Picture this: your lease is ending, the boxes are stacked, and your pet is throwing tantrums while you are busy Googling what the average moving costs in NJ are again.
Undoubtedly, relocating to a new place is a significant shift, especially for a long distance move. Even though you are swapping the city lights in Newark for a backyard in Morristown or downsizing in the heart of Jersey City, the moving companies rates must not haunt you.
Hence, you have to do your homework and get the best deal to have peace of mind for your moving. Hence, a reliable moving service, such as Lift & Shift, has elaborated on the New Jersey Moving costs in detail so that you can plan your finances accordingly.
Let’s get started with the average moving costs in NJ in 2025.
How much does moving in NJ cost? The Average Moving Costs in NJ
While relocating from Newark to Jersey City, or moving from Princeton to Cape May, it would be a good call to know the average moving costs in NJ to manage your budget in an effective way.
As budgeting is an integral part of any moving service, hidden fees, peak-season pricing, or unexpected costs can surely bring inconvenience. Hence, before hiring your local moving company, this information will help you gain a better understanding of the average moving costs in New Jersey in 2025.
1.Local Moving Costs in New Jersey
The local moves fall under the category of a distance that is within 50 miles. This type of moving service is usually hired on per per-hour basis and depends on the number of movers required, plus the time spent for the move.
The Cost to move in NJ for the Local Moves is as follows.
| Home Size | Estimated Cost | Hourly Rate | Movers | Estimated Time |
| Studio Apartment | $400–$600 | $120/hr | 2 | 2–3 hours |
| 1 Bedroom | $600–$850 | $120/hr | 2 | 3–4 hours |
| 2 Bedrooms | $900–$1,200 | $170/hr | 3 | 4–5 hours |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300–$1,700 | $235/hr | 4 | 6–8 hours |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $1,800–$2,300 | $235/hr | 4–5 | 8–10 hours |
2. Long-Distance Moving Costs in New Jersey
The long-distance moves are the ones that typically exceed 50 miles or cross state lines. The long distance moves are calculated based on distance, weight, and additional services.
For such long distance moves to New Jersey, the pricing is
| Distance | 1-Bedroom Home | 2-Bedroom Home | 3-Bedroom Home |
| 100–250 mi | $1,000–$2,000 | $1,500–$2,800 | $2,000–$3,500 |
| 500–1000 mi | $1,800–$3,200 | $2,500–$4,200 | $3,500–$5,800 |
| 1000+ mi | $2,500–$4,900 | $3,800–$6,500 | $5,000–$9,000 |
Keep in mind, packing services, heavy furniture, and insurance will add to the base price.
3. Cost by Home Size
If your house is bigger, then you need to have more labor and trucks to carry your stuff safely. The moving price according to the home size is
| Home Size | Estimated Cost (Local) | Estimated Cost (Long-Distance) |
| Studio | $400–$600 | $1,000–$1,800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $600–$850 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| 2 Bedroom | $900–$1,200 | $2,000–$3,800 |
| 3 Bedroom | $1,300–$1,700 | $3,500–$5,800 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $1,800–$2,300 | $5,000–$9,000 |
4. Price Variations by Area in NJ
Now, here is something you should know. The moving cost is calculated by distance, labor, and the size of your move. Hence, the average moving costs in NJ are also determined by the regions, as many of them have unique pricing due to population density, traffic, and accessibility.
That is why the moving costs in NJ are broken down as
| Area | 1‑Bed Local | 2‑Bed Local | 3‑Bed Local | 1‑Bed Long-Distance | Notes |
| Newark | $700 | $1,100 | $1,600 | $1,200–2,500 | Urban permits may apply |
| Jersey City moving costs | $800 | $1,200 | $1,700 | $1,300–2,600 | Tight streets & elevators |
| Morristown | $750 | $1,150 | $1,650 | $1,200–2,550 | Suburban area |
| Princeton | $800 | $1,200 | $1,700 | $1,300–2,600 | Student-heavy zone |
| Cape May | $850 | $1,300 | $1,850 | $1,400–2,700 | Shore traffic in summer |
5. DIY vs. Professional Movers
DIY moving is when you do the major part of your moving yourself without hiring any local moving company. Whereas, the professional movers are experts and trained companies offering moving services near me.
