Long Distance Moving Cost Calculator

Estimate your cross-country or interstate move cost based on weight, distance, and home size. Includes fuel surcharges and delivery estimates.

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MovingCalc Editorial Team
Cost estimates are informational · Actual prices vary by provider

Long Distance Moving Costs by Distance & Home Size

ItemLowHighNotes
Studio / 1BR (under 500 mi)$1,200$3,0002,000-3,500 lbs, 2-5 day delivery
Studio / 1BR (1,000+ mi)$2,000$4,5002,000-3,500 lbs, 5-10 day delivery
2BR (under 500 mi)$1,800$4,5003,500-5,500 lbs, 2-5 day delivery
2BR (1,000+ mi)$3,000$6,5003,500-5,500 lbs, 7-14 day delivery
3BR (under 500 mi)$2,500$6,0005,500-8,000 lbs, 3-7 day delivery
3BR (1,000+ mi)$4,500$9,0005,500-8,000 lbs, 7-14 day delivery

Understanding Long Distance Moving Pricing

Ways to Reduce Long Distance Moving Costs

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a cross-country move cost?
The average cross-country move (1,000+ miles) costs $2,500-$8,000 for a 1-3 bedroom home. A studio/1BR averages $2,000-$4,000, while a 4-bedroom home can cost $8,000-$15,000+. Prices are based on weight ($0.50-$0.80/lb) plus distance, with minimum charges of $1,500-$2,500 regardless of weight.
How do long-distance movers calculate weight?
Movers weigh the truck before loading (tare weight) and after loading (gross weight). The difference is your shipment weight. You have the legal right to be present during both weighings. A typical 1-bedroom weighs 2,000-3,500 lbs, a 2-bedroom 3,500-5,500 lbs, and a 3-bedroom 5,500-8,000 lbs. Reduce weight by selling or donating heavy furniture.
What is the delivery time for a long-distance move?
Delivery windows for long-distance moves are typically 2-14 business days, depending on distance. Moves under 500 miles may arrive in 2-5 days; cross-country moves (2,000+ miles) take 7-14 days. Movers are not legally required to deliver on a specific date unless you pay for exclusive-use or expedited service. Plan to live out of essentials for 1-2 weeks.
Are portable containers cheaper than full-service movers?
Portable containers (PODS, U-Pack, Zippy Shell) typically cost 20-40% less than full-service movers for long-distance moves. A 1-2 bedroom container move costs $1,500-$4,000 vs. $3,000-$6,000 for full-service. You do the packing and loading/unloading yourself, but save significantly on labor. Best for flexible timelines and budget-conscious movers.
What insurance do I need for a long-distance move?
Federal law requires interstate movers to provide basic Released Value Protection (60 cents/lb) at no cost. For a $5,000 sofa weighing 100 lbs, basic coverage only pays $60. Full Value Protection costs $100-$500 and covers replacement or repair at current market value. For high-value items (over $100/lb), declare them on the inventory for full coverage.

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