The Complete Guide to Planning a Long Distance Move: Costs, Tips, and Services

Relocating across the country or even just a few states away can feel overwhelming. A long distance move is very different from a local relocation, involving more planning, higher costs, and different moving services. Whether you’re moving for a new job, family, or lifestyle change, understanding what to expect can make the process smoother and less stressful.

What Is Considered a Long Distance Move?

Before diving into planning and costs, it’s important to understand what moving companies actually mean by a long distance move. The definition can vary slightly depending on the mover, but here are the most common standards:

Key Takeaways:

• Local vs. Long Distance: If you’re moving down the street or across town, it’s a local move. Anything 100+ miles usually qualifies as long distance.
  
• State Lines Matter: Even a short 50-mile move becomes a long distance move if it crosses into another state.
  
• More Regulations: Interstate moves are federally regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), which means companies must follow stricter rules on licensing and insurance.
  

💡 Tip: Always ask your mover how they define “long distance.” Some companies draw the line at 100 miles, while others use 50 miles. This small detail can affect your estimate and billing method.

How Much Does a Long Distance Move Cost?

One of the biggest concerns for anyone planning a relocation is cost. Unlike local moves (charged hourly), long distance moves are typically priced based on three main factors:

1. Distance – the longer the miles, the higher the cost.
   
2. Weight/Volume of Belongings – larger households with more furniture cost more to move.
   
3. Additional Services – packing, storage, specialty item handling, and insurance can add significantly.

(These are rough averages from major U.S. moving companies; your quote may vary.)

Additional Cost Factors

• Packing Services: $300 – $2,000 depending on home size.
  
• Storage (short-term): $150 – $400 per month.
  
• Specialty Items: $150 – $600 each for pianos, safes, or antiques.
  
• Insurance: Basic coverage is included, but full-value protection may cost 1–2% of your item’s total value.
  
• Peak Season (Summer): Expect a 20–30% increase in prices due to high demand.
  

Quick Example:

• A 2-bedroom apartment move from Chicago to Dallas (~900 miles) with full packing services might cost $3,800 – $5,200.
  
• The same move in July instead of January could add $700–$1,000.
  

💡 Tip: Always ask for a binding estimate or “not-to-exceed” quote to avoid unexpected charges on delivery day.

Long Distance Moving Services to Consider

Not all long distance moves look the same. Some people want a stress-free, full-service option, while others prefer saving money with more DIY involvement. The type of service you choose will affect both your budget and your experience.

Pros and Cons

• Full-Service Movers
  ✅ Saves time and effort
  ✅ Professional packing reduces risk of damage
  ❌ Most expensive option
  ❌ Delivery windows can be long (1–3 weeks cross-country)
  
• Self-Service Containers
  ✅ Cost-effective and flexible
  ✅ Great if you need temporary storage
  ❌ You still do the heavy lifting
  ❌ Limited delivery speed compared to trucks
  
• Truck Rentals
  ✅ Cheapest upfront cost
  ✅ Maximum control over timing
  ❌ Hidden costs (fuel, tolls, insurance) add up
  ❌ Driving a large truck long distance can be stressful
  

💡 Tip: If you’re moving across the country with minimal furniture, a moving container often gives the best balance between affordability and convenience.

Tips for a Smooth Long Distance Move

A long distance move isn’t something you can throw together in a weekend. It takes planning, budgeting, and coordination. The good news is that with the right approach, you can cut down on stress and surprises.

Long Distance Moving Checklist

1. Start Planning Early (8–12 Weeks Out)

2. Declutter Before Packing

3. Label and Inventory Everything

4. Understand Insurance Coverage

5. Pack a “First Week Box”

6. Plan for Delivery Windows

7. Notify Key Parties of Your Move

Quick Table: Top Tips by Stage

💡 Tip: Always keep important documents (passports, medical records, titles) with you, not in the moving truck.

How to Choose the Best Long Distance Moving Company

Finding the right mover is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With thousands of dollars and all your belongings on the line, it pays to be careful. Here are the key things to focus on:

1. Check Licensing and Credentials

For interstate moves, companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). You can look up their USDOT number on the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) website to confirm they’re legitimate and see if there are any complaints or violations. If a mover hesitates to give you their number, that’s a red flag.

2. Understand the Estimate

Reliable movers will send someone for an in-home or video survey before giving you a quote. A binding estimate (or “not-to-exceed” estimate) is safer than a non-binding one because it locks in the maximum you’ll pay. Be cautious of quotes that are much lower than others — that’s often a bait-and-switch tactic.

3. Look for a Solid Reputation

Reviews can tell you a lot. Instead of focusing only on star ratings, read how companies handle complaints. Do they respond quickly? Do they resolve issues? A mover with a long track record of consistent service is a safer bet than one with suspiciously glowing but recent reviews.

4. Ask About Insurance and Protection

By law, movers must offer two types of coverage:

• Released Value Protection – basic, minimal coverage (about $0.60 per pound per item).
  
• Full-Value Protection – more comprehensive, replacing or repairing lost or damaged items.
  

If you have valuable items, you may also want to look into third-party moving insurance.

5. Evaluate Customer Support

A good moving company gives you a direct contact person or coordinator. If communication feels difficult during the quote process, expect more trouble once your belongings are on the road.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Demanding a large upfront deposit.
  
• Vague contracts or hidden fees.
  
• No physical office address.
  
• Refusal to provide written estimates.
  

💡 Tip: Choosing a mover is less about finding the cheapest option and more about finding a reliable partner