How much does it cost to move in Kansas City? Most in-state moves run just over $1,000. Moving across state lines? That’ll push closer to $5,600 or more. And yes, that’s a big chunk of change—but there’s a reason for it.
Moving is physically demanding, time-consuming, and full of little details that pile up fast. Between the packing materials, the truck, the fuel, and the hours spent lifting heavy boxes, the costs make a lot more sense when you see everything involved.
If you’re relocating a home, an apartment, or an entire business, hiring professional movers in Kansas City can save you time, effort, and even money in the long run. Here’s how the costs break down.
Home Costs and Fees to Expect in Kansas City
Kansas City is relatively affordable compared to other major metros. The average home here costs about $82,000 less than the national average. But don’t let that fool you into thinking the rest of the process is cheap.
Additional expenses to keep in mind:
- Missouri closing costs: 0.93% to 1.86% of the sale price
- Kansas closing costs: 0.83% to 1.25%
- You’ll also pay for appraisals, title searches, property taxes, and legal fees
These numbers might not be tied directly to the movers, but they affect your overall moving budget. If you’re buying a home here, account for these costs before you start calling around for quotes.
Planning Your Move
Once your home purchase is underway, shift your focus to the logistics. The earlier you plan, the easier it’ll be to avoid last-minute costs.
Here’s a quick punch list to stay on track:
- Book your movers early
- Start changing your address across the board
- Transfer school and medical records
- Contact your vet for pet documents
- Decide what to keep, donate, or toss
- Line up utility setup or service transfers
- Get a full, written quote from the movers
If you’re coming in from out of state, don’t forget to review the process for getting settled in Missouri or Kansas. That includes everything from driver’s license updates to vehicle registration.
Kansas City Moving Rates: Labor, Travel Fees & What’s Included
When you hire a moving company, you’re paying for two main things: labor and transport. But there’s more to it than just loading a truck.
Labor Costs
This covers:
- Packing and wrapping items
- Loading and unloading
- Carrying boxes and furniture
- Time spent driving
Movers charge by the hour, but that rate typically applies from the moment they start until the job is done, whether they’re lifting boxes or stuck in traffic.
Travel Charges
You’ll also get billed for:
- Fuel
- Time spent getting from one location to the next
- Long-distance mileage, if applicable
These costs are often lumped into your estimate, but not always. Ask up front.
Surprise Charges to Watch for During Your Move
Even if you’ve got your moving quote locked in, there are a few common expenses that sneak up and mess with your budget. Here are a few common fees to prepare for:
- Valuation Coverage: Basic protection is typically included, but you’ll pay more to fully insure valuable items.
- Packing Supplies: Boxes, tape, and padding can add up fast. Save by sourcing free boxes or borrowing from friends.
- Cleaning Services: Expect to pay for cleaning if you’re leaving an apartment or want to prep your new home before moving in.
- Utility Setup: New accounts often come with connection fees. You may also face cancellation charges from your old providers.
These aren’t always included in your estimate, so it’s smart to account for them ahead of time.
Add-On Services Worth Considering
If your move is complicated or on a tight timeline, you might need extra help. Many companies offer:
- Packing services
- Short-term storage
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Protection for delicate or oversized items
These extras aren’t always necessary, but they can save you a headache, especially if you’re short on time or doing a multi-step move.
DIY vs. Full-Service Movers: What’s Actually Cheaper?
If you’re debating between renting a truck and doing it all yourself or hiring a full-service moving crew, the answer comes down to time, energy, and risk tolerance—not just the dollar amount.
The Real Costs of a DIY Move:
- Truck rental (U-Haul or similar): $150–$300
- Fuel and mileage charges: $100–$200, depending on distance
- Packing supplies: $100+ if you’re buying boxes, tape, and wraps
- Time off work: One or two missed days can cost hundreds
- Risk of damage or injury: Moving a couch down the stairs without help? Not fun
A DIY move might look cheaper on the surface, but there’s a steep trade-off in effort, stress, and potential for accidents. And if something breaks or someone gets hurt, you’re on the hook for it.
What You Get With Full-Service Movers:
- Professional packing of all your fragile or heavy items
- Heavy lifting and loading done efficiently and safely
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Licensed and insured protection for your belongings
- No physical strain or time off needed
Let’s compare:
Move Type | Estimated Cost | What’s Included |
DIY Move | $800 | Truck rental, fuel, packing supplies, and your own labor |
Full-Service Movers | $1,500 | Packing, loading, transport, unloading, and liability coverage |
For a difference of around $700, you’re buying yourself peace of mind, your weekend back, and far less risk of throwing out your back or damaging a $2,000 TV.
If you’re young, moving a short distance, and have a crew of friends with strong backs, DIY might work. But if you’re moving a multi-bedroom home, juggling kids or work, or relocating across state lines, full-service is worth every penny.
Is Moving to Kansas City Worth It? Here’s the Trade-Off
Before you commit to the cost of hiring movers and making the leap, it’s smart to step back and ask: Is Kansas City the right place for me?
We broke it down in our full post on The Pros and Cons of Moving to Kansas City, but here’s the short version:
The Good:
- Affordability: Housing is cheaper than the national average, and so is the overall cost of living. You’ll get more home for your money here.
- Central Location: Whether you’re traveling for work or family, KC is a central hub that makes cross-country travel more manageable.
- Tight-Knit Communities: From Brookside to Waldo, Kansas City has neighborhoods that still feel like, well, neighborhoods.
- Food and Culture: Barbecue, jazz, and an underrated arts scene make this city feel vibrant without the big-city chaos.
The Trade-Offs:
- Public Transit is Limited: If you’re used to hopping on the subway or bus, KC will feel car-dependent.
- Unpredictable Weather: Hot, humid summers and icy winters can be a shock if you’re coming from milder climates.
- Pace of Life: Slower than coastal cities, which some love—but it’s not for everyone.
So is it worth it? If you’re looking for more space, a lower cost of living, and a strong sense of community, the answer is probably yes. But it helps to know what you’re signing up for. And if you’re ready to make the move, knowing the real costs upfront puts you in a better position to land smoothly.
Choosing the Right Type of Mover
Not every moving company offers the same services. Here’s what to look for based on your situation:
Local Moves: These movers know the area and can get the job done fast. If you’re just changing neighborhoods, this is what you want.
Long-Distance Moves: For out-of-state or cross-country moves, go with a company that handles these regularly. You’ll get better service, accurate timing, and more secure transport.
Commercial Moves: If you’re moving a business, hire movers who know how to handle electronics, office furniture, and sensitive files. It’s not just about moving boxes—it’s about protecting your equipment.
What to Look For in a Kansas City Moving Company
You want a team that shows up on time, handles your stuff with care, and charges what they say they’re going to charge. Here’s what matters:
- Transparent pricing with no surprise fees
- Insurance options
- Clear communication
- Strong local reviews
- A clean, well-maintained truck and gear
At Moving Proz, that’s the baseline. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t play games with pricing. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we’ve got the experience and team to get you there.
Get a Free Moving Quote Today!
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