Mover hourly rate: how much does a mover cost per hour?

At Moving, we know how stressful moving can seem. You're packing your whole life into boxes, looking for a moving van, talking to multiple movers and hopes you don't pay too much. In this guide, you'll discover how the hourly rate for a mover works, what moving company costs you can expect, and how to deal with them in a smart way. moving costs handles. We keep the explanation as clear as possible, so that you can start your move with peace of mind. Move with peace of mind, move with Moving.

How much does a mover cost?

Many people ask themselves, “How much does a moving company cost?” The costs vary, but generally you pay a mover by the hour, which usually amounts to 30 euros per hour to around 50 euros. On average, a mover costs between these amounts, depending on the region, the size of the job and additional services you choose. Hiring a professional mover is very easy with Moving!

This is how much a mover costs on average..

Example: Suppose you are moving during the weekend and you book two movers. If each mover charges an average of 40 euros per hour and the entire move takes six hours, then you will end up with 480 euros. This amount can increase if you hire an additional mover or if the distance between the old and new home is large.

Different rates

So you see that the hourly rate depends on multiple factors. In the rest of this article we explain how to keep the total amount as low as possible, so that you do not get expensive surprises.

How are the moving company costs structured?

Moving company costs consist of different components. Below we list the most important ones, so that you know exactly how the costs of a move are determined.

1. Moving costs and hourly rate of a mover

This is the rate per mover per hour, often between €30 and €50. A recognized moving company can have a slightly higher hourly rate, because it offers more guarantees and expertise.

2. The average cost of call-out charges

Some moving companies have a starting rate or charge for extra kilometers. Expect to pay per kilometer if the distance is large. Sometimes, however, you get a certain number of kilometers for free.

3. Materials and resources

Think of moving boxes, protective blankets, packing materials and the use of a moving elevator. If you live in a high apartment without a regular elevator, then renting a moving elevator may be necessary. During the move, you don't have to think about it anymore.

4. Packing and unpacking service and the additional costs of a moving company

If you don't have time to pack your furniture or fragile items safely, it can be useful to outsource this task. This service increases the cost of movers, but you save time and effort. 

5. Storage space and the costs of a move

If your new home is not immediately available, you may pay for temporary storage. This also counts towards the total moving costs.

Hiring a mover often becomes clearer if you clearly break down the costs. Therefore, always ask for a specific cost structure in the quotes you receive.

Rates of a recognized or non-recognized moving company

Sometimes you hesitate between a recognized moving company and a non-recognized company. We notice that customers wonder what the difference is and why the rates differ.

Recognized movers

A recognized party is usually affiliated with a trade organization. You benefit from additional guarantees, such as insurance that is better arranged. The rates may be a bit higher, but you know that the move is in good hands. Other costs at a recognized moving company are often a bit higher as well.

Unauthorized movers

This type of moving company is often cheaper. You can save on costs this way. Be aware that not every unrecognized company is a bad choice. Always check if others have had good experiences and read reviews before you decide.

Anecdote: Someone I spoke to once chose an unofficial company. He paid little for his big move, but the communication was messy and things got broken. That damage was not covered. Sometimes you still end up paying the main price afterwards. How much does moving cost these days? As you can see, there are various factors that influence the costs.

Type of property

Your type of home plays a big role in the cost of a moving company. Moving from a small apartment is usually faster than moving from a spacious three-story mansion. The number of movers you need depends on the amount of stuff. The costs you will have are often based on the following:

1. When you are moving to an apartment

Is there no elevator in the building? Then you may need to rent a moving elevator to safely bring heavy furniture downstairs. This will increase the moving costs.

2. Terraced house and the costs of movers

In general, the move goes more smoothly here, because the loading and unloading location is easily accessible. The hourly rate is often limited to the actual work, without additional resources.

3. How much does a moving company and a detached house cost?

You usually have more surface area and therefore more furniture. You often pay for extra manpower or for longer working days, so that the move continues to run smoothly.

Distance between old and new house

Depending on the distance between your old and new home, the price can change. Some moving companies charge a higher mileage allowance if you are moving far away. You may pay a flat rate for the first few miles and then a cost per mile if you are outside a certain radius. Sometimes it can be €1 per mile which can be quite expensive if the homes are far apart.

Example: With a national moving company based in North Holland, you may pay extra if you move to South Limburg. These costs vary greatly, so check carefully which moving company is the most advantageous in your region. Do you want to outsource the move? Then request free quotes from Moving now.

