Moving cost estimator
The truck is the easy part. Add deposits, overlap rent, storage and set-up to see the real cash a downtown move takes.
Cash needed for the move
| Movers | — |
| Deposit (refundable) | — |
| First month's rent | — |
| Overlap rent | — |
| Set-up and materials | — |
| Storage | — |
| Travel and fees | — |
| True cost (excluding deposit) | — |
Where downtown moves go over budget
Crew hours are the swing factor. In a tower, movers may wait for a service elevator, work within a booked window and carry from a loading dock rather than the front door. Each delay is billed. Book the elevator and dock early, send your mover the building's rules, and ask whether a parking permit is needed for the truck on the street.
Overlap rent is the other hidden cost. Few leases line up to the day, and paying two rents for a week or two gives you time to clean, repair and hand back the old place properly — which protects your deposit.
Cutting the bill
- Move mid-month and mid-week, when crews are easier to book.
- Sell or donate furniture that will not fit a smaller downtown floor plan before you pay to move it.
- Pack books, kitchenware and decorations yourself; leave fragile and heavy items to the crew.
- Ask landlords about move-in incentives in buildings with vacancies.
Planning the whole move? Use the downtown move checklist and, if a job is behind it, relocating downtown for a new job.
Questions people ask
Why are downtown moves often more expensive?
Elevator bookings, loading-dock time limits, parking permits for the truck and longer carries from the street all add crew hours. Many buildings also require movers to provide an insurance certificate.
How many moving quotes should I get?
At least three written quotes based on an in-person or video survey. Be wary of very low phone estimates and of any mover asking for a large cash deposit.
Is a security deposit a cost?
It is cash you need up front but should get back at the end of the tenancy, minus any lawful deductions. The estimator shows it separately so you can see your true cost.
Estimates for planning only. Read our disclaimer.