The Ultimate Long Distance Moving Cost Guide [2022]

What is a Long Distance Move?

In the moving industry, companies will typically classify moves as either local or long-distance. Each state has different regulations, but long-distance moves generally start at 30-50 miles or more. Unlike local moves, which are billed at an hourly rate, long-distance moves are billed at a flat rate that is determined based on your shipment size, distance, and many other factors.

What Does a Long-Distance Move Cost?

The average cost for a long-distance move is between $2,400 and $5,300, but actual pricing can range from $700 to over $10,000.

As you can see, pricing can vary dramatically. Before taking a closer look at the different factors that can impact your cost, it’s important to first consider your moving method. How you decide to move will have the largest impact on your cost.

There are many ways to move from point A to point B, each with different service options and pricing structures. The most common options are renting a moving truck and doing everything yourself, working with a moving container company, or hiring a full-service mover. Here’s what you can expect to pay for each type of move:

Moving Truck Cost

Rental truck companies typically charge by the mile and the size of your truck. For a long-distance move, you’ll need what’s known as a one-way truck rental. Pick it up in your destination city and leave it in your new state. All packing, loading, and driving are left up to you. Remember to consider tolls, insurance, and fuel costs as well. Here is the average cost for moving long-distance with a rental truck:

Moving Container Cost

Moving containers offer a middle ground between the full DIY rental truck option and the more convenient but more expensive full-service move. The container company will drop off your container(s) in a designated area in front of your home. You will then have several days to load the container on your own. At the end of the rental period, a driver will pick up your container and drive it to your new home, where you will unload it.

This can be much more affordable than a full-service move, but you will be responsible for the heavy lifting. Here’s what you can expect to pay for this service:

Full-Service Move Cost

Full-service movers can handle as much or as little as you need, often offering flexible moving plans to help you balance your needs and budget. In addition to loading, driving, and unloading the truck, these companies may offer the following add-ons:

• Packing services
• Storage
• Custom crating
• Car shipping
• Moving supplies
• And more

Full-service movers are commonly used for long-distance moves. These moves can be complicated and time-consuming, so working with an experience mover can make the process much easier. Some companies offer extra care for fragile items, logistics coordination, GPS shipment tracking, and other great perks. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

Long-Distance Moving Cost Factors

Beyond your moving method, there are many other factors that will influence the cost of your long-distance move. These include:

• Shipment Size. The size of your shipment is one of the most significant factors considered when calculating your bill. A four-bedroom house will cost more than a one-bedroom apartment when traveling the same distance. The more you have to ship, the more you can expect to pay. Whenever possible, arrange an in-home estimate so your mover can assess your belongings and provide an accurate quote.
• Distance. As you can see in the pricing tables above, the further away you’re moving, the more you will pay. As movers will need to cover fuel costs, crew wages, and crew accommodations, longer moves will be more expensive.
• Accessibility. The structure of your property and access to the road or driveway can also impact your cost. Too much distance between the truck and your door—because of stairs, elevators, or country roads—could require a shuttle fee or extra labor costs.
• Moving Date. Summer is the peak season for moving. With increased demand during this time, you will likely pay more than if you move during the off-season. Likewise, moving on the weekend typically costs more than moving on a weekday.
• Add-On Services. If you’re working with a full-service mover, add-on services like packing, storage, and car shipping can significantly inflate your bill.

Additional Costs, Services, and Fees

In addition to the base-level costs, movers charge for all additional services and unique details that complicate your move. These may include:

• Moving boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and tape
• Packing services, especially for artwork, heirlooms, or bulky items
• Full value protection insurance
• Storage
• Shuttle services
• International or out-of-state fees
• Cancellation or change fees

Some companies may offer reimbursements if something goes wrong during your move, such as a truck missing your delivery window at pick up or drop off.

