Quick take: How to move long distance
- Start planning your long-distance move at least 3 months before your target move date.
- Create a room-by-room inventory so you know exactly what you’re moving.
- Pack non-essential items 4 to 6 weeks before you move.
- Most long-distance moves are between $2,500 and $8,000 (larger homes and cross-country trips can cost more).
- Update your address, utilities, and records before you leave.
- Inspect every item before your movers leave on delivery day.
We all know that local moving is challenging enough as it is. But a long-distance move can be even more frustrating.
Where do you even start?
You have to pack all your stuff and deal with the logistical issues that come with a move like this. We’re not gonna lie: It’s absolutely overwhelming. A long-distance move usually covers more than 400 miles. You’re crossing state lines or leaving your metro area entirely. That means a different pricing structure than a local move.
No need to worry. Oz Moving has 30 years of professional moving experience. We’ll help you build a long-distance moving plan. We’ll also give you a checklist to make the process as smooth as possible. We’re also sharing advice based on our expertise. We’re here to help.
Whether you’re moving cross-country, to a neighboring state, or to a specific city, we’ve got you covered. Use the sections and links below to find exactly what applies to your situation.
For a broader overview of moving costs by distance, location, and home size, see our complete moving cost guide.
Understanding Your Move Type
Every move should start with research. And the best place to start would be to figure out all the types of moves people do. There are three types: long-distance, interstate, and cross-country.
Let’s break down each type.
- Long-Distance Move: Long-distance moves generally cover 400 miles or more. You’re billed based on weight or volume and mileage instead of by the hour. To save on costs, your movers could combine different loads. That means your things may share truck space with other shipments.
Get a Free Long-Distance Moving Quote - Interstate Move: An interstate move crosses state lines, even if the distance is short. A short trip across a nearby state border still counts as interstate. Federal law requires moving companies to offer basic valuation coverage for these types of moves.
- Cross-Country Move: A cross-country move typically goes coast to coast. It can also refer to moves that cover 2,000 miles or more. These moves involve longer transit windows. And as you can imagine, this costs more than your average long-distance move.
If you’re doing a long-distance move, we recommend you continue reading. But if you realize that what you’re actually doing is an interstate or cross-country move, you might want to look at some of our other guides.
Planning an interstate move specifically? Check out the complete guide: Interstate Moving Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Moving across the country? Start here: The Ultimate Guide to Cross-Country Moving
How Much Does a Long-Distance Move Cost?
Long-distance moving costs are hard to predict. Like some moving companies, we use different pricing models for long-distance moves than for local moves. Local moves are usually billed by the hour. Long-distance moves are priced by weight, volume, and mileage.
Let’s dive a bit deeper because how movers calculate their price is quite interesting.
For starters, your cost will vary depending on your home size and how far you’re moving. Moving companies have different pricing. But in our experience, they usually start at around $1,400.
- Studio or 1-Bedroom Home: $1,400 to $3,000 within 1,000 miles; $1,900 to $3,800 for 2,500 miles or more
- 2- to 3-Bedroom Home: Starts at $3,200
- 4- to 5-Bedroom Home: Starts at $4,900
But again, how much you pay isn’t solely based on the size of your home. Pricing will change after factoring in the following.
- Distance: Imagine two people moving from the same place. Both are moving items of the exact same size and volume. The person moving 1,200 miles away will get charged less than the other who’s moving 2,500 miles.
- Shipment Weight or Volume: Movers typically charge per hundred pounds or by truck space used.
- Services Selected: Some companies offer add-on services that aren’t covered by the base price. These services include full packing, unpacking, and short-term storage.
- Timing: Relocating when there’s high demand for movers isn’t a good idea. For context, more people move during the summer months and month-end dates. Moving in the fall or winter often gets you a lower rate.
- Specialty Items: Moving valuable items like pianos, safes, and large artwork often requires crating, disassembly, or extra manpower. A moving company will charge you more if that’s the case.
Most quotes include labor, loading, and transport. They often leave out insurance, packing materials, and stair or elevator fees. Ask your mover for a full breakdown before you sign a contract.
For a full long-distance cost breakdown with examples by route: How Much Does Long-Distance & Cross-Country Moving Cost?
