How Much Do Ohio Movers Cost?

Quick answer: The average cost of hiring movers in Ohio is $122 per hour, with an average total move cost between $397 and $3,966. The exact cost of your move will depend on how many belongings you have and how far you’re relocating.

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Average cost to hire an interstate mover in Ohio

The cost of an interstate — also known as “out-of-state” — move from Ohio is naturally more complex. Because of the added logistics, interstate relocations are calculated differently than a simpler move within the same city or from one Ohio town to another.

Interstate move costs are determined based on the total volume and weight of your belongings, instead of hourly rates like with local moves. Moving out-of-state typically means longer drive times than in-state relocations, and that additional mileage comes with higher prices.

Fuel costs, higher insurance premiums, and fluctuations in seasonal demand can all drive up your overall interstate moving expenses.

Below are sample price ranges for some popular moving routes.

Cost to move a two- or three-bedroom home out of Ohio

Now that you have an idea of what your move from Ohio should cost, it’s time to start looking at the best long-distance movers in Ohio.

Best interstate moving companies in Ohio

Affordability and pricing accuracy are two key factors we use to rate interstate movers. But it’s important to balance cost with customer satisfaction and service options, so that you’re getting the best moving package for your budget — and not just a budget-rate relocation.

Compare pricing and standout features for each of the companies on our list of top interstate movers in Ohio:

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
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(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
read our full review
(866) 835-2392

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Ohio move. For that, use our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Average cost to hire a local moving company in OH

The cost to hire a local Ohio moving company for an in-state relocation depends primarily on home size and distance.

For moves of 50 miles or less in Ohio, local movers will charge you an hourly rate determined by the truck and moving crew sizes needed.

In-state long-distance moves in Ohio are priced like interstate moves — according to the total volume and weight of belongings, rather than by the hour. Like interstate moves, in-state — or “intrastate” — moves from one city to another are considered long-distance if they are more than 400 miles (although some movers set the minimum at over 100 miles).

Here’s what you could expect to pay a professional mover in Ohio.

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $397 $170 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $568 $170 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $942 $238 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $2,230 $334 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $2,564 $334 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $3,966 $467 5 movers 10 hours
  • Studio: A studio apartment move typically requires two movers and can take up to three hours, depending on the amount and types of belongings, at an hourly rate of $170.
  • One bedroom: If you have a one-bedroom apartment or home, expect to pay around $170 per hour for four hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • Two bedrooms: Moving a two-bedroom home in Ohio will cost about $238 an hour. You'll likely need three movers for five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: For a three-bedroom home, expect to pay an hourly rate of $334 for Ohio movers. A three-bedroom home typically takes eight hours to complete using a four-person crew.
  • Four bedrooms: Moving a four-bedroom house in Ohio will take four movers approximately nine hours, at a rate of $334 per hour.
  • Five or more bedrooms: The cost of hiring Ohio movers for a home with five or more bedrooms is $467 an hour. Homes this size usually require five movers and take about 10 hours.

City moving costs in Ohio

Best local moving companies in Ohio

Staying in Ohio and moving just a short distance? You’ll want to find a local moving company that provides services you need without breaking the bank.

Check out our picks for the best Ohio movers to compare cost and services:

Pros
  • Efficient Service
  • Professional Staff
  • Careful Handling of Items
Cons
  • Customer Service Issues
  • Damage to Belongings
  • Inconsistent Communication
Review Analysis
Leaders Moving and Storage has garnered a range of feedback. Many customers highlight the strong professionalism, efficiency, and care taken by individual crew members during their moves. Positive remarks often mention timely arrival and effective communication. However, several reviewers express serious dissatisfaction regarding damage to belongings, poor customer service, and issues with claims processing. These contrasting experiences suggest that the company excels with some teams and has room for improvement in overall service consistency.
Get a Quote (614) 885-6683

Company Info

State license #: 136562

Years in Business: 29

DOT #: 1237577

Alternate Names: Leaders Moving, Leaders Moving & Storage Co., L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co., Leaders Moving And Storage Company


