How much does it cost to move long distance?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Moving long distances can get messy, especially if you’re moving with children or pets. Long distance moving is transporting personal belongings over 250 miles, regardless of whether the move is intrastate or across state lines.There will be many things to move that require you to make several trips back and forth between the two homes to move all your belongings. To help take away the burden of packing, unpacking, and transporting everything, you can hire moving companies. They help you pack and ship all your belongings safely from one place to another while you and your family travel to your new home independently.

The national average cost for moving is between $1,500 and $3,500, with most people paying around $2,500 to hire a moving company to pack, move, and unpack a two-bedroom house 1,000 miles away. This project’s low cost is $750 to move a one-bedroom apartment 250 miles without packing services. The high cost is $10,000 for a cross-country move of a three or more bedroom home with valuable items using a professional moving team to pack, load, unload, and unpack the items.

Long Distance Moving Cost

Long Distance Moving Cost by Type of Move

Long distance moving a two-bedroom house costs from $1,000 to $20,000, depending on the type of move. Moving companies may offer intrastate, interstate, cross-country, or international moves. The chart below highlights the main types and their respective costs, followed by a subsection explaining each type.

Intrastate Movers

The average cost to move intrastate is $1,000 to $3,000. An intrastate move is when you move to another area without leaving the state’s boundaries. The main factor influencing the price is how far you are moving. For example, moving to a city a hundred miles costs much less than moving across the entire state. The movers take more time and labor, resulting in higher costs. However, fees for moving, gas, tolls, and other items are less for an intrastate move than moves that cross states or go across the country.

Interstate Movers

The average cost of moving interstate is about $2,000 to $5,000 to move a two-bedroom home 1,000 miles. Moving interstate means moving your things from one state to another. The cost to move to another state depends on the weight and number of items you need to move, the distance, and any additional charges. When moving long distances, keep in mind the travel company’s route and the travel fees incurred. However, there are also cases when the companies will consider a move local, even if it's in a different state. This occurs when you’re moving to a neighboring state, and the mileage is less than the typical long distance move or when you’re using an across the country moving truck rental. Most times, the companies will only travel on land and charge fuel costs. When transporting your belongings from one state to another, you will likely have to purchase liability coverage. Moving your belongings locally typically costs $800 to $2,500. Companies usually provide or sell basic coverage per pound of cargo or full value protection that protects the full value of the items transported.

Average Cost of Moving Across Country

The average cost to move across the country is $4,000 to $8,000 to move a two-bedroom home 2,000 miles from one side of the country to the other. The cost varies depending on the distance you move the items, the total weight, and whether you pack the items yourself. Moving across country means moving your belongings from one state to another, without leaving the country. If you’re moving across the entire country, the distance you will move is approximately 2,800 miles. The cost of moving from the East Coast to the West Coast can be greater than the cost to move interstate because of the greater distance between your old and new home.

International Moving

The average cost for an international moving company ranges from $6,000 to $20,000. This is mostly based on your destination and how much you are moving. The chosen moving company and the time of year can also impact the cost. While there are thousands of moving companies, many are not licensed for ocean freight services. If you are moving across the water, choose a licensed provider. Costs can be lower if you choose a port pickup service but make sure the moving company offers this. For those unfamiliar with customs, a door-to-door option is likely better. Some countries require taxes and customs for anything transported there. The fee varies based on the value of your belongings and where you are moving.

Long Distance Movers Cost by Home Size

Movers typically charge $0.50 to $0.80 per pound to move your belongings, which means you can pay as low as $900 to move a studio apartment 1,000 miles to as high as $8,000 to move a three or more bedroom home 1,000 miles. Square footage averages 400 to 500 for a studio, 650 to 750 for a one-bedroom, 750 to 1,250 for a two-bedroom, and 1,200 to 1,400 for a three-bedroom. One to two movers are ideal for studio and one-bedrooms, while larger homes might require three to four movers. Most homes have a similar number of items, so the cost to move a one-bedroom apartment 1,000 miles will be similar regardless of where you’re located. Below is a table with information about how much you can expect to pay for different sized homes.