For interstate-specific pricing: How Much Does an Interstate Move Cost? A Complete Pricing Guide
Create Your Move Timeline
Working with some sort of timeline encourages you to be a little more proactive with your preparations. At the very least, doing so will reduce your stress and keep things on track.
How far ahead do you need to plan things? You’ll want enough time to book your move. We recommend making preparations three months out. This should give you enough time to take care of things and potentially book better rates.
To give you a better idea of what to expect, here’s a simple timeline you can use as a reference.
3 Months Out
At this point, you’ll want to choose your move date and start researching movers. The best approach would be to contact multiple service providers and request quotes. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to see which one offers the best deal.
You can also grab this opportunity to do a household inventory.
Get a Free Long-Distance Moving Quote from Oz Moving
8 to 10 Weeks Out
If you haven’t yet, book your moving company. If you have kids, this would be the time to arrange school transfers. Keep in mind that some districts need weeks of notice.
Ask the new school’s registrar what records they need from you. This is something you’ll want taken care of far ahead.
6 to 8 Weeks Out
By this point, you can start packing stuff. If you’re doing it yourself, buy your packing supplies now.
You can start putting away off-season items. For example, you can start packing winter items if you won’t be using them before the move.
Other things you can do include updating your address with USPS, your banks, and your insurance provider.
4 to 6 Weeks Out
Now you can start packing non-essential items. You know, things you don’t think you’re going to use in the next couple of weeks. This could include spare kitchenware, some furniture items, and the like.
You’ll want to confirm all moving arrangements in writing. And don’t forget to make your travel arrangements. This includes booking flights, hotels, and pet transport if needed.
2 to 4 Weeks Out
Only essential daily items should be left unpacked by this point. Also, make a list of the utilities you need to transfer. We’re talking about electricity, water, and internet services.
It’s a good idea to reach out to the moving company about your delivery window. Just to make sure everything’s set for moving day.
Moving Day
Keep your essential documents with you and do a final walkthrough of your home. Get your mover’s contact information before they leave your old home.
Need to move on the same day? Get a Free Last-Minute Moving Quote
For a more detailed set of long-distance moving tips organized by phase: 11+ Tips To Help You Move Cross Country
How to Hire a Long-Distance Moving Company
Just because a moving company gives you low rates doesn’t mean it offers the best value. Keep in mind that a long-distance move means your stuff will be out of reach for weeks. It will cross several state lines before making its way back to you.
You’ll want to work with a moving company with years of experience. One that can anticipate its clients’ needs.
Some companies may be more expensive than their competitors. But look at the benefits they offer. For instance, did you know that some movers assign clients a dedicated project manager? That person is responsible for walking you through the whole moving process.
Also, look for companies that offer full-service moving. You might not need it, but it’s good that it’s there in case you do. Through this service, you can have movers pack, move, load, transport, and unpack your things. Basically, they’ll do everything for you.
What else should you do when looking for a long-distance moving company?
- Verify Their USDOT Number: All interstate movers must register with a USDOT number. Doing so confirms whether the company is federally licensed and legally authorized to operate.
- Check Their FMCSA Records: Search their license status and complaint history in the FMCSA database. This reveals a company’s red flags.
- Get at Least 3 Estimates: Don’t just look for an online quote. Ask for in-home or video estimates. Online quotes often miss details that can raise the final price.
- Review the Contract Carefully: Confirm whether your estimate is binding or non-binding. A non-binding estimate can change once your mover sees everything you own.
- Ask About Their Long-Distance Experience: Ask about their delivery windows and tracking options. A mover with real long-distance experience can answer these questions clearly.
Just keep in mind that full-service movers cost more. After all, your movers will handle all the logistics. But that extra cost often pays off. It can reduce your stress and lower the risk of damage.
Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves
There’s always a risk of items getting lost or damaged the longer they are on the road. Of course, moving companies will be as careful as they can when handling items. But accidents do happen.
That’s why you’ll want to make sure you’re covered by insurance.
Movers offer two standard coverage types.
- Released Value: This coverage comes free with your move. But it only reimburses $0.60 per pound per item. That’s regardless of the item’s actual value.
