WHAT IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE PART OF MOVING?: GUIDE

What Is the Most Expensive Part of Moving?: Guide

What Is the Most Expensive Part of Moving?: Guide

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Find out what is the most expensive part of moving and learn how to plan your move smarter by cutting costs on full-service movers, packing, and transport.

What Is the Most Expensive Part of Moving?

Moving can be one of the most stressful life events—not just emotionally, but financially too. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, the total bill can be surprisingly high. So, what is the most expensive part of moving?

In most cases, hiring full-service movers is the single biggest cost. This includes labor, transportation, packing, and sometimes storage. While the final cost depends on factors like distance, home size, and the amount of belongings, full-service moving can easily eat up 50–70% of your entire moving budget.

But full-service isn’t the only high-ticket item. Understanding the different elements that drive up your moving expenses can help you cut back and plan more effectively.

Moving Cost Breakdown: What You’re Actually Paying For

Here’s a quick look at where your money typically goes when planning a move:

  • Labor (40–60%): Paying for professional movers' time and effort.

  • Transportation (20–30%): Truck rental, fuel, tolls, or mileage charges.

  • Packing Services & Materials (10–20%): Boxes, bubble wrap, packing labor.

  • Storage (varies): Temporary or long-term storage for in-between moves.

  • Insurance (optional): Protecting valuable or fragile items during transit.

Hiring professionals might save your back and time, but it’s important to know that labor costs are usually the priciest part, especially if movers are paid hourly and your move takes longer than expected.

For helpful planning tools, budgeting tips, and guides, visit
Chamomile Go — a trusted source for moving advice and resources tailored to everyday movers.

Full-Service Movers: Why They Cost So Much

If you choose full-service movers, they’ll handle everything from packing your belongings and loading them onto the truck to driving, unloading, and even setting things up in your new home. Sounds great, right? It is—but it comes at a price.

Why full-service movers are so expensive:

  • Skilled labor: Professional movers are trained to handle heavy, fragile, or valuable items.

  • Time: The longer your move takes, the more you pay (especially for local moves charged by the hour).

  • Distance: Long-distance moves often include fuel costs, driver wages, hotel stays, and mileage charges.

  • Convenience: You’re paying for a stress-free, hands-off experience.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative, consider hybrid moving, where you pack and prep yourself but hire movers just for the loading and unloading.

The Role of Distance and Volume in Moving Costs

While labor is typically the most expensive single item, distance and weight/volume of your items also significantly influence the total cost—especially for cross-country or interstate moves.

For example:

  • A short move with lots of furniture might cost more than a long-distance move with minimal belongings.

  • Movers often charge based on total weight or cubic feet for long-distance hauls.

This is why decluttering and downsizing before you move can make a noticeable difference in your bill.

If you’re moving out of a smaller space and want specifics, here’s a guide worth checking out:
How Much Do Movers Cost for a 1 Bedroom Apartment in LA?

Other High-Cost Moving Expenses to Watch For

In addition to labor and distance, a few other moving costs can quickly add up:

1. Packing Materials

Even if you pack yourself, boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and mattress covers aren’t cheap. Buying all new materials can run you $100–$300 or more depending on your home size.

2. Storage Fees

If your new home isn’t move-in ready or you need time in between, short-term storage can cost $50 to $300+ per month, depending on location and size.

3. Specialty Items

Moving items like pianos, large TVs, or fine art requires special equipment and expertise. These add-ons are often charged separately.

4. Hidden Fees

Stairs, long carry distances, or lack of elevator access can result in extra charges. Be sure to ask for an all-inclusive estimate from your movers.

How to Save on the Most Expensive Part of Moving

Even though labor and transport often dominate your bill, there are plenty of ways to bring costs down:

  • Pack yourself: Save on labor and packing service fees.

  • Disassemble furniture: Movers charge less when large pieces are ready to go.

  • Move during the off-season: Summer is the busiest (and most expensive) time to move.

  • Use secondhand packing supplies: Local stores or online groups often give away boxes.

If you're moving locally, get multiple quotes and ask about hourly rates vs. flat fees. This can help you make a smarter financial decision.

Final Thoughts: Control the Costs That Matter Most

To answer the question: What is the most expensive part of moving?—it’s usually the labor and services provided by professional movers, especially in full-service moves. However, total distance, the weight of your belongings, and special circumstances can also quickly escalate your moving budget.

Understanding what costs the most allows you to make better decisions—like where to cut corners and where to invest. Whether you go full-service or DIY, planning ahead and being informed is your best strategy.

Need help estimating or organizing your move? Use online cost tools or browse local movers' reviews to find the best match for your budget.

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