How Much Do Moving Companies Make? Insights, Stats & Trends 

Moving companies are businesses that offer services to help people move from one location to another. They typically offer a range of services, including packing, loading, transporting, and unloading goods. Moving companies may also offer additional services, such as storage or cleaning, to help customers with their move.

Knowing how much moving companies make is important for a variety of reasons. For customers, understanding the revenue of moving companies can help them determine the cost of their move and whether they are getting a fair price. For those who are interested in starting a moving company or investing in the industry, understanding the revenue and financial performance of existing companies is crucial for making informed business decisions. Additionally, understanding the revenue of moving companies can provide insight into the overall health and growth potential of the industry.

Average Revenue of Moving Companies

Moving companies typically make money by charging customers for their services. The cost of moving services can vary depending on factors such as the distance of the move, the size of the household, and the specific services requested.

According to industry reports and studies, the average revenue of moving companies in the United States can vary widely depending on the size and type of the company. For example, smaller local moving companies may have an average revenue of around $200,000 to $500,000 per year, while larger national moving companies can have revenues in the millions or even billions of dollars per year.

According to IBISWorld, a market research firm, the average revenue for moving companies in the United States was around $16.2 billion in 2020. However, this figure is highly skewed by the largest companies in the industry, such as United Van Lines and Atlas Van Lines, which have revenues in the billions of dollars per year. Smaller and mid-sized moving companies may have more modest revenues, typically ranging from $100,000 to $5 million per year, depending on the size and scope of their operations.

It’s worth noting that revenue figures for moving companies can be affected by a variety of factors, including market competition, industry trends, and changes in consumer behavior. Therefore, it’s important to consider a variety of factors when assessing the financial performance of moving companies.

Factors that Affect the Revenue of Moving Companies

There are several factors that can impact the revenue of moving companies. Here are some of the most significant factors:

1. Location: The location of a moving company can have a significant impact on its revenue. Companies located in densely populated areas or near major transportation hubs may have more business opportunities than those located in rural or remote areas.
2. Size: The size of a moving company can also impact its revenue. Larger companies may have more resources to invest in marketing and advertising, as well as the ability to offer a wider range of services to customers. However, smaller companies may be able to offer more personalized service and compete on price.
3. Type of services offered: The type of services offered by a moving company can also impact its revenue. Companies that offer a range of services, such as packing, loading, and unloading, may be able to charge more for their services than companies that only offer basic transportation.
4. Reputation: The reputation of a moving company can also impact its revenue. Companies with a strong reputation for quality and reliability may be able to charge more for their services than companies with a less positive reputation.
5. Competition: The level of competition in a particular market can also impact the revenue of moving companies. Companies that operate in highly competitive markets may need to lower their prices or offer additional services to remain competitive.
6. Economic conditions: The overall state of the economy can also impact the revenue of moving companies. During periods of economic growth, moving companies may experience increased demand for their services, while during times of economic downturn, demand may decrease.

According to a study by IBISWorld, companies that operate in urban areas and offer a range of services tend to have higher revenue than companies that operate in rural areas and offer basic transportation services. Additionally, companies that have a strong reputation for quality and reliability may be able to charge higher prices for their services than those with a less positive reputation.

Types of Moving Companies and Their Revenue

Moving companies in the United States can be categorized into several different types based on the scope and nature of their services. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Local moving companies: These companies typically operate within a specific geographic area, such as a city or region. They typically offer services such as packing, loading, and transportation, but may not offer long-distance or international moving services.
2. Long-distance moving companies: These companies specialize in helping customers move over longer distances, such as between different states or regions. They may offer a wider range of services than local moving companies, including packing and unpacking, storage, and transportation of vehicles.
3. International moving companies: These companies help customers move to different countries around the world. They typically offer a wide range of services, including assistance with customs and immigration, packing and unpacking, and transportation by air, sea, or land.