Leaders Moving & Storage Co. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Worthington, OH, since 1995. They stand out among nearby moving companies with their exceptional customer satisfaction, reflected in a 4.8 average rating from 1622 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, they offer convenient services such as packing, unpacking, and crating, and they accept credit cards with no deposit required. With solid consumer feedback and comprehensive service offerings, Leaders Moving & Storage Co. is a reliable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Excellent Customer Service
  • Efficient and Professional Movers
  • Clear and Fair Pricing
Cons
  • Scheduling Issues
  • Occasional Damage to Items
  • Fluctuating Costs During Developments
Review Analysis
MVM Moving & Storage consistently receives accolades for their exceptional service, professionalism, and care during moves. Customers commend the teams for being efficient, friendly, and accommodating, making stressful moving days much easier. Special mentions include free and clear estimates with no hidden fees, careful handling of belongings, and effective communication throughout the moving process. However, there were a few negative experiences, including issues with scheduling, constant changes in quoted prices, and reports of some damaged items and unsatisfactory handling of furniture during moving. Yet, overall, many customers express satisfaction with the service and repeatedly return to MVM for their moving needs.
Get a Quote (614) 230-0667

Company Info

State license #: 156647

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1444491

Alternate Names: MVM Columbus, MVM Columbus Incorporated.


MVM Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in Hilliard, OH since 2007. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they clearly prioritize customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, MVM offers comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling of fragile items, ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience. Additionally, they can expertly move pianos, pool tables, and antiques, making them ideal for those with valuable or delicate items. They accept credit cards and require no deposit, setting them apart for convenience and reliability.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional and Courteous Staff
  • Efficient and Timely Service
  • Excellent Care of Belongings
Cons
  • Delivery Delays
  • Communication Issues
  • Damaged or Missing Items During Move
Review Analysis
EE Ward Moving and Storage has received numerous positive reviews highlighting their excellent and professional service across various moving experiences. Customers frequently praised the movers for their thoroughness, care for belongings, punctuality, and friendly demeanor. Positive interactions with staff during the scheduling and packing processes further enhance the overall customer satisfaction, making them a recommended choice for residential moves. Conversely, there were instances of unsatisfactory service ranging from delivery delays, miscommunication, and unresolved claims for damaged or missing items which marred some experiences.
Get a Quote (614) 401-6796

Company Info

State license #: 11470

Years in Business: 142

DOT #: 1222904

Alternate Names: E E Ward Moving & Storage Co LLC, E.E.Ward Moving & Storage Co., LLC


E.E. Ward Moving & Storage has been serving the Grove City, OH area since 1882, making it one of the oldest and most experienced local moving companies. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 from 288 Google reviews and a solid Yelp rating of 4.1 from 28 reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, they are widely regarded as a reputable choice. In addition to local residential moving, they offer a range of services including long-distance moves, office relocations, and specialty moving services for items like pianos and antiques. E.E. Ward stands out from the competition with its comprehensive packing and crating services, no required deposit, and full valuation insurance coverage.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional and Courteous Service
  • Efficient and Timely Moving
  • Careful Handling of Belongings
Cons
  • Communication Issues
  • Damage to Items
  • Delayed Deliveries
Review Analysis
Planes Moving & Storage generally provides professional and efficient moving services, with highly regarded customer service, promptness, and careful handling of items. However, several customers reported damaging incidents with furniture and a lack of communication about deliveries and service details, resulting in frustration and unsatisfactory experiences for some.
Get a Quote (614) 777-9090

Company Info

State license #: 00137119

Years in Business: 103

DOT #:  1458935

Alternate Names: Planes Commercial Services


Planes Moving & Storage Company has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Columbus, OH since 1921. While the company boasts a stellar 4.7 average rating from 519 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, its Yelp profile reflects mixed feedback with a 2.4 average rating from 20 reviews. Planes also offers a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques. Unlike many competitors, 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
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional Service
  • Efficient Team
  • Friendly Movers
Cons
  • Delayed Arrival
  • Communication Issues
  • Careless Handling of Items
Review Analysis
Customers generally praise Move It Now for their professionalism, efficiency, and friendly service during the moving process. Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of specific crew members, who are noted for their hard work and care in handling belongings. However, some negative feedback mentions issues with delayed arrivals, lack of communication regarding damages, and instances of lost or mishandled items, suggesting room for improvement in customer service and care during the moves.
Get a Quote (330) 929-6683

Company Info

State license #: 00504589

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2048293

Alternate Names: Move It Now of Akron


Move It Now has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Cuyahoga Falls, OH since 2011. With an impressive Google rating of 4.7 from 255 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, it's clear that customer satisfaction is a priority for them. Unlike many competitors, Move It Now also offers flexible packing services and labor-only options, catering to diverse moving needs without requiring a deposit. Although their Yelp rating is slightly lower at 3.9 from 14 reviews, the overwhelmingly positive feedback elsewhere makes them a reliable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Average PODS Costs in OH

The average cost of PODS is anywhere from $220–$7,448, depending on the container size and move distance. For example, a local move in Ohio using an eight-foot PODS container runs from $220 to $426, while the same move with a 16-foot container would be approximately $323–$813.

In general, you can expect to pay $220–$813 with PODS for a local move. Long-distance moves, which require longer transport times and mileage, are naturally pricier. Renting a PODS container for a long-distance move of 100–250 miles will typically cost between $250 and $2,107, and cross-country moves start at around $2,068 and can be as much as $7,448.

We like PODS for its widespread availability, multiple container sizes (eight, 12, and 16 feet), and ongoing discounts but we know that everyone’s move is unique. While PODS is our overall pick, we always recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to get a clear comparison of pricing and services.

Best moving containers or PODS in Ohio

Moving container companies combine the cost-savings of a DIY move with the convenience of full-service movers. You’ll cut moving costs by loading up all your items into your PODS or moving container yourself, but you’ll still have a professional driver handling the transport of your belongings to your new home within Ohio or across state lines.

You’ll want to look for companies offering a variety of container sizes or types and quick and easy container delivery and pick-up scheduling. If you need long-term storage as part of your move, the top moving container companies provide facilities with 24/7 monitoring and climate-controlled options.

Here are our recommendations for top moving container companies in Ohio.

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
Check prices
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
read our full review
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Average cost to rent a moving truck in OH

The average cost to rent a moving truck ranges from $57–$136 for a local move and $355–$5,700+ for long-distance moves.

Best moving truck rentals in Ohio

Renting a truck from companies like U-Haul is your most affordable option — but it will also require you to do the most work. you’ll have to box up and load your items, drive the truck, and unload your belongings at your new place yourself or with the help of friends and family or third-party labor.

Check out our top picks for moving truck rentals in Ohio:

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
Best Value Rental
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
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
read our full review
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Average cost of labor-only moving companies in OH

The average cost of hiring a labor-only mover in Ohio is $61 per hour for each moving crew member. Since even smaller moves like studio apartments typically require a minimum crew size of two people, you can expect to pay an hourly rate of approximately $122 for moving labor.

Best labor-only moving companies in Ohio

Don’t want to deal with the heavy lifting? A labor-only company will handle that for you. = Labor-only companies in Ohio are kind of like professional movers without the truck.

They provide packing and loading support, as well as optional services like disassembly and reassembly of furniture, but you’ll still have to rent a moving truck and drive.

