What this calculator does
Choose how you are moving: movers who charge by the hour, movers who give a written estimate for a long-distance move, or a rental truck you drive yourself. Enter the amounts from your quotes and add packing supplies, storage, your own travel, deposits at the new home and any tip. The calculator adds everything up so you can compare options and budget for the move. It has no price list: every amount comes from you, and the numbers in the boxes are examples.
How it is worked out
- Hourly movers: crew rate × hours + travel fee.
- Long-distance movers: the amount on the written estimate. For a non-binding estimate the calculator also shows 110% of it, the most the mover can require at delivery.
- Rental truck: daily rate × days + miles × mileage charge + fuel (miles ÷ miles per gallon × fuel price).
- Everything else: supplies + extra coverage + storage per month × months + travel + deposits + other costs + the tip, as a percentage of the movers' cost.
Example: a crew at $180 an hour for 6 hours with a $100 travel fee costs $1,180; with $150 of supplies and $200 of travel the move comes to $1,530. A truck at $60 a day for 2 days, 250 miles at $0.99 a mile and 10 miles per gallon at $3.20 costs $447.50, including $80 of fuel.
Interstate moves: what federal rules say
Movers that carry household goods between states must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. With a binding estimate, you cannot be required to pay more than the estimate at delivery for the listed items and services. With a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot require more than 110% of the estimate at delivery and bills any remaining charges later (FMCSA). Get estimates in writing and check a mover's registration before you hire (FMCSA: steps to select a mover).
Are moving costs tax-deductible?
For most people, no. Active-duty members of the Armed Forces who move because of a military order and a permanent change of station can deduct unreimbursed moving costs or exclude reimbursements, and starting with moves in 2026 some intelligence community employees and new appointees are treated the same way (IRS Topic 455).
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move?
It depends on distance, how much you own, the season and whether you hire movers or drive a truck. Get two or three written quotes and enter them here to compare.
What is the difference between a binding and a non-binding estimate?
A binding estimate is the most you can be asked to pay at delivery for the items and services on it. A non-binding estimate can change with the actual weight and services, but at delivery the mover cannot require more than 110% of it.
Should I tip movers?
Tipping is up to you. If you do, enter a percentage and the calculator adds it.
Can I deduct moving expenses?
Only if you are an active-duty member of the Armed Forces moving under orders, or, for moves in 2026 or later, certain intelligence community employees.