How Much Do Movers Charge Per Mile

American National Movers
Apr 2
2 min read

Green semi-truck drives on a curved highway with pine trees and mountains in the background under a clear blue sky. Calm and scenic. — Since moving companies combine shipments for out of state haul's, there is no set charge per mile. Instead, you're charged a rate per your estimated volume. Relocations exceeding a certain mileage threshold, are charged at a higher rate per volume.

Regarding out of state relocations, long distance moving companies do not calculate your costs on a set rate per mile. Instead, movers increase their rates per cubic foot (volume) or pound (weight) based on several factors, including the mileage of your relocation. Most quotes show the price broken down in volume or weight, with a rate per cubic foot or pound.

How Long Distance Movers Calculate Costs.

Most of your state to state moving companies calculate charges based on how many items you're shipping. The more things you have to transport, the higher your moving costs will be. Movers then factor in distance, packing services, truck size, move date, and fuel. Here's an overview:

Distance.

While most movers don't charge a direct, per-mile fee, they increase your per-cubic-foot or per-pound rate as the mileage increases. The further you move, the more it'll cost—but not at a strict rate (e.g., $0.60 per mile). Instead, the distance influences the base rate for volume or weight.

Packing Services.

Fragile items like TVs, glassware, artwork, or special fabrics require careful packaging—often adding extra charges on top of the volume/weight cost. This surcharge is separate from mileage-related fees.

Truck Size.

Moving companies will use bigger trucks if you have a large load. The larger the truck needed, the higher your volume or weight rate can go, as it accounts for added resources and operational costs.

Move Date.

Demand and availability play a huge role: peak season (summer months) or weekend moves can increase prices because movers have limited crew and truck availability.

Fuel.

If you're moving 1,300+ miles, fuel costs become a major factor. Movers typically increase the volume or weight rate to offset fuel surcharges, especially on cross-country hauls.

Average Cost for State-to-State Moving

Even though long distance movers don't charge a strict per-mile fee, the total price does grow with distance. Below is a chart with a general idea of what you might pay based on how far you're going and the size of your home:

Recap: Key Takeaways.

No Strict Per-Mile Fee.
You typically won't see a line item like "$0.50 per mile" on a long-distance moving bill. Instead, mileage is rolled into volume or weight rates.

Other Factors Matter.
Distance is just one piece of the puzzle. Packing, truck size, and move dates can significantly alter your final cost.

Fuel Can Be a Game-Changer.
Expect higher fuel surcharges for hauls over 1,300 miles, pushing your per-cubic-foot or per-pound base rate up.

Plan & Compare.
Since no two moves are alike, get 2–3 quotes from reputable long-distance movers. Verify how each company calculates costs—cubic feet vs. weight—and how mileage influences their final rate.

Movers Don't Calculate Your Costs Based On Mileage.

Long distance movers don't normally charge per mile in the strict sense. Instead, they incorporate mileage into a volume/weight pricing system. Understanding how companies set these rates will help you avoid confusion and plan your relocation budget more effectively.

By comparing quotes, asking questions about fuel and distance surcharges, and considering the truck size and move date, you'll be well on your way to a smooth, cost-efficient out-of-state relocation.