1. What is a Long Distance Move?
A long distance move — also called an interstate move or cross-country move — is generally defined as any move over 100 miles, or any move that crosses state lines. Moves within the same state over a certain distance may also be considered long distance depending on the moving company.
Interstate moves are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Any moving company that operates across state lines must be FMCSA licensed and registered, which you can verify at protectyourmove.gov.
2. How Much Does a Long Distance Move Cost?
The average long distance move costs between $2,000 and $8,000, with the national average around $4,300 for a 2-bedroom home moving 1,000 miles. Here are the main factors that affect your price:
- Distance: The further you move, the more you pay — primarily due to fuel and driver time.
- Weight/volume: Long distance moving is priced by weight (pounds) or cubic feet. More stuff = higher cost.
- Time of year: Summer (May–September) is peak season. Expect 20-30% higher prices than fall/winter.
- Move date: End-of-month and weekends are more expensive than mid-month weekdays.
- Additional services: Packing, storage, specialty item handling, and stairs/elevator fees add to the base price.
The best way to know your actual cost is to get competing quotes from multiple movers. Customers who compare 5 quotes save an average of $1,200.
3. Your Long Distance Moving Timeline
Planning is the key to a smooth long distance move. Here's your timeline:
| Timeframe | What to Do |
|---|
| 8+ weeks out | Start decluttering, research movers, get initial quotes |
| 6-8 weeks out | Compare quotes, choose a mover, confirm your booking |
| 4-6 weeks out | Start packing non-essentials, update your address |
| 2-4 weeks out | Pack most items, arrange utilities at new home |
| 1 week out | Confirm details with your mover, pack essentials bag |
| Moving day | Supervise loading, document any concerns |
| Delivery day | Inspect all items before signing, report any damage |
4. How to Choose a Long Distance Moving Company
Choosing the right mover is the single most important decision in your long distance move. Here's what to look for:
- FMCSA License: Every interstate mover must have a USDOT number and MC number. Verify at fmcsa.dot.gov before booking anyone.
- BBB Rating: Check the Better Business Bureau for complaints and rating history.
- Online Reviews: Check Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. Look for patterns in complaints, not just the star rating.
- Binding Estimate: Always demand a binding or not-to-exceed estimate in writing. Never accept a "non-binding" estimate.
- In-home or virtual survey: A reputable mover will want to see your belongings before quoting. Be wary of quotes given over the phone without a survey.
- No large upfront deposits: Legitimate movers typically require 10-25% deposit. Anyone demanding 50%+ upfront is a red flag.
5. How to Get & Compare Moving Quotes
Getting multiple quotes is the #1 way to save money on a long distance move. Here's how to do it right:
- Get at least 3 quotes — ideally 5. The range between the cheapest and most expensive quote can be 40-60% for the exact same move.
- Compare apples to apples — make sure each quote covers the same services (packing, insurance, specialty items).
- Ask about binding vs. non-binding — a binding quote protects you; a non-binding quote can change on delivery day.
- Check what's included — fuel surcharges, stairs fees, elevator fees, and storage costs can add up.
- Use MyMovingQuotes — we connect you with up to 5 FMCSA-licensed movers who compete for your business in one 60-second request.
6. How to Avoid Long Distance Moving Scams
Moving scams cost Americans millions of dollars every year. Here are the red flags to watch for:
- No physical address or unmarked trucks — Legitimate movers have a verifiable business address.
- Quotes far below competitors — If a quote is 40%+ cheaper than others, it's likely too good to be true.
- Large cash deposit required upfront — Scammers collect deposits then disappear or hold your belongings hostage.
- No written estimate — Never proceed without a written, binding estimate.
- Can't verify FMCSA license — Check their USDOT number at fmcsa.dot.gov. If they don't have one or it's inactive, walk away.
- Name-switching — Some scam companies operate under multiple names to avoid bad reviews. Google their phone number and address.
7. Long Distance Packing Tips
- Start packing non-essentials 6-8 weeks before your move.
- Use quality moving boxes — not recycled grocery boxes that can collapse.
- Pack heavier items in small boxes to keep weight manageable.
- Label every box with contents and destination room.
- Wrap fragile items in packing paper, not newspaper (ink can transfer).
- Take photos of electronics setups before disassembling.
- Keep an "essentials box" accessible — things you'll need the first night at your new home.
- Document high-value items with photos before they're packed.
8. What to Expect on Moving Day
Moving day with a long distance mover is different from a local move. Here's what to expect:
- Early arrival: Most long distance movers arrive in the morning. Have everything ready before they arrive.
- Inventory list: The mover will create a detailed inventory of every item. Review and sign it carefully — this is your protection if anything is damaged.
- Weight ticket: For binding weight-based moves, the truck is weighed before and after loading at your home. You have the right to be present for the weigh-in.
- Delivery window: Long distance delivery typically has a window of several days, not a specific time. Confirm this with your mover before moving day.
- Payment at delivery: Final payment is typically due at delivery. Know your payment method in advance.
9. After Your Long Distance Move
- Inspect all items before signing the delivery receipt. Note any damage on the bill of lading.
- File a damage claim within 9 months of delivery (FMCSA requirement).
- Update your address with USPS, banks, employer, and government agencies.
- Transfer utilities, driver's license, and vehicle registration to your new state.
- Register to vote in your new state.
- Leave a review for your mover — help other families make informed decisions.