (October–April) can reduce costs by 10–20%. Always get an hourly estimate in writing before booking.
How Much Does a Long-Distance Move Cost?
A long-distance move costs $1,500–$8,000, priced by shipment weight and distance traveled.
Long-distance moves — between 50 and 1,500 miles — cost $1,500–$8,000 for most households in 2026. Unlike local moves, long-distance pricing is based on total shipment weight (in pounds) and distance traveled (in miles). The typical rate ranges from $0.20–$0.50 per pound per hundred miles. A 2-bedroom home usually weighs 3,500–5,000 pounds, putting a 300-mile move at roughly $2,100–$3,000. For a 1,000-mile haul with the same load, expect $3,500–$5,000. These prices typically include pickup, transportation, and delivery, but not packing materials or specialty services. Peak season surcharges (June–August) can add 20–40% to base rates. Get binding estimates from at least three licensed interstate movers and compare total costs, not just per-pound rates.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a 1-Bedroom Apartment?
Moving a 1-bedroom apartment costs $500–$2,500 depending on distance and services.
Moving a 1-bedroom apartment costs $500–$2,500 depending on distance and services in 2026. Locally, a 1-bedroom move typically takes 3–4 hours with two movers, costing $300–$800 at $100–$200/hour. Long-distance moves for a 1-bedroom apartment — which usually weighs 1,500–2,500 pounds — cost $1,200–$3,500. Cross-country moves for a 1-bedroom can reach $2,500–$5,000. Adding full packing service means budgeting an additional $300–$600. Many renters with smaller apartments find renting a truck and doing it themselves saves money — a cargo van or small truck rental costs $50–$150/day locally. Use the calculator above to compare your specific scenario, and get quotes from at least two or three licensed movers before committing to a price.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a 3-Bedroom House?
Moving a 3-bedroom house costs $2,000–$10,000+ depending on distance and services chosen.
Moving a 3-bedroom house costs $2,000–$10,000+ depending on distance and services chosen in 2026. Locally, a 3-bedroom home typically takes 7–9 hours with a crew of three movers, running $700–$1,800. A 3-bedroom home usually weighs 6,000–8,000 pounds — a key factor for long-distance pricing. For a 500-mile move, expect $3,000–$5,600. For a 1,500-mile interstate move, budget $4,500–$8,000. Cross-country costs for a 3-bedroom home typically fall between $6,000–$12,000. Adding professional packing service adds $700–$1,500 to any move. Storage, specialty items like pianos or pool tables, and peak season timing can push costs higher still. Use the moving cost calculator above to estimate your 3-bedroom move based on distance, timing, and service level.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Cross-Country?
A cross-country move costs $4,000–$15,000 for most households, averaging $6,500–$8,500 for a 2–3 bedroom home.
Cross-country moves — those covering 1,500+ miles — cost $4,000–$15,000 for most households in 2026, with an average around $6,500–$8,500 for a 2–3 bedroom home. Pricing is based on shipment weight and total mileage. A 4,000-pound shipment traveling 2,500 miles might run $5,500–$8,000. For a 7,000-pound household moving coast-to-coast, expect $8,000–$14,000. Transit time for cross-country moves is typically 7–21 days, as movers often consolidate shipments to reduce costs. Full-service packing adds $800–$2,000 for large homes. A popular alternative is renting a portable storage container (PODS, U-Pack) where you pack and professionals drive, often costing $3,000–$6,000 coast-to-coast. Book cross-country movers 6–8 weeks in advance and always verify the company's USDOT number through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
What Factors Affect Moving Costs?
Distance, home size and shipment weight, time of year, and additional services are the key variables that determine moving cost.
Several key variables determine how much your move costs in 2026. Distance is the biggest driver — local moves are billed hourly ($100–$200/hour), while long-distance moves are priced by weight and mileage. Home size and total shipment weight directly impact long-distance costs; a 5-bedroom home can weigh over 12,000 pounds compared to 1,500 pounds for a studio. The time of year matters significantly — summer moves (June–August) cost 20–40% more than off-peak moves from October through April. Floor level, stair access, and long carries from your door to the truck all add fees. Additional services — professional packing ($400–$1,500), specialty item moves like pianos ($150–$400), or storage-in-transit — increase the total. The calculator above lets you combine these variables for an accurate personalized estimate.
