How Much Do Raleigh, NC Movers Cost?

Quick answer: The typical cost for hiring movers in Raleigh is $93 per hour, with the total cost to move ranging from $349 to $3,059, on average. If you’re moving out of North Carolina, the cost of hiring long-distance movers in Raleigh really depends on where you’re moving.

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  • Family owned & operated
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Average cost to hire interstate movers in Raleigh, NC

Since the cost of moving out of Raleigh depends so much on where you’re moving, we’ve included some example costs below to give you a better idea of pricing. For more detailed guides on your specific destination, find your moving route to Raleigh or use our moving cost calculator to get quotes from the top interstate movers.

Cost to move a one-bedroom home out of state from Raleigh

The cost to move a studio apartment or one-bedroom home out of state from Raleigh depends on the moving method you choose, how much stuff you have, and how far you’re moving.

Take a look at some example costs to move a one-bedroom cross-country:

Cost to move a two- or three-bedroom home out of state from Raleigh

As with any move, the cost to relocate a two- or three-bedroom from Raleigh can vary widely based on move size, distance, and time of year.

Here is a look at some two- and three-bedroom move costs out of Raleigh:

Cost to move a four-bedroom (or larger) home out of state from Raleigh

The cost to move a four-bedroom or larger home out of North Carolina will be significantly higher than for one- or two-bedroom houses, since a bigger house typically means more items. Movers calculate long-distance moves, in part, based on the total estimated volume and weight of your household belongings.

While moving costs can vary, take a look at these cost ranges for moving four or more bedrooms out of Raleigh:

Best interstate moving companies in Raleigh, NC

Now that you have an idea of what your move from Raleigh should cost, it’s time to start looking at the best interstate moving companies. We vetted each one, examining their pricing, services, and our own real-life customer reviews to pick the best options for you.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best for Quick Quotes
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(844) 794-6004
At A Glance
  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Binding estimates
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(844) 794-6004
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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(866) 835-2392

Average cost to hire a local moving company in Raleigh, NC

Hiring a full-service Raleigh mover is definitely the most convenient option, but that convenience comes at a cost — professional movers tend to be more expensive than other moving options. If you want movers to do all the heavy lifting for you and you can afford it, hire a full-service moving company for your Raleigh move.

If you want to save money, you can hire a container company, where you do the packing and loading and they transport your belongings in Raleigh for you, or by renting a moving truck and handling it all on your own.

Here are the average moving costs from Raleigh to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
New York City $2,055 - $5,252 $1,197 - $2,456 $481 - $972
Wichita $2,727 - $6,354 $1,631 - $3,212 $915 - $1,738
Seattle $3,805 - $7,954 $2,687 - $5,512 $1,824 - $3,776

And here's how much professional movers cost in Raleigh based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $349 $130 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $479 $130 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedroom $762 $181 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedroom $1,743 $254 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedroom $1,997 $254 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedroom $3,059 $355 5 movers 10 hours
  • Studio: The average cost to hire movers in Raleigh to move a studio apartment is $130 per hour for three hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • One bedroom: Moving a one-bedroom Raleigh apartment or home will typically take four hours, at an hourly rate of $130, and require two movers.
  • Two bedrooms: It will cost $181 an hour, on average, to hire a three-person crew in Raleigh to move a two-bedroom home. Two-bedroom moves usually take about five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: Local Raleigh movers charge an average hourly rate of $254 for a three-bedroom home. A move of this size will usually take eight hours to complete using four movers.
  • Four bedrooms: For a four-bedroom house in Raleigh, you can expect to pay $254 per hour for nine hours. You’ll likely need a four-person moving crew.
  • Five or more bedrooms: If your Raleigh home is a five-bedroom or larger, you will pay $355 an hour, on average, for five movers. Moves this size usually take about ten hours to complete.

It's worth noting the cost per hour for Raleigh movers remains the same for all home sizes, ranging from $130 per hour for two movers to $355 per hour for five movers. As the size of your home increases, the number of movers and hours required for the move also increases, resulting in a higher total cost.

Overall, hiring local Raleigh movers is a convenient and stress-free way to move within the city. By knowing the approximate cost for your home size, you can budget accordingly and make informed decisions for your upcoming move.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Raleigh move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Raleigh, NC

Our expert team of analysts has dug deep into licensing, insurance options, online reviews, and hundreds of other data points to find you the best local moving companies in Raleigh.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Athens Moving Experts: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Crabtree Family Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Little Guys Movers : 4.62 out of 5 stars
Pros
  • Professional and Friendly Service
  • Efficient Handling of Belongings
  • Timely Arrivals
Cons
  • Damaged Furniture
  • Poor Customer Service
  • Misleading Quotes
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving has received a variety of reviews indicating both positive and negative experiences. Many customers praise their professional and friendly service, timely arrivals, and efficient handling of belongings. However, there are significant complaints regarding damaged furniture, lack of equipment during moves, misleading quotes, and poor customer service, particularly concerning claims and scheduling. Overall, while some reviews highlight satisfying experiences with excellent staff, others raise concerns about reliability and care during the moving process.
Get a Quote (919) 371-2271

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.