Average Cost of a Long Distance Move by Distance and Number of Bedrooms

Another way to determine the average cost of a move involves distance and number of bedrooms. For example, moving 1,000 miles with the items from a one-bedroom home may be less expensive than moving the same distance with the items from a four or five-bedroom home. The table below offers a way to look at the distance and the number of bedrooms to determine the final moving costs. 250 miles might be for a move across a state or into a new state, and 1,000 miles is across several states, while 2,500 miles is a move from one side of the country to the other.

Long Distance Movers Cost by Type of Service

One of the biggest choices in a long distance move is whether to choose labor-only movers or full-service movers. Labor-only movers require you to handle more of the process. Full-service movers handle nearly everything associated with moving. Depending on whether you will use labor-only movers or full-service movers, you can expect to pay $600 to $8,000 to move a two-bedroom home 1,000 miles with about 5,000 to 6,000 pounds of belongings.

Hire Movers to Load a Truck

Labor-only movers cost $600 to $2,500 for most moving projects. They typically charge $50 to $100 per hour per mover to load your furniture and boxes and unload them at your new location. Moving an average-sized two-bedroom home will require three to six hours to relocate the home if three to five movers are hired. You are responsible for getting your belongings from point A to point B, whether by driving them yourself in a truck or sending them in a shipping container. The moving company often provides recommendations for shipping containers or other needed items. This can cost less than hiring freight trailer moving companies for the whole process, but you have to put a lot more time and effort into the move, which isn’t always an option.

Full-Service Movers

Full-service moving is the most expensive option that costs between $2,000 to $8,000 or more for a two-bedroom house, depending on the items you need to move. The full-service moving involves several components. First, the movers bring all needed packing materials and pack your belongings (including furniture disassembly and reassembly). Second, full-service movers will load and move your items to your new location. They will also unpack at your new home and dispose of packing materials. Some full-service moving companies will also make arrangements to move vehicles and specialty items such as boats.

Long Distance Moving Companies Prices

The average cost of long distance moving companies is $2,000 to $8,000 for a two-bedroom home with 5,000 pounds of belongings going 1,000 miles. The prices depend on the services each company offers, the type of insurance, and whether it’s a local or long distance move. Some of the most popular companies in the U.S. are North American Moving Services, Allied Movers, Mayflower Moving, and Atlas Moving. The services they offer, and the respective costs are presented below.

North American Moving Services

Moving a two-bedroom home with North American Moving Services will cost between $2,000 and $6,000 on average. They have been in business since 1933 and currently serve all 50 states. North American Moving Services provides a variety of add-on services besides the regular moving ones so everyone can customize their long distance move. Household moving, corporate relocation, and international moving are available. One of their most popular add-ons is the convenient “Binding not-to-exceed” estimate which guarantees that the moving cost won’t surpass a certain limit. The coverage they offer is basic liability coverage at no cost or full coverage that costs $8 for every $1,000 in value.

Allied Movers

The cost of a long distance move with Allied Movers is $2,000 to $7,500 for a two-bedroom home. Allied has over 85 years of experience providing moving services, including packing, loading, transporting, and unpacking belongings. Allied provides household, long distance, cross-country, interstate, corporate relocation, and international moving. They provide basic insurance coverage at no additional charge and extra protection based on the value of the item, which is around $0.8 per every $100 worth.

Mayflower Moving

Moving with Mayflower Moving costs $2,500 to $6,000. This national company has been moving families across the country for over 100 years. Mayflower does long distance, small, local, international, corporate, and military moves. They offer car transportation services, packing and unpacking, storage options, trash, debris removal, and cleaning services. The full value protection protects you if items are lost or broken at $6 per pound. A minimum liability valuation option covers you at $0.60 per pound. Mayflower offers claim-assist programs, pairs and sets waivers, mechanical malfunction waivers, and other guarantees.

Atlas Moving

The cost of a long distance move of a two-bedroom home with Atlas will cost $3,000 to $8,000. Atlas is a moving company founded in 1948 that provides customizable moving services in the U.S. and Canada. They currently offer several moves: local moves, long distance moves, international moves, military moves, and corporate moves. All items transported by Atlas can be protected with minimal coverage at $0.60 per pound for anything lost or damaged, or full-value protection, which covers $6 multiplied by the total item weight. Atlas will replace the full current market value of any lost or damaged item through the full coverage.

