Moving to another state or moving across the country can be a perplexing endeavour. One primary concern that you must focus on while planning a move is the average cost of a long-distance move. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the cost of a long-distance move so you can make informed decisions and avoid unexpected surprises.
Understanding The Essentials Of Moving Expenses
The average cost of a long-distance move depends on certain distinct services. The additional services that you choose, the weight of your belongings, and the distance, along with a few other fees, all play a major role in shaping an overall moving fee. On average, these expenses range anywhere from $2,500 to upwards of $7,500, but certain requirements can escalate the price even higher.
1. What Defines a Long-Distance Move?
Long-distance movements are sometimes considered to be those that go beyond a distance of 100 miles or involve crossing state boundaries. Even relocating within the same state can be termed a long-distance move as long as the mileage threshold is met. Unlike nearby relocations, long-distance moves are not charged hourly; instead, they are billed based on distance and weight.
2. How Distance Impacts Moving Costs
The distance you cover while moving has a huge impact on the budget. That is the reason why moving companies take into account the mileage, fuel, and time spent travelling in their cost estimates. If you cover a distance of 500 miles, the estimated costs can be around $2,500 and $5,000, and shifting over a flight to the other part of the country, approximately 1,000 miles, can cost between $4,800 and $10,000 depending on some other factors.
Key Factors That Influence the Cost of a Long-Distance Move
Understanding what influences the average cost of a long-distance move can help you budget better and possibly save money.
1. Weight and Volume Of Your Belongings
For every item you pack, it incurs additional moving expenses. Many long-distance moving companies operate under a cost-per-weight fee, so regardless of volume or weight, their fee stays the same. Box trucks can carry around 5,000 pounds, and if moved across the country, the estimated fee is between $3,000 and $5,000.
2. Type of Moving Services You Choose
The choice of service has a significant impact on the cost incurred during movement.
- Full Service Move: The company packing and moving boxes takes care of everything from packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking, which is a one-stop solution that is comprehensive in nature. Although this option incurs the highest costs, it offers unparalleled relief.
- Self-Serve: Pack everything by yourself and book a moving company just for transportation. This form requires more effort from your side but is cheap.
- Do It Yourself Move: The cheapest option for long-distance moves is renting a moving truck or portable storage container yourself and handling it all from your side.
3. Moving Date and Season
Your moving date and the time of year in which you move impact the cost of the long-distance move considerably. Moving during the summer months from May to September is usually the most expensive due to high demand. If you can, try to move during the offseason in fall and winter to save some money.
4. Additional Costs Incurred While Moving
There are other expenses to keep in mind, such as:
- Packing Services & Supplies: If you hire movers to pack, expect to pay an extra cost, which can range between $500 and $1,500.
- Storage: If you are renting a storage unit and are in need of some temporary storage, the cost can range from $50 to $500 monthly.
- Insurance: Basic coverage is often included, but full-value protection or additional coverage can be expensive.
- Moving Costs: Tolls, Fuel, and Travel Time. Sometimes these costs can add up, especially when moving tenants out of state.
How to Reduce the Cost of Long Distance Move
Relocation is usually expensive, but these pointers can ensure you save money without sacrificing essential factors.
1. Cut down on your belongings before moving
You can reduce the expenses of hiring moving companies by throwing away the items that you no longer need since most moving companies charge by weight. You can sell or donate the things you do not need to minimize your burden.
2. Compare Moving Quotes
Make sure you don’t just settle on the first moving company you find. We recommend checking out at least three and comparing their prices and services to find the best deal.
3. Move During the Off-Season
During the off-season, moving peaks or winter months can help you relocate at a lower rate. If you have some flexibility in your schedule, try to avoid the high mid-March to mid-August, as it is peak moving times. You will see that moving during the winter can help you cut down your expenses significantly when compared to the summer.
4. Pack Your Own Belongings
If you have the time and energy, packing everything yourself can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in packing services.
5. Use Portable Storage Containers
Using PODS or U-Haul. U-Box allows you to store your belongings without hiring full-service movers since this can be a bit more cost-effective as well as give you more freedom on when to do the move.
Final Thoughts: Smart Planning is Key When Moving
A cross-country trip comes with expenses when moving, and they are determined by a variety of elements. However, if done correctly, you should be able to remain within budget. If you are planning to hire movers or go the DIY route, knowing the costs first will help you make better choices. Remember to check for quotes, reduce items whenever possible, and strategically schedule your move for the best pricing.
A long-distance move for a three-bedroom home (weighing approximately 8,000–10,000 lbs) can range between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on distance and additional services.
Renting a truck is usually cheaper than hiring a full-service moving company, but it requires more effort and additional costs like gas, tolls, and accommodations.
It’s best to book at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability, especially during peak moving seasons.