How Much Do Professional Movers Cost Per Hour?
Professional movers charge $100–$250 per hour for local moves, depending on crew size and location.
Professional movers charge $100–$250 per hour for local moves in 2026, depending on crew size, truck size, and your location. A standard 2-person crew with a small truck averages $100–$150/hour in most U.S. markets. A 3-person crew (common for 3-bedroom homes) runs $150–$200/hour. In high-cost cities like New York, San Francisco, or Boston, hourly rates can reach $200–$300/hour. Most local moves have a 2–3 hour minimum, and movers may charge additional fees for travel time from their depot to your home. The typical local move for a 2-bedroom apartment takes 4–6 hours, totaling $400–$1,200 in labor. Ask movers whether their hourly rate includes fuel, tolls, and equipment, or whether those are billed separately. Always get rates confirmed in writing before your move date.
Is It Cheaper to Move Yourself or Hire Movers?
DIY moving can save $300–$700 on local moves, but the savings shrink or disappear on long-distance moves once fuel, hotels, and time off work are factored in.
The cost difference between DIY and hiring movers depends on distance, home size, and how much you value your time. For a local studio or 1-bedroom move, renting a cargo van ($50–$150/day) and doing it yourself can save $300–$700 versus professional movers. For a 3-bedroom home, truck rental ($200–$500/day locally) plus fuel, moving supplies, and friends' time makes DIY cost $500–$1,500 — versus $700–$1,800 for professionals. For long-distance moves, DIY truck rental costs $1,500–$4,500 cross-country, which can match or exceed professional movers once fuel ($0.50–$0.60/mile), hotels, and time off work are included. The real hidden cost of DIY is the risk of furniture damage and back injuries. For moves over 500 miles or homes over 3 bedrooms, professional movers often make better financial sense.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Moving Truck?
Moving truck rental costs $20–$200 per day locally, or $400–$3,500+ for one-way long-distance rentals.
Moving truck rental costs $20–$200/day locally and $400–$3,500+ for one-way long-distance rentals in 2026. Local rental pricing depends on truck size: a cargo van runs $20–$50/day, a 10-foot truck $30–$80/day, a 16-foot truck $50–$120/day, and a 26-foot truck (suitable for a 4-bedroom home) $80–$200/day. One-way rentals for cross-country moves cost significantly more — expect $1,500–$3,500 for a 26-foot truck from New York to California. Fuel is a major additional cost: a 26-foot truck gets about 8–10 mpg, so a 2,500-mile move adds $700–$1,000 in gas. Budget also for moving pads ($20–$60 to rent), dollies ($10–$20), and packing materials. Major rental companies include U-Haul, Penske, Budget, and Enterprise. Compare one-way rates across all providers before booking.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Move?
Renting a truck yourself and moving mid-week during off-peak months is consistently the cheapest way to move.
The cheapest way to move depends on your situation, but these strategies consistently cut costs. Renting a truck yourself eliminates labor costs entirely — local rental starts at $30–$80/day. For long-distance moves, consider freight trailer shipping (U-Pack, PODS) where you load and they drive: coast-to-coast costs $1,500–$3,500, far less than full-service movers. Moving mid-week in November, December, or January saves 20–30% on both rentals and professional services. Selling or donating heavy furniture before the move reduces shipment weight and truck size needed. Sourcing free boxes from liquor stores, grocery stores, and Facebook Marketplace eliminates packing supply costs ($200–$500 value). Booking 4–6 weeks in advance locks in better rates. Combining two or three of these strategies can realistically save $500–$2,500 on most moves.
How Far in Advance Should I Book Movers?
Book movers 4–8 weeks in advance for peak-season moves, or 2–4 weeks ahead for off-peak moves.
Book professional movers at least 4–8 weeks in advance for peak-season moves (May–September) and 2–4 weeks ahead for off-peak moves in 2026. During summer months, top-rated movers in most cities fill up within 2–3 weeks of a desired move date — waiting too long often means settling for less-reviewed companies. Booking 6–8 weeks out gives you negotiating leverage and access to better rates when you're flexible on dates. For long-distance or cross-country moves, 6–10 weeks advance notice is recommended, as scheduling depends on truck routing and consolidation logistics. Last-minute moves (less than 2 weeks out) often cost 15–30% more or require accepting whatever dates are still available. Collect quotes from at least three movers and compare binding estimates before committing to any company.
What Is the Cheapest Time of Year to Move?
October through April, especially November through February, is the cheapest time to move — typically 20–40% less than summer rates.
The cheapest time to move is between October and April, particularly during November, December, January, and February. Moving costs during these off-peak months are typically 20–40% lower than summer rates. In 2026, professional movers charge $800–$2,500 for local moves during off-peak months versus $1,200–$3,500 in peak summer. Beyond the month, timing within the month also matters: the first and last five days of any month see higher demand as leases turn over, making mid-month moves cheaper. Mid-week moves (Tuesday through Thursday) cost 10–15% less than Friday through Sunday. Combining off-peak months with mid-week, mid-month timing gives you the most savings. If you must move in summer, booking 6–8 weeks in advance is essential to secure reasonable rates before availability disappears entirely.
How Much Should I Tip Movers?
Tip $20–$50 per mover for a local move, or $50–$100 per mover for long-distance moves.
Tipping movers is customary but not required — a good tip for a job well done ranges from $20–$50 per mover for a local move and $50–$100 per mover for long-distance or cross-country moves in 2026. For an average local move with a 3-person crew, a total tip of $60–$150 is considered generous. For a complex long-distance move, $150–$300 for the crew is appropriate. Base the tip on difficulty (stairs, heavy items, extreme weather, professionalism), not just the total bill size. Tip in cash directly to each mover — not as a lump sum to the crew leader — so everyone receives their fair share. You're not obligated to tip if movers damaged items, showed up significantly late, or behaved unprofessionally. Address those issues through the moving company's formal claims process instead.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Moving?
Standard homeowners insurance typically covers only up to 10% of your personal property limit during a move, so additional moving insurance is often worth considering.
Standard homeowners insurance typically provides limited coverage during a move in 2026. Most policies cover belongings in transit under "off-premises" coverage, but only up to 10% of your total personal property coverage limit. For example, if your policy covers $100,000 in belongings, only $10,000 would apply during transit — and your deductible still applies. Moving companies are legally required to offer basic valuation protection at $0.60 per pound per item, which covers almost nothing for valuable electronics or furniture. Full replacement value protection from your mover costs $200–$500 extra but pays actual repair or replacement value. If you're moving high-value items, ask your insurance agent about a moving rider or purchase third-party moving insurance. Always photograph belongings before packing to support any potential claims.
How Do I Get an Accurate Moving Quote?
Get an in-home walk-through from at least three movers and request a binding estimate for the most accurate moving quote.
Getting an accurate moving quote requires more than a quick phone call. For local moves, invite at least three movers to conduct an in-home walk-through — a physical survey of your belongings is far more accurate than a phone estimate and protects you from surprise charges on moving day. For long-distance moves, request a binding estimate or binding not-to-exceed estimate, which caps your final cost regardless of actual shipment weight. Provide the most complete inventory list possible, including all furniture, appliances, boxes, and specialty items like pianos or large artwork. Note any access challenges — stairs, narrow doorways, long driveway carries — as these affect pricing. Be wary of unusually low quotes, which often signal non-binding estimates or rogue movers who add fees upon delivery. Compare quotes line by line, not just the total.
What Should I Do Before Movers Arrive?
Finish packing, label every box, and disassemble large furniture before movers arrive to save time and reduce hourly charges.
Preparation before moving day saves time and money, since most local movers charge by the hour. Complete all packing at least one day before movers arrive — unpacked boxes dramatically slow the crew and inflate your final bill. Clearly label every box with its destination room. Disassemble large furniture (bed frames, shelving units, desks) yourself if possible to save mover time. Reserve parking near your entrance for the moving truck and check local permit requirements in advance. Protect floors with cardboard or moving blankets in high-traffic areas. Prepare a "first-night box" with essentials (toiletries, chargers, bedding, medications) so you're not digging through boxes on arrival night. Confirm the move time, full address, and payment method with your movers at least 48 hours ahead. Have cash ready if you plan to tip.
