Relocating to a new state or across the country is a major life event filled with excitement, opportunity—and let’s face it, stress. One of the biggest stressors? Cost. Long-distance moves aren’t just time-consuming; they can also be expensive, depending on how far you’re going, how much you’re moving, and whether you’re bringing more than just your household belongings.
Whether you’re relocating for a new job, family, or a fresh start, understanding what goes into the cost of a long-distance move can help you plan smarter and avoid surprises. This guide breaks down the average costs, influencing factors, optional services, and even how to handle moving a vehicle if needed.
What Is Considered a Long-Distance Move?
Before we dive into numbers, it’s important to define what qualifies as a long-distance move. Typically, moving companies consider anything over 100 miles or that crosses state lines to be a long-distance or interstate move. This differs from local moves, which are usually charged hourly, while long-distance moves are based on weight, distance, and other logistical variables.
So, if you’re moving from Florida to Texas, New York to California, or even just crossing from one state to another, you’re looking at a long-distance move—and all the planning and costs that come with it.
Average Cost of Hiring a Moving Company
Let’s get to the question everyone wants answered: how much is this going to cost?
The average cost of a long-distance move varies widely based on the size of your home and the distance traveled. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Home Size | Approx. Distance (1000–2500 miles) | Estimated Cost |
| Studio / 1-Bedroom | 1,000–2,000 miles | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| 2–3 Bedrooms | 1,000–2,000 miles | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | 2,000+ miles | $5,000 – $8,000+ |
Keep in mind, these are estimates for moving household goods only. If your move includes transporting a vehicle, you’ll need to factor that in separately (we’ll get to that shortly).
Main Factors That Affect Long-Distance Moving Costs
No two moves are exactly the same. The final price you pay will depend on a range of variables:
1. Distance
The longer the distance, the higher the cost. Cross-country moves are more expensive than moving a few hundred miles.
2. Weight and Volume of Belongings
Moving companies often calculate cost based on the total weight or volume of your shipment. The more you take with you, the more it costs to move.
3. Time of Year
Summer is the peak season for moving, which means higher rates. Moving during the fall or winter months can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
4. Packing Services
Opting for full-service packing and unpacking adds convenience—but also adds to your bottom line.
5. Special Items
Large or delicate items like pianos, antiques, and safes require special handling, which may incur additional charges.
6. Access Issues
Stairs, elevators, long carries, and difficult parking can increase labor and time, which may be reflected in your final bill.
What If You Also Need to Move a Vehicle?
It’s easy to overlook, but vehicle transport is a common need in long-distance relocations. Whether you’re a two-car household, relocating a classic vehicle, or simply want to avoid a long drive, hiring a reputable auto transport company can be a practical solution.
Average Cost of Car Shipping
Depending on how far you’re moving and how you want the car transported, here’s what you can expect to pay:
- Open carrier transport (most common):
$600 – $1,000 (coast to coast) - Enclosed transport (for luxury, classic, or collectible cars):
$1,000 – $2,000+ - Door-to-door delivery may cost slightly more than terminal-to-terminal, but it’s often worth the convenience.
Factors That Influence Car Shipping Costs
- Distance: Longer trips cost more, naturally.
- Vehicle type: Larger, heavier, or inoperable vehicles may incur additional charges.
- Transport method: Enclosed car shipping offers better protection but comes at a premium.
- Season: Rates may increase during winter or summer due to demand or weather risks.
How It Works
Most moving companies don’t ship cars themselves but can coordinate with licensed auto transport carriers. Some companies offer package deals that cover both your household move and car shipping, which may help you save money and streamline logistics.
Optional Add-On Services That Can Raise the Cost
While the basic service involves loading, transporting, and unloading your items, many movers offer optional add-ons:
- Full-service packing and unpacking
- Temporary storage (especially useful if there’s a gap between move-out and move-in dates)
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Appliance connection/disconnection
- Crating for fragile items
These extras can offer convenience but will raise your total bill. Be sure to clarify what’s included in your quote and what counts as an additional service.
How to Get an Accurate Moving Quote
To avoid sticker shock, it’s critical to get detailed, binding quotes from multiple moving companies. Here’s how to do it right:
- Request in-home or virtual surveys so the mover can accurately assess your belongings.
- Ask for a Binding Not-to-Exceed Estimate, which ensures your final cost won’t be more than the estimate – even if the weight ends up being more.
- Get separate quotes for vehicle transport if needed and ask if the moving company partners with a preferred auto shipper.
Tip: Ask about insurance coverage, both for household goods and for your car. Some auto shippers include insurance in the cost, while others offer it as an add-on.
How to Save Money on a Long-Distance Move
Moving is expensive, but there are ways to bring down the cost:
- Declutter before you pack: The less you move, the less it costs.
- Move during off-peak seasons: Late fall through early spring can offer better rates.
- Do your own packing: Labor costs can be cut dramatically if you pack yourself.
- Use recycled or free packing supplies: Many local stores or Facebook groups give away boxes.
- Ship your car using open carrier transport if budget is a concern.
Bundling services and being flexible with your dates can also open the door to better deals.
DIY Move vs. Hiring a Professional Moving Company
You might be wondering if you could save even more by renting a truck and doing it all yourself. The answer? It depends.
DIY Move Pros:
- Lower upfront cost
- More control over timing
DIY Move Cons:
- Physically demanding and time-consuming
- Hidden costs (truck rental, fuel, hotels, meals, tolls)
- Stressful coordination and risk of damage
When it comes to vehicle transport, driving your car yourself could mean extra wear-and-tear, added mileage, fuel expenses, and overnight stays. Depending on the distance and your timeline, hiring a professional auto transport service may actually be the more practical (and affordable) option.
Final Thoughts
Moving long-distance is a big endeavor—and a big investment. From the weight of your furniture to the miles your boxes (and possibly your car) will travel, many factors go into the total cost.
The key to a successful and affordable move lies in:
- Understanding what you’re paying for
- Comparing multiple quotes
- Being strategic about the services you need
And if your move includes shipping your vehicle, plan ahead, ask the right questions, and consider partnering with a trusted auto transport company to make the journey smoother for everyone (including your car).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far in advance should I book a moving company?
A: Ideally, 6–8 weeks before your move date, especially during the summer.
Q: How much does it cost to ship a car as part of a long-distance move?
A: Most cross-country car shipments cost between $600 and $1,000 for standard service, and up to $2,000+ for enclosed or expedited options.
Q: Are moving costs tax-deductible?
A: For most individuals, moving expenses are no longer deductible unless you’re an active-duty member of the Armed Forces moving under orders.
Q: Can I move during the weekend?
A: Yes, but weekends and end-of-month dates tend to be more expensive due to high demand.
