Moving in Georgia can be exciting, but it’s important to understand the costs involved. We want to help you plan your budget and avoid surprises.
The average cost of moving within Georgia ranges from $300 to $1,500 for local moves and $2,000 to $5,000 for long-distance moves. These prices can change based on several factors.
Your moving price depends on the distance, the amount of stuff you’re moving, and the services you need. The time of year and day of the week can also affect costs. We’ll break down these factors to help you get a clearer picture of what to expect for your move in Georgia.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Moving
The price of moving depends on several key factors. These include how far you’re going, what type of move it is, how much stuff you have, and when you choose to move.
Distance and Type of Move
Local moves usually cost less than long-distance ones. We often see prices based on hourly rates for short trips. For longer hauls, the cost is typically based on weight and distance.
Interstate moves can be pricey due to fuel costs and travel time. International moves are even more complex. They involve customs, special packing, and maybe sea or air freight.
The type of move affects the price too. A full-service move costs more than a DIY truck rental. But it saves you time and effort.
Volume and Weight of Belongings
The more stuff you have, the more you’ll pay to move it. Movers often charge by weight for long trips. For local moves, they might charge by the number of rooms or hours needed.
Big items like pianos or safes can add to the cost. They need special handling and equipment. Getting rid of things you don’t need can lower your moving costs.
It’s smart to declutter before you move. This can save you money and make unpacking easier at your new place.
Packing and Unpacking Services
Packing services add to your moving bill, but they can save you time and stress. Professional packers are fast and know how to protect your things.
Full packing services include boxes and materials. Partial packing is cheaper if you only need help with certain items. Unpacking services are also available but less common.
If you pack yourself, you can save money. But be careful with fragile items. Damage during the move could end up costing more in the long run.
Time of Year and Moving Dates
Summer is the busiest time for movers. Prices often go up from May to September. Winter moves can be cheaper, but weather can be a problem.
Weekends and month-ends are popular times to move. This means higher prices. Mid-week or mid-month dates might offer better rates.
Some movers charge extra for holidays. Planning your move date carefully can help you find the best prices. Flexible dates give you more options to save money.
The Cost of Professional Movers vs. DIY Moving
Moving costs can vary greatly depending on whether you hire professionals or do it yourself. We’ll look at the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best choice for your move.
Hiring Professional Movers
Professional movers can make your move much easier. They handle the heavy lifting, packing, and transportation. In Georgia, the cost of hiring movers typically ranges from $300 to $1,500 for local moves. Long-distance moves can cost $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
Pros of using professional movers:
- Less physical strain on you
- Faster and more efficient
- Insurance coverage for your belongings
Cons:
- Higher upfront costs
- Less control over the moving process
Doing It Yourself
A DIY move can save money but requires more time and effort. The main costs include truck rental, fuel, and packing supplies. For a local move in Georgia, you might spend $100 to $300 on truck rental plus $50 to $200 on supplies.
Pros of DIY moving:
- Lower overall cost
- Full control over packing and moving
Cons:
- More physical labor
- Takes longer to complete
- Risk of injury or damage to belongings
When deciding, consider your budget, time, and physical abilities. DIY moves work well for small homes or short distances. For larger homes or long-distance moves, professional movers might be worth the extra cost.
Additional Costs to Consider
Moving expenses often go beyond the basic transportation fees. Extra charges can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Let’s look at some common additional costs to plan for when budgeting for your move in Georgia.
Moving Insurance and Valuation Coverage
We recommend getting moving insurance to protect your belongings. Basic coverage, called released value protection, is included free but only pays $0.60 per pound per item if damaged. Full value protection costs more but covers the full replacement value of broken items.
Some movers offer extra insurance options. Check your homeowners or renters policy too – it might cover items during a move. Compare costs and coverage limits to pick the best plan for your needs.
Storage and Additional Services
You might need storage if your new home isn’t ready yet. Costs vary based on unit size and rental length. In Georgia, a 10×10 unit often runs $75-$150 per month.
Other add-on services can increase your bill:
- Packing/unpacking: $25-$50 per hour
- Furniture assembly: $30-$50 per hour
- Specialty item moving (pianos, safes): $100-$500+ each
Ask your mover for a list of extra services and fees upfront to avoid surprises.
Moving Supplies and Moving Truck Rentals
Boxes, tape, and packing materials add up fast. A studio apartment might need $50-$100 in supplies, while a large house could easily top $300.
If you’re doing a DIY move, truck rental is a big expense. Prices in Georgia vary by:
- Truck size
- Distance
- Rental duration
- Season (summer costs more)
A local move might cost $20-$40 per day plus mileage. Long-distance one-way rentals start around $500-$1,500 depending on size and distance.
Don’t forget extras like furniture pads, dollies, and gas. Budget 10-15% above the base rental price for these items.
Calculating Your Moving Budget
Planning your move to Georgia requires careful budgeting. We’ll explore how to get accurate estimates and ways to cut costs.
Moving Estimates and Quotes
Getting a moving estimate is the first step in budget planning. We recommend reaching out to at least three moving companies for quotes. These estimates should be based on the size of your home and the distance of your move.
Many movers offer online moving cost calculators. These tools can give you a rough idea of expenses. For a more exact figure, ask for an in-home assessment.
Be clear about your needs when requesting quotes. List any special items or services you’ll need. This helps avoid surprise costs later. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Look at reviews and the company’s track record too.
Tips for Reducing Moving Expenses
There are many ways to cut costs when moving. Start by decluttering your home. The less you move, the less you’ll pay. Sell or donate items you no longer need.
Packing yourself can save money. Get free boxes from local stores. Use towels and clothes as packing material. If you’re flexible, book your move during off-peak times. Weekdays and non-summer months often have lower rates.
Look for moving discounts. Some companies offer deals for students, military members, or seniors. Buying packing supplies in bulk can also reduce costs.
Consider your new cost of living when budgeting. Georgia’s expenses may differ from your current location. Factor in changes to rent, utilities, and groceries. This will help you plan for life after the move.