How Much Do Movers Cost in Raleigh in 2025?

Written, Edited and Fact Checked by Taras Kim

Fact Checked by Wellknown Moving Raleigh

Updated: September 20, 2025

Thinking of moving in or near Raleigh? One of the first questions people ask is: “How much do movers cost in Raleigh?”

The truth is, moving prices vary widely depending on your home size, distance, and service type. From hourly rates for local moves to flat fees for long-distance relocations, knowing what drives the price can save you hundreds of dollars.

When thinking about your moving budget, it's important to consider a few basic things. When moving across town, the price depends largely on the number of rooms in your home. When it comes to the long-distance option, a lot is determined by distance. And the final amount also depends on what service you choose: the help of movers, container rental or self-organization of the move.

Average Cost of Local Moves in Raleigh by Home Size (2025)

If you’re moving within Raleigh, the price depends mainly on the size of your home and how many movers are needed. Most companies in the area charge by the hour, with rates based on the size of the crew. On average, movers Raleigh cost per hour between $120 and $360.

The table below shows the average cost of movers in Raleigh for local moves in 2025. These estimates include a moving truck, labor, and basic equipment.

💡 Key Takeaway: A small apartment move in Raleigh can cost under $500, while moving a large home may reach $3,000 or more. The more rooms you have, the higher the cost, since bigger moves require larger crews and more hours.

Long-Distance Moving Prices from Raleigh (2025)

If you’re moving out of state, the cost of movers in Raleigh is usually quoted as a flat rate instead of hourly. The price depends on distance, the size of your home, and whether you add packing or storage. On average, long-distance moving prices from Raleigh range between $3,000 and $9,500.

Here are sample estimates for popular routes in 2025:

Movers in Raleigh Cost by Service Type

Not everyone needs the same type of moving help. Some people want everything handled for them, while others are comfortable renting a truck and doing most of the work. The good news is that you have several choices in Raleigh, and each comes with a different price point and level of effort.

Here’s what you can expect:

💡 How to choose the right option:

• If you value convenience and don’t want to lift a finger, full-service movers are the safest bet. Yes, they’re the most expensive, but they’ll save you a lot of time and effort.
• If you need flexibility, a moving container is a solid middle-ground. It’s cheaper than full service, and you can keep your things in storage if your new place isn’t ready yet.
• If your budget is tight, renting a truck and moving yourself is the cheapest choice. Just remember to factor in fuel, insurance, and the time it takes.
• If you can handle the driving but not the lifting, hiring movers without a truck (labor-only) is often the best balance.

👉 Think about what matters most to you — saving money, saving time, or avoiding physical effort. That answer usually points you to the right option.

What affects the price of moving to Raleigh

Several local factors can increase or reduce moving costs. Keep these in mind when planning your move:

Apartment and HOA rules

Many managed buildings require advance notice, scheduled times, elevator reservations, or proof of mover’s insurance. If movers are delayed or turned away, you may pay extra. Call the management company at least two weeks ahead.

Parking and unloading

Downtown and dense areas often require permits or restrict unloading times. If movers must park far away, costs rise. Check building rules or city guidelines in advance.

Seasonal demand

Prices peak May–September, on weekends, and at month’s end. Student moves in August and May also raise demand. Moving mid-month, midweek, or October–April is usually cheaper.

By planning for these factors, you can better estimate costs and choose the type of moving service that suits your needs.

Hidden Moving Costs You Should Know

Even if you’ve received a moving quote, the final bill can sometimes be higher than expected. Many people are surprised by extra charges that weren’t obvious at the start. Here are some of the most common hidden costs you should watch for when hiring movers in Raleigh:

Stairs and Long Carries

If your building doesn’t have an elevator, or if movers have to carry items more than 75 feet from the truck, you may see an extra fee. These charges can run from $50 to $150, depending on the job.

Packing Supplies

Some movers include blankets and tape in their base rate, but others charge separately. Shrink wrap, mattress bags, or specialty boxes can add $25 to $100 or more to your total.

Insurance Upgrades

By law, basic coverage is about 60 cents per pound of belongings. That means a damaged TV might only get you $30 back. Full-value protection is available, but it usually costs an additional $100–$500.

Delays and Downtime

If movers arrive and can’t access your building, or if the truck has to wait for a reserved elevator, you may be billed by the hour. For a four-person crew in Raleigh, downtime can cost $200–$300 per hour.

Rescheduling or Cancellations

Changing your move date with less than 48 hours’ notice can lead to cancellation fees. Some companies charge $50 to $200 if plans change at the last minute.

💡 Warning: Not all companies spring these costs on you, but some do. Always ask for a detailed written estimate that lists possible add-on fees. That way, you won’t be caught off guard on moving day.

Tips to Save on Moving Costs in Raleigh

One of the easiest ways to cut moving costs in Raleigh is by choosing the right timing. Scheduling your move for the middle of the week and the middle of the month usually means better rates, since weekends and month-ends are the busiest. You can also save quite a bit by sourcing free boxes through Facebook Marketplace, Buy Nothing groups, or even local stores, instead of purchasing new supplies. Another smart strategy is to pack most of your belongings yourself and reserve professional packing services only for the most fragile rooms or items. Don’t forget to ask about available discounts, too—many moving companies in Raleigh offer reduced rates for military members, teachers, seniors, and students. Finally, decluttering before you move can make a big difference; donating unwanted items to organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the Green Chair Project, or the Durham Rescue Mission not only lowers your load but also helps the community.

Final Moving Checklist for Raleigh Residents

Before moving day in Raleigh, a few simple steps can save time and stress:

💡 Quick tip: Taking five minutes for these steps can prevent costly delays on moving day.

Moving Costs in Raleigh — Final Thoughts

So, how much do movers cost in Raleigh? The answer depends on your home size, the distance, and the level of service you choose. Local moves typically range from $350 to $2,900, while long-distance relocations run $3,000 to $9,500. On an hourly basis, movers in Raleigh cost between $120 and $360, depending on crew size.

One of the first decisions when moving is whether to do everything yourself or hire professionals.

If you choose professional movers, they will pack, load, transport, and unload your belongings for you. This is more expensive, but convenient for long-distance moves or when time and comfort are important.

Moving on your own with a rented truck or container will be cheaper, but you will have to take care of all the packing, moving heavy items, and organization yourself.

In any case, it is important to know in advance how many boxes you will need. This will help you avoid unnecessary expenses and last-minute rush. Try our free moving calculator — it will generate a list based on the size of your home, the number of people who will be packing your belongings, and your packing style.

With the right preparation, you’ll have a smoother move and a better idea of what to expect on your final bill.