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The average cost of moving in 2026 is $1,250–$2,500 for a local move (under 100 miles) and $4,500–$8,500 for a long-distance move (over 400 miles). For a 3-bedroom home moving cross-country, expect $6,000–$14,000 depending on distance and season. Local movers charge $25–$50 per hour per mover, while long-distance moving companies charge $0.50–$1.00 per pound or $3–$7 per mile. On the 2026 Cost Index, June (122) runs about 31% above December (93) and about 22% above January (100)—compare binding written quotes. According to the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), the national average for an interstate move is $4,890 [Source: AMSA 2025 Report].

To find reliable moving companies near you, start by verifying movers through the FMCSA SAFER database (ai.fmcsa.dot.gov) using their USDOT number. Every legitimate interstate mover must have active FMCSA operating authority and at least $750,000 in liability (BIPD) insurance. Check the FMCSA complaint database — the agency receives over 4,000 consumer complaints annually against household goods movers [Source: FMCSA 2025]. Compare at least 3–4 moving quotes, read reviews on Google and the BBB, and avoid any mover who demands large cash deposits upfront or refuses to provide a written estimate. If MoveSmart introduces you to movers, verify each carrier yourself on FMCSA SAFER before you hire.

You can get a free AI planning range on MoveSmart.co after entering your move details and verifying your phone number. Enter origin and destination, home size, and move date; our model combines your inputs with public benchmarks (not a binding quote). If you request quotes, we may share your information with up to four independent moving companies—MoveSmart and partners may contact you by call or text per the consent you provide. Verify each carrier's USDOT authority on FMCSA SAFER before hiring. Always get at least 3 written quotes to compare. Be wary of estimates that are 30%+ below average — unrealistically low quotes are the #1 red flag for moving scams [Source: FMCSA]. See movesmart.co/methodology for how estimates are built.

Moving company rates in 2026 vary by move type: Local movers charge $25–$50 per hour per mover (a 2-bedroom local move with 3 movers costs $400–$800). Long-distance moving companies charge by weight and distance — typically $0.50–$1.00 per pound, or $3–$7 per mile for a full truckload. The interstate mile rate in 2026 ranges from $6.00–$16.00 per mile depending on route demand. Full-service movers (packing + loading + transport) cost 40–60% more than transport-only. The EIA forecasts diesel at $3.41/gallon for Q2 2026, which directly affects fuel surcharges in moving quotes [Source: EIA STEO 2026].

MoveSmart provides AI-generated planning ranges to help you budget—not guaranteed final prices. Binding quotes come only after a mover's in-home or virtual survey. Our model weighs route distance, home size, seasonality, fuel trends, and access factors, and we cite third-party benchmarks like AMSA where applicable. According to AMSA, the national average interstate move costs $4,890 [Source: AMSA 2025 Report]. Learn more at movesmart.co/methodology.

When choosing a moving company, verify these 6 critical factors: (1) Active USDOT number and FMCSA operating authority — check at ai.fmcsa.dot.gov. (2) Adequate insurance — interstate movers must carry at least $750,000 in liability (BIPD) coverage. (3) No 'unsatisfactory' FMCSA safety rating and minimal complaint history. (4) Written binding or not-to-exceed estimate — never accept verbal quotes. (5) No large upfront cash deposits — reputable movers collect payment on delivery. (6) Physical business address and professional website. The FMCSA reports that 'hostage load' scams (holding belongings until you pay inflated prices) are the most common consumer complaint in the moving industry [Source: FMCSA 2025].

We use industry-standard encryption for data in transit and at rest. If you request quotes, we may share your contact and move details with up to four independent moving companies, and MoveSmart or those partners may call or text you per the consent you provide on the form. Read our Privacy Policy for retention details. Verify any mover you hire on FMCSA SAFER regardless of how you found them.