The revenue differences between these different types of moving companies can be significant. According to a survey by the American Moving and Storage Association, the average revenue for a local moving company in 2020 was around $150,000, while the average revenue for a long-distance moving company was around $990,000. Meanwhile, the revenue for international moving companies can vary widely depending on the size and scope of their operations, with some larger companies generating revenues in the tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars per year.

One factor that can impact the revenue of different types of moving companies is the level of competition in their respective markets. For example, local moving companies may face more competition from other small, local businesses, while long-distance and international moving companies may compete with larger national or international companies. Additionally, the range of services offered by different types of moving companies can also impact their revenue, with companies that offer a wider range of services typically able to generate higher revenue than those that only offer basic transportation services.

Revenue Growth and Trends in the Moving Industry

The moving industry in the United States has experienced steady growth over the past decade, with the industry generating billions of dollars in revenue each year. Here are some of the current trends and factors contributing to growth in the industry:

1. Increased demand for moving services: The overall growth of the economy and population, as well as changes in demographic and lifestyle trends, have contributed to an increased demand for moving services.
2. Growth of online and mobile platforms: The rise of online and mobile platforms has made it easier for customers to research and book moving services, which has contributed to the growth of the industry.
3. Technological advancements: The use of technology in the moving industry has improved efficiency and accuracy, making it easier for companies to offer more services and attract more customers.
4. Changes in consumer behavior: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in consumer behavior, with more people opting to move to larger homes or to areas with more outdoor space.

According to a report by IBISWorld, the moving industry in the United States is projected to continue growing over the next several years, with annual revenue expected to reach over $17 billion by 2025. The report also notes that while the industry is highly competitive, the growth of online and mobile platforms is expected to make it easier for new companies to enter the market.

Overall, the moving industry in the United States is experiencing steady growth, driven by factors such as increased demand for services, technological advancements, and changes in consumer behavior.

Strategies for Increasing Revenue in Moving Companies

There are several strategies that moving companies can use to increase their revenue and grow their business. Here are some of the most effective strategies:

1. Upselling: Moving companies can increase their revenue by offering additional services to customers, such as packing, storage, or cleaning services. By upselling these additional services, companies can increase their revenue per customer and provide a more comprehensive moving experience.
2. Improving customer service: Providing excellent customer service can help moving companies retain customers and generate positive reviews, which can lead to new business. Companies can improve customer service by being responsive to customer inquiries, providing clear communication throughout the moving process, and addressing any issues or concerns promptly.
3. Expanding services: Moving companies can also increase their revenue by expanding their service offerings. For example, companies that currently focus on local moves may be able to generate additional revenue by offering long-distance or international moving services.
4. Targeting specific customer segments: By identifying specific customer segments, such as seniors, families with young children, or businesses, moving companies can tailor their services and marketing efforts to meet the unique needs of these groups.
5. Offering discounts or promotions: Offering discounts or promotions can help moving companies attract new customers and generate repeat business. For example, companies may offer discounts for customers who refer new business, or seasonal promotions to encourage customers to book their move during slower periods.

According to a survey by the American Moving and Storage Association, companies that offer additional services, such as packing and storage, tend to generate higher revenue than those that only offer basic transportation services. Additionally, companies that focus on providing excellent customer service and targeting specific customer segments tend to be more successful than those that try to be all things to all customers.

Challenges Faced by Moving Companies in Revenue Generation

Despite the growth and potential for revenue generation in the moving industry, there are several challenges that moving companies face in generating revenue. Here are some of the most significant challenges:

1. Competition: The moving industry is highly competitive, with many companies vying for business in local and national markets. As a result, companies may need to lower their prices or offer additional services to remain competitive.
2. Rising expenses: The costs of running a moving company, such as labor, fuel, and equipment, have been rising steadily in recent years. This can make it difficult for companies to generate profits while keeping their prices competitive.
3. Market saturation: In some markets, the number of moving companies has grown to the point where there is a high degree of market saturation. This can make it difficult for new companies to enter the market and for existing companies to generate new business.
4. Regulatory challenges: Moving companies are subject to a range of federal and state regulations, which can be complex and costly to comply with. These regulations can impact a company’s ability to generate revenue, as well as its profitability.

