average cost to move a 3 bedroom house

What Is the Average Cost to Move a 3 Bedroom House?

Moving can be exciting, but it also has its challenges – especially when moving out of a 3 bedroom house. One of the most crucial aspects to consider is the cost involved in your move. 

The cost can range depending on the distance of your move, the square footage of your home, and the type of moving service you choose. In this article, you will learn various aspects of the average cost to move a 3 bedroom house and the options available to you. 

How Much Does It Cost to Move a 3 Bedroom House?

The average cost to move a 3 bedroom house varies depending on various factors, such as distance, specific services required, size of your move, seasonal demand, and additional services required. These estimates are meant to give you an idea of how much it costs to move a 3 bedroom house.

MileageMoving ContainerProfessional Moving CompanyRental Truck
Less than 50 miles$400 – $600$800 – $1,200$100 – $200 plus mileage fees ($0.59-$0.99 per mile)
250 miles$800 – $1,200$1,200 – $2,000$400 – $600 plus mileage fees
1,000 miles$1,500 – $2,500$2,000 – $4,000$800 – $1,200 plus mileage fees
2,500 miles$3,000 – $5,000$4,000 – $8,000$1,200 – $2,000 plus mileage fees

What Is the Typical Size of a 3 Bedroom House?

Only BoxesFurniture and Boxes
3 bedroom home – 1,500 to 2,000 square feet3 bedroom home – 1,500 to 2,000 square feet

A 3 bedroom house with only boxes means that only boxes need to be moved, and no furniture. The number and size of the boxes can vary depending on the amount of belongings that you pack. 

The cost to move out of a 3 bedroom home with only boxes will be significantly less than moving out with furniture and boxes. A 3 bedroom house with furniture and boxes being moved costs more, as the moving container or truck needs to provide more space for these items. 

Common furniture you likely need to move includes beds, dressers, couches, chairs, tables, and appliances. Typically, a 20 to 26 foot moving truck or container is a good size to accommodate furniture and boxes for your move, but your moving truck size can be larger or smaller depending on your circumstances.

moving

Significant Cost Factors When Determining the Size of Your Move

When planning to move out of your 3 bedroom home, multiple factors can affect your cost of moving.

The Number of Rooms

The number of rooms in your home is one of the most significant factors that determine how much your move will cost. Local moving companies usually charge hourly, while long-distance movers will charge you based on your shipment weight. 

Generally, each room takes two movers. A 3 bedroom house would require additional movers when compared to a 2 bedroom home or apartment. The more rooms you have, the more movers are needed, increasing labor costs.

Square Footage

The square footage of your home is used to determine the cost of your move. For example, if you have a 3 bedroom house that is 1,500 square feet, it will cost less than if your 3 bedroom house is 2,000 square feet, as the house itself is smaller and likely contains less furniture. 

When choosing a moving company, you will need to know the square footage of your home so they can give you the best estimate possible.

Move Distance

Whether your move is local or you are moving to another state, the cost to move a 3 bedroom house will be affected by the moving distance. If you are moving locally, your movers’ drive time between your old house and the new house will be intertwined with the hourly rate you agreed to pay in the contract. 

The cost to move a 3 bedroom house cross country or a long distance accounts for both the shipment weight and distance. 

Season

During the spring and summer months, moving companies often experience a higher demand for moving. Peak moving season runs from May to September, whereas moving from October to April is less in demand. You can expect to pay less for a professional moving company or renting a portable storage container or moving truck during the fall and winter.

Add-on Services

Any add-on services will cause the average cost for movers for a  3 bedroom house to rise. Some common add-on services include:

  • Full-service packing
  • Storage
  • Unpacking
  • Disassembly and reassembly of furniture
  • Debris pick up and cleaning

If you are interested in add-on services, mention it when obtaining a quote to ensure your quote is as accurate as possible. 

Last Minute Booking

Booking your move at the last minute could limit your options when it comes to choosing a moving company, especially during the spring and summer months. While you might think one to two weeks is enough time to schedule your move, it is best to schedule your move months in advance to secure your spot and avoid any last-minute booking fees.

Weight of Your Belongings

If you have a long-distance move, the cost of your move will likely be determined by the weight of your belongings. Most moving companies will charge per pound. Before committing to a moving company, you should get a quote before making your final decision. 

Agoyu can help you figure out the weight of your belongings with it’s AI technology! Click here to learn more!

