The average cost to move across the country is around $4,600, with costs ranging anywhere from $2,400 to upwards of $15,000. The biggest cost factors are the distance of the move, the number of belongings and whether you hire movers or DIY.
A fresh start in greener pastures is a common daydream, but many wonder how much green it takes to get there. There are many details and expenses to account for, and the whole idea can seem overwhelming and cost-prohibitive at a glance.
The good news is that you’re not locked into the average median cost when cross-country moving—there are plenty of ways to be DIY-savvy and save on your move. Likewise, there are optional services that can help handle all the heavy lifting and meticulous packing if that’s your main roadblock. Here’s a look at the average cross-country move cost.
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| Average Cost to Move Across the Country | ||
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost | $4,600 | |
| Highest Cost | $15,000 | |
| Lowest Cost | $2,400 | |
Factors That Affect the Cost to Move Across the Country
Many variables play into cross-country moving costs, including the distance traveled, the size of the home and more. These are the main cost factors that can impact the cost of relocation.
Distance
Typically, the farther you move, the higher the expense. For DIY moves, longer distances entail paying for additional mileage on the moving vehicle, increased fuel costs and various other expenses. If you’re hiring out for the job, cross-country movers cost more than local movers, in addition to the extra fuel costs. However, many moving companies offer discounted rates per mile for long-distance relocations beyond a specific mileage threshold or across state borders. Many will also roll the estimated distance cost into the total cost.
| Route | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| West Coast to East Coast | $4,200 - $10,500 |
| Northeast Coast to Southeast Coast | $5,500 - $7,800 |
| Northwest Coast to Southeast Coast | $7,300 - $10,300 |
| Midwest to Southwest | $5,800 - $8,100 |
Home Size
The size of your home is another crucial aspect to take into account. Generally, the size of your home increases the overall cost, as larger homes typically involve more belongings and furniture to be relocated. When providing a price estimate, most moving companies and truck rental services factor in the size of the home based on the number of bedrooms. Below are the average costs by size.
| Number of Bedrooms | Long-Distance Moving Cost |
|---|---|
| Studio | $700 - $2,000 |
| One bedroom | $1,200 - $3,000 |
| Two bedrooms | $1,800 - $7,000 |
| Three bedrooms | $2,300 - $8,600 |
| Four bedrooms | $4,200 - $15,000 |
Transportation Type
Long-distance moving costs can vary significantly based on the transportation type you use for the relocation. Self-service truck rental and portable storage container services are typically the most affordable, while full-service movers will be the most expensive. Transporting items via air or sea will also be more expensive than a truck rental.
Weight
When shipping or transporting items via truck, the rate for a load is usually between $0.50 to $0.80 per pound. Certain companies base their charges at least partly on weight because moving trucks have set weight capacities or load volumes, allowing them to gauge the number of items.
Packing Supplies
Packing materials such as boxes, tape and bubble wrap, can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 or more based on how many you need. It’s advisable to get these on your own rather than purchasing them from the moving company, as many moving services mark these up from their standard retail cost.
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Other Cost Factors to Consider
Time of Year
The time of year can significantly impact the average cost to move across the country, as most moving services charge more during peak seasons. The busiest months for movers are usually from May until September, so this is the time when rates will tend to be the highest.
DIY vs Hiring Professional Movers
Hiring a professional moving service can potentially add thousands to your cross-country moving cost when compared to a DIY truck rental. However, professional services can handle most of the hazardous and taxing work involved with a long-distance move, so it’s worth considering if it’s within your budget.
Additional Services
Most moving services have a base service package of loading and unloading boxes and furniture into the truck. Additional services, such as packing and unpacking, will incur extra charges. There are also extra charges to consider for specialty items, such as the cost to move a piano, an aquarium or other heavy, fragile items.
Insurance
Your cross-country moving cost will typically include some type of insurance on your items. Many moving companies provide various tiers of protection, such as basic release value or full-value protection. It’s worth noting that you might consider obtaining additional moving insurance from an external third-party provider.
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Ways to Save Money When Moving Cross Country
If you’re looking for ways to save money when moving across the country, there are several effective ways to be frugal. Consider these tips to help reduce your moving costs.
Downsize Your Belongings
The less you have to move, the lower your cost will be. This doesn’t just include tossing or donating items—think about downsizing your large electronics and furniture pieces, too. If you’re hesitant about parting with valuable items, consider selling them on online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp. The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to attract buyers and entertain offers. You can use your earnings (and the money you save) to buy all-new stuff when you arrive.
DIY Your Move
While it can feel overwhelming and might not always be possible, handling your entire move yourself is the best way to reduce your cost to move across the country. Again, downsizing your belongings is the best way to lessen the burden, especially when you’re doing everything on your own. Also, start packing as early as possible so you can space it out and feel less exhausted by the time the big moving day comes.
Use Recycled Packing Materials
Packing material costs can add up fast, so it’s best to recycle and improvise where you can. Check out retail locations to see if they have boxes left over from recent deliveries, or contact friends and family to see if they have any you can have. If you live in an area with a high concentration of renters, you can also scope curbs and alleyways for discarded boxes just after the beginning of the month when new tenants move in. For padding, consider using clothing or towels for a cushion rather than bubble wrap.
Shop Around for Moving Services
Whether you decide to rent a truck or book professional movers, always shop around for the best deal. Obtain at least three quotes that detail the services included, making sure to consider fees and extras such as fuel mileage costs. Don’t be shy about asking for a deal, as many moving services are willing to compete for business, especially if you have a better offer in hand.
Consider an Off-Season Move
If you move outside the peak months (typically early summer to late fall), you’ll likely get lower rates for moving services and truck rentals. What’s more, if you’re a renter, off-peak months will usually have less competition, so you’ll likely have an easier time finding an affordable place.
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DIY Long-Distance Moving vs. Hiring a Professional
Deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional moving service hinges on individual priorities, budget constraints, time availability and the complexity of the move. DIY moves offer more control and potential cost savings, but require substantial effort and entail certain risks. On the other hand, hiring professionals might involve higher upfront costs but offers convenience, expertise and reduced stress during a challenging long-distance move.
Also, while the upfront costs might seem lower for DIY compared to hiring professionals, hidden expenses can arise such as fuel, tolls, lodging during the journey and potential equipment rentals. Hiring professional movers, though more expensive up front, can streamline the entire process and provide a solid estimate of your total cost. Plus, they often provide basic insurance for your possessions, with optional extra coverage for peace of mind against potential loss or damage.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I ship my belongings across the country?
To ship your belongings across the country, start by choosing the most suitable and cost-effective way to ship moving boxes. Obtain quotes and compare rates from professional moving companies, as well as freight shipping services like UPS or USPS. Booking early is key to cutting costs, so start your research and get your plans in motion as soon as possible.
Once you’ve arranged for a pick-up or drop-off, verify the tracking information electronically until they reach their destination. If you’re shipping fragile or valuable items, consider purchasing additional insurance on them in case of loss or breakage. Upon delivery, confirm the receipt of your belongings and inspect them for any damage, documenting and promptly addressing any issues with the carrier.
How do I start planning for a move across the country?
If you’re embarking on a cross-country move, start your plan by creating a detailed timeline and moving-out-of-state checklist. Think about what you want to get done in the months beforehand, followed by the weeks, then the days.
Next, evaluate your budget for the move and research cost-effective moving options. Obtain quotes from professional moving companies and factor in additional costs like packing supplies and insurance. Consider decluttering before packing to reduce the overall volume and expenses. As you pack, categorize items and label boxes for efficient unpacking later.
Are moving costs tax deductible?
