Blog
Moving to a new state is a big step, and understanding the costs is crucial for a smooth transition. Here are the key things you need to know about the average cost of an out-of-state move in 2025:
Are you planning a move to a new state in 2025? It’s an exciting adventure, but the price tag can be a source of stress. The average cost of moving out of state can vary dramatically, and knowing what to expect is the first step toward a well-planned budget. Whether you hire a full-service moving company or rent a moving truck for a DIY approach, understanding the expenses involved will help you make informed decisions and avoid surprises on moving day.
When you start planning an out-of-state move, you'll quickly discover that the pricing model is different from a local move. Instead of hourly rates, long-distance movers typically calculate your moving cost based on the weight of your belongings and the distance they need to travel.
The average cost can fluctuate significantly, so getting a clear picture of what you might pay is essential. The total cost of your move will be influenced by several key elements, from the amount of stuff you have to the specific services you need. Let’s explore the typical price ranges and how they have shifted over the years.
Figuring out a budget for your move starts with understanding the typical price ranges. Relocation costs can vary widely depending on the moving company and the distance you're traveling. For example, a shorter interstate move of a few hundred miles will be significantly cheaper than a cross-country journey.
Depending on number of household items, distance and time, your move can be as low as $1400 and as high as $50,000.
Here are some sample moving quotes to illustrate the potential costs:
Moving costs are not static; they change in response to economic factors like fuel prices, labor availability, and overall inflation. Compared to five or ten years ago, you may find that moving is more challenging and expensive. The cost of fuel, packing materials, and labor has increased, directly impacting the quotes you receive from any moving company.
Additionally, increased demand for moving services, especially as remote work allows more people to relocate, has driven prices up. Stricter regulations in urban areas for parking and unloading large moving trucks can also add logistical complexity and cost. According to Marshall Aikman, owner of Amazing Moves Moving & Storage, "cities have gotten denser and the rules for freight transport have gotten stricter," which can complicate the process and increase your total moving cost. [Source: This Old House, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/moving/reviews/moving-costs]
As a result, what you might have paid for a move a few years ago is likely not what you'll pay in 2025. Factoring in a higher cost of living in your destination city alongside these increased moving expenses is crucial for effective financial planning.
The final bill for your move across state lines is influenced by more than just a single factor. The total cost of your move is a combination of several key variables that every moving company considers when creating a quote.
From the journey your belongings will take to the sheer volume of items you need to transport, each element plays a role. Are you wondering what exactly goes into calculating your final price? Let's break down the main factors, including the distance of your move and the size of your home.
One of the most significant factors in determining your moving cost is the distance of the move. Simply put, the farther your belongings have to travel, the more you can expect to pay. This is because long-distance moves require more fuel, more time for the moving truck drivers, and higher overall travel fees.
However, it's not just about the mileage. Route complexity also plays a part. A move between two major cities on a straightforward interstate highway might be less expensive than a move to a remote, mountainous area, even if the distance is the same. Difficult terrain or less accessible routes can increase transportation time and labor, which gets factored into your final bill.
When you receive a quote, the moving company has already calculated these travel-related expenses. The distance is a primary driver of the base price, with other factors adding to it. Always provide precise origin and destination zip codes to get the most accurate estimate.
How much stuff do you have? The size of the move is another critical component of your moving cost. Movers typically use the number of bedrooms in your home as a starting point to estimate the volume and weight of your belongings. A four-bedroom house will naturally cost more to move than a one-bedroom apartment because it requires more labor, a larger truck, and more time.
The amount of stuff you own directly translates to the shipment's weight or cubic feet, which is how movers calculate their prices. If you have a lot of heavy furniture, a large book collection, or bulky items, your costs will be higher. This is why decluttering before you move is such an effective way to save money.
Reducing the volume of your possessions means you'll pay less for transportation. When getting a quote, be as detailed as possible about your inventory to avoid surprise charges on moving day due to a higher-than-expected shipment weight.
When you hire professional movers, they use specific methods to determine your final bill. It’s not just an arbitrary number; it’s a calculation based on standardized industry practices. Understanding how they arrive at their figures can help you better interpret your moving quote.
Movers use a cost calculator that considers the weight or volume of your items, along with any extra services you request. Let's look at the different pricing models and the additional services that can influence your quote.
Professional moving companies primarily use two methods to price an interstate move: by the weight of your belongings or by their volume in cubic feet. The most common method, especially for established van lines, is charging based on weight. The moving truck is weighed before and after your items are loaded, and you are charged based on the total shipment weight.
