How Much Does Moving a 3-Bedroom House Cost?
Moving can be an exciting experience, especially if you're moving your entire household. But it can also be stressful when you factor in the cost of the move. Moving a 3-bedroom house is a significant undertaking that requires a lot of planning, coordination, and resources. It is important to have an idea of what you're in for.
No matter the distance or location, moving house requires careful consideration of various factors, such as the size and weight of your belongings, transportation logistics, and your budget. Selecting a dependable moving company that can provide you with the necessary services and support to ensure a smooth and stress-free move is essential.
In this article, we will discuss the average cost of moving a 3-bedroom house, what factors influence the cost, and ways to save on your move.
Average Cost to Move a 3-Bedroom House
A move within a 50-mile distance is classified as a local move. For these moves, moving companies bill by the hour, determined by the movers in your crew. Usually, local moving companies require a minimum of 2-3 hours of hourly charges.
Interstate and cross-country moves are considered long-distance moves, and with these, you can expect the cost to increase. Moving companies apply flat rates for long-distance moves based on mileage. The expense associated with moving a 3-bedroom home can vary significantly, ranging from $4,000 to $10,500. To get the most accurate estimate, request a free quote.
Cost of Packing
Packing is an important aspect of moving, and it can add significantly to the total cost. If you choose to pack yourself, you'll need to purchase boxes, tape, bubble wrap and other packing materials. The cost of packing materials can range from $200 to $500. The size of your residence and the number of belongings you possess will influence the final cost. If you choose to hire professional packers, the cost can range from $500 to $1,500 or more, depending on the number of items you have and the complexity of the job.
Trucking, Delivery and Off-Loading Costs
The size of the truck you require and the distance of your relocation will determine the cost. Delivery and off-loading costs will depend on the number of items you have. A 16-foot truck to move your 3-bedroom house for a long-distance move can cost you about $540, excluding gas and other charges. The cost of a 26-foot moving truck is around $500 for a local move and $1,600 for a long-distance move.
If you're planning a short-distance move, you should anticipate a daily cost of more than $30 and additional expenses such as fuel charges and applicable taxes. The expenses related to delivery and unloading can fluctuate between $500 to $1,000, depending on the intricacy of the move and the distance to the destination.
When you rent a moving truck for a cross-country move, make sure you factor in the following:
- Moving trucks don’t get the best gas mileage, and you could end up spending hundreds of dollars.
- The fatigue from driving a large moving truck is greater than that of driving a regular car, and depending on the length of your trip, you may need to stay overnight multiple times.
- Undoubtedly, you need to eat while on a long-distance trip, but dining at restaurants can become expensive quickly.
- You could run into other expenses along the way. It is crucial to allocate funds in your budget for such situations.
Factors That Influence Cost
Regardless of whether you live in a 3-bedroom condo, apartment, or house, numerous factors can impact the cost of your move. Your decision to hire a moving company, or brokers or opt for a do-it-yourself move can significantly affect your moving expenses.
Distance
Distance is one of the largest factors that can impact the cost. Long-distance moves are charged a flat rate, while local moves are charged at hourly rates. The farther you travel, the higher the cost you should anticipate.
Weight
The total expense of your relocation is proportional to the weight of your possessions, meaning that a higher weight will result in a higher expense. On the other hand, if your number of items is below the average for a three-bedroom house, you can anticipate a lower cost.
Add-On Services
It's important to consider that additional services, such as packing and crating, may significantly raise the total cost of your relocation. Therefore, it's advisable to discuss these options while obtaining any moving estimate.
Time of Year
If you plan to schedule a move between May and September, which is the peak season, be prepared to pay a slightly higher cost. During this period, the demand for moving services significantly increases, so it's recommended to book in advance to secure a spot and avoid higher prices.
House or Apartment?
Compared to a 3-bedroom apartment, a 3-bedroom house is typically larger in size. Houses often offer more storage options such as garages, basements, and attics, which residents tend to utilize to the fullest extent.
