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Best Furniture Long Distance Movers For Small Moves 

Need long distance movers for a small load? American National Movers is an affordable moving company for small moves out of state and across the country. Below, we'll explain cost ranges, how small-load moving works, and tips for a seamless out-of-state relocation.

elevated view of two men loading a sofa inside of a box truck

Why American National Movers for Small Loads?

American National Movers specializes in long distance small moves. Our cost-friendly approach includes:

Shared Truckload Options:

Combine your items with another customer's load, drastically lowering your moving costs vs. a dedicated truck.

Professional Crew:

We handle all loading and unloading of your items and can do partial packing if requested. Partial packing will incur an additional surcharge averaging $400.00

Flexible Scheduling:

We strive for fast turnarounds, even with partial loads. Our average delivery wait times is three to seven days. 

Transparent Pricing:

Choose us to relocate your shipment with peace of mind, knowing there will be no hidden fees. You'll know your relocation costs up-front.

How Much Small Load Long Distance Movers Cost:

A small out-of-state move's cost varies based on furniture volume; the distance traveled, and your chosen service level. Here's a general breakdown:​ 


400–800 Miles: $1,500–$2,000
1,000–1,700 Miles: $2,500–$3,500
1,700–2,500 Miles: $3,800–$4,500
​
Important Note:
These price ranges are typical for long distance movers who handle partial loads or smaller shipments. If you're relocating goods cross country, expect costs to be higher—even if you have a few pieces of furniture.

 

Picture of small mini truck and calculator.

Why Costs Vary?

  • Mileage & Fuel: The further you move, the higher your baseline cost. So, if you're moving 2000 pounds from New York to California, expect higher average costs.​

  • Weight: Heavier or bulky items (pianos, large dressers) can increase rates.​

  • Seasonal Demand: Peak moving months (May–September) often see surcharges, even for small loads, because of limited truck availability.​

  • Service Options: Full-service packing vs. basic load-and-go can affect final pricing by $300–$700 or more.

What Do Long Distance Movers Consider A Small Move?

Below is a pie displaying what long distance moving companies consider as a small load: 

Detailed Break Down

In many long distance moving companies, a "small move" is typically:

  • Few Pieces of Furniture: For instance, a couple of dressers, a couch, and some boxes.

  • 400 Cubic Feet or Less: If your total load occupies ~400 cubic feet, it's considered small.

  • Studio Apartments: Entire studio contents usually qualify as moving small loads.

  • 1-Bedroom:1–2 large items plus boxes remain small for state-to-state moves.

  • 2-Bedroom:The load might be "small" if you only keep essential furniture and minimal boxes.

 

Tip: If you're unsure whether your inventory is "small," ask your long distance mover for a virtual or in-person estimate. They'll confirm if it falls under partial load guidelines.

Small Move Across Country / Out Of State Tips

Below are some helpful tips you can follow when looking for cross country and long distance movers for a small out of state move:

 

  • Costs: Reputable small load-moving companies charge between $2,500 to $4,000. You may find cheaper movers, but their service level quality may vary from average to bad.

  • Brands: Major long distance moving companies generally charge higher rates even if your load is small. You could save by choosing smaller brands or specialized small-load carriers.

  • Shared Trucking: Many long distance companies combine partial loads in one 18-wheeler to reduce costs. Expect a slightly flexible delivery window, but this approach is often the best long distance moving option for small shipments.

  • Insurance: Moving small loads long distance (especially cross country) comes with the risk of damage because movers combine shipments in an 18-wheeler/semi-truck. If your small items are of significant value, consider paying for full coverage to protect your items from losing their value.

Best Long Distance Moving Companies For Small Loads.

PODS, U-PACK, American National Movers, Mini Moves, and Allied are great options for shipping small loads to another state. Each varies in services offered and Cost:

​

 

1. PODS

Average Cost: $3,200

  • Pros:

    • Container-based, flexible schedule

    • No need to drive a rental truck

    • Can store your items between moves if needed

  • Cons:

    • DIY loading and unloading

    • Monthly container fees add up if you need storage

    • Pricing can be higher in peak season

​

2. U-PACK

Average Cost: $2,900–$3,200 for partial loads

  • Pros:

    • Clear “pay for space used” model

    • Fuel costs are included in the final quote

    • Generally cheaper than full-service movers

  • Cons:

    • No labor included—you handle packing

    • Delivery windows can be flexible, possibly inconvenient

    • Oversized items may require extra space

​

3. American National Movers

Average Cost: $3,500 for a small interstate move

  • Pros:

    • Full-service approach: packing, loading, transport

    • Dedicated team with GPS tracking of your shipment

    • Shared-truck discounts keep costs competitive

  • Cons:

    • Availability may be limited in peak months

    • Longer wait times if you choose a discounted shared-load option

    • Slightly higher than pure DIY solutions

​

4. Mini Moves

Average Cost: $3,000–$4,000

  • Pros:

    • Specializes in small household shipments

    • Straightforward pricing for lighter loads

    • Offers packing or labor help if needed

  • Cons:

    • Not always available in rural areas or less-traveled routes

    • Extra fees for specialty items (pianos, large appliances)

    • Delivery windows can vary widely

​

5. Allied

Average Cost: $4,000–$5,500 for small cross-country loads

  • Pros:

    • A major national brand with many decades of experience

    • Multiple insurance coverage options

    • Can handle complex moves or large, fragile single items

  • Cons:

    • Often pricier due to corporate overhead

    • Peak season rates can climb quickly

    • Minimum weight requirements may inflate costs

Ready to Plan Your Small Long Distance Move?

Securing affordable long-distance, small-load moving is possible. Whether you're shipping a studio worth of furniture across 500 miles or 2-bedroom essentials to the other coast, a specialized small-move company like American National Movers can make out-of-state haul effective and budget-friendly.

 

Contact us now for a free quote and see how we can handle your partial load—without the high costs of a dedicated truck. Let us simplify your next long distance journey, so you can easily focus on settling into your new home.

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