Take a look at these top-rated labor-only movers in Ohio:

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 your Ohio move

The following common factors will affect the cost of your Ohio move:

  • The size of your move: The more items you move, the more the move is going to cost. Obviously, it will take more time to load more items into a truck, but it will also often require a bigger moving crew. Those additional man hours and extra labor mean you’ll pay more for a fully furnished two-bedroom home than you would a minimalist studio apartment. To help keep costs down, make sure you’re only bringing with you those things that you truly want to have in Ohio.
  • The distance of the move: How far you’re moving can greatly impact your costs. If you’re moving locally, you’ll pay an hourly rate and your total price will be based on how long it takes a crew to move a home of your size. A long-distance mover will likely build additional expenses like mileage and fuel and toll costs into your total estimate. Getting a truck from Ohio to your new home state takes longer, so moving companies also adjust pricing to account for the time involved.
  • The type of move: There are several ways to handle your Ohio move. You take a more hands-off approach and hire a full-service moving company. While this is certainly the most convenient choice, you’ll also pay more for a full-service move than you would with DIY options like renting a moving truck. You can save a lot with a truck rental, but you’ll have to drive and do all the loading and unloading yourself (unless you want to hire labor-only movers). You may also want to consider getting a moving container, which saves some money but also provides professional drivers.
  • Home type: If you live in a one-bedroom ranch with a private driveway, your move will be logistically easier. Moving out of condos or high-rise apartments will require additional planning and loading time, especially if parking is an issue. Most movers will typically charge stair and elevator fees for moves that aren’t on the ground floor and homes with more than one story. Long-carry fees will also usually be applied if crews must carry items a longer distance to the truck due to parking limitations.
  • Add-on services: Generally speaking, the more you do yourself the less your Ohio move is going to cost you. However, it can be nice to have professionals do your packing and unpacking for you. That’s going to cost a little extra, as will opting for increased insurance, tacking on short-term storage, or requesting customized crating for electronics, antiques, or fine art.
  • The time of the year: Moving in the summer can cost from 20-30% more than other times of year. That’s because summer is a popular time of year for relocations. Demand and limited availability during peak moving season drives prices up. Moving within or out of Ohio between October and April, when moving companies have less demand, will certainly bring your costs down.

Consider car shipping costs for long-distance OH moves

Professional car shippers will apply their years of know-how to help get your car to your new home as part of your long-distance move. Here are the top car shippers in Ohio:

Company Our take Rating Price
Sherpa Auto Transport
Best for accurate pricing
starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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Montway Auto Transport
Best cross-country shipper
starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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Easy Auto Ship
Best for quick pickup
starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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AmeriFreight Car Transport
Best for discounts
starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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SGT Auto Transport
Best for overall value
starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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Tips to save money on your Ohio move

Regardless of whether you decide to hire a professional full-service mover or go the DIY route, there are some easy things you can do to help you save money on your Ohio move:

  • Declutter and downsize. Decluttering before moving is a great way to reduce costs, since the less you have, the less it will cost to move it! You can donate items you don’t want to keep and may even be able to make some extra cash selling higher-value, gently used pieces.
  • Ask about moving discounts. A lot of moving companies provide special offers for veterans, students, senior citizens, and new customers, so make sure you ask when you’re shopping around for a mover.
  • Move during the off-season. Movers are busiest between mid-May and mid-September, so, if you can, plan your moving day outside of this peak season. Additionally, movers tend to charge more on weekends because of high demand. If you’re able to relocate during the week, you might save some money.
  • Book your move well in advance. Last-minute moves cost more, so if you plan ahead and book at least two months in advance, you’ll be paying less than if you waited until a couple weeks before your moving day.
  • Handle packing yourself. Even if you go with a full-service mover for your Ohio move, you can save money by packing yourself instead of paying a company to do it for you.

What is the cheapest way to move in Ohio?

The cheapest way to move within Ohio is by using a DIY option. For some people in Ohio, it’s cheaper to rent a moving truck, but for others, it makes more sense to hire a professional moving company.

While it seems like a DIY move would also be the cheapest way to relocate out of Ohio, that’s not always the case. Truck rentals can save you money on shorter-distance moves. But for out-of-state relocations, hidden or unexpected expenses like gas, mileage, toll charges, and even food and accommodations on your trip can add up quickly and even push the price of your truck rental above what it would cost to use a full-service mover.

To help you decide, use our free moving cost calculator to get free personalized, instant quotes and quickly compare the cost of truck rentals and professional moving companies.

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