Special or Fragile Furniture
Moving companies typically charge extra fees for the convenience of relocating bulky items such as pianos, excessively heavy objects, and fragile antiques or hutches.
Accessibility
In some instances, challenging parking arrangements or a steep, narrow driveway leading to your home may pose obstacles for your movers. As a solution, certain moving companies provide shuttle services to transport goods in areas where their trucks can't access them, but these services often come at a premium cost.
What to Look Out for When Getting Moving Quotes
When getting moving quotes, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure you get an accurate estimate. Some of these include the following;
Get Early Quotes
Get quotes as early as possible to ensure availability and get the best rates. Get quotes from at least three different moving companies to compare prices and services.
Budget for Your Move
Keeping a moving checklist can be a helpful way to stay within your budget. It's important to remember that while professional moving companies can handle all aspects of your move, their services often come with a high cost. If you're working with a tight budget, it may be more practical to consider hiring brokers or planning a do-it-yourself move.
Customer Reviews
Check online reviews to get an idea of the company's reputation and reliability. Furthermore, it is advisable to search for feedback on independent websites or family and friends rather than solely relying on the mover's website. Authentic reviews usually include specific details about the moving experience, both positive and negative.
Understand Insurance
Make sure you understand the company's insurance policies and what is covered. Many moving companies offer insurance coverage for your belongings during the move. It's important to carefully review your insurance options and choose the coverage that best fits your needs and budget. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and limitations of any policy you choose.
Do You Want to Save on Your Move?
Moving can be expensive, but there are ways to save money, such as:
Decluttering
Get rid of any items you no longer need or use before your move. It is advisable to sell or donate the items you don't entirely adore in your home before moving.
Pack Yourself
By packing your belongings on your own, you can reduce your expenses on packing services. The greater the amount of work you can manage independently, the lower the expenses you'll have to incur for hiring a mover to do it.
Move During Off-Peak Season
The season in which you move can impact the cost of your relocation services. Typically, the peak season for professional movers spans from April to September. If your move falls within this time frame, anticipate higher expenses.
Plan Ahead
Plan your move as early as possible to avoid peak moving season and potentially higher costs. Book movers or rent a truck well in advance, as prices tend to increase closer to the moving date.
Negotiate
Apart from comparing the various quotes, negotiate with the moving company to see if they can offer any discounts or promotions.
Benefits of Choosing a Moving Company Over DIY
Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming process, especially when you have a lot of belongings to transport. While some people choose to do it themselves, there are many benefits to hiring a professional moving company instead. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider using a moving company for your next move:
Experience
Professional movers have the experience and expertise to handle all types of moves. They know how to pack and transport your belongings safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
Equipment
Moving companies have the necessary equipment to move heavy and bulky items such as furniture, appliances, and pianos. They also have the right tools and supplies to pack and protect your belongings properly.
Time-Saving
Moving is a time-consuming process, and hiring a moving company can save you a lot of time and hassle. They can handle the packing, loading, and unloading, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the move.
Insurance
Professional moving companies offer insurance coverage for your belongings during the move. This means that if anything is damaged or lost during the move, you will be compensated for the value of the item.
Cost-Effective
While it may seem like a DIY move would save you money, there are often hidden costs that you may not consider. For example, renting a truck, buying packing supplies and taking time off work can all add up. Hiring a moving company may be more cost-effective in the long run.
Convenience
Hiring a moving company can make the process more convenient and less stressful. They can handle all the heavy lifting and logistics, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home.
The Final Verdict
Ultimately, the decision of whether to hire professional movers or handle a do-it-yourself move is entirely yours. However, it's essential to recognize that relocating a 3-bedroom home is a challenging undertaking. Regardless of your choice, it's crucial to consider the various services you require and your budget. Therefore, we highly recommend that you plan your move well in advance to avoid any unnecessary stress and ensure your comfort during the process.
