When planning a move—whether across Denver, relocating to another part of Colorado, or heading out of state—one of the most important questions you’ll have is, “How much will this cost?”
The truth is, moving company pricing is determined by a mix of variables. While some companies offer online moving cost calculators, your actual price can shift based on distance, services needed, volume of belongings, and even the time of year. Understanding these factors upfront can help you avoid hidden fees, manage your budget, and feel confident when comparing moving quotes.
- Distance and Move Type Matter
- What You’re Moving Affects the Price
- Weight: Heavier shipments (especially with large furniture, mattresses, or a piano) raise the cost.
- Volume: Some companies use cubic feet to determine space on the moving truck.
- Services Can Add Up Fast
- Full-service: The moving company packs, loads, transports, unloads, and unpacks your belongings. You pay for convenience.
- Partial-service: You handle the packing, and the movers handle the heavy lifting.
- Self-service: You pack and load, and the company just supplies the truck or moving container (like PODS).
- Bubble wrap, boxes, and other packaging supplies
- Storage pods for rent or self storage
- Disassembly and reassembly of beds, dining tables, or large shelving units
- Wrapping and waterproofing delicate or high-value items
- Timing Impacts Your Moving Costs
- Peak Season: Summer months (May through September) bring higher demand, so expect steeper moving services cost.
- Off-Season: Booking your move during the winter or mid-week can lower costs and improve availability.
- Hidden Fees & Logistics to Ask About
- Stair or elevator fees (especially for apartment or condo moves in Denver or Boulder)
- Long carry fees (if the truck can’t park close to your home)
- Permit charges for city moves where curb access is limited
- Credit card or cash payment policies
- Insurance options and valuation upgrades for high-end items
- Getting an Accurate Moving Estimate
- Request an in-person or virtual walk-through
- Use an inventory list or a moving calculator to estimate total items
- Ask for itemized pricing, including labor, materials, insurance, and fuel
- Provide accurate information—number of rooms, access details, and service expectations
- Mention if you’re relocating to or from a rural area (like Windsor, Loveland, or Keenesburg)
Local moves in cities like Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, or Aurora are usually billed hourly. Your final cost depends on how long the move takes, how many movers you hire, and whether they have to navigate stairs, elevators, or tight access points.
If you’re planning a long-distance move, such as relocating from Colorado to Texas, New Jersey, or North Carolina, your pricing will likely be based on weight, mileage, and the total volume of your household items. Interstate moves are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and may involve additional rules around insurance, valuation, or permits.
Pro tip: Ask whether your move qualifies for a flat rate if you’re crossing state lines—it can help lock in pricing and avoid hourly overages.
It’s simple: the more you move, the more it costs. Most movers calculate pricing based on either:
If you’re moving from a multi-bedroom home, make sure your inventory includes everything—garage items, outdoor furniture, and attic contents. Items requiring special handling (like hot tubs, gun safes, or vehicles) also come with added charges.
Your moving quote will vary based on the services you need. Here’s how it breaks down:
Extras that may increase your moving company cost:
Just like ski resorts have peak seasons in Colorado, so does moving.
If you’re aiming to save money, schedule early and avoid last-minute bookings. This is especially important if you’re moving cross-country or dealing with a tight mortgage, lease, or closing date.
Make sure you ask your local moving company about:
Some movers will also include advanced charges for third-party services like rigging or vehicle shipping.
To get the best possible moving cost estimate:
Final Thoughts: Know Before You Move
Every move is unique, and your final moving cost will reflect that. But by understanding how professional movers calculate pricing—whether you’re moving across Colorado or across the country—you can avoid surprises and plan with confidence.
From piano moves to storage needs, full packing service to self-serve containers, every choice impacts your bottom line. Use this guide to ask the right questions, compare multiple moving companies, and protect your budget along the way.
Move Smarter with The Move Caddies
At The Move Caddies, we believe in making relocation as smooth and affordable as possible. Our team of licensed, insured, and highly trained local movers will walk you through every step—whether you’re booking a simple in-town move or planning a long-distance relocation across state lines.
We offer transparent pricing, free estimates, and zero pressure. Just clear communication and reliable results.
Ready to get started? Contact The Move Caddies today for your personalized moving quote and let us take the stress out of your next move.
