Budgeting Tips On Long Distance Moving
- American National Movers
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
There is a lot of conflicting information about the true costs of long distance moving; many sites repeat the $5,000 “average,” yet most quotes you receive come in higher. The gap isn’t a scam—it reflects the fact that price and service quality rise together. A lower bid often means slower delivery windows, minimal insurance, or day-labor crews, while a larger budget secures experienced movers, tighter timelines, and full-value protection. Use this guide to set a realistic budget and to understand exactly what level of service each price tier delivers.
How Much Should You Budget On A Long Distance Move?
Professional, state to state moving companies with a good reputation generally quote around $7,000 for a long distance move. Budgeting 7k for long distance movers is a realistic budget, but in some cases, you may be able to spend less. Your total cost will vary based on:
Detailed Breakdown:
Here is a breakdown based on the factor influencing the costs of long distance moving based on the chart displayed above:
-Distance.
If you're moving across multiple states (1500+ miles), you can expect a higher average cost of $7,000 to $10,000 if you have several pieces of furniture. Longer hauls, effect rate per pound, and CF due to drivers' compensation and other operational expenses such as fuel and tolls.
-Bedrooms.
1- to 2-bedroom shipments are significantly cheaper to ship across state lines (average cost: $2,800 to $ 4,000). This is because long distance movers consolidate smaller shipments into a single truck to reduce costs. However, larger loads with 3+ bedrooms have less flexibility and may even require an 18-wheeler truck to haul, making long-distance moving costs more expensive ($7,000-$12,000).
-Service Level Quality.
Smaller long distance relocation brands may be able to accommodate those on a lower budget, but service levels will likely drop significantly. You can expect subcontracted movers, longer wait times for deliveries and limited insurance coverage.
-Move Date.
Transportation industries also base their charges on availability. Last-minute long distance moving, relocating at the end of the month, or during the summer will result in a price increase.
Hidden (or “Accessorial”) Fees to Watch
Stairs & Long Carries – $75–$150 per flight / 75–100 ft.
Shuttle Truck – $300–$800 if a 53-ft trailer can’t reach your street.
Bulky-Item Surcharge – $150–$400 for pianos, safes, hot-tubs, etc.
Fuel / Line-Haul Surcharge – 6 %–12 % added when diesel spikes.
Working With Your Moving Budget.
Before you start budget hunting for long distance moving quotes, decide what matters most to you—speed, labor, or cost savings.
Long distance movers price every shipment around the same core inputs (miles, cubic feet/weight, season, access). What separates a $3-k job from a $10-k job is the service layer wrapped around those basics:
Truck share vs. dedicated truck – A shared load keeps rates low but stretches delivery windows, while a private truck moves on your schedule.
Labor scope – DIY packing slashes hundreds of dollars; full packing/unpacking can add thousands but saves days of work.
Liability coverage – Basic 60 ¢-per-lb valuation is virtually free, yet it won't make you whole on a damaged TV. Full-value protection does—at a price.
The chart below sorts those trade-offs into three clear tiers. Scan it first, then collect quotes in the band that fits both your wallet and your tolerance for extra legwork:
What's A Realistic Budget On Long Distance Movers?
In conclusion, a realistic budget for a state to state relocation is approximately $4,000 for small loads and around $7,500 for larger shipments. In some cases, you may find deals, but be cautious; cheaper upfront costs often result in scams, damaged items, and delivery delays. Ensure to vet your long distance movers before choosing one—regardless of your budget, for the best possible experience.
Comentarios