If you’re planning a move in or around Plano, TX, one question always comes up:
“Is there a cost difference between local and long-distance apartment movers?”
The answer is yes — and understanding why can help you plan a stress-free, budget-friendly move.
Whether you’re moving across town or across Texas, the costs depend on distance, time, and services required. At The Move Place, we believe in full transparency — so in this article, we’ll break down exactly what separates local moves from long-distance moves, what you’re really paying for, and how to choose the best option for your needs.
1. The Basic Difference: Local vs. Long-Distance Moves
Before diving into pricing, it’s important to define what “local” and “long-distance” actually mean in the moving industry.
Local Moves
A local move typically refers to a relocation within 25–50 miles of your current location — for example, from one Plano apartment to another, or from Plano to Frisco or Carrollton.
These moves are usually billed by the hour, based on:
- The number of movers required
- The size of the moving truck
- Total time spent loading, driving, and unloading
Long-Distance Moves
A long-distance move covers relocations over 50–100 miles, often crossing city or county lines. For instance, moving from Plano to Austin, Houston, or even another state.
These moves are typically charged a flat rate, calculated by:
- Total distance (miles traveled)
- Weight or volume of items
- Fuel costs and tolls
- Additional services (packing, storage, etc.)
Both types of moves involve professional movers, but the pricing structures — and total costs — differ significantly.
2. Average Costs: Local vs. Long-Distance Apartment Moves
Let’s look at the average cost ranges for apartment moves in Plano.
| Move Type | Average Cost Range | Pricing Model | Example |
| Local Move (1-Bedroom) | $350 – $600 | Hourly | Within Plano or nearby city |
| Local Move (2-Bedroom) | $700 – $1,200 | Hourly | Plano → Carrollton |
| Long-Distance Move (1-Bedroom) | $1,200 – $1,800 | Flat Rate | Plano → Houston |
| Long-Distance Move (2-Bedroom) | $2,000 – $3,000 | Flat Rate | Plano → Austin |
These numbers vary based on apartment size, distance, and access conditions (stairs, elevators, parking).
At The Move Place, our pricing remains fair, clear, and customized to your exact situation.
3. Why Local Moves Are Charged by the Hour
For local apartment moves in Plano, most companies — including The Move Place — charge by the hour.
That’s because:
- The distance is short and predictable.
- Most costs come from labor and handling time.
- Customers only pay for the time actually used.
What’s included in hourly pricing:
- Loading and unloading
- Transportation time between locations
- Use of moving equipment and truck
- Basic furniture disassembly/reassembly
Typical hourly rates range from $110–$180 per hour, depending on the number of movers and truck size.
Tip: Packing everything in advance helps minimize total hours — and total cost.
4. Why Long-Distance Moves Use Flat-Rate Pricing
Long-distance moves involve more variables — like fuel, overnight logistics, and time on the road — so companies use flat-rate pricing instead.
Flat-rate quotes consider:
- Total mileage
- Fuel and toll costs
- Weight or cubic feet of items
- Crew size and estimated travel time
Once you get a quote, that’s your final price — no surprises, no hidden charges.
At The Move Place, our long-distance quotes include:
- Truck rental and fuel
- Driver and labor wages
- Travel time, taxes, and tolls
- Insurance coverage
Flat-rate pricing gives you peace of mind, especially for cross-city or out-of-state relocations.
5. Key Factors That Affect Both Local and Long-Distance Costs
While distance is the biggest factor, several other elements can influence your total cost — whether you’re moving across Plano or across Texas.
a) Apartment Size and Volume of Items
Larger apartments take more time and labor to move.
- Studio/1-Bedroom: 2 movers, smaller truck
- 2-3 Bedroom: 3–4 movers, larger truck
b) Accessibility
Stairs, elevators, or long hallways can add time to your move.
Complexes with limited truck access may require multiple trips with smaller dollies.
c) Packing Services
If you add packing/unpacking, expect additional labor and materials.
Using your own boxes can reduce this cost.
d) Time of Year
Summer and end-of-month weekends are peak moving periods in Plano. Booking early helps you secure better rates.
e) Special Items
Heavy or delicate items (pianos, safes, antiques) may require additional handling charges.
f) Storage or Temporary Holding
If your move-in date doesn’t match your move-out date, temporary storage adds to total cost — but keeps your items secure.
6. Cost Comparison Example
To better illustrate the difference, here’s a comparison of two typical Plano apartment moves:
| Move Type | Apartment | Distance | Movers | Time | Estimated Cost |
| Local Move | 2-Bedroom | 10 miles | 3 movers | 5 hours | ~$900 |
| Long-Distance Move | 2-Bedroom | 250 miles (Plano → Houston) | 3 movers | 2 days (flat rate) | ~$2,500 |
While the local move is faster and billed hourly, the long-distance move includes transportation, travel time, and fuel over multiple hours or days.
7. Which Option Is Right for You?
Here’s how to decide between hourly and flat-rate pricing for your move:
Choose Hourly (Local Move) if:
- You’re moving within Plano or nearby areas.
- You have a small or medium apartment.
- You want to control total hours and cost.
Choose Flat Rate (Long-Distance Move) if:
- You’re moving more than 50 miles away.
- You want a fixed, predictable price.
- You’re relocating multiple rooms or a full household.
The Move Place offers both options — and helps you decide which saves more money for your situation.
8. How to Get the Most Accurate Quote
To avoid surprises, always request a detailed, written quote that includes every possible cost.
When requesting a moving estimate, provide:
- Apartment size (studio, 1-bedroom, etc.)
- Pickup and drop-off addresses
- Inventory list or photos of furniture
- Any access challenges (stairs, elevator)
- Special requests (packing, storage, etc.)
At The Move Place, our estimates are personalized, transparent, and free — ensuring total clarity from day one.
9. Why Choose The Move Place for Your Plano Move
Plano residents trust The Move Place because we make moving simple, affordable, and eco-conscious.
What sets us apart:
- Transparent hourly and flat-rate pricing
- No hidden fees, ever
- Packing, storage, and relocation services included
- Experienced, friendly movers
- Eco-friendly options with reusable materials
- 24/7 online booking
Whether it’s a short hop across town or a long-haul relocation, we deliver reliability — and peace of mind.
10. Final Thoughts: Plan Smarter, Move Better
So, is there a cost difference between local and long-distance apartment movers in Plano?
Absolutely — and understanding that difference can help you choose the right pricing structure and mover.
Local moves are generally cheaper and billed hourly, while long-distance moves are priced as flat rates to include all logistics.
At The Move Place, we combine both flexibility and transparency to fit every Plano customer’s unique needs.
Call us today for a free, detailed quote — and move with confidence!
Call or Text (469) 777-6683 or book online anytime — we’re available 7 days a week, 7 AM–7 PM.
Contact Information
Address: 2661 Midway Rd Suite 200 – Office 18, Carrollton, TX 75006
Phone/Text: (469) 777-6683
Email: info@themoveplace.com
Hours: Sunday–Saturday, 7 AM–7 PM
Online Booking: Open 24/7