Cost to Ship Furniture Across Country

Long distance shipping companies typically charge between $300 and $800 to move one piece of furniture. Shipping may involve the U.S. Postal Service or a shipping company. The exact cost to ship boxes across the country depends on the weight and size of the item and its fragility. Moving items like antiques and collectibles add to the overall moving cost as the movers have to be extra careful with the items during transportation. The average cost per work of fine art or antique is $200 to $1,000 extra. Other challenging items include televisions, aquariums, plants, pianos, and firearms. The workers can also disassemble and reassemble larger, heavier pieces of furniture for an additional charge.

Long Distance Moving Cost by Rental Service

Long distance moving costs run from $650 to $6,000, depending on the rental service you will be using. There is no need to take the full DIY approach or hire a full moving company service for a high cost. Different companies offer rental services according to the needs of the homeowner, so you can include as little or as many moving services as you will need to adjust everything to your budget. Some of the most popular rental services offered by moving companies are rental trucks, rental shipping containers, relocubes, and more.

Long Distance Moving Truck Rental Price by Company

The average cost to rent a moving truck for five days is between $650 and $2,500 for a 20-foot truck. Renting a truck is the most common option when someone wants to take the DIY moving approach. Truck rental is an inexpensive alternative that is easy to find and quick to get but is time and labor intensive as you will have to do the heavy lifting on your own. The exact cost of the rental depends on the size of the truck you will choose and the distance you will be moving. Personal auto insurance may cover moving trucks. If not, the companies below offer insurance options for the move. Here is how different truck rental companies compare and how much you can expect to pay to rent a truck for five days and 1,000 miles:

Home Depot Moving Truck Cost

The average price for a moving truck from Home Depot ranges from $650 to $1,500. A U.S. or Canadian driver’s license is required, and the person renting the truck must be at least 21 years old. Automobile insurance is not required, and payments can be made through a credit card. The vehicle should be refueled before it is returned. The trucks range from 12 to 26 feet to accommodate small and large homes and apartments.

Budget Truck Rental Price

A truck rental from Budget ranges from $800 to $1,750. Cargo vans and small, medium, and large trucks are available. The trucks range from 12 to 26 feet in length, and some come with loading ramps and towing capability. A license must be shown, and the driver needs to be 24 or older in most locations. If your insurance company covers the rental vehicle, it can be used, but Budget also offers truck rental protection plans for an extra charge.

U-Haul Truck Rental Prices

A U-Haul moving truck costs $900 to $2,000. U-Haul offers cargo vans and trucks that range from 10 to 26 feet long. Customers must be 16 to rent trailers and 18 to rent moving trucks. For those with insurance that does not cover moving trucks, U-Haul offers it at an additional fee. This company also sells moving supplies and offers self-storage facilities.

Penske Truck Rental Prices

Truck rentals from Penske average $1,250 to $2,500. Several vehicles are available. A high-roof cargo van is an option for smaller loads. Trucks also come in sizes ranging from 12 to 26 feet in length. If a homeowner is moving a large home, the bigger trucks are likely the best option. Penske also has towing equipment, self-storage, and other supplies for free. Two forms of identification are needed to drive a Penske truck. The driver must be 18 or older.

Shipping Container Moving Cost by Company

The cost of pods moving long distance ranges from $800 and $3,000, depending on the size of the home and the distance that needs to be covered. They are often referred to as portable-on-demand storage and are a more affordable option than hiring a moving company. When you hire shipping container moving companies, they typically come and drop a portable storage unit (a POD) at the specified location and let you pack it on your own. The storage boxes are typically 7, 12, or 16-foot steel crates with roll up, keyed, ground level access, and weather and impact-resistant siding. Once you’ve packed the storage containers, the moving company will pick them up and transport them to the specified destination. Here is a table with the average cost to move 1,000 miles with a 12-foot shipping container over five days:

Freight Moving Cost by Type of Service

Freight trailer moving companies will move your belongings for an average cost of $2,000 to $6,000, depending on how much space you will rent. Freight means renting a space in a trailer, van, shipping container, or boat and paying just for the space you rent instead of having to rent the whole unit. Below are some of the major freight trailer service companies and the typical cost they charge for freight moving services using a 28 foot trailer.

