The speed at which continental plates move varies, but on average, they move at a rate of about 1 to 2 centimeters (0.4 to 0.8 inches) per year. This may not seem like much, but over millions of years, this movement can add up to significant changes in the Earth's geography. For example, the African and Eurasian plates are currently moving towards each other at a rate of about 1 centimeter per year. If this rate continues, the two continents will eventually collide, forming a single landmass.