How Much To Budget For Long Distance Movers.
- American National Movers
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
A reasonable moving budget to hire professional out of state movers averages $4,500 to $8,000. This may be expensive for some. You may be able to hire cheap long distance movers, but service quality will vary, as well as the company's ethics. This article will help set budget expectations for long distance moves and give tips on ensuring you're getting a fair deal and reliable movers.
Average Expense On Long Distance Moving.
Total costs averages to relocate between states with the help of full-service movers will vary from cheap moderate, and expensive. Hiring a mid-sized company costs around $5,000, and larger brands average $8,500 and more. Your service level will vary based on your price and the relocation brand you hire. If you value choosing a mover with branded trucks and popular brands, the expense of transporting your belongings out of state may be higher.
Managing Your Budget Expectations.
To have a positive experience with long distance movers, try to be realistic with your budgeting expectations. Doing so will weed out the unreliable and unethical movers and allow you to work with a professional company with a good reputation. If you're traveling over 1,000 miles, expect to pay roughly:
$4,500 for a smaller load (1–2 bedrooms)
$6,300+ for a heavier shipment (3+ bedrooms)
This doesn't mean you can't find slightly lower or higher rates—you should be cautious if a company promises the same service for significantly less than the market average.
Beware of Cheap Shady Movers
Many moving companies reserve the right to re-negotiate your costs, and it's not illegal to do so. If your budget is too low, an unethical long distance mover may agree to a lower initial estimate to increase your costs. Some businesses may even take it a step further to load your household goods and then hold your items hostage, until you pay additional moving costs you never budgeted for.
Understanding Your Moving Estimate
Long distance movers calculate your costs by the size/weight of your household goods. When requesting an estimate, remember that your initial costs may change if your movers underestimate your shipment volume. If you're moving between states on a tight budget, make sure the estimated volume of your household goods is reasonably accurate to avoid sudden price increases. The best way to do this is by choosing a company with good reviews and providing a detailed inventory when getting a quote.
Key Factors That Impact Moving Expenses
Understanding what drives up costs can help you plan more accurately:
Distance & Fuel
The farther you go, the more fuel and driver time you pay for. Fuel surcharges can quickly add to your relocation expenses, especially for cross-country moves.
Shipment Weight or Volume
Movers typically charge by weight (pounds) or volume (cubic feet). More stuff = higher costs, so consider decluttering to reduce the expense of long distance movers.
Seasonality
Summer is peak moving season, driving up demand—and prices. Schedule your move in off-peak months (fall or winter) to save.
Additional Services
Packing, unpacking, crating fragile items, or storage-in-transit can each add several hundred dollars or more to your total.
Insurance Coverage
Basic coverage might not be enough for high-value items. Full-value protection increases peace of mind but also raises costs.
Final Thoughts
Budgeting $4,500–$8,000 for a long-distance move is reasonable and helps you find professional movers. Though you may be able to find a company to offer a lower initial quote—the movers honoring that price is unlikely. Whether you choose a mid-sized moving company for a lower price or a national brand, do your research. Reliability and transparent pricing matter more than just the lowest up-front quote. With the right approach, you can minimize stress, avoid shady operators, and enjoy a smooth transition to your new home.
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