To cut costs, you can rent a moving truck or portable storage container and enlist the help of family members or friends to help with your move.

Average Cost to Move a 3 Bedroom House Internationally

On average, the cost to move a 3 bedroom house internationally can range between $5,000 and $20,000 or more. The price can greatly vary, depending on various factors, such as transportation costs, packing and unpacking services, insurance, customs clearance fees, handling of fragile items, and if you need to use storage services. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Professional Moving Company

If you choose to use a professional moving company for your move, you should know the advantages and disadvantages of using professional movers. 

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Expertise and experienceMore costly than renting a truck or a DIY move
Time and effort savingsLack of control
Proper packing and protectionProfessional movers may have limited availability
Insurance coverageLess flexibility with your schedule
Efficient handling of large itemsRisk of damage or loss

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a DIY Moving Container

When considering using a DIY moving container, you should know these advantages and disadvantages.

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Flexibility and controlPhysical effort
Cost savingsLimited assistance
Convenience Responsibility for damage or loss
Secure storageLimited size options

Advantages and Disadvantages of Renting a Moving Truck

Consider these advantages and disadvantages of renting a moving truck in relation to your specific needs, budget, and preferences.

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Cost savingsPhysical labor
Flexibility and controlDriving and parking challenges
Convenient loading and unloadingLack of professional assistance
Familiarity with your belongingsLimited insurance coverage

How to Plan a 3 Bedroom Move

While it may not seem that complicated, moving out of a 3 bedroom house can be more complicated than you would assume. Being as prepared as possible is essential to ensure all runs smoothly.

8 Weeks Before the Move

You should write down a complete inventory of your home. Be sure to go room by room and list everything you plan to keep and everything you plan to sell, donate, or throw away. This is a good opportunity to estimate the boxes needed for each room.

6 Weeks Before the Move

You should begin packing your belongings into boxes at this point, aiming to pack between 1 to 4 boxes per day until moving week. Be sure to label your boxes with what is inside and where they belong in the new house. You should also obtain quotes from moving companies at this point.

4 Weeks Before the Move

This is the time to confirm your moving date and time with your moving company. To avoid any convenience fees, you should aim to book your moving date as early as possible. Obtain copies of your moving contract and your moving estimate when you confirm the booking date. 

2 Weeks Before the Move

At this point, everything that is not essential should be packed. You should arrange for child or pet care for moving day, finish up any packing, and change your address with your local post office. 

The Week of Moving

The week of your move, you should plan your meals for the week, as you will only have access to a limited amount of kitchenware. Label all of your furniture with where they will belong in the new home to help speed up the unloading process on moving day.

Moving Day

The night before moving day, you should pack a moving bag. The moving bag should include your moving contract, water, snacks, toiletries, a laptop, your ID, and bank documents. Be sure to keep this bag on you at all times or in your vehicle with you. If you are traveling a long distance, you should also pack extra clothing.

The Average Cost to Move a 3 bedroom House – FAQs

Does planning the move properly help save money?

Yes, getting an early jumpstart on your move will help ensure that you get the best rates, as well as locking in your moving date.

Will movers pack loose items?

Movers will usually not pack any unpacked or loose items. All items must be packed to ensure they stay safe during the moving process.

How do I budget to move a 3 bedroom house?

To create a moving budget, it is essential to do your research to determine exactly how much you should set aside. 

  • Take inventory of your items, and include the weight, size, and value of the items
  • Research average moving costs
  • Research DIY moving costs
  • Research professional moving costs
  • Factor in additional moving costs, such as down payments, taxes, tolls, storage unit fees, or childcare costs
  • Get moving quotes

By including these factors in your budget, you can determine a reasonable estimate of what your move will cost.

Final Thoughts

The average cost to move a 3 bedroom home varies depending on multiple factors, such as the distance of the move, your house’s square footage, your belongings’ weight, and if you plan to use professional movers. 

The Agoyu moving app can help you find a moving company for your move and can allow you to compare reviews of different moving companies. Check out Agoyu today to get started planning your move. 

Bill Mulholland

Bill Mulholland is the owner of ARC Relocation, a company that relocates thousands of employees annually, to every state in the United States, and more than 90 foreign countries, for organizations like DHL, Overstock.com, GNC, and the U.S. Government. Bill also owns a real estate brokerage and title company in Virginia.