Packing Service Cost

You can hire the moving company to pack your belongings for $500 and $1,500 for a two-bedroom home. The moving packing service cost consists of the labor and materials for packing and unpacking without loading and unloading the items. In most cases, two movers handle the packing process. For a home that is 1,250 sq.ft. or smaller, it takes about 2 to 5 hours with 2 movers. Larger homes take 6 to 12 hours to pack with 3 to 5 movers. When you hire a full packing service, movers will do everything for you. This typically means them coming to your home to pack everything, hand-wrap fragile items, hang up your clothes in wardrobe cartons, and use special crates and boxes for unique items and antiques. If you do the packing on your own, the company will typically come and drop a portable storage unit for you to pack and then pick it up on a specific date to deliver it to your new destination for you to unpack.

Unpacking and Organizing Service

Unpacking and organizing your belongings is one of the most expensive parts of the whole moving cost, costing $250 to $1,500 for a two-bedroom home. This is one of the most expensive parts of moving as it’s both time and labor intensive. Most services are done in one day directly after the move. The packers will disassemble and reassemble basic furniture pieces and bigger, more complex items and set them in the appropriate place in your home. They unpack boxes, unwrap items, wipe shelves, and organize items. Organizing and unpacking clothing and making beds are included. The professionals also remove and recycle packing materials and boxes.

Long Distance Moving Cost by Charging Method

Costs for moving range from hourly, per pound, per mover per hour, and per day. Getting several quotes is recommended to determine the exact cost. There are four basic options for moving quotes, and all are free. Choose a phone, video call, or an in-person quote. The most accurate is an in-person quote because the entire space and belongings can be viewed. However, phone or video quotes can also be used if needed. Some movers offer discounts to students, union members, teachers, military members, and others. Check those because it may lower prices for a long distance move.

Long Distance Moving Costs by Pound

Most companies charge $0.50 to $0.80 per pound, which means the moving cost will depend on the weight of the load they will be moving. Some companies charge by the pound as moving trucks can take a specific weight or load volume. The weight gives them an idea of the number of items. In other cases, the distance and manpower are calculated together to determine the cost.

Long Distance Moving Cost per Mover per Hour

Long distance moving charged per mover per hour has a rate of between $50 and $100. The final price depends on how many movers are needed to fill the truck and move it to the new location and the time it takes to get to the new home. This might be less expensive than per pound or hour rates, but it can be more expensive for long distances where several movers are needed. Homeowners should consider all options to decide what will be the least expensive.

Long Distance Moving Cost per Hour

The cost per hour for long distance moving is $100 to $200 for two movers. While a per-hour charge is common for short moves, not all companies provide it for cross-country moves. However, the companies that do may be less expensive if the number of hours to reach the destination is reasonable. This can also be a good choice for moving long distance if the homeowner has many heavy items being moved.

Long Distance Moving Cost per Day

The average cost for moving per day ranges from $750 to $3,250. This includes the number of movers used to pack up the truck and drive it across the state or country to the new home. It also considers the time spent unloading the truck and doing other tasks that are part of the moving company contract. Not all companies provide movers by the day, but they can often be less expensive when they are available. It is a good long distance choice for those moving many items.

Cost of Moving Boxes

Depending on the size of your home, you can expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $800 for packing materials. Typically, the average cost of moving boxes for a two-bedroom home is $200 to $650, although it can be lower or higher depending on the type of items you have in your home. Apartments tend to be smaller, so fewer boxes are needed, while large homes may need an extensive number of boxes.

When calculating the cost of moving materials, you need to consider the cost of boxes (and their size), bubble wraps, stretch wrapping paper, book boxes, glassware boxes, dish boxes, TV/picture boxes, tape rolls, tape dispensers, and more. You may also need permanent markers to mark boxes, mattress covers, and packing paper. These are needed if you are handling the packing on your own. Full-service movers provide packing materials.