Alternatively, some movers calculate the moving cost based on how much space your items take up in the truck, measured in cubic feet. While this method is also used, it can sometimes be less transparent than pricing by weight. Regardless of the method, the key to an accurate quote is a detailed inventory.
To ensure you receive the most precise estimate, request a virtual survey or an in-home consultation. During this process, a company representative will document your inventory, which helps them create a binding or not-to-exceed estimate. This prevents unexpected cost increases on moving day.
Beyond the basic transportation of your goods, many moving companies offer additional services that can be added to your package. These services provide convenience but will increase your total moving cost. It’s important to decide which, if any, you truly need for your move.
Common add-ons include professional packing services. You can opt for a full pack, where the movers pack everything in your home, or a partial pack for just fragile items. Other services might involve handling bulky or specialty items that require extra care and equipment.
Here are a few additional services that influence moving quotes:
Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs for any additional services you are considering.
When planning your out-of-state move, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is whether to do it yourself or hire professional movers. A DIY move, which usually involves renting a moving truck, is often seen as the cheapest option. However, it puts all the responsibility on your shoulders.
In contrast, hiring a moving company costs more but saves you from the physical labor and logistical headaches. Each approach has its financial implications and trade-offs. Let’s explore the cost breakdown of a DIY move and compare the pros and cons of both options.
Opting for a DIY move by renting a moving truck from a company like U-Haul or Penske is typically the most budget-friendly choice. However, the initial rental fee is only part of the total cost. You need to account for several other expenses to budget accurately.
When you rent a truck, you're not just paying a daily rate. The total cost will include the base rental, mileage fees, fuel, insurance, and equipment rentals like dollies and moving blankets. You'll also need to purchase your own packing supplies, such as moving boxes and bubble wrap.
Here’s a quick breakdown of potential costs for a rental truck move:
Be sure to get a comprehensive quote from the truck rental company that includes all potential fees to avoid surprises.
Choosing between DIY options and full-service moves comes down to balancing cost against convenience and effort. A DIY move is the least expensive option, giving you complete control over your schedule and budget. However, it requires a significant amount of time and physical labor for packing and heavy lifting.
Full-service moves are the most expensive option, but they offer unparalleled convenience. Professional movers handle everything from packing and loading to transportation and unloading, which can be a lifesaver for busy individuals or those with physical limitations. A middle-ground option is using moving containers, where you pack the container yourself and a company transports it for you.
Here are some key points to consider:
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, timeline, and how much work you’re willing to do yourself.
The size of your home is a major driver of your total moving cost. Movers often use the number of bedrooms as a shorthand to estimate the volume of your belongings. Moving a small studio apartment will be far less expensive than relocating a large two-bedroom home or an even bigger house.
To help you budget, it's useful to look at average costs based on different home sizes. Whether you live in a compact apartment or a spacious family home, understanding these ranges can help you anticipate your expenses. Let’s examine the typical costs for moving smaller and larger residences.
If you live in a studio apartment or a one-bedroom, your moving expenses will be on the lower end of the spectrum. With fewer belongings to transport, you'll require less space on the moving truck and less labor, which translates to a lower cost. On average, moving a one-bedroom apartment out of state can cost between $1,380 and $4,967, depending on the distance. [Source: moveBuddha, https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-costs/]
These costs vary based on mileage. A shorter move of 250-500 miles might cost around $1,380, while a cross-country trip of over 2,500 miles could be closer to $4,967. The home size serves as a baseline, but the final price is still heavily influenced by how far you're going.
Using a moving cost calculator can give you a more personalized estimate based on your specific details. Remember that even with a smaller home, additional services like packing or storage will increase the final price.
As the size of your home increases, so do the moving costs. Moving a two-bedroom home or a larger house involves significantly more belongings, which means more weight and volume. This requires a larger moving truck and more hours of labor from the moving company.
For a two-bedroom home, you can expect long-distance moving costs to range from approximately $2,778 for a 250-500 mile move to over $7,279 for a move exceeding 2,500 miles. For a four-bedroom home, those costs can climb to between $3,088 and $11,266 or more, depending on the distance and the total weight of your items. [Source: moveBuddha, https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-costs/]
Because larger homes contain more furniture and personal effects, the potential for needing additional services like custom crating for artwork or disassembly of large furniture also increases. Always get a detailed, in-home estimate for a larger home to ensure your moving cost quote is as accurate as possible.
