Cost is one of the biggest concerns when planning a move. Whether you’re relocating within Orange County or moving from another area, developing an awareness of how moving companies determine pricing can help you budget wisely and avoid unexpected charges.
At Clean & Careful, we believe in transparent, fair pricing with no hidden fees or surprises. This page shows how much moving companies cost, what factors influence pricing, and how to get the best deal on your next move.
Average Moving Costs in Orange County
The cost of hiring a moving company hinges on several variables, including the size of your move, the distance, and the services required. Here are some average moving costs to help you estimate what you might pay:
Local moving costs (within Orange County)
- Studio/1-bedroom apartment: $300 to $700 (2 movers, 3 to 5 hours)
- 2-bedroom home: $600 to $1,200 (3 movers, 5 to 7 hours)
- 3-bedroom home: $1,000 to $2,000 (3 to 4 movers, 7 to 9 hours)
- 4+ bedroom home: $1,500 to $3,000 (4+ movers, 9+ hours)
At Clean & Careful, our rates are transparent:
- $120 per hour: 2 movers and 1 truck
- $160 per hour: 3 movers and 1 truck
- +$40 per hour: Each additional mover
There are no hidden fees for drive time, stairs, or overtime.
Long-distance moving costs
Long-distance moves are typically priced based on weight and distance rather than hourly rates. On average:
- Moving from Orange County to Northern California: $2,000 to $4,500
- Moving from Orange County to another state: $3,000 to $7,000
- Cross-country moves: $4,000 to $10,000+
Tip: Get a binding or binding not-to-exceed quote for long-distance moves to avoid unexpected charges.
Factors That Affect Moving Costs
Not all moves are priced the same. Many factors impact the final cost. Here’s what moving companies consider when calculating your estimate.
1) Distance of the move
- Local moves (under 50 miles): Charged hourly based on the number of movers and trucks needed.
- Long-distance moves (over 50 miles): These are typically based on weight and mileage rather than time.
Local moving? Hourly pricing is your best bet. Long-distance? Look for flat-rate moving quotes.
2) Size and weight of your move
A small apartment move costs less than a 4-bedroom house because fewer items require less time and labor. Heavy or bulky items like pianos, safes, and large furniture may cost extra.
Tip: Declutter before you move to lower your moving costs.
3) Number of movers and trucks needed
A larger crew speeds up your move but costs more per hour. More trucks may be needed for larger homes, increasing fuel and labor costs.
Tip: 2 to 3 movers are usually enough if you’re moving a small home. Consider 4+ movers for larger homes.
4) Packing services and materials
- Full packing services: $200 to $1,000+, depending on home size.
- Partial packing: Lower cost, great for fragile items.
- Packing materials: Boxes, tape, and bubble wrap typically cost extra.
Clean & Careful offers high-quality packing materials at affordable prices.
5) Special handling for large or fragile items
Certain items require extra care, equipment, or labor:
- Pianos: $150 to $500 additional cost
- Gun safes: $100 to $300
- Hot tubs: $300 to $1,000
- Antiques and fine art: Custom pricing
Tip: Ask about specialty moving fees upfront to avoid nasty surprises.
6) Stairs, elevators, and long carry fees
Multiple flights of stairs or no elevator access can increase costs. Extended carry fees may apply if movers carry items over 100 feet from your door to the truck.
Clean & Careful does not charge extra for stairs or long carries.
How to Save Money on Moving Costs
Moving home doesn’t have to break the bank. Follow these simple tips to reduce your moving expenses.
1) Move during off-peak times
Moving costs increase during peak times like:
- Summer months (May to September)
- Weekends
- Holidays
- End of the month
Tip: Move on a weekday or during the fall or winter (if possible) to save money.
2) Declutter before moving
Sell, donate, or throw away items you no longer need. Fewer items mean lower packing and transport costs.
Tip: Hold a garage sale or list unwanted items on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
3) Pack yourself
Full packing services add to your cost. DIY packing can save you hundreds of dollars. Use free or cheap packing supplies like grocery store boxes and towels as padding.
Tip: Pack fragile items carefully to avoid damage and replacement costs.
4) Get multiple quotes
Compare at least three moving companies to ensure you get fair pricing. Beware of lowball estimates, too—they might lead to hidden fees later.
Tip: Ask for binding or binding not-to-exceed quotes to lock in your cost.
Common Moving Cost Scams to Avoid
Unfortunately, not all moving companies are honest. Watch for these red flags:
- Suspiciously low quotes: A price too good to be true likely includes hidden fees.
- No written estimate: Always get your quote in writing.
- Large deposits required upfront: Most reputable movers don’t ask for large prepayments.
- Vague pricing: If they won’t explain the charges, walk away.
Clean & Careful provides honest, written quotes with no hidden fees.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
The cost of hiring a moving company in Orange County depends on:
- Size of your home
- Number of items
- Distance (local or long-distance)
- Additional services like packing or specialty moving
- Time of year and demand
On average, local moves range from $300 to $3,000, while long-distance moves cost $2,000 to $10,000+.
For the best value, choose a company that offers transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and professional service like Clean & Careful in Orange County, California.
Get Your Free Moving Quote Today!
Need an affordable, reliable moving company in Orange County? Contact Clean & Careful for a fair, upfront moving quote—no hidden fees or stress! Get in touch any time, and let us help you relocate seamlessly.
Call us: (949) 375-4629
Email us: cleancarefulmoving@gmail.com