- Full-Value Protection: This coverage costs extra. It’s worth it, though, because it covers the repair or replacement cost of any lost or damaged item.
Tip: Consider third-party insurance if you’re shipping high-value items like jewelry, electronics, or art.
Declutter and Downsize Before Packing
Decluttering and downsizing are guaranteed to simplify any move. You’ll want to go room by room and decide which items aren’t worth bringing along to the next chapter of your life. Donate, sell, or discard anything you’re not keeping.
- Old Clothing: Skip old clothes you haven’t worn in months or years.
- Old Furniture: Because sometimes it’s better (and less expensive) to buy a new couch than to reuse an old one.
- Appliances: Appliances are bulky, heavy, and hard to move. Maybe you should consider selling them and buying new ones with the money you made.
- Books and Media: Sort through your books and any physical media you might have. Dismantling your collection will lighten your load and make your move more manageable.
This process can be hard on some people. So you’ll definitely want to give yourself some time. One to two weeks should be enough. As tough as it can be, you’ll thank yourself by the time you’re packing everything up.
The less you ship, the lower your moving cost. Especially with weight-based long-distance pricing.
Want to throw out your old furniture and appliances? Get a Free Junk Removal Quote
How to Pack for a Long-Distance Move
Packing for a long-distance move takes more planning than packing for a local one. Your things might stay in transit for days or even weeks. Multiple crews may handle your boxes along the way. They could get loaded and unloaded more than once before they reach you.
That’s why packing efficiently matters even more on a long-distance move.
Fragile Items
Use proper packing materials and label fragile boxes clearly. Trust us: It’s better to overdo it a bit. An extra layer of bubble wrap won’t hurt. You’ll want to label boxes with “Fragile” or “Handle With Care” as a gentle reminder.
Clothing
Follow these tips to keep your clothes clean and in good condition.
- Do Laundry First: Kind of an obvious one but don’t bring dirty or smelly clothes on your long-distance move.
- Pack Shoes Separately: Keep shoes away from your clothes to avoid getting them dirty.
- Keep Clothing Separate: You don’t want to place heavy objects on top of your clothes. Doing so might ruin them while in transit.
Tip: Pack a separate first-week box or suitcase and keep it with you during the move. This makes sure you have enough clothing on hand as you work your way through unpacking all your stuff.
Furniture
Of all the things you’ll need to move, furniture will cause you the most stress. Follow these tips if you want to make your move more manageable.
- Disassemble When Possible: Take apart larger furniture items whenever you can. This lowers your risk of damage and makes tight spaces easier to navigate.
- Use Protective Materials: Wrap furniture in bubble wrap, furniture blankets, or foam padding. This helps prevent scratches, dents, and other forms of damage.
- Pad and Secure Carefully: Pad corners, edges, and fragile parts well. Use packing tape or stretch wrap to hold everything in place.
- Photograph Your Electronics: Take photos of your cable setups before you disconnect anything. This makes it much easier to reconnect everything at your new home. You can also label cables so you know where everything goes.
For a comprehensive packing breakdown: 11+ Tips To Help You Move Cross Country
How Much to Tip Long-Distance Movers
Long-distance moving can take a toll on the moving team. They’re quite literally the ones who do all the heavy lifting.
So people often ask: Is it okay to tip long-distance movers?
As a rule, tipping isn’t required. But as a company, we know that our movers truly appreciate those who do. It’s a nice way of showing appreciation for all the physical work they’ve done.
But how much should you tip?
Most people tip 18% to 22% of the total bill. You can also tip each individual mover instead. Set aside $50 to $100 per mover. This range accounts for the extra time and effort long-distance moves require. Almost every mover will prefer cash.
For a full guide on long-distance mover tipping etiquette and amounts: How Much Should You Tip Long Distance Movers
Plan for Your Delivery Window
Some people get confused by what a “delivery window” means and how it affects their moves. So let’s talk about it.
A local move usually finishes in one day. But a long-distance move works differently. Your delivery window might stretch from several days to two weeks after pickup.
That’s why you’ll want to keep the essentials with you. You don’t want to put your work computer in the truck, especially if you need to report to work as soon as you arrive. The same goes for important documents you might need right away.
Pack a bag with your medications, toiletries, and a few days of clothing. An air mattress can help you get by while you wait for your furniture to arrive.
Tip: Confirm your delivery window in writing before moving day. Ask your mover what happens if your belongings arrive later than expected.
Popular Long-Distance Moving Routes
Every destination is different. So not all long-distance moves are the same. Each has its own logistical issues. Distance, climate, cost of living, and state-specific regulations can all affect your move.
Below are some of the most common routes Oz Moving handles. Let us share some of our observations so you’ll know what to expect if you’re headed toward these locations.
East Coast & Southeast Routes
New York City to Boston
Moving from NYC to Boston covers a shorter distance of about 215 miles. It’s still an interstate move, though. Both cities bring urban access challenges, like tight streets and limited parking for moving trucks.
Read: How to Move from NYC to Boston
New York City to South Florida
NYC to South Florida is a popular retirement and lifestyle move. South Florida’s warm weather and lack of state income tax are major draws for many New York residents.
Read: Moving From NYC to South Florida
Connecticut to Florida
Moving from Connecticut to Florida follows a similar pattern to the NYC-Florida route. Many CT retirees and remote workers choose this move for a lower cost of living. Florida’s climate is a major draw, too.
Read: Moving From Connecticut to Florida? Things to Know Before Your Move
Cross-Country Routes
Los Angeles to New York City
Moving from LA to NYC covers about 2,800 miles. It’s one of the longest domestic routes. There’s high demand running in both directions.
Read: Moving from Los Angeles to NYC: Things to Consider
New York City/Los Angeles to Chicago
Chicago is a mid-country hub that draws movers from both coasts. It offers a strong job market and a lower cost of living than New York or LA.
Read: Tips on Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago
California to Texas
California to Texas is one of the highest-volume relocation routes in the country. The lower cost of living and business climate differences drive much of the demand.
Read: Moving From California to Texas: Everything You Need to Know
Los Angeles to Seattle
LA to Seattle is a popular Pacific Coast route for remote workers and tech professionals. The trip covers about 1,100 miles of scenic but logistically varied terrain.
Read: How to Move from LA to Seattle
Don’t see your route? All of Oz Moving’s long-distance routes are available for a free quote.
How to Save Money on a Long-Distance Move
Yes, long-distance moving can be pricey. That’s just the reality of it. But there are practical ways to lower costs.
Here are six tips on how you can save money on long-distance moving.
- Move Off-Season: Plan your move between October and March. Lower demand during these months means better rates and more scheduling flexibility.
- Book Early: Give yourself as much lead time as possible. The more time you have, the more quotes you can compare.
- Declutter Aggressively: Long-distance pricing is based on weight. So get rid of a few items before requesting estimates.
- Pack Non-Specialty Items Yourself: Labor is one of the biggest cost drivers on any move. Packing your own boxes will cut down your moving costs.
- Choose a Flexible Delivery Window: Fixed delivery dates usually cost more. Flexibility lets your mover consolidate your shipment with others, lowering your quote.
- Compare at Least 3 Binding Estimates: Look at what’s included in each quote. Even two similarly priced quotes can be miles apart when you factor in the services both companies offer.
Update Your Address, Utilities, and Records
Update your address and records before you move. Doing all of this early on prevents missed mail, bills, and paperwork.
Use this checklist as a reference. Make sure you don’t miss updating anything important.
- Forward Your Mail: Set up mail forwarding with USPS and choose your start date. You can schedule this a few weeks ahead.
- Transfer Your Utilities: Contact your utility companies and transfer service to your name at your new address. This includes electric, gas, water, and internet service.
- Update Your Driver’s License: Check your new state’s rules for driver’s license renewal. Deadlines and requirements vary by state. Check your new DMV’s website for specifics.
- Update Your Insurance: Notify your home, auto, and health insurance providers that you’re moving to a new address. This keeps your coverage active and avoids any lapse during your move.
- Update Your Voter Registration: Register to vote in your new state after you move so you’ll be ready for the next elections.
Long-Distance Moving Checklist
Use this checklist to stay on track as you prepare for your move.