Did you know that the time of year you choose to move can have a major impact on your final bill? The moving industry has a distinct peak season and off-season, and prices fluctuate accordingly. Demand for movers is highest during the summer months, leading to higher rates.
If you have flexibility in your schedule, you can use this to your advantage. Moving during a less busy period can lead to significant savings. Let’s explore the most expensive times to move and how you can save by choosing an off-season date.
The summer months, from May through September, are considered the peak season for the moving industry. This is when demand is at its highest, as families prefer to move when children are out of school and the weather is favorable. This increased demand leads to higher prices for everything from truck rentals to professional movers.
During this busy period, you can expect your moving cost to be higher. Moving companies have more business than they can handle, so they can charge premium rates. In addition to higher base prices, travel fees may also increase due to summer travel trends. Weekends and the beginning or end of the month are also popular times, driving prices up even further.
If you must move during the summer, try to book as far in advance as possible to secure a spot and potentially a better rate. Being flexible with your move date, such as choosing a weekday in the middle of the month, can also help you find some savings.
If you're on a tight budget, scheduling a winter move or relocating during the off-season (typically October through April) is a smart strategy. With lower demand, moving companies are more competitive with their pricing and may offer discounts to attract customers. This can help you get the best price on your out-of-state move.
A winter move might present some weather-related challenges, but the financial benefits can be substantial. You’ll find more availability in movers' schedules, giving you greater flexibility in choosing your move date. This can make the entire process less stressful.
Here are a few ways to save by moving off-season:
Planning your move for the fall or winter is one of the most effective ways to reduce your overall moving expenses.
When you receive a moving quote, it's important to understand that the initial estimate might not be the final price. Many moving expenses can appear as additional costs or hidden fees if you're not prepared for them. These charges often cover services or situations that fall outside a standard move.
Being aware of these potential fees ahead of time can help you budget more accurately and avoid unpleasant surprises on moving day. From packing materials to charges for navigating tricky spaces, let's look at what you should watch for.
If you choose to have your moving company handle the packing, the cost of packing materials and labor will be added to your bill. While professional packing services offer great convenience, they can add 15% to 30% to your total moving costs. This includes the price of moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape.
Even if you decide to pack yourself, you'll still need to acquire packing supplies. You can purchase them directly from your mover or from a third-party provider. To save money, consider sourcing free boxes from grocery stores or online community groups. Using household items like towels and blankets to wrap fragile items can also cut down on the need for bubble wrap.
When reviewing your quote, check if packing materials are included or listed as a separate line item. Understanding these labor charges and supply costs upfront will help you keep your moving budget on track.
Some of the most common additional costs are related to accessibility issues at your origin or destination. If a large moving truck cannot park close to your home's entrance, you may incur fees for a shuttle service or a long carry.
A shuttle fee is charged when your belongings must be transferred to a smaller truck to reach your residence. A long carry fee applies if the crew has to carry your items over a certain distance (usually more than 75-100 feet) from the truck to your door. Similarly, a stair fee may be charged if movers have to navigate multiple flights of stairs.
Here are some common access-related fees:
Ask your moving company about these potential additional costs during the estimation process to ensure there are no surprises.
Protecting your belongings during an out-of-state move is essential. Accidents can happen, and having the right moving insurance provides financial security and peace of mind. By law, interstate movers must offer at least two levels of liability coverage, but they are not the same as traditional insurance.
This coverage is often referred to as valuation or value protection. It determines the mover's maximum liability if your items are lost or damaged. It's crucial to understand the difference between basic liability coverage and more comprehensive options to protect your fragile items and valuables. Let’s explore your choices.
When you hire an interstate mover, they are required by federal law to provide Released Value Protection at no extra cost. This is the most basic liability coverage available. However, it offers minimal protection, covering your items at a rate of only $0.60 per pound per item. This means a 10-pound electronic device would only be covered for $6, regardless of its actual value.
For more comprehensive coverage, you can opt for Full Value Protection. This is a more robust valuation coverage option that holds the mover liable for the replacement value of any lost or damaged items. Under this plan, the mover can either repair the item, replace it with a similar item, or offer a cash settlement for the cost of repair or its current market value.
While Full Value Protection costs extra, it provides significantly better financial security, especially if you have valuable possessions. It's important to weigh the cost against the risk when deciding which level of protection is right for you.
