Interstate Moving Costs 2025: How Much Does It Cost and How to Lower?

Interstate moving cost by house size

The size of your home plays a huge role in your interstate moving costs. More rooms generally mean more belongings, which translates to a heavier shipment and more labor required. While exact figures vary, here's a general idea of how house size can influence the cost of movers out-of-state:

How are the costs of moving interstate determined?

When Stewart Moving & Storage, or any other reputable interstate moving service, determines the quote for your move, a variety of factors contribute to the overall interstate moving cost. The more support and specialized services you want or need, the higher the quote will be. Understanding these considerations can help you better plan your out-of-state moving costs and budget accordingly. The following factors are key drivers in determining the cost of movers out-of-state:

1. Liability and valuation coverage

Protecting your belongings during an interstate move is crucial. The higher the declared value of your items, the greater the increase you can expect for liability coverage. Moving companies will offer two types of valuation: Released Value Protection (basic coverage, often 60 cents per pound per article) and Full Value Protection (covers the market value of your items if damaged or lost). Choosing Full Value Protection will increase your interstate moving cost, but it provides greater peace of mind for your valuables.

2. Travel fees

Travel fees are a significant component of your interstate moving costs. These fees include fuel, mileage, and labor costs associated with the distance of your move. Longer distances mean more fuel consumed and more hours spent by the moving crew on the road, directly impacting your out-of-state moving costs.

3. Third-party insurance

While Stewart Moving & Storage offers comprehensive liability coverage, you might want extra protection for your valuables. You have the option to hire a third-party company to cover any potential damages beyond what your mover provides. At Stewart Moving & Storage, our liability coverage is very widespread, and we work with you to find the best coverage, often decreasing the need for third-party coverage and helping manage your overall interstate moving cost.

4. Packing

If you want your interstate moving service to handle the packing process, this involves extra costs for both labor and packing materials. While it adds to the expense, professional packing ensures your items are secure for every bump along the road to your out-of-state move. You can also learn more about our moving company packing tips for a stress-free move if you choose to pack yourself.

5. Storage

Sometimes, your moving timeline doesn’t perfectly align with your new home’s availability, or you might need temporary storage for certain items. Stewart Moving & Storage offers the option of selecting secure storage facilities to safeguard their belongings if needed during a move. Our storage solutions provide a flexible option to bridge the gap between move-out and move-in dates. 

> Learn more: How to prepare for storage

6. Moving company selection

The choice of your interstate moving service provider significantly impacts your final cost. You can expect a trusted company with higher ratings and a proven track record to have a slightly higher rate, but the peace of mind and reliability that comes with entrusting your valuables to experienced cross-country movers is often worth the slight increase. Be wary of moving companies with extra-low rates, as they often tack on surprise fees. Learn more about how to find the BEST moving company.

7. Time of year

Summer months (May through September) and weekends are typically the busiest times for interstate moving services, leading to higher demand and consequently higher moving quotes. To save on your cost of movers out-of-state, you should plan your move during the off-peak seasons, such as winter or fall, or opt for a weekday move. Flexibility in your moving dates can lead to significant savings.

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8. Additional services and fees

Beyond the core moving services, various additional services and fees can contribute to your overall interstate moving cost. These might include charges for disassembling and reassembling furniture, special packing for fragile or high-value items, long carries (when the moving truck cannot park close to your home), or stair carries (moving items up or down multiple flights of stairs). At Stewart Moving & Storage, our dedicated moving coordinators work with you from start to finish to devise a plan that addresses all your needs without breaking the bank, ensuring transparency in all moving services out-of-state cost components.

What should be considered before hiring a moving interstate company?

Before you commit to an interstate moving service, it’s crucial to consider several key aspects to ensure you’re making a wise decision and protecting your interests. The cost of movers out-of-state is important, but so is the reliability and trustworthiness of the company you choose. Here are essential considerations:

Moving Coverage

When moving your items such a long distance, especially across state lines, make sure your belongings are protected. By law, interstate moving companies are required to offer two types of valuation coverage: Released Value Protection and Full Value Protection. Released Value Protection typically covers up to 60 cents per pound per article, while Full Value Protection covers the market value of your items if anything is destroyed or lost. You should carefully consider the coverage offered by a company and determine if it meets your needs. 

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Subcontractors

For large or complex interstate moves, some moving companies may hire subcontractors to handle portions of the relocation. Before finalizing your plan with an interstate moving service, make sure to ask about their policy regarding subcontractors. It’s important to research any third-party companies they intend to use to ensure they adhere to the same high standards as your primary moving company. At Stewart Moving & Storage, we only use subcontractors that meet our stringent expectations and values, so this will not be a concern for your interstate move.

Moving scams

Unfortunately, moving scams are a real concern in the industry, and they can significantly impact your interstate moving costs and overall experience. Before you sign on with any company, read online reviews and be sure that the company has proper FMCSA licensing and a USDOT number. Be wary of companies that demand large deposits upfront, offer a quote without a thorough in-home inspection, or provide estimates that seem too good to be true. These are red flags. 

If you want to avoid a scam and ensure a trustworthy interstate moving service, consider contacting Stewart Moving & Storage today. We pride ourselves on transparency and integrity in all our moving services out-of-state.

How to lower interstate moving costs

The prospect of out-of-state moving costs can be daunting, but there are effective strategies to reduce your expenses without compromising on service quality. Taking a few proactive steps before you begin the moving process can lead to big savings. Here are key ways to lower your interstate moving costs:

1. Declutter and downsize

This is one of the most impactful ways to reduce your interstate moving costs. Moving companies base their quotes on the amount of items or the weight/volume of the things that need to be moved. If you want to save, make sure to donate, sell, or trash unwanted items before your interstate move. Only transport what you absolutely need and love, ensuring you don’t incur extra charges for items you no longer desire. Every little bit helps!