According to a report by IBISWorld, the moving industry is highly competitive, with many small and mid-sized companies struggling to compete with larger, national companies. Additionally, rising fuel costs and labor expenses have contributed to a decline in profit margins for some companies. Finally, changes in consumer behavior and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have created uncertainty and challenges for the industry, which may impact revenue generation in the coming years.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Revenue of Moving Companies

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the moving industry and the revenue of moving companies. Here are some of the ways that the pandemic has affected the industry:

1. Changes in consumer behavior: The pandemic has led to changes in consumer behavior, with more people working from home and seeking larger living spaces or homes in more remote areas. This has led to increased demand for moving services, particularly for long-distance and international moves.
2. Disruptions in supply chains: The pandemic has disrupted global supply chains, making it more difficult for moving companies to obtain the equipment and supplies they need to operate.
3. Health and safety concerns: The pandemic has also raised concerns about health and safety during the moving process. Moving companies have had to take additional steps to protect their employees and customers, such as implementing social distancing measures and providing personal protective equipment.
4. Economic uncertainty: The pandemic has created economic uncertainty, which has impacted consumer spending and demand for moving services. Some consumers may be hesitant to move due to financial concerns or uncertainty about the future.

According to a report by the American Moving and Storage Association, the pandemic has led to increased demand for moving services, particularly for long-distance and international moves. However, the report also notes that the pandemic has created uncertainty and challenges for the industry, including disruptions in supply chains and changes in consumer behavior. Additionally, the report suggests that the full impact of the pandemic on the moving industry may not be fully understood for several years, as the economy and consumer behavior continue to evolve.

Future of the Moving Industry Revenue

The future of the moving industry revenue is likely to be shaped by a range of emerging trends and technologies. Here are some of the most significant trends to watch:

1. Increased use of technology: Moving companies are increasingly using technology to improve efficiency and accuracy, as well as to offer new services to customers. For example, companies may use virtual reality tools to provide customers with a more immersive moving experience, or use data analytics to optimize their operations.
2. Focus on sustainability: As concerns about climate change continue to grow, moving companies are likely to focus more on sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint. This could include using more fuel-efficient vehicles, reducing waste, and investing in renewable energy.
3. Expansion of international services: With globalization continuing to accelerate, moving companies may increasingly focus on expanding their international services to meet the needs of customers around the world.
4. Changes in consumer behavior: As demographic and lifestyle trends continue to evolve, moving companies will need to adapt their services to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers. For example, companies may need to focus more on providing remote or virtual services, or offering specialized services for specific customer segments.

According to a report by IBISWorld, the moving industry is projected to continue growing over the next several years, driven by factors such as population growth, changing demographic trends, and the growth of e-commerce. Additionally, the report notes that the use of technology and data analytics is likely to play an increasingly important role in the industry, as companies look for ways to improve efficiency and offer more personalized services to customers. Finally, the report suggests that companies that focus on sustainability and reducing their environmental impact may be well-positioned for future growth and success.

Conclusion

In summary, the revenue of moving companies in the United States is influenced by several factors, including location, size, type of services offered, reputation, competition, and economic conditions. Different types of moving companies, such as local, long-distance, and international, also generate different levels of revenue. The moving industry has experienced steady growth over the past decade, with trends such as increased demand for moving services, technological advancements, and changes in consumer behavior contributing to this growth. However, moving companies also face challenges such as rising expenses, market saturation, and regulatory issues. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the industry, with changes in consumer behavior and disruptions in supply chains impacting revenue generation.

Looking ahead, the future of the moving industry revenue is likely to be shaped by emerging trends such as increased use of technology, focus on sustainability, expansion of international services, and changes in consumer behavior. As the industry continues to evolve, moving companies will need to adapt and innovate in order to remain competitive and successful.

We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences on the revenue of moving companies in the comments section below. By sharing insights and perspectives, we can continue to learn and grow together as a community.