Calculate Your Long Distance Moving Costs (No Phone Call Required)
See our average costs for long distance movers, then get an instant quote sent to your email using our moving cost calculator below — no phone call needed.
After using our long distance moving cost calculator, it is highly recommended to read the entire page or at least most of it. The content below explains our moving options, which are important for managing your budget and delivery expectations. We also provide valuable tips on what to look for when getting quotes from long distance movers to avoid an inaccurate quote or a scam-likely mover.
Important Note Regarding Pricing Structure
As mentioned in our data set above, this long distance moving cost calculator, your price is based on mileage, bedroom count, and your method of transportation.
At American National Movers, we are one of the very few brands offering a dedicated long-distance moving truck service. Shared load moving is industry standard; their prices may be higher or lower than ours.
Shared Load Moving
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Consolidated shipping is a popular option for standard furniture shipments that are not in a rush for delivery. Choose this option, and you are likely to get the most affordable long distance moving rates. However, keep in mind that, since it's priced lower, you are sacrificing speed and exclusivity by sharing truck space with other loads.
Dedicated Truck / Direct Transport
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Our dedicated truck moving option is priced at a premium because you receive an exclusive vehicle for your household goods. This option comes with a much faster delivery window and is ideal for larger homes, luxury moves, and senior citizens. Besides, what's better than getting your items delivered in under a week?
Why Use Our Instant Moving Quote Calculator?
Getting a quote online can be frustrating. Most websites act as lead traps, asking for your information without telling you how much their long distance moving services cost. That’s why American National Movers built a tool that gives you an instant price, with the option to email the quote to you.
How Much Do Long Distance Movers Cost?
Some long distance moving companies may charge $4,500.00 for a 1,000-mile move, while others might price close to $10,000 for the same bedroom size and mileage. When comparing prices, it’s important to consider the brand's reputation to ensure you’re getting quotes from legitimate moving companies. In this industry, affordable options do exist, but remember that the quality of service you receive from your long distance movers can sometimes be reflected in the price.​​​
Understanding How Long Distance Movers Charge
Although interstate moving is federally regulated, the government does not set a cap on what long distance moving companies can charge you. That’s why when comparing prices and services, you’ll get quotes that vary significantly from one company to the next and in some cases by thousands of dollars. Please see our interactive flip cards below for information on the key factors to consider when comparing quotes and hiring long distance movers. Tap or hover over each card to reveal the tips.
Many consumers who understand what’s displayed above choose the higher-priced long distance moving company because that's better than the fear of hiring a disreputable, cheaper brand. It comes with too many risks, and many times the cheapest movers are associated with damaged furniture, stolen goods, and communication issues, not just hidden fees.
Quick Cubic Feet Averages:
The photo below serves as a guide to help you understand what cubic feet look like. The estimated CF examples are for 300, 600, 700, 1,000, 1,200, and 1,600 cubic feet. If your cubic feet is not mentioned, be advised that a 200 cubic feet difference is not significant.
Even if movers arrive and say they were off by 200 or 300 cubic feet at $6.00 per cubic foot, your estimate increase should not exceed $1,800.00. If you see reports of movers doubling or tripling their pricing, chances are it’s more deceptive than an honest estimate increase.
Please use our interactive chart below and click your bedroom size to see the average cubic feet, based on the size of your home,, ranging from studio to 4 bedrooms. The chart will also show which furniture generally fits within the cubic footage, to avoid surprises on the day your movers arrive to load your household goods.
Detailed Breakdown
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300 Cubic Feet — Very Small Shipment
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√ This is usually a partial move, studio apartment, or a small one-bedroom with limited furniture.
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600 Cubic Feet — Small Move / Studio to 1 Bedroom
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√ This is closer to a full small apartment move. This is a common range for a studio or one-bedroom apartment, especially if the customer has average furniture and has already downsized.
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700–800 Cubic Feet — Light 2 Bedroom or Heavily Furnished 1 Bedroom
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√ This range can work for a mid-sized two-bedroom apartment or a one-bedroom home with more furniture than average.
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1,000 Cubic Feet — Mid-Sized Move
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√ This is usually a reasonable range for a two-bedroom home or a lightly furnished three-bedroom home. If your inventory includes multiple sofas, large bedroom sets, outdoor furniture, garage items, or a lot of boxes, your shipment may exceed 1,000 cubic feet.
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1,200–1,600 Cubic Feet — Large Move / 3 to 4 Bedrooms
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√ This range is more realistic for a standard three- to four-bedroom home. 1200 to 1600 cubic feet is usually associated with larger shipments. If a mover quotes a large home at only 700–800 cubic feet, your price is likely inaccurate.
How Much Your Movers May Cost Based On Mileage.
Below is a breakdown of industry-standard pricing based on distance and service level. Shared load moving rates, dedicated truck costs, and premium rates from high-end long distance moving companies. However, it's important to note that long-distance movers generally do not charge a per-mile rate; instead, they adjust their rates per cubic foot or per pound based on mileage.
Predictability/Speed Vs. Budget
If you are a budget client with standard furniture and you’re not in a rush for delivery, shared-load moving may be the best long distance moving option for you. However, if speed is a must for your relocation or if you have high-end items such as luxury furniture, fine art, pianos, and sculptures, an exclusive truck is highly recommended.
Understanding How Long Distance Movers Calculate Costs.
Here are the key factors, a long distance moving company considers when calculating the approximate costs of your relocation:
Frequently Asked Questions.
Below are frequent questions people ask when researching the average cost of long distance movers:
1). What Is The Average Cost Of Long Distance Movers?
​As mentioned above, the cost of long distance movers will vary greatly based on the moving company you get a quote from. Major van lines are reported to be the most expensive option, with an average cost of $8,800; smaller moving companies tend to be cheaper, at an average cost of $5,000. In many cases, people find that hiring a small moving company is efficient and cost-effective, provided it is reputable. Then there is a large number of people who prefer to hire the largest brand, despite the high price, for the peace of mind it offers.
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2). What Is The Cheapest Long Distance Moving Option?
​The cheapest options for long distance movers include PODS, American National Mover's shared load moving options, U-Haul, and hiring smaller brands. PODS is convenient for small long distance loads and for people who don't mind doing the packing, loading, and unloading themselves. American National Movers offers cheap truck-sharing options for those moving long distances on a budget. Small Carriers are considered affordable compared to high demand national carries. Lastly,U-Haul is an old-school DIY, cost-effective option as well, but it requires a lot of time and work.
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3). Are Moving Quotes Negotiable?
Moving companies may attempt to negotiate or entertain the idea of negotiating costs and contractual terms to earn your business. Some movers may be more willing to negotiate than others—it all depends on their schedule and their willingness to earn your business. When negotiating with your movers, please try to be reasonable and respectful of their time and experience in the field.
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4). How much Does It Cost To Move 5,000 Pounds?
​Moving 5,000 pounds is a relatively small long distance load with an average cost of about $3,500 to $5,000. Your total final moving costs will be based on the company's brand, the time of year, and the mileage of your relocation. At American National Movers, we charge approximately $3,700 to transport 5,000 pounds from one state to another.
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5). How Much Does It Cost To Move 10,000 Pounds?
​10,000 lbs is a solid 3‑bedroom / light 4‑bedroom shipment. Depending on the distance of your relocation, you will pay anywhere between $4,500 (200-800 miles) and $ 6,800 or more (800+ miles) to move 10,000 pounds with movers.
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6). What Is The Average Cost Per Pound?
Based on national averages, the average cost long distance movers charge per pound is between $ 0.32 $0.50. However, the total rate you pay per pound will be based on seasonal demand, job difficulty, mileage, and branding.
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7). What Is The Most Expensive Month To Hire Movers?
The most expensive month to move is during the summer months, June through August. During this time moving companies raise their rates due to seasonal demand and truck availability.
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8). How To Make Moving less Expensive?
You can make moving less expensive by negotiating a lower rate with smaller moving companies, reducing your inventory, and/or relocating during the off-season. Remember to save money, opt for a reduced inventory, and choose a budget-friendly brand.
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9). What Time Of The Year Is Cheapest To Move?
The cheapest time to relocate and hire movers is during the off-season. (November through January). During this time of the year, movers have fewer jobs and are more inclined to lower their rates to keep their doors open and remain competitive.
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10). What Is The Best Price On Long Distance Movers.
Based on consumer behavior and national averages, the best price for long-distance moving is approximately $3,500 for smaller loads and $6,000 for heavier shipments. However, "best price" is subjective and will ultimately depend on shipment size, mileage, and your specific relocation needs.
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11). Is There A Cheaper Way To Move Than U-Haul?
For short-range moves, U-Haul is traditionally the cheapest moving option, but for longer distances, some movers may be more cost-effective. Brands like American National Movers achieve this through a combined shipment approach and can typically transport your items across state lines at an average cost of $3,500.