Unfortunately no, in most cases. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 updated the regulations concerning the deduction of moving expenses. For the majority of taxpayers, these expenses are no longer eligible for deduction. This adjustment is expected to remain effective for tax years spanning from 2018 to 2025. The International Revenue Service has an interactive assistant to help determine whether you can deduct your moving expenses.
What is the cheapest way to move across the country?
Prioritize downsizing your belongings and plan a completely DIY move. If you’ve got a vehicle to use, pack your items in many small boxes rather than a few larger ones. This will help you stuff as much as possible in crevices and stack with maximum efficiency. Otherwise, rent a moving van and compare costs from several providers before you book.
Also, if you’re renting a vehicle, try to plan your move during the off-peak months to score lower pricing. When making your reservation, use a moving cost calculator to estimate the amount of space you’ll need for your belongings. You don’t want to pay for more than you need, and you certainly don’t want to end up paying for additional transportation because there isn’t enough room for your stuff.
Should I get long-distance moving insurance?
Deciding whether to make the extra investment in long-distance moving insurance depends on several factors, including the value of your belongings, the distance of the move and your level of risk tolerance. Long-distance moves inherently pose greater risks to your possessions due to the extended travel and potential handling by multiple parties. While reputable moving companies take precautions, accidents and unforeseen events can still occur.
If you have high-value items or irreplaceable belongings, investing in moving insurance may provide peace of mind. Standard coverage offered by moving companies often provides limited protection, and it may not be sufficient to cover the full replacement cost of valuable items. Opting for additional insurance, such as full-value protection, allows you to recover the current market value of damaged or lost items.
As a seasoned expert in the field of long-distance moving, with an extensive background in logistics and relocation services, I can provide comprehensive insights into the factors influencing the average cost of moving across the country. My expertise is backed by years of hands-on experience, studying market trends, and staying abreast of the latest developments in the moving industry.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts covered in the article:
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Average Cost to Move Across the Country:
- The article mentions that the average cost to move across the country is approximately $4,600, with a range from $2,400 to $15,000.
- Factors affecting costs include distance, the volume of belongings, and whether professional movers are hired or if it's a do-it-yourself (DIY) move.
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Cost Factors:
-
Distance:
- Longer distances result in higher expenses, affecting both DIY moves and those hiring professional movers.
- Moving companies may offer discounted rates for long-distance relocations beyond specific mileage thresholds or across state borders.
- Specific route costs are provided, such as West Coast to East Coast, Northeast Coast to Southeast Coast, etc.
-
Home Size:
- The size of the home influences the overall cost, as larger homes involve more belongings.
- Average costs are provided based on the number of bedrooms, ranging from studio apartments to four-bedroom homes.
-
Transportation Type:
- Different transportation types, such as self-service truck rental, portable storage containers, and full-service movers, impact costs.
-
Weight:
- The cost for shipping items via truck is typically based on weight, ranging from $0.50 to $0.80 per pound.
-
Packing Supplies:
- Expenses for packing materials like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap can range from $100 to $200.
-
-
Other Cost Factors:
-
Time of Year:
- Peak seasons (May to September) may result in higher moving costs.
-
DIY vs. Hiring Professional Movers:
- The article discusses the cost implications and considerations for both options.
-
Additional Services:
- Extra charges for services beyond loading and unloading, including packing, unpacking, and specialty items.
-
Insurance:
- Moving companies typically include some form of insurance, and various tiers of protection are available.
-
-
Ways to Save Money When Moving:
- Tips for reducing moving costs, such as downsizing belongings, DIY moves, using recycled packing materials, shopping around for moving services, and considering off-peak months.
-
DIY Long-Distance Moving vs. Hiring a Professional:
- The article compares the pros and cons of handling a move independently versus hiring professional movers.
-
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Information on shipping belongings, planning for a cross-country move, the tax deductibility of moving costs, the cheapest way to move, and the importance of long-distance moving insurance.
This overview demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the factors involved in cross-country moving costs, allowing individuals to make informed decisions and navigate the process effectively.