How Much Does Packing Service Cost?
Professional packing service costs $400–$2,500 depending on home size.
Professional packing service costs $400–$2,500 depending on home size in 2026. A studio or 1-bedroom apartment costs $300–$600 to fully pack. A 2-bedroom home runs $500–$900. A 3-bedroom house averages $700–$1,300, and a 5-bedroom home can cost $1,500–$2,500 for full packing. These prices include both labor and materials (boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper). Partial packing — where movers pack only fragile items like dishes, glassware, mirrors, and artwork — costs $200–$600 and is a popular middle-ground option. Packing services are typically purchased through your moving company and bundled into the overall quote. A key advantage of professional packing: if movers pack an item and it breaks, they're liable for the damage. If you self-pack, recovering compensation becomes significantly harder. Factor this protection into your cost comparison.
How Much Does Piano Moving Cost?
Piano moving costs $150–$1,500 depending on piano type, distance, and accessibility.
Piano moving costs $150–$1,500 depending on the piano type, distance, and accessibility in 2026. Upright pianos — the most common type — typically cost $150–$400 to move locally. Baby grand pianos run $300–$700 locally and $1,000–$2,500 for long-distance moves. Concert grand pianos, due to their size and required disassembly, cost $500–$1,500+ locally and considerably more for cross-country moves. Most standard moving companies can handle uprights, but baby and grand pianos often require specialty movers with custom dollies, harnesses, and reinforced trucks. Flights of stairs add $50–$150 per flight to any piano move. Always hire movers with verified piano-moving experience — an improperly moved piano can sustain thousands of dollars in structural damage. Request a specific piano-moving quote rather than assuming it's included in your standard estimate.
How Can I Save Money on My Move?
Book during off-peak months, declutter before packing, and compare at least three quotes to save the most money on a move.
Saving money on a move requires planning, flexibility, and a few smart choices. Book during off-peak months (October–April) and mid-week to save 20–40% on both professional movers and truck rentals. Declutter aggressively before packing — donating or selling items reduces shipment weight, which directly lowers long-distance costs. Collect free boxes from liquor stores, bookstores, and community apps like Facebook Marketplace instead of buying them ($200–$400 value). Pack yourself rather than paying for professional packing service ($400–$1,500 savings). Compare at least three moving quotes and ask each company exactly what's included — rates vary widely. Consider a hybrid move with a portable container (PODS, U-Pack) where you pack and they transport, saving 30–50% versus full-service movers for long distances. Check whether your employer offers relocation assistance — many companies reimburse moving costs for job transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local moves (under 50 miles) cost $800–$2,500 for most households. Long-distance moves cost $2,500–$8,000. Cross-country moves for a 3-bedroom home run $5,000–$12,000 including packing services. The national average for a typical interstate move is around $3,500.
Local movers charge by the hour — typically $100–$200/hour for 2 movers and a truck. Long-distance movers charge based on shipment weight (pounds) and distance (miles). An 8,000-lb household shipment moving 1,000 miles costs approximately $4,000–$6,500. Time of year and availability also affect pricing significantly.
Moving costs are lowest from October through April (especially November–February). Summer months (June–August) are peak season with prices 20–40% higher. Moving mid-week and mid-month is cheaper than weekends or the 1st/15th of the month when leases typically turn over. Booking 4–8 weeks in advance also helps secure better rates.
Renting a moving truck costs $200–$2,000 depending on distance, but you provide all labor. Full-service movers cost more but handle everything from packing to unloading. For local moves, truck rental is cost-effective if you have friends to help. For long-distance or large homes, professional movers are usually worth the premium — especially for protecting valuable items.
Full-service moving includes packing your belongings into boxes (typically $400–$1,000 extra), loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking. Many movers also offer furniture disassembly and reassembly. Valuation protection (limited liability coverage) is typically included; full replacement value protection costs extra but is worth it for valuable items.
Always get 3+ written quotes. Be wary of movers who require a large deposit upfront, give quotes over the phone without seeing your belongings, or offer prices significantly below competitors. Verify the mover is licensed at FMCSA.dot.gov (look up USDOT number). Avoid "rogue movers" who hold your belongings hostage for inflated charges — a real risk with cut-rate companies.