Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Whether you’re relocating to a different neighborhood within Boston or moving from a far-off city, one of the crucial aspects to consider is the cost of hiring professional movers.
Understanding the average costs and factors involved in hiring Boston movers will help you budget and plan your move more effectively. In this article, we’ll break down the average movers’ costs in Boston, explore what’s included in the hourly rates, and discuss essential considerations when factoring moving costs.
How Much Do Movers Cost in Boston?
The cost of hiring movers in Boston can vary based on factors such as the size of your home, distance of the move, time of year, and additional services you require. To provide a comprehensive overview, let’s examine both local and long-distance moving costs separately.
Average Local Boston Movers Cost
For local moves within Boston, movers typically charge an hourly rate based on the number of movers required and the size of your home.
Below is a chart illustrating the average cost of movers in Boston per hour, for home sizes ranging from 1 to 5 bedrooms, along with the number of movers and estimated hours to complete the move.
| Home Size | Number of Movers | Average Cost Per Hour | Hours to Complete Move |
| 1 bedroom | 2 | $120-$150 | 3-5 |
| 2 bedrooms | 2 | $140-$180 | 4-6 |
| 3 bedrooms | 3 | $160-$200 | 5-7 |
| 4 bedrooms | 4 | $180-$220 | 6-8 |
| 5 bedrooms | 4 | $200-$250 | 7-9 |
Please note that these figures are approximate and may vary depending on the moving company and specific circumstances.
Average Long-Distance Boston Movers Cost
For long-distance moves that involve crossing state lines or covering substantial distances, the cost structure may differ. Movers usually charge based on the weight of your belongings and the distance to be traveled. Here’s a chart outlining the average cost per hour to move a two-bedroom home, three-bedroom home, and four-bedroom home.
| Home Size | Number of Movers | Distance | Average Cost Per Hour | Hours to Complete Move |
| 1 bedroom | 2 | 50-100 miles | $150-$200 | 6-8 |
| 2 bedrooms | 2 | 50-100 miles | $170-$220 | 7-9 |
| 3 bedrooms | 3 | 50-100 miles | $190-$240 | 8-10 |
| 4 bedrooms | 4 | 50-100 miles | $210-$260 | 9-11 |
| 5 bedrooms | 4 | 50-100 miles | $230-$280 | 10-12 |
Again, keep in mind that these figures are only estimates and actual costs may vary based on individual circumstances.
Average Boston Movers Cost for Cross-Country Moves
Below is a chart outlining the average cost for cross-country moves from Boston to four major cities, including moving to Seattle, San Francisco, Austin, and Salt Lake City. The costs are estimated based on the distance, home size, and the number of movers required.
| Destination | Distance | Home Size | Number of Movers | Average Cost Per Hour | Hours to Complete Move |
| Boston to Seattle | 2,700 miles | 2 | 2 | $150-$180 | 15-20 |
| 3 | 3 | $180-$220 | 20-25 | ||
| 4 | 4 | $210-$250 | 25-30 | ||
| 5 | 4 | $230-$280 | 30-35 | ||
| Boston to San Francisco | 3,100 miles | 2 | 2 | $160-$190 | 17-22 |
| 3 | 3 | $190-$230 | 22-27 | ||
| 4 | 4 | $220-$260 | 27-32 | ||
| 5 | 4 | $240-$290 | 32-37 | ||
| Boston to Austin | 2,000 miles | 2 | 2 | $140-$170 | 13-18 |
| 3 | 3 | $170-$210 | 18-23 | ||
| 4 | 4 | $200-$240 | 23-28 | ||
| 5 | 4 | $220-$270 | 28-33 | ||
| Boston to Salt Lake City | 2,200 miles | 2 | 2 | $145-$175 | 14-19 |
| 3 | 3 | $175-$215 | 19-24 | ||
| 4 | 4 | $205-$245 | 24-29 | ||
| 5 | 4 | $225-$275 | 29-34 |
Please keep in mind that these figures are estimates and may vary depending on the specific moving company, services required, and other individual factors. When planning a cross-country move, obtaining detailed quotes from reputable moving companies is essential to get an accurate cost for your relocation.
What Is Included in the Hourly Boston Moving Company Rates?
Before hiring a moving company, it’s crucial to understand what services are included in the hourly rates. Standard services usually include loading, transportation, unloading, and basic furniture assembly/disassembly.
However, other services, such as packing, packing supplies, and storage, may incur additional charges. When obtaining quotes from Boston movers, always inquire about the specific services included in the hourly rate.
Best Time of Year to Move in Boston
The timing of your move can also impact the cost of hiring movers in Boston. The summer months (June to August) and weekends are typically peak moving times when demand for moving services is high, leading to potentially higher rates.
Consider moving during the off-peak seasons (fall and winter) or weekdays to secure more affordable rates and greater moving companies’ availability.
Things to Consider When Factoring Moving Costs in Boston
While the hourly rates and distance are essential in calculating moving costs, there are several other aspects to consider:
Additional Services: If you need packing assistance, special handling for fragile items, or temporary storage, expect additional charges.
Insurance: Verify the insurance coverage provided by the moving company to safeguard your belongings during transit.
Accessibility: The ease of access to your current and new home can influence the time and effort required, potentially affecting costs.
Specialty Items: Moving large or delicate items like pianos or artwork may incur extra fees due to their specialized handling.
Seasonal Demand: As mentioned earlier, peak moving seasons can lead to higher prices and limited availability.
Boston Movers Costs: FAQs
What should I tip movers in Boston?
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is customary to tip professional movers for their hard work and dedication. A common practice is to tip each mover between $20 to $50 per person, depending on the quality of service provided. It is typically equal to about 10 to 20 percent of the total cost of the move.
What is the best day of the week to plan a move in Boston?
Weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday, often have lower demand for moving services, making them potentially more affordable than weekends.
What are additional charges to remember when planning a move?
Additional charges may include packing materials, fuel surcharges, long carry fees, and fees for stairs or elevators.
How much do movers charge per hour in Boston?
Movers’ hourly rates in Boston can range from $120 to $290 per hour, depending on the company and the level of service required.
Conclusion
Moving in Boston can be a significant undertaking, and understanding the costs involved is vital for a smooth and stress-free experience. Local and long-distance Boston movers costs can vary based on factors like home size, distance, and time of year.
Be sure to inquire about the specific services included in the hourly rate and consider other aspects, such as tipping etiquette and additional charges. Planning carefully and choosing a reputable moving company can make your Boston move a successful and affordable endeavor.
The Agoyu moving app can help you find some of the best moving companies in Boston, read reviews, and compare pricing. Check out the Agoyu moving app today to begin planning your move.