The cost of moving insurance, specifically Full Value Protection, varies between companies but is typically based on the total value you declare for your belongings. While it adds to your overall moving expenses, the importance of this protection cannot be overstated, especially for long-distance moves where the risk of damage is higher.
Think about the value of your possessions. Do you own expensive electronics, antique furniture, or other valuable items? Basic liability coverage will not be sufficient to cover the loss of these goods. Investing in proper moving insurance ensures that you won't suffer a major financial loss if something goes wrong during transit.
Here are a few key reasons why moving insurance is important:
You can also purchase third-party insurance for additional protection, which may offer policies that cover any amount of loss or damage.
In today's digital age, you don't have to wait for an in-home visit to get an idea of your moving costs. Many moving companies and third-party websites offer an online moving cost calculator. These tools provide a quick and easy way to get a ballpark estimate for your move.
While a cost calculator won't give you a binding quote, it's an excellent starting point for budgeting. By inputting a few key details, you can get an instant estimate and compare different moving options. Let's look at how to use these tools effectively and get an accurate quote.
Using a moving cost calculator is a straightforward process. These online tools are designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to get a quick estimate of your moving expenses in just a few minutes. To start, you'll need to provide some basic information about your move.
Typically, you will be asked to enter your origin and destination zip codes, the size of your home (e.g., number of bedrooms), and your planned move date. Some more advanced calculators might ask for a rough inventory of your belongings to provide a more detailed estimate.
Once you input these details, the cost calculator will generate an estimated price range for different types of moves, such as full-service, moving containers, or a rental truck. This allows you to compare costs and see which option best fits your budget before you start contacting companies for official quotes.
While online quotes are convenient, their accuracy depends on the quality of the information you provide. To get the most accurate quote possible from a moving cost calculator or a moving company's online form, it’s important to be as detailed and honest as you can about your inventory.
Don't underestimate the amount of stuff you have. It’s better to slightly overestimate than to be hit with unexpected charges later. When you're ready to get binding quotes, be prepared for a more in-depth inventory process, such as a virtual or in-home survey.
Here are some tips for getting accurate online quotes:
An out-of-state move can be expensive, but there are many ways to keep costs under control. Creating a moving budget and sticking to it is a great way to start, but proactive steps can lead to significant savings. From downsizing your belongings to negotiating prices, a little planning can go a long way.
Are you looking for the best way to reduce your moving expenses without adding stress? Here are some practical, money-saving tips that can help you stay within your budget during your relocation.
One of the most effective ways to lower your moving expenses is to reduce the amount of stuff you move. Since movers charge based on weight and volume, downsizing and decluttering before you pack can lead to substantial savings. The fewer items you have, the less you'll pay.
Go through each room and decide what you truly need to take to your new home. You can sell valuable items you no longer want, donate gently used goods to charity, or hold a garage sale to make some extra cash. This process not only cuts moving costs but also reduces the number of moving boxes you'll have to pack and unpack.
Here are a few ideas for decluttering:
Starting this process early will make packing much more manageable and save you money.
In summary, understanding the average cost to move out of state in 2025 is crucial for effective planning and budgeting. With various factors affecting moving expenses—from distance and home size to seasonal trends—being aware of these elements can help you avoid unexpected costs. Additionally, utilizing online tools and calculators provides a clearer picture of what to expect financially. Whether you choose to go the DIY route or hire professional movers, making informed decisions will not only ease the stress of relocating but also ensure you get value for your expenditure. For personalized advice and assistance in planning your move, don't hesitate to reach out for a free consultation.
You should aim to book your move with a moving company at least six to eight weeks in advance, especially if you plan to move during the peak season. This gives you enough time to compare quotes from different professional moving companies and secure your preferred move date before van lines are fully booked.
Basic moving insurance, known as Released Value Protection, is legally required and included in your moving cost at no extra charge. However, this offers minimal coverage. For better protection, you can purchase Full Value Protection from the moving company, which is an additional expense based on the declared value of your items.
The cheapest way to move out of state is a DIY move using a rental truck. This approach saves on labor costs but requires you to do all the packing and heavy lifting. Another budget-friendly option is using a moving container, which offers a great way to balance cost and convenience.
Whether you're preparing for a move, exploring secure storage options, or just need expert advice, our team is here to help.
.svg)
William C. Huff Companies is committed to simplifying the complicated maze of moving and storing your priceless possessions. With over 40 full-time, tenured, and highly trained staff, you can be assured that your move will be handled smoothly and professionally, from the first phone call until the last box is unpacked.