Specialty Items Add-Ons

Many homeowners have more to move than furniture and boxes full of books, clothing, and dishes. Specialty items like pool tables, riding lawn mowers, hot tubs, cars, fine art and antiques, grandfather clocks, safes, exercise equipment, and pianos typically cost more to move. The size and bulkiness make them more challenging to take long distances. These items often have a higher value than other belongings and must be moved cautiously to avoid damage. The cost to move these items is often at least a few hundred dollars. Moving some exercise equipment over 1,000 miles might cost $100 at the low end while having a vehicle moved the same distance could be as much as $3,000 for a significant distance.

Long Distance Moving Checklist

When you’re moving a long distance, the process can be time-consuming, so it takes careful planning on your side. The process involves many factors and costs, so you need to prepare well before the actual moving date to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Although you don’t have to adhere to it strictly, here is what you should plan before the moving date comes. The moving checklist below provides an idea of when to do things to be ready for the big day.

12 to 14 Weeks Before Moving

A few months before the move, homeowners can start doing a few things to simplify the process. Take care of the planning aspects that are useful later. Anything that might change prices should be set up now.

• Budget for all moving costs.
• Look for quotes on moving labor, DIY truck rental, shipping containers, and vehicle moving costs.
• Book all needed travel arrangements.
• Schedule important appointments needed before the move.

8 to 10 Weeks Before Moving

Much of the process can get underway 2 to 3 months before moving. Most of this time should be spent getting supplies ready and packing. If there are items you rarely use, now is when to take care of them to save time as you get closer to the move.

• Plan which items are on the truck and which you take.
• If packing yourself, purchase the needed packing supplies.
• Start donating, selling, or disposing of items you do not need.
• Begin packing items you do not use frequently.

In the Month Leading Up to Moving Day

The last month is when to do all the extras you have not handled yet. Most items can be packed, and all preparations should be done at this point. Tie up loose ends and prepare for the upcoming moving day.

• Start the administrative moving process, such as institution and address changes.
• Check the vehicle if you are driving to the new home.
• Finish packing everything but the most essential items.
• Confirm all details with the moving company.

Day of the Move

On the day of the move, there are still a few things to take care of. All the items you need with you should go in the vehicle you are taking. Ensure the home has been cleaned and is ready to leave.

• Make sure tips for the movers are ready for the end of the move.
• Pack essentials like prescriptions.
• Walk through the home to ensure nothing has been missed.

Long Distance Moving Tips

When you’re moving long distances, there are a few moving do’s and don’ts you need to keep in mind to help you go through the moving process easier. The first thing is to book your accommodations depending on the type of travel you will be using. Book your hotel room in advance to ensure a room.

Before hiring a moving company, you should find out who is responsible if something breaks or gets damaged during packing, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking. Additionally, you’ll want to ask about insurance. Most homeowner and rental insurance policies don’t cover items while being moved, but moving companies offer several options with various levels of reimbursement if anything is damaged during the move.

When you’re packing, number each box and keep a master list with each box number and where it goes in the house. You’ll be able to check off the master list when your boxes are unloaded to make sure everything arrived. Unless you rent a moving truck and move on your own, you and your belongings will travel separately to your new home. Make sure to plan for airplane tickets. If you’re driving on your own and the trip takes several days, plan for accommodations and food as part of your travel cost.

Money-Saving Tips When Moving

There are few ways you can save money during the moving process. Using rental trucks and moving containers can cut costs if a homeowner does not mind doing the labor. Get free moving boxes from neighbors, stores, or even Craigslist. Save money on labor by asking your friends and family to help pack and load the truck. Additionally, some employers pay for the move entirely or provide partial reimbursement of moving costs. Canceling or transferring the utilities several days before the move date can save money.

Adjusting the move date is another option, especially if your leaving time is flexible. Avoid moving near holidays or in the summer to save money. Summer moves can be 20% to 30% more expensive due to the increased demand. Booking a moving company 1 to 2 months in advance can also be useful. If your moving date is near holidays or the summer, booking even earlier, about 3 months before the move, is recommended.