Moving company costs during the weekend or during the week

Moving can be more expensive on weekends. During the week, many moving companies charge their standard hourly rate, often between €30 and €50. On weekends, you sometimes pay an additional surcharge, because movers work outside their normal schedule. Every moving company has staff who are happy to work on weekends.

Mover's hourly rate may be lower

If you are flexible, it can be worth planning your move within a weekday. This choice will keep the moving company costs under control. You will then have a day off must be included, but the total moving costs will be lower as a result.

Pack it yourself or have it packed

You can pack it yourself or outsource it. Both options offer advantages. Do you want to do less yourself? Then it is best to outsource the move and use the services of real professionals. 

Do it yourself

You have more control over how your belongings are packed into moving boxes. You also save on the hourly rate of a professional mover. It does take time and energy, because you have to carefully protect and prepare everything. Do you need movers? For free quotes from moving companies, you can now request quotes without obligation from Moving.

Let's pack it

Experienced movers pack quickly and professionally. They are used to packing valuable objects or fragile items correctly. The disadvantage is that the costs of a moving company increase. However, it can save stress if you have little time.

Use moving lift

A moving lift can be essential if you live on the fourth floor without an elevator in the building. Such an aid prevents lugging over narrow stairs and limits the chance of damage. Renting a moving lift does increase the costs, but you save a lot of time. This saves you on the hourly rate of the mover, because the job is done faster. To rent a moving van, you are also at the right address at a moving company.

Analogy: Think of the moving lift as a smart slide for your furniture. It may seem like an extra expense, but it can be comparable to investing in good tools. You make the job easier and prevent expensive accidents.

How can I save on moving costs?

Of course you want to save money. We understand that. That is why we give you a few practical tips to keep your moving costs within limits. Each moving company per region can have different rates, but even if there are 100,000 moving companies on the other side of the country.. at Moving we always find the right company to move your belongings. 

1. Compare quotes

Request multiple quotes from regional movers at Moving, free of charge and without obligation. That way, you can see at a glance which party offers you the best rate. These movers have experience with moving and can ensure that your move goes smoothly. 

2. Plan during the week

Moving during the weekend can be more expensive. If you can hire a mover during the week, you will often be cheaper. Good preparation is half the battle! 

3. Make a good plan

Keep track of how long the movers will be busy. With a tight schedule you prevent unnecessary hours on the invoice. Also read our tips to save on your move.

4. Clean up

Don't take every bit of junk with you when you move. The fewer boxes you pack, the less time it takes. Of course, you want to be able to neatly reassemble your stuff in your new home without having to search for everything. 

5. Ask friends for help

Have friends help with loading and unloading, so you may have to pay less for movers.

How much will a mover cost me?

A mover costs on average between 30 and 50 euros per hour. That is a wide range, but you will immediately notice that a small difference in hourly rate can mean a big difference on the final invoice. For example, if you have three movers working for six hours on your move, that is a lot of man-hours.

However, you can sometimes find big differences between the various moving companies per quote. Therefore, always compare at least three parties. This will give you an impression of the market average and you can more easily list costs.

Request free quotes from Moving

Are you curious about the price of a moving company or the hourly rate of a mover in your area? You can easily compare quotes via our service. Then you can see immediately what it costs to move and how you can move cheaply without compromising on quality.


  1. Fill in your details
    We only need some basic information, such as your current address and your new address.



  2. Receive multiple quotes
    You will get an overview of different moving companies, with corresponding rates. This way you can see at a glance which option is advantageous and which offers extra services.



  3. Choose the best deal
    The quotes are completely free and without obligation. This means that you can see without any obligations which party suits you best.


Moving is happy to help you!

You now have a clearer picture of the moving company costs and the hourly rate of the mover. This guide will hopefully provide you with tools to more easily determine which service best suits your move. A mover sometimes costs more if the situation is complex, but by making smart choices and comparing different quotes, you can keep control of the moving costs.

How much does a mover cost?

We at Moving are here to help you with advice and assistance. We love seeing people move into their new homes with a smile, instead of worrying about the bill. That is why we encourage you to make a conscious choice, plan and apply the tips in this article. This way, the move will go smoothly and you will not pay too much.

Different rates

We wish you the best of luck with every move that lies ahead of you! Do you have any questions or need more information? Please feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you make a well-considered choice, so that you can start carefree in your new place.

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