Texas Moving Cost Breakdown 2026: Local & Long-Distance Guide (And How to Save)

Whether you’re moving across town, across Texas, or from another state, relocation costs can vary widely depending on distance, home size, services chosen, and timing. Here’s a realistic breakdown of moving costs you can expect in 2026 — plus tips to save money and plan smarter.

Below is a realistic breakdown of what local moves typically cost in major Texas cities — and how to keep your move on budget.

💰 What Does a Local Move Cost in Texas?

🚛 Local DIY Move — $100–$200+

Best for: Studio or small 1-bedroom with minimal furniture

This is common for renters moving when the distance is short.

Typical costs include:

• Truck rental

• Gas

• Basic packing supplies

How to keep it closer to $100:

• Move mid-week

• Avoid end-of-month rush

• Use free boxes

• Ask friends for help

• Return the truck on time

DIY is the most affordable option, but it requires physical effort and careful planning — especially in larger metro areas with traffic like Houston or Dallas.

💪 Local Labor-Only Movers + Truck Rental — $200–$600+

Best for: 1–2 bedroom apartments

This is one of the most popular moving options in DFW, Austin, and Houston for renters who want help without paying full-service pricing.

Typical costs include:

• Truck rental

• 2 movers for 3–6 hours

• Gas

Why this works well in major Texas cities:

• You avoid heavy lifting

• Faster and more efficient

• Lower injury risk

• More affordable than full-service movers

For many renters, this option provides the best balance between cost and convenience.

💡 Where to Find Labor-Only Movers:U-Haul’s Moving Help marketplace is a great place to hire local loading and unloading help:https://www.uhaul.com/MovingHelp/

Be sure to compare reviews, included hours, and possible add-on fees before booking.

📦 Local Full-Service Movers — $600–$1,600+

Best for: Larger apartments, families, or busy professionals

Costs vary based on:

• Size of the apartment

• Stairs or elevators

• Distance within the metro area

• Packing services included

With full-service movers, you typically get:

• Packing

• Loading

• Transportation

• Unloading

⚠️ Important for Texas renters: Always verify that your mover is licensed. You can check Texas moving company licenses here:https://apps.txdmv.gov/apps/mccs/truckstop/

🚚 What About Long-Distance Moves in Texas?

A long-distance move usually means:

• 100+ miles

• Moving from one metro area to another

• Crossing state lines

🚛 DIY Long-Distance Move — $300–$1,000+

Best for: Small apartments, minimal furniture

Typical costs include:

• Truck rental

• Mileage charges

• Gas

• Multiple days

• Lodging (if overnight)

Texas distances are long — fuel costs add up quickly. This option is affordable but physically demanding.

💪 Hybrid Move (Truck + Labor in Both Cities) — $800–$2,000+

You:

• Rent the truck

• Hire movers in your departure city

• Hire movers in your destination city

This saves significantly compared to full-service.

📦 Storage Containers / PODS — $600–$2,500+

Container-based moving services (like PODS, U-Pack, or 1-800-PACK-RAT) are another flexible long-distance option.

How it works:

• A portable storage container is delivered to your home

• You pack at your own pace

• The container is transported to your new city

• You unload when it arrives

Pros:

• Less stress with packing on your own timeline

• Can double as temporary storage

• Often cheaper than full-service long-distance movers

Cons:

• You do the packing and loading

• Costs can add up with larger containers or longer storage time

Typical pricing for Texas long-distance container moves:

• Small 7–12 ft container: $600–$1,500

• Medium 12–16 ft container: $1,000–$2,500

• Large 16–20 ft container: $2,000+

📦 Full-Service Long-Distance Movers — $1,500–$5,000+

Costs depend on:

• Distance

• Apartment size

• Weight of belongings

• Packing services

• Insurance coverage

Moves between Texas metros cost less than out-of-state relocations — but still significantly more than local moves.

⚠️ Interstate Moving Tip: Always verify interstate movers through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

💡 How to Save on Any Texas Move

1️⃣ Downsize before you move

2️⃣ Sell and rebuy heavy furniture (sometimes cheaper)

3️⃣ Compare at least 3 quotes

4️⃣ Avoid peak summer season (May–August)

5️⃣ Be flexible with your move date

6️⃣ Move Mid-Week or Mid-Month - Avoid peak pricing on weekends and the 1st or last day of the month

7️⃣ Consider container services if you want flexible packing and storage

📊 Quick Cost Comparison

Local Moves (Within Same Metro)

• $100–$200+ DIY

• $200–$600+ Hybrid: Labor + Truck

• $600–$1,600+ Full-Service

Long-Distance Moves (Between Cities or States)

• $300–$1,000+ DIY

• $800–$2,000+ Hybrid: Labor + Truck

• $600–$2,500+ Container / PODS

• $1,500–$5,000+ Full-Service

Final Thoughts: Local vs Long-Distance in Texas

The key is planning ahead and choosing the option that fits:

• Distance

• Budget

• Timeline

• Physical ability

Amounts listed are averages for Texas metro areas. Pricing varies depending on distance, number of boxes, furniture size, stairs, traffic conditions, and additional services.

Working with a professional apartment locator can save you time, stress, and money:

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Let’s make your move — and your next home — the right one. 🏡 Need help finding your next apartment? We would love to assist you! Start your apartment search today! www.texasapartmentlocating.com/search