E.E. Ward Moving & Storage
What's the Cheapest Day to Hire Movers?

Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but the associated expenses can quickly add up. If you are looking to lower your overall relocation budget, you might be asking: what’s the cheapest day to hire movers? Timing is everything in the moving industry, and choosing the right day, week, and season can drastically reduce your final bill.
The Cheapest Day of the Week to Move
When scheduling your relocation, the day of the week plays a massive role in the final price. The cheapest days of the week to hire movers are generally Monday through Thursday. Because most people prefer to move without taking time off work, moving companies see less demand during the middle of the week.
Conversely, weekends are the busiest times for moving companies. Weekends, specifically Saturdays and Sundays, are typically the most expensive days to move due to higher demand. In some cases, as noted by industry professionals, Sundays may even incur overtime charges or additional premium fees.
"Saturdays are kind of regular days, but Sundays are extra overtime or additional fee days." – Brian Brooks, E.E. Ward Moving & Storage
Time of the Month Matters
Beyond the day of the week, the specific week of the month can impact your wallet. Most residential leases expire on the first or the last day of the month, creating a massive surge in demand for moving services during these windows.
To avoid this premium pricing, aim for a mid-month move. Moving mid-month (between the 5th and 23rd) can be 15% to 30% cheaper than moving at the end or beginning of the month.
The Impact of Seasons on Moving Prices
The moving industry is highly seasonal, operating on a supply-and-demand basis similar to the airline industry. The moving industry's peak season runs from May through September. During these warmer months, especially June, July, and August, families want to move while their children are out of school, causing capacity to shrink and prices to skyrocket.
If you have the flexibility, plan your move for the colder months. Moving during the off-season, which spans from October through April, typically offers lower rates.
How Much Does Moving Actually Cost?
Understanding base costs can help you spot a good deal when you see one. Rates vary significantly depending on whether you are moving across town or across the country. Several factors influence your final moving bill, including:
- Total distance traveled
- Total weight or volume of your belongings
- Additional services like packing and unpacking
The average cost of a local move in the U.S. is approximately $1,711. Local moving rates are generally calculated by the hour, typically ranging from $41 to $80 per mover per hour.
Long-distance moves are considerably more expensive, with averages coming in at just under $5,000. Unlike local moves, long-distance moves are priced based on the weight of the shipment and the total mileage traveled.
Additional Tips to Lower Your Moving Bill
Choosing the cheapest day to hire movers is a great start, but you can maximize your savings by following these steps:
- Book Early: Don't wait until the last minute. Booking movers at least two to four weeks in advance can help secure better rates and preferred time slots.
- Purge Before You Pack: The more you move, the more it costs. Decluttering your home and getting rid of items you no longer need will reduce the time or weight you are billed for.
- Pack Yourself: While professional packers are convenient, handling the packing yourself is a surefire way to shave hundreds of dollars off your final bill.
Get Your Free Moving Quote Today
If you want to know what’s the cheapest day to hire movers, the golden rule is to aim for a mid-month weekday (Monday through Thursday) between October and April. By understanding the moving industry's pricing structure and avoiding peak demand times, you can keep your moving expenses manageable and start fresh in your new home without breaking the bank. Call us today and get your free no obligation quote today.
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