What local movers do
A local move is generally a move of under about 100 miles, often within the same state. Local movers usually charge an hourly rate for a crew and truck, plus travel time, and sometimes a minimum number of hours.
What's usually included
- A crew of 2–4 movers and a truck
- Loading, transport and unloading
- Basic furniture protection (pads and wrap)
- Disassembly and reassembly of simple furniture, often included or charged by time
- Optional packing, packing materials and short-term storage
Who it's for
Anyone moving across town: renters changing apartments, families moving to a bigger home, or people downsizing nearby.
What affects the cost
- Number of movers and hours needed
- Stairs, elevators and the distance from the door to the truck
- Drive time between the two addresses
- Day of the week and time of year (weekends and summer are busiest)
- Packing services and materials
Rough planning ranges by home size and distance: how much movers cost.
Find local movers by city
Our city directories list every mover registered with FMCSA in each area, with registration age, fleet size and authority status.
| City | Registered movers | Interstate authority | In-state only |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | 178 | 127 | 46 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 243 | 96 | 137 |
| Chicago, IL | 136 | 102 | 28 |
| Houston, TX | 230 | 81 | 142 |
| Phoenix, AZ | 134 | 68 | 60 |
| Dallas, TX | 307 | 118 | 178 |
| Austin, TX | 139 | 46 | 90 |
| San Diego, CA | 111 | 32 | 77 |
| Miami, FL | 274 | 148 | 118 |
| Tampa, FL | 105 | 40 | 61 |
Source: FMCSA Company Census File, data as of 2026-11-15.
How to compare companies
- Get at least three written estimates, ideally after a video or in-home survey.
- Compare the same things: services included, valuation coverage, dates and the type of estimate.
- Check licensing: the USDOT number for interstate moves, and any state license for in-state moves. See how to check a moving company.
- Be wary of quotes far below the rest. Moving scam red flags.
Questions to ask before hiring
- Is the price hourly? When does the clock start and stop?
- Is there a minimum number of hours or a travel fee?
- Are stairs, long carries or heavy items extra?
- What valuation coverage is included and what does more coverage cost?