Planning a move comes with a lot of decisions—and for most people, one of the biggest questions is, “How much is this move going to cost?” The truth is, moving costs can vary quite a bit depending on several key factors. At Gerber Moving & Storage, we believe in transparency, and we’re here to help you understand what goes into the price of your move so you can budget confidently and avoid surprises.
Here are five major factors that can influence the cost of your move:
1. Distance of the Move
One of the most obvious factors is how far you’re going. Local moves (typically within the same city or region) are generally priced by the hour. Long-distance moves—especially those crossing state lines—are calculated based on the weight of your belongings and the total mileage traveled.
- Local Moves: These usually include an hourly rate that covers labor, truck use, and fuel.
- Long-Distance Moves: Pricing is based on the total weight of your shipment and how far it needs to go. Additional charges may apply for tolls, fuel surcharges, or overnight accommodations if needed.
The further you go, the more logistics are involved, which naturally increases the cost.
2. Size of Your Home and Volume of Belongings
It probably comes as no surprise that the more stuff you have, the more it will cost to move. Larger homes tend to have more furniture and personal items, requiring more time, labor, and potentially a larger truck or multiple trucks.
- A studio or one-bedroom apartment may take only a few hours to pack and load.
- A four-bedroom home with a garage and basement could take a full day or longer.
The volume and weight of your items affect not only how long it takes to move them but also how much space they occupy in the moving truck, which impacts the overall cost—especially for long-distance moves.
3. Time of Year
Believe it or not, the season you choose to move can make a big difference in price. Moving companies typically experience higher demand in the summer months—especially from May through September—and during weekends or at the beginning and end of each month.
- Peak Season (Late Spring to Early Fall): Higher demand often means higher prices.
- Off-Peak Season (Fall and Winter): You may find better rates and more flexible scheduling.
If your timeline allows, scheduling your move during the off-season can save you money and give you more date options.
4. Additional Services
Every move is unique, and sometimes you need more than just a truck and a couple of movers. Additional services can add convenience and peace of mind, but they also add to the overall cost.
Here are some common add-ons:
- Packing and Unpacking: Letting the professionals pack your belongings can save you time, but it’s an added service that increases the total price.
- Packing Materials: Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and custom crating all factor into your final cost.
- Storage: Need a place to keep your belongings during a gap between homes? Gerber offers secure, climate-controlled storage options.
- Specialty Item Handling: If you’re moving a piano, a safe, antiques, or other bulky or delicate items, special handling and equipment are required, which may come at an extra cost.
These services are often worth it for the convenience and security they provide, but it’s good to understand how they affect the bottom line.
5. Accessibility and Logistics
How easy is it to get to your current home or new place? Complicated logistics can add time and effort to the move, which affects cost.
A few examples of accessibility challenges include:
- Long walk from the truck to your front door
- Stairs or lack of elevator access
- Narrow hallways or doorways
- Limited parking or permit requirements for moving trucks
If movers have to carry items a long distance, use stair carriers, or work in tight spaces, it may require extra labor or time, which will be reflected in your quote.
Final Thoughts
Every move is different, and the cost depends on a mix of factors—from how far you’re going to how much stuff you’re bringing with you. At Gerber Moving & Storage, we make it a priority to give our customers clear, upfront estimates so they know what to expect. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Want to find out what your move might cost? Reach out to schedule a free on-site estimate, and we’ll walk you through the process. No surprises—just solid planning and expert service.
Request an Estimate
The best way to give you a fair, accurate price is to have a Gerber representative visit your home or business. This service is free—there is no charge for us to do an on-site survey and prepare an estimate.