3 Months Out
- Choose a move date.
- Tell your landlord that you’re moving.
- Organize financial documents to share with your new landlord or mortgage lender.
- Create a moving budget.
- Look for a new place to live.
- Assess your home.
- Create a “pack” and “do not pack” inventory list.
- Research and get moving estimates from multiple companies.
2 Months Out
- Finalize new rental or home sale.
- Give notice at your children’s schools.
- Check in with the children’s new school.
- Book a moving company.
- Pick up packing supplies.
- Update your address.
- Research driver’s license renewal in your new state.
- Update home/auto/health insurance information.
- Start packing.
- Donate, sell, or dispose of unwanted items.
- Update utility information.
1 Month Out
- Check in with the moving company.
- Pack non-essentials.
- Decide what’s coming with you vs. being transported by movers.
- Take the car to the mechanic to ensure it’s in good shape for the drive.
- Finalize repairs to your current home/apartment.
- Pack day-of bags/boxes.
- Prepare your car.
- Dispose of unwanted leftover items.
- Coordinate with the new landlord or your realtor to ensure your new home is ready for you to move in.
Moving Day
- Do a final walkthrough of your current home.
- Check your inventory to make sure everything’s accounted for.
- Keep essential documents with you.
- Confirm your delivery window.
- Get your mover’s contact information.
- Inspect all items before the movers leave.
FAQs
How much does a long-distance move cost?
Most long-distance moves cost between $1,400 and $10,000 or more. Your final price depends on your home size and the distance you’re moving. Adding services like packing or storage raises the cost.
Read: How Much Does Long-Distance & Cross-Country Moving Cost?
What’s the difference between a long-distance, interstate, and cross-country move?
A long-distance move covers 400 miles or more. An interstate move crosses state lines, even over a short distance. A cross-country move typically covers 2,000 miles or more (often coast to coast).
Read: Interstate Moving Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Read: Ultimate Guide to Cross-Country Moving
How much should I tip long-distance movers?
Most people tip 18% to 22% of the total bill. You can also tip $50 to $100 per mover, per day. Movers prefer cash.
Read: How Much Should You Tip Long Distance Movers
What mistakes should I avoid when moving long-distance?
Avoid booking your mover too late, skipping in-home estimates, and packing fragile items without proper materials. Also, avoid ignoring your delivery window. Long-distance shipments don’t always arrive the same day you do.
Read: 11+ Tips To Help You Move Cross Country
How far in advance should I book long-distance movers?
Book your long-distance movers at least 3 months before your move date. This gives you time to compare quotes and secure your preferred moving date, especially during peak season.
Do I need special insurance for a long-distance move?
Standard released value coverage only reimburses $0.60 per pound, per item. If you’re shipping high-value items like jewelry or electronics, consider third-party insurance for full protection.
Why Choose Oz Moving for Your Long-Distance Move
Unlike local moves, long-distance moving is way more complex and involved. Doing it on your own means dealing with multiple vendors and longer transit times. There’s also a chance of you breaking your stuff along the way.
Working with an experienced moving company like Oz Moving is simply more convenient than the alternative.
Why Should You Work With Oz Moving?
- 30+ Years of Experience: We’ve executed long-distance and cross-country moves for over 30 years.
- 200 Movers and 50 Trucks: Oz Moving runs active operations in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Los Angeles. This gives us real, on-the-ground knowledge at both ends of the most popular routes.
- 500,000+ Completed Moves: Oz Moving has completed over 500,000 moves. That’s 15,000 moves each year.
- Dedicated Project Manager: You get one point of contact for your long-distance move. You’ll receive assistance from your first quote to final delivery.
What Services Can Oz Moving Provide?
- In-Home or Video Estimates: Get an accurate, binding quote before your move.
- Full-Service Packing and Unpacking: Choose full-service options if you want extra help.
- Real-Time Tracking Updates: Stay informed about your shipment during transit.
- Flexible Storage Options: Store your belongings if your delivery window creates a gap.
Oz Moving is licensed and insured for all interstate routes (USDOT #1058063).
Ready to get started? Contact Oz Moving for a free long-distance moving quote.
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