Ways to Save Money on Long Distance Moves

Keeping costs low when moving is often a top priority. Here are a few ways you can reduce your long-distance moving cost:

• Do as much as you can yourself. The more you can do yourself, the cheaper your move will be. However, when it comes to long-distance moves, we do not recommend managing it all on your own. These moves have many logistical challenges and can be very time-consuming and physically demanding. That said, you can save by doing all your packing yourself rather than hiring your mover to do it for you. Any other smaller tasks you can manage that would otherwise be an add-on charge would be worth handling on your own as well.
• Downsize. Since shipment weight and truck size have a large impact on cost, this is a great time to downsize. Consider leaving bulky furniture, small appliances, and other items behind. Cutting down on clutter, books, and clothing will lower your number of boxes as well. You can hold a garage sale to raise funds for your move or consider donating your unwanted items.
• Compare Quotes. Be sure to request free estimates from multiple companies before booking. This helps you catch where some companies may be overcharging or where others offer discounts. If you’re leaning toward one company but the price is a bit high, speak to your sales rep about price matching a competitor’s offer or discounts that may be available.

What Not to Skip

It can be tempting to go with the lowest quote you receive. However, cutting some corners can lead to costly issues. Here are some moving costs that are often well worth the expense:

• Insurance. Basic insurance plans may not include carrier negligence. If they do, they may only cover a small percentage of the item’s worth. We recommend opting in for more comprehensive moving insurance whenever possible.
• Specialty Item Shipping. Never risk moving items like a piano, large appliance, or hot tub without a professional. The damages could end up far more expensive than the extra help.
• Specialty Packing. Fragile items, decor, and furniture need a bit more protection in transit. The further the distance and longer time spent in a truck or shipping container, the greater the chances of damage. Hire packers if you are concerned about fragile items, do not have access to sturdy moving boxes, or need advice on what to pack and what to leave behind. Most companies will offer full-service packing or fragile-only packing, so you can balance your budget and needs.
• Truck Loading and Unloading. Doing the physical labor yourself can be dangerous. You could hurt yourself or damage your items. Professional movers are trained to handle heavy items and maneuver them without damaging your home or the truck.

How to Find the Best Long Distance Moving Company

There’s no question that you need a highly experienced and trustworthy company to move your precious items such a great distance. Finding the best company is far easier if you know how to look for the red flags and signs of a great business. Consider the following factors when looking for the best mover:

Perform a Background Check

Begin by reviewing the public information available on each company you’re considering.  Here are some resources to help you do that:

• FMCSA. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website offers a tool for customers to check a moving company’s USDOT license number, mailing address, phone number, fleet size, reviews and complaints.
• BBB. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a company watchdog site that offers accreditation, company, ratings, reviews, and complaints. A good sign is if the company has taken steps to resolve the complaints.
• Social Media. A strong social media and online presence is a great sign that the company is trying to connect with its customers and will be easy to reach if there are problems along the way.

Request Estimates

Request 4-5 free quotes from different companies for comparison. Binding estimates will not change on your moving day unless you add services or items to your shipment. Non-binding estimates, however, are only intended to give you a ballpark of your contract amount and may change at the mover’s discretion. Never sign a contract without confirming the pricing details.

In your bill of lading—or moving contract—you should receive:

• An estimated price based on your home inventory list
• The schedule of your moving day
• Number of movers and trucks
• Estimated arrival time to your destination (typically between two and 21 days)
• Included services
• Service upgrades and cost
• Insurance details
• Policies and cancellation
• Payment instructions

Check Customer Reviews

Branch off from sites like the BBB to see what customers are saying across the internet. A great moving company should also offer testimonials from past clients upon request. When looking through the reviews and complaints, keep an eye on the following categories:

• Reliability
• Communication
• Timeliness
• Care of items
• Driving safety
• Professionalism
• Estimate and cost issues

Do you notice any patterns or common concerns? Look for reviews that include photos, details, and the specific locations of their move. Also, keep an eye out for when the company responded to the customer’s message.

Top Long-Distance Moving Companies

Now that you know what long-distance moving costs, it’s time to reach out for quotes and book your move. Here are some of the best long-distance movers in the country today. Each company listed here is an industry leader with deep experience and a broad range of service options: