How Much Do Moving Companies Usually Cost?

How long-distance movers set their prices

If you’ve started getting quotes from moving companies, you’ve probably noticed that prices can vary widely. That’s because moving costs are based on several details specific to your move, and each company will use those details differently to calculate your price. 

To better understand the rate you see, it helps to know what’s included in a typical quote.

What do moving companies charge for?

A moving quote is made up of several costs bundled together into one estimate. While every company structures pricing differently, most quotes account for equipment, transportation and any additional services needed.

Equipment 

Moving companies factor in the equipment needed to complete your move, whether that’s a rental truck, space in a trailer or a certain number of portable storage containers.

Transportation 

This covers the movement of your belongings from your current home to your new one. Pricing is typically based on factors like distance, fuel costs, route demand and delivery time. In general, longer moves and higher-demand areas will increase the overall cost.

Additional services

Additional services like packing, furniture disassembly, loading help, storage or handling specialty items can also increase the total cost. Some companies include certain services in the base quote, while others price them separately.

See how U-Pack pricing works

How to compare estimates

Take time to compare quotes before choosing a moving company. One estimate may look like the better deal at first, but it may not include things another company has already built into the price. For example, one quote may include fuel, basic protection coverage and taxes while another may charge for those later (or require you to pay out of pocket).

Some movers also price based on shipment weight, while others charge based on the amount of trailer or container space you use. That difference alone can significantly change the total cost depending on the size of your move. Learn more about how moving estimates work.

Suggested article: How to read your U-Pack quote

Moving company price examples

To help you understand the price range for different companies, we compared quotes for moving a 1,300-square-foot home from Seattle, WA, to Boston, MA, in July 2026, using each company’s recommended equipment and available discounts.

These prices were accurate at the time of posting and were rounded to the nearest dollar. Actual moving costs will vary based on your specific moving details.

U-Pack

Budget®

*Based on AAA’s average diesel price of $5.66 at the time of posting for the 26-ft truck’s estimated 8 MPG according to Budget’s website. Note: the nearest Budget location is in Auburn, ME, 108 miles from Bangor.

Penske®

*Based on AAA’s average diesel price of $5.66 at the time of posting for the 26-ft truck’s estimated 13 MPG, according to Penske’s website.

U-Haul®

*Based on AAA’s average gas price of $4.56 at the time of posting for the 26-ft truck’s estimated 10 MPG, according to U-Haul’s website.

Learn more about how much it costs to move long-distance

Get an instant quote from U-Pack

Because every move is different, the best way to understand how much a mover will charge is to get quotes. If you’re planning a long-distance move, U-Pack offers a flexible moving solution designed to help you control costs while only paying for the space you use.

Get a free quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to see how U-Pack compares.