The moving truck size and weight of the shipment greatly impact the final moving costs. This makes moving a good time to downsize to save money. Leave unneeded items like heavy furniture, small appliances, and other things behind. Cutting clothing, books, and clutter can minimize the number of boxes. Donate, give away, or sell the items at a yard sale to fund the move.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Rent a Storage Unit

If your belongings need to be stored because the new home is not ready, you can rent a storage unit for an average cost of $150 to $750 per month. They are a convenient way of moving your belongings and shipping them without paying for additional storage, which can cost $200 to $1,000 per month plus the delivery and moving fees. The containers are an easy way to pack, label, and ship your belongings to ensure they are protected while staying on a budget.

Ship a Car Across Country

The auto shipping cost varies based on the type of vehicle (car, truck, SUV) and its size and weight. You can expect to pay an additional $1,000 to $3,000 per vehicle. In an across country move, you may opt to have your vehicle shipped. However, this adds a significant cost to the total amount of the move, especially when moving long distances. Many homeowners opt to sell the car instead.

Pool Table Moving

Moving a pool table costs $300 to $600. The high cost is because pool tables are incredibly heavy and complicated to move. It will likely need to be disassembled, transported, and reassembled in your new home. Some movers are experienced working with pool tables. You’ll want to ask your moving company if this is something they can handle.

Long Distance Piano Moving

Pianos require special moving tools and specialized care. Moving a piano can cost anywhere between $700 and $2,500, depending on the size and type of the piano. Small pianos like a spinet or a console piano cost the least, while concert model pianos are the most expensive ones to move. As they can be an expensive instrument, consider insuring the full value of the item during transportation.

Pet Courier Service

Moving pets from one place to another with a pet-friendly airline costs $50 to $1,500. The cost varies with the type of pet, the method of transportation, and the distance between the two locations. Your pets may need to travel with you to ensure they don’t go through a stressful experience. Costs are lower if pets can travel in the cabin with a homeowner. Make sure your pet’s records are with your important documents and talk to your veterinarian about tips for traveling with animals.

Long Distance Moving Insurance

You can add a layer of protection to your items for around 1% to 5% of the total value of the items. Most moving companies have basic liability coverage that protects the items that may get damaged or broken during transportation at no charge. However, you can purchase extended or full coverage insurance that protects the items based on their value. In most cases, the insurance covers a specific dollar value for the weight of the items. This value is usually around $4 to $6 per pound. If you’re moving 5,000 pounds, the overall value of the items is $30,000, and the full coverage insurance will cost you $300 to $1,200.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY. Moving can certainly be a DIY job, but it takes a lot of time and energy, not to mention the physical strength of lifting and moving boxes and furniture. Be prepared to acquire your own packing supplies, pack and label everything yourself, and load and unload a moving truck. Moving truck rental companies can provide suggestions for the size of moving truck needed for your home size. Moving trucks charge based on mileage, and you also are responsible for fuel.
• Seasonal rates. Peak moving times (spring and summer, end of the month) are more expensive, so consider moving mid-week, mid-month in the off-season (October to April) to save on moving expenses. Moving companies occasionally offer discounts, particularly in the off-season.
• Mover’s licenses. All cross-country moving companies must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and be fully licensed to transport household goods across state lines. Movers should be able to provide you with their license number. Be wary of moving companies that supply a binding quote or that operate as cash-only businesses.
• Tax deductions. Some of your moving costs may be tax-deductible. There isn’t a federal deduction for moving, but your state may have one.
• Tipping. One fee that many forget to calculate is a tip for the movers. Most recommend tipping $4 to $6 for each hour associated with the move. For example, a move that takes 5 hours should include a tip of $20 to $30 per mover at the end. Tipping is not required, especially if the movers do a bad job. However, it is nice for good movers, considering their hard work.
• Shuttle service. A shuttle fee may be charged by the moving company if a smaller truck needs to be positioned near your property. The cost covers moving things from the smaller vehicle to a large moving truck. This is often an hourly rate of $100 to $200. Long carry fees can also apply if a truck cannot be parked within about 150 feet of the door. This cost ranges from $75 to $125 for every 75 extra feet the movers need to walk to reach the house or apartment.
• Elevator and stairs fees. A stair carry fee may be required if there are many long staircases the moving company must move up and down. The price varies but tends to run from $50 to $100 per staircase after the first. Long elevator rides or moving on a narrow elevator can also contribute to fees.