If you are looking to cut moving costs, then DIY is a good option, but you need truck rentals or a moving container. However, here is a quick comparison for you to understand the major differences.
| Service Type | Cost Range | Pros | Cons |
| DIY Truck Rental | $300–$800 | Cheapest, flexible schedule | Labor-intensive, fuel costs |
| Moving Container | $700–$3,000 | No driving, flexible packing | Limited access in some NJ cities |
| Full-Service Movers | $1,000–$9,000 | Stress-free, fast, and efficient | Most expensive |
Factors that Can Impact Your Cost to Move in NJ
When it comes to NJ moving cost factors, there are many of them that add up to the total cost of your move. These main elements include
Packing Materials
Believe it or not, but for a studio apartment move in New Jersey will costs up to $200 for quality packing in order to secure your items. For instance, if you have to pack your bookshelves, you will need three medium boxes for a three-tier shelf to pack them separately.
Here, for a cost-effective move, you can consider renting reusable plastic moving bins for your local moves that will only cost you around $100 for 20 bins for a week. Since they are made of plastic, they will secure your items from water and dust.
Terms and Conditions for Lease and Housing
Getting a rental space within New Jersey is no piece of cake, as there are many formalities and restrictions. There is a non-refundable fee that you have to pay for the application process. It could be around $50 minimum, which may rise up to $150.
However, for lease, be sure about the terms and conditions for lease, renewal, and the notice period, as they have been revised after Covid-19. Before you can give at least a 30-day notice period, while now have to give around 60 days.
Be vigilant while reading them to prevent unexpected costs and to plan your move without any unwanted costs.
1.Distance of the Move
The farther you are moving, the more moving costs you have to bear. Local moves in New Jersey are hired on an hourly basis, while long-distance moves are typically based on the weight of your belongings and total miles; however, for interstate moving, there are some additional fees and regulations.
2. Size and Weight of Your Belongings
Your boxes will determine the size, volume, and weight of your move. If they are heavy and bulky, like furniture, they require special handling or extra labor, adding more to your cost.
3. Time of Year
Summer months, weekends, and the beginning or end of the month are considered peak moving times. Hence, during these periods, moving companies are in higher demand and often charge premium rates. The best way is to move during the off-season or mid-month can be more budget-friendly.
4. Access to Your Home
In cases where access issues arise, such as long walking distances, stair-only buildings, or a lack of parking for trucks, additional fees or longer service times may apply.
Other than that, the movers may charge more if elevators are not available or a shuttle truck is needed in tight areas.
5. Packing and Unpacking Services
This is the part when you hire a full moving service. If you hire movers to pack and unpack your belongings, expect to pay an additional fee. Although this service saves time, but adds to the total bill. However, for that, some companies charge by the hour, while others offer flat rates depending on the number of items or boxes.
6. Special Items or Handling
Delicate, valuable, or oversized items (e.g., antiques, large electronics, or aquariums) may need special equipment, padding, or crating. These services often come at an additional cost, especially if expert movers are required.
7. Insurance and Liability Coverage
Basic moving insurance is often included, but it typically covers only a limited amount. Opting for full value protection or third-party insurance will add to the cost but offers better peace of mind if any damage occurs during the move.
8. Storage Requirement
If there’s a gap between moving out and moving in, you may need to store your belongings temporarily. Storage fees can vary based on location, duration, and the amount of space required.
Tips to Minimize Moving Costs in NJ
Believe it or not, with subtle ways and strategies, you can minimize your moving costs in NJ if you want. For that, you have to be vigilant and pack clever. How so? Let us tell you.
1. Hire Your Moving Service at the Right Time
Do you know, moving services have an off-peak season? If not, then don’t worry, the off-peak season is when the demand for the services is comparatively low compared to summer or weekends. Hence, whenever you plan to move to NJ, try to schedule your move for mid-week and the middle of the month. This is the time when the fare is slightly lower than usual.
Other than that, try to avoid moving during summer and holidays, as this is the time when there is a surge due to high demand.
2. Carry only Essentials
We unconsciously clutter our homes with the things that are actually not needed. That is why the best practice is to declutter while packing your belongings and carry only the things you need.
Here, you have the option to donate them or you can have your own garage sale to earn a few bucks.
3. Pack Smartly by Utilizing Materials from Your Daily Life
Buying packing supplies separately will add to the cost of your move, potentially exceeding your budget. Hence, here, you can be wise and pack cleverly. That is, consider using the boxes from your local grocery store or any other nearby places. This will help you cut off the packing amount to some extent.
Frequently Asked Questions | Average Moving Cost NJ in 2025
What is the average cost of a moving company charge?
The average cost of hiring a moving company can range from $800 to $2,500, depending on several key factors.
For local moves—typically under 50 miles—most companies charge by the hour, usually between $100 and $250 per hour, depending on the number of movers and the size of the truck.
For long-distance moves, pricing is generally based on the total weight or volume of belongings and the distance traveled, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $7,000 or more.
Additional services, such as packing, unpacking, storage, or furniture disassembly and reassembly, will increase the overall cost.
What is the average cost of movers in NJ?
The average cost of hiring movers in New Jersey varies depending on the size of the home, location, and the complexity of the move.
For a local move (within 50 miles), the average cost ranges from $600 to $1,700. This typically includes 2–4 movers and a truck, charged at an hourly rate ranging from $120 to $235 per hour.
However, factors like stairs, narrow hallways, and heavy furniture may increase the cost. Larger homes (3–4+ bedrooms) can push prices above $2,000. In urban areas, such as Jersey City or Hoboken, additional fees, including parking permits or elevator access, may apply.
Whereas, for long-distance moves, the average can range from $2,000 to $5,800+, depending on the number of rooms and distance. Always request an in-home estimate or a virtual walkthrough for the most accurate quote, tailored to your specific move.
What is the average cost of moving expenses?
The average cost of moving expenses in New Jersey includes much more than just hiring movers. You should also factor in packing materials ($100–$300), insurance, truck or container rentals if applicable, and tips.
Local moves typically cost between $600 and $1,700, depending on the size of your home and the number of movers needed. Long-distance moves can range from $2,500 to $7,000, especially for larger homes with multiple bedrooms.
If you choose full-service movers, packing and unpacking services will add a few hundred dollars more. DIY options, such as truck rentals, cost less upfront but come with added effort and hidden expenses, including gas, tolls, and insurance.
However, the storage units, if required, can add $100–$300 per month. Always create a moving budget that accounts for both expected and unexpected expenses to avoid last-minute surprises.
How much does it cost to move a 4 bedroom house in NJ?
If you are planning a mover for a 4-bedroom house in New Jersey generally costs between $1,800 and $2,300 for a local move and $5,000 to $9,000 for a long-distance move.
The final price depends on several variables such as the total weight of your belongings, the distance between your old and new homes, and whether packing services are included.
A local move typically takes 8–10 hours with a team of 4–5 movers, and is charged at a rate of about $235 per hour.
Additional costs may arise if your home includes stairs, large furniture, fragile items, or if you’re moving in peak season (June to August). Long-distance moves are calculated based on mileage, weight, and optional services like disassembly or storage.
It is recommended to get at least three quotes from licensed movers, and always verify whether fees for fuel, stairs, or insurance are included in the estimate.
How much should you pay for someone to move?
How much you should pay someone to move depends on the scope of your move and the services provided. For local moves in New Jersey, professional movers typically charge between $120 and $235 per hour, depending on the size of your crew and the complexity of the job.
A studio or one-bedroom move might cost between $600 and $850, while a three-bedroom move could range from $1,300 to $1,700. For long-distance moves, pricing is based on mileage and weight, and ranges from $2,000 to over $ 6,000 for most homes.
If you are hiring labor-only movers to help load/unload a rental truck, expect to pay $200–$400 for a few hours.
Don’t forget to account for additional services, such as packing, storage, or assembly, which can increase the total. Always ask for a detailed quote, read reviews, and ensure the mover is licensed and insured before making a decision.
How much do you tip a mover in NJ?
Tipping your movers in New Jersey is customary and appreciated, especially if they provide excellent service. A standard guideline is to tip $4 to $6 per mover per hour or 10–20% of the total moving bill, split among the crew.
For a small, local move costing $800, a $80–$160 tip divided among 2–3 movers is appropriate. For longer, more strenuous moves, or if movers handled fragile or heavy items with care, you might consider tipping at the higher end.
How much do movers cost for a 1-bedroom apartment?
If you are hiring professional movers for a 1-bedroom apartment, they typically costs between $600 and $2,500, depending on the move’s distance and complexity.
If you are wondering, How much does it cost to move a 1-bedroom apartment locally, then you should know that for local moves, which are billed hourly, you can expect to pay around $600–$850 for 2 movers working 3–4 hours at about $120 per hour.
For long-distance moves, where pricing is based on distance, weight, and additional services, the cost for a 1-bedroom apartment usually ranges from $1,500 to $2,500.
These rates may increase if you include packing services, stair/elevator fees, or specialty item handling (like pianos or artwork).
Moving from or to urban areas with tight parking or high-rise buildings might also lead to additional charges.
What factors affect moving costs in NJ?
There could be several elements that significantly impact the moving costs in NJ, most commonly the size of your house, the time of the year, and where you are heading, other than the additional services if you have hired.
A large house move requires more truck space, which increases the labor and fuel costs. Furthermore, the urban areas like Jersey City or Hoboken may require parking permits or navigating narrow streets, which adds to the original cost.
However, with Lift & Shift, you don’t have to worry about as we have all the required permits for interstate moving as well as for local moving. That is the reason why we proudly ensure our customers with flat fee pricing and no hidden moving costs.
How far in advance should I book movers in NJ?
The best and recommended trick is to book your movers at least 4–6 weeks in advance, especially if you are planning to move during the busy summer months or on weekends. This way, you will be able to secure your moving dates at a comparatively better rate.
The last-minute booking will limit your choices and result in higher rates. Other than that, try to book in the mid-week if you have flexible dates, as during this period, you are likely to get the best moving costs deal.
Are there any hidden fees I should watch out for?
Yes, some moving companies may add extra charges for specific circumstances that you get to know about at the end of your move. The type of standard hidden fees includes
- Long carry fees (if the truck can’t park near your home)
- Stair fees (for multi-floor buildings)
- Elevator fees (especially in high-rise apartments)
- Packing material charges
- Fuel surcharges or travel time. Ensure you request a transparent, itemized quote before signing a contract. Reputable movers will be upfront about any possible additional charges.
However, when you hire Lift & Shift, you don’t have to worry about it, as we don’t charge our customers for hidden charges; in fact, every cost is defined clearly before the move.
Can I deduct moving expenses from my taxes in NJ?
As of 2025, moving expenses are generally not tax-deductible for most individuals unless you are an active-duty member of the military moving under orders. Always consult a tax professional for up-to-date and personalized advice.
Wrapping Up
New Jersey moving costs depend on the distance and the type of service that you have hired. Whether you are going to Morristown or going DIY in Princeton, knowing the average moving costs in NJ will help you get an estimate for your transition.
Lift & Shift | Your Reliable Moving Service Provider to NJ
Since choosing the right moving company could be overwhelming, Lift & Shift has made it easy for its users by offering in-person or on-call honest flat fee pricing for your move to NJ for free.
From packing and loading services to Full long moving services (packing, unpacking, disassembling, to assembling), Lift & Shift makes your transition care-free with its professional movers who know how to take care of your items.
Whether it is a Jersey City or a seaside home, we ensure a seamless moving from location A to location B.
Feel free to contact us to get free moving quotes for your local or interstate move online at Lift & Shift or call at +18888035729.