2. Compare quotes from multiple moving companies

Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Some interstate moving services charge more than others, and it’s crucial to be a well-informed consumer before making your decision. Request detailed, written quotes from at least three reputable cross-country movers. Comparing these offers will help you identify the most competitive and transparent pricing for your out-of-state moving costs.

3. Consider moving container services

Moving container services offer a flexible and often more affordable alternative for your interstate move. These are large, movable containers designed for storing your items for as long as you need. Moving companies can deliver these to your home for you to pack at your leisure, then pick them up and transport them to your new destination. Choosing this method can save you not just money but also time, as it offers increased flexibility and storage options.

4. Schedule Your Move in Advance

Booking your moving services several months ahead, especially if you’re moving during peak season (summer, weekends, or end-of-month), can often secure better rates. Last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive due to limited availability and higher demand. Early planning also gives you more time to declutter, compare quotes, and prepare, further contributing to cost savings and a less stressful experience.

Stress-free and Reliable Interstate Moving Service at Stewart Moving and Storage

Moving interstate is a significant undertaking, and you deserve a trusted interstate moving service you can rely on, offering fair pricing and top-of-the-line service. At Stewart Moving & Storage, we understand the intricacies of moving across state lines, with our company having a strong presence across the East Coast of the United States. Our dedicated moving coordinators work with you every step of the way to ensure transparent pricing, quality care, and unwavering trust, guaranteeing your interstate move takes place without a hitch. We pride ourselves on minimizing your out-of-state moving costs while maximizing your peace of mind, making us the preferred choice for cross-country movers.

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Moving interstate cost FAQs

What is the most cost-effective way to move interstate?

The most cost-effective way to move interstate often involves a combination of DIY efforts and professional assistance. This could mean packing your own boxes, decluttering significantly to reduce the weight/volume of your shipment, and being flexible with your moving dates to avoid peak seasons. While hiring a full-service interstate mover might seem more expensive upfront, the value of their expertise, efficiency, and valuation coverage can often outweigh the costs and reduce stress. Consider getting a detailed quote from Stewart Moving & Storage to compare options.

What is the average cost to move across the United States?

The average cost to move across the United States (an interstate move) typically ranges from $3,500 to $18,000+, though this can vary widely based on factors like distance, the amount of belongings, and services chosen. Self-moves can be cheaper but involve more personal effort and risk. Professional interstate moving services provide peace of mind and efficiency. For more detailed information on pricing, refer to our section above on Average Costs of Moving Interstate 2025 or request a custom quote.

What is a reasonable amount for moving expenses?

A reasonable amount for moving expenses for an interstate move can vary greatly depending on your specific circumstances. For a small apartment move, a few thousand dollars might be reasonable, while a large family home could easily cost $10,000 or more. It’s reasonable to expect your interstate moving cost to be influenced by factors such as distance, shipment size, and services. The best way to determine a reasonable amount for your move is to get multiple detailed quotes from reputable interstate moving services.

How expensive is it to move states?

The expense of moving states (an interstate move) is directly tied to the distance and the volume of items you are transporting. As a general guideline, out-of-state moving costs can range from a few thousand dollars for smaller moves over shorter distances to over $15,000 for larger homes moving from coast to coast. The cost of movers out-of-state is a significant investment, but it provides the convenience and expertise needed for a complex relocation.

What is the cheapest long distance move option?

The cheapest long-distance move option typically involves a significant amount of DIY effort. This could include renting a moving truck and driving it yourself, or using moving container services where you pack and load your belongings, and the company handles the transportation. While these options can reduce your upfront interstate moving costs, they require more personal time and effort, which could include time off work and the risk of injury.

What is the cheapest month to move?

The cheapest months to move are generally during the off-peak season, which includes fall (October, November) and winter (January, February, March). During these months, demand for interstate moving services is lower, leading to more competitive pricing and greater availability. Avoiding the summer months (May-September) and the end of any month can help you secure a lower interstate moving cost.

How do I get an accurate quote for an interstate move?

To get an accurate quote for your interstate move, it is essential to provide your chosen interstate moving service with as much detail as possible. This includes a comprehensive inventory of all items to be moved, specifying any specialty items, and clearly outlining any additional services you require (e.g., packing, storage). Reputable companies like Stewart Moving & Storage will typically offer a virtual or in-home survey to assess your belongings accurately before providing a binding estimate. Be wary of quotes given over the phone without a thorough assessment, as these can lead to unexpected out-of-state moving costs later.

Do moving companies offer discounts on interstate moves?

Some interstate moving services may offer discounts, particularly during off-peak seasons or for certain affiliations (e.g., military, AAA, AARP). It’s always worth inquiring about potential discounts when obtaining quotes. While discounts can help lower your interstate moving costs, prioritize the reputation and reliability of the moving company over solely seeking the lowest price.

Which additional services could increase out-of-state moving costs?

Established moving companies will offer many services to help ease the stress of moving. These include full packing and unpacking services, disassembling and reassembling furniture, crating for fragile or valuable items, long carries (when the moving truck cannot park close to your residence), stair carries (moving items up or down multiple flights of stairs), and shuttle services. Storage-in-transit, appliance servicing, and custom solutions for specialty items like pianos or hot tubs will also add to the overall cost of movers out-of-state. Being aware of these potential add-ons can help you manage your budget effectively and make your interstate move as smooth as possible.

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