Long-distance movers transport your belongings across the country for you. No more renting a trailer and road-tripping from state to state with your entire house hitched to your bumper. Long-distance movers make the move happen so you can fly to your new home, suitcase in hand, and wait for your furniture to arrive. Nationally, the average price range for long-distance movers is $1,490-$2,230. The distance you are moving and the number of cubic feet the movers have to transport will both affect cost. Another factor in long-distance moving costs is whether you choose to pay for an exclusive move or a consolidated move.

In an exclusive move, which is more expensive, your belongings are the only cargo on the moving truck. The movers travel directly to your new house and deliver your belongings on a scheduled day. A consolidated move is more affordable because the movers transport your belongings along with those of other people, saving them time and gas — which means you save money. The downside is that your belongings typically arrive with a two-week delivery window rather than on a prescheduled day. Read reviews to make sure you can trust the company with your possessions to ensure a peaceful moving process.

Local moves are among the most common moves. Unlike a long-distance move, a local move is typically less than 50 miles and does not cross state lines. Generally, a local move only takes one day, and movers tend to charge by the hour. 

The definition of a long-distance move may vary depending on the moving company. Generally, a long-distance considered to be any move of 400 miles or more. However, some say a long-distance move is over 50-100 miles. 

Interstate moves require additional legal preparation and will incur additional costs for distance, the amount and weight of your items, the preparation required and various other factors. Moving companies tend to do an initial weighing of the truck, which you should be present for.

A move that crosses state lines is considered an interstate move or an out-of-state move. Contrast this with an intrastate move, which begins and ends in the same state, but is typically above 50 miles. 

To determine whether your move is local or long-distance, contact the best movers in your area.

To figure out how many movers you need, take the size of your home, the number of items you need to move and the weight of those items to estimate how many movers you might need.

For example, a studio or one-bedroom apartment might take two movers to load and unload your belongings efficiently. A two- or three-bedroom home might require three or more movers. And a three- or four-bedroom house might require four movers.

Ask moving companies in your area how many movers — and how many hours — it may take to complete your long-distance move. 

Professional movers can handle the hard work of moving your one-bedroom apartment across the country for you. You can determine what your move will cost by learning the rate your movers charge per cubic foot and how they factor distance into the total cost. Cross-country movers typically charge based on your belongings rather than apartment size because that determines how much work they will have to do. For example, a studio apartment that is crammed full of things will take more work and moving truck space than the contents of a three-bedroom apartment with very little furniture.

Cross-country movers may also have varying rates, depending on where in the country you are moving. For example, a company may charge $5 per cubic foot for consolidated moves along the East Coast and $6 per cubic foot for consolidated moves from the East Coast to the central states or the West Coast. A one-bedroom apartment costs approximately $1,500 to move across the country.

The national average cost for hiring cross-country movers is $1,490-$2,220. A number of factors can affect the cost. One factor is the distance you want to move. For example, an East Coast-based moving company may charge $5 per cubic foot for consolidated moves along the East Coast and $6 per cubic foot for consolidated moves from the East Coast to the central states or the West Coast. Another factor is how many belongings you have. Most cross-country movers charge by the cubic foot.

The type of move you want is another consideration in cost. You can have your belongings moved exclusively and delivered on a set day, or you can opt for a consolidated move, which is less expensive. In a consolidated move your belongings are stored and transported with the goods of other customers who are moving to your general vicinity during the same general time frame as you. Your belongings should arrive within a one- to two-week window, rather than on a set day. If you want the cross-country movers to pack your belongings for you, the cost will also increase.

Moving out of state costs an average of $5,630, according to the American Moving & Storage Association. However, this is just an estimate — how much you’ll pay to move out of state will likely depend on the weight of your belongings, if you need storage, the distance of the move and more.

To avoid any surprising or hidden fees, get free estimates from movers near you.

The cheapest way to move long distance is to plan ahead. This allows you to capitalize on several money-saving strategies. For example, you may consider renting a portable moving container. These are often cheaper than moving trucks, though moving truck rentals are a great option for moderately sized homes. 

Planning ahead also gives you time to start looking around for free moving boxes and supplies. You might also be able to snag discounts from moving companies if you book far out in advance and ask movers for a deal. Try not to move during the peak season (spring or summer), as prices tend to be highest during that time.

Contact the best long-distance movers in your area to get free estimates and figure out a way to save money.  

First, compare the best long-distance moving companies by performing an online search for national or local moving services.

Pay close attention to the moving companies’ ratings and reviews. When reading the reviews, take note of any feedback related to the movers’ pricing, professionalism, ability to work quickly and whether the company has damaged customers’ belongings. You should also check to make sure the moving company has the proper license or insurance within your state. 

Once you’ve found a few movers that fit your criteria, contact the companies to get free estimates. Compare quotes between moves to decide if a quote is fair. And keep an eye out for any deals and discounts movers may be offering during non-peak seasons.

First on your packing checklist are non-essential items you don’t need to access for the next couple of weeks or so. This can include things like holiday decorations, extra towels and collectibles.

Then, move on to artwork, entertainment items and special kitchenware you hardly ever use. 

As moving day draws near, pack children’s games, jewelry, artwork and all linens except for an essential set for each household member.

Next up is kitchen equipment, items in your medicine cabinet, bathroom supplies, laundry supplies and electronics.

One to two days before your move, pack furniture, rugs and tools.

On moving day (or a few days before), pack your clothes, bedding, cleaning supplies, and other necessities like snacks and food.

Movers are generally tipped 10% to 20% or around $50 to $200 per mover. However, it may make less sense to tip a percentage of the total cost of the move because there might be more travel, gas and other fees compared to local moves.

But if you’ve got cash to spend and are very satisfied with the job, you can always tip more. Of course, tipping is not mandatory — especially if you’re not satisfied with the move.