Service guides

Moving services: what each one covers and what it costs

Ten in-depth guides to the service categories you'll see when you shop a move. Real 2026 pricing, what's included, what's not, and the questions that actually save money.

By Ryan Mitchell, Senior moving industry analyst · Reviewed by Amanda Brooks, Licensed relocation consultant · Updated April 2026

Local moving

Same-day, same-metro moves billed by the hour. The everyday workhorse service.

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Long-distance moving

Multi-state and 75+ mile moves. Priced by weight and distance, not the hour.

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Interstate moving

Cross-state moves regulated by FMCSA. The same product as long-distance, with stricter consumer protections.

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Packing services

Full-service or partial packing by your moving crew. Materials, labor, and breakage liability bundled.

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Storage

Storage-in-transit, short-term, and long-term storage with carrier liability bundled.

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Auto transport

Open or enclosed car shipping, often bundled with household-goods moves on long lanes.

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Piano & specialty moving

Pianos, gun safes, art, antiques, and oversize specialty items handled by specialist crews.

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International moving

Cross-border moves with customs, ocean or air freight, and destination services.

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Small moves & labor-only

Studio loads, dorm moves, and labor-only crews to load a rental truck or container.

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Senior & 55+ relocation

Senior Move Manager (NASMM) services for downsizing, retirement community moves, and assisted-living transitions.

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How we research: Pricing is cross-checked against BLS OEWS labor data, FMCSA SAFER and NCCDB records, AMSA industry surveys, and state public-utility tariffs. Read full methodology →