Bellhop Moving has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Raleigh, NC, since 2012. Known for their impressive customer satisfaction, they boast an outstanding 4.7 average rating on Google from 626 reviews, although their Yelp profile holds a more modest 3.7 average from 85 reviews. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, making them a versatile choice compared to many nearby movers. While they do require a deposit, they accept credit cards for added convenience. With a B+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Bellhop Moving is a reputable choice for those looking to relocate locally.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Pros
  • Prompt Service
  • Excellent Communication
  • Highly Professional Staff
Cons
  • Occasional Damage to Items
  • Miscommunication on Pricing
  • Inexperienced Movers Present
Review Analysis
Athens Moving Experts is frequently praised for their excellent customer service, professionalism, and efficiency during both packing and moving. Customers appreciate the careful handling of their belongings, ensuring that items are protected and moved without damage. The teams, often highlighted for their positivity and teamwork, provide a smooth moving experience, adapting well to challenges such as poor weather or tight timelines. However, a few reviews mention issues with communication regarding arrivals or unexpected charges, along with some instances of damage to items and less experienced crew members.
Get a Quote (919) 760-7774

Company Info

State license #: 2657

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3205320


Athens Moving Experts has been a reliable staple in the Raleigh, NC moving industry since 2018, offering top-tier local residential moving services. This company stands out with its impressive consumer reviews, boasting a 4.5 average rating on Yelp and a near-perfect 4.9 on Google, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Beyond typical moving services, Athens Moving Experts excels in packing, unpacking, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, antiques, and safes, setting them apart from other local movers. For those in need of trustworthy, comprehensive local moving services, Athens Moving Experts consistently delivers satisfaction and peace of mind.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional Service
  • Excellent Communication
  • Efficient Packing and Loading
Cons
  • Damaged Items
  • Missing Belongings
  • Poor Customer Service Post-Move
Review Analysis
Excel Moving & Storage receives largely positive feedback for their professional service, punctuality, and careful handling of items during moves. Many customers appreciate the excellent communication from the staff and the efficient packing and loading process. However, some customers report serious issues, including damaged items, missing belongings, and poor post-move customer service. While many praise specific employees for their hard work and kindness, others express frustration over lack of accountability and responsiveness during the claims process.
Get a Quote (919) 213-6694

Company Info

State license #: 2311

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 076235


Excel Moving & Storage, based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing local residential moving services since 1999. While their 2.7 average rating from 58 Yelp reviews suggests some mixed feedback, their more robust presence on Google with an average rating of 4.4 from 188 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau indicates strong overall satisfaction and reliability. Unlike some nearby moving companies, Excel also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, and they are capable of moving delicate items such as pianos, pool tables, and art. Additionally, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Friendly and Professional Staff
  • Efficient and Timely Service
  • Excellent Care of Belongings
Cons
  • Damaged Items During Move
  • Poor Communication Regarding Claims
  • Inconsistent Packing Practices
Review Analysis
Crabtree Family Moving has received numerous positive reviews highlighting their professionalism, efficiency, and excellent customer service, particularly during local and long-distance moves. Customers frequently mention the courteous staff who handle items with great care, causing minimal or no damage to belongings. However, some negative feedback cites instances of damaged goods, poor communication regarding insurance claims, and concerns with staff professionalism during the move. The overall sentiment reflects that while many have had outstanding experiences, certain customers faced significant issues that affected their satisfaction with the company.
Get a Quote (919) 500-2013

Company Info

State license #: 2533

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2507399


Crabtree Family Moving has been a reliable choice for local residential moves in and around Raleigh, NC since 2012. Known for their comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and office moves, they stand out in the local market. While their Yelp reviews average a 3.6 rating, they excel with a 4.9 rating from 200 reviews on Google, indicating highly satisfied customers. Unlike some competitors, Crabtree Family Moving accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, adding convenience for their clients.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional Service
  • Friendly Staff
  • Efficient Movement
Cons
  • Occasional Property Damage
  • Miscommunication in Scheduling
  • Higher Costs for Some Moves
Review Analysis
Little Guys Movers consistently receive high praise for their professionalism, efficiency, and customer service. Many customers report satisfaction with their punctuality and friendly attitudes. Movers took great care in handling belongings, reflecting an emphasis on protecting items during the move. A strong trust in their pricing model is noted, as clients appreciate the transparency with estimates based on items to be moved, reducing the potential for unexpected charges on moving day.
Get a Quote (919) 439-2454

Company Info

State license #: 2548

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1931566


Little Guys Movers, serving Raleigh, NC, has been a cornerstone in the local moving industry since 1994, specializing in residential relocations. Known for their comprehensive services, they also excel in packing, unpacking, and moving delicate items like pianos and hot tubs. In comparison to other local movers, they stand out with an impressive customer satisfaction record, boasting a 4.6 rating on Yelp and a 4.9 rating on Google. Their A+ Better Business Bureau rating further underscores their reputation for reliability and excellence. Whether you’re moving across town or require specialized moving services, Little Guys Movers is a proven, trustworthy choice.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Visit our best movers in Raleigh page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews. And if you’re moving outside of Raleigh, consider one of Raleigh’s top long-distance movers.

City moving costs in North Carolina

Average cost of PODS in Raleigh, NC

PODS will cost $220–$7,448, on average, in Raleigh. The exact PODS cost you’ll pay will depend on whether you use an eight-, 12-, or 16-foot container (note: 12-foot containers are only available for local moves). The distance of your move will also greatly impact cost.

A local Raleigh move within 50 miles of your home will run between $220 and $813, while long-distance moves (100-250 miles) will typically cost $250–$2,107. Container pricing on cross-country moves from Raleigh can cost an average range of $2,068–$7,448.

Here's a breakdown of related PODS costs:

  • Storage fee: $149–$359 (first 30 days is free)
  • Damage coverage: 10–$439.95 per month, depending on the protection plan. Coverage ranges from container-only (no contents protection) to $300,000. All plans have a deductible of $100.
  • Door lock (if necessary): $25 (if purchased through PODS; you can also purchase from home improvement stores or online retailers)

If you’re looking for the cost-savings of a DIY move and the convenience of full-service movers, moving containers like PODS are a great option. You’ll handle loading and unloading, but they will drop off your empty container at your current home, pick it up once it’s loaded, and deliver it to your new location. This means you won’t have to worry about driving.

PODS is our overall top pick for moving containers in Phoenix based on their stellar reputation, nationwide availability, and multiple container sizes and insurance plans. But you should take a look at least two other highly rated moving container companies on our list to see which one offers the right combination of services and pricing for your move.

Best moving containers in Raleigh, NC

The best Raleigh moving container companies provide multiple container sizes, pricing transparency and deals, and secure, state-of-the-art facilities for longer-term storage needs. They should also have a solid reputation for quality customer service and efficient drop-off and pickup of containers.

Check out these highly rated moving containers:

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
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Average cost to rent a moving truck in Raleigh, NC

You'll definitely have to break a sweat, but moving truck rentals in Raleigh will be much easier on your wallet than full-service movers. The average cost to rent a moving truck in Raleigh ranges from $19-$39 per day.

While cheaper than full-service moving companies, you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading them on the truck, hauling them to your new spot, and unloading everything there.

Here are the typical costs of Raleigh rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19–$39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $0.59–$0.79 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20–$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • How far you drive the truck
  • How long you have the truck rental
  • Additional insurance
  • Parking
  • Toll fees
  • Fuel
  • Accommodations and dining
  • Moving equipment rentals

Best moving truck rentals in Raleigh, NC

The best moving truck rentals in Raleigh provide affordable rates with no hidden fees, a variety of truck sizes, and plenty of physical locations across the U.S. for convenient rental returns.

These top moving truck rentals certainly fit the bill:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517
Best Value Rental
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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At A Glance
  • Competitive base prices with specialized discounts
  • Round-trip and one-way moves available
  • User-friendly website makes it easy to book the right truck
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Average cost of labor-only moving companies in Raleigh, NC

The average cost of labor-only moving companies in Raleigh is an hourly rate of $46 for each crew member. Most moves — even small one-bedroom apartments — require a crew of two movers, so plan on about $92.5 per hour to hire labor assistance in Raleigh.

Best labor-only moving companies in Raleigh

The best Raleigh labor-only movers have a reputation for professional and efficient service, but also provide reasonable hourly rates and a variety of optional services like packing that you can pick and choose from to create a customized plan suited to your specific needs.

We like these top-notch labor-only movers:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Factors that affect the cost of movers in Raleigh, NC

The biggest factor that affects the cost of movers in Raleigh, NC, is distance, but there are several other price considerations to keep in mind, including:

  • The size of your move: The more belongings you have, the more your move will cost. Moving a four-bedroom home will typically be more expensive than moving a studio apartment.
  • When you move: You’ll usually pay more to move during peak season (May–September) because demand is higher. Similarly, the time of month and day of the week you book your move will impact cost. Demand will be higher the first and last of each month, when leases change over, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the most popular moving days. To save money on your move, consider booking during the week and in the middle of one of the off-season months, if possible.
  • The type of move: Professional movers are the most convenient option, but they will cost you more than going with a DIY option like moving container companies or moving truck rentals.
  • Any add-on services you select: Even if you go with a DIY move, you may want to hire third-party movers to assist you with loading and unloading. And professional movers offer a variety of optional services like packing and unpacking to help customize and streamline your relocation. But these additional services will come at an extra cost.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Have important documentation. Places like high rises and managed apartments will often require a copy of your mover's insurance and elevator reservation on moving day.
  • Get approval. Check ahead with any neighborhood, community, or HOA rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Secure a parking permit (if needed). Raleigh's website doesn't specifically say that you need a parking permit but they do have rules on loading zones. Be sure to check directly with the City of Raleigh to ensure that you have what you need for your move. It's also a good idea to check directly with any neighborhood, HOA, or building regulations that may affect your move.
  • Check state licensing laws. For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT).
  • Invest in moving insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.

Work with your movers to ensure all these items are taken care of before moving day.

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