What is a Long-Distance Move?
A long-distance move is typically defined as any relocation over 100 miles or across state lines. These moves require more planning, higher budgets, and different considerations than local moves.
Quick Stat: The average American moves 11.7 times in their lifetime, with long-distance moves making up about 15% of all relocations.
Timeline for Long-Distance Moving
8-12 Weeks Before
- • Research and book moving companies (get 3+ quotes)
- • Create a moving budget and inventory
- • Notify landlord or list house for sale
- • Start decluttering and selling unwanted items
6-8 Weeks Before
- • Order packing supplies or arrange for movers to pack
- • Notify utilities, schools, and service providers
- • Update address with post office, banks, subscriptions
- • Research destination city and neighborhoods
- • Arrange car shipping if needed
2-4 Weeks Before
- • Start packing non-essential items
- • Confirm moving company details and timeline
- • Book travel accommodations if driving
- • Arrange temporary housing if needed
- • Transfer medical and school records
1 Week Before
- • Finish packing everything except essentials
- • Defrost and clean refrigerator
- • Pack essentials bag for travel
- • Do final walkthrough of property
- • Confirm delivery window with movers
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Studio/1BR | 2-3BR | 4+BR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional movers (1,000 mi) | $2,000-$3,500 | $4,000-$7,000 | $7,000-$12,000 |
| DIY truck rental | $800-$1,500 | $1,500-$2,500 | $2,500-$4,000 |
| Packing supplies | $100-$300 | $200-$500 | $300-$800 |
| Insurance | $50-$150 | $150-$400 | $300-$750 |
| Travel (gas, hotels, food) | $300-$600 | $400-$800 | $500-$1,000 |
Choosing Long-Distance Movers
Selecting the right moving company is crucial for a successful long-distance move. Here is what to look for:
Green Flags
- • Licensed with USDOT number
- • Positive reviews on multiple platforms
- • In-home estimate (not just phone quote)
- • Clear written contract
- • Responsive customer service
- • Transparent pricing
Red Flags
- • No physical address or license
- • Requires large upfront deposit
- • Quote seems too good to be true
- • Unmarked truck or rental vehicle
- • Refuses to provide written estimate
- • Poor or no online reviews
Money-Saving Tips
- 1.Move in off-season - October through April offers 20-30% lower rates
- 2.Flexible dates - Give movers a 3-5 day delivery window for better pricing
- 3.Declutter first - Moving costs are based on weight; donate or sell 20-30% of items
- 4.Pack yourself - Save $500-$2,000 by doing your own packing
- 5.Ship heavy items - Books and dense items may be cheaper via USPS Media Mail
- 6.Tax deduction - Job-related moves may be tax deductible (consult tax professional)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not getting binding estimates
Non-binding estimates can increase by 50-100% on moving day. Always request a binding or binding-not-to-exceed estimate in writing.
Underestimating time needed
Long-distance moves take 5-14 days for delivery. Plan temporary housing, dont schedule job start dates immediately after expected delivery.
Skipping insurance
Basic coverage only provides $0.60 per pound. A 30-pound TV worth $1,000 would only receive $18. Get full-value protection or third-party insurance.
Not researching the destination
Visit or extensively research your new city before committing. Consider cost of living, job market, climate, and lifestyle fit.
Calculate Your Moving Costs
Get an instant estimate of your long-distance moving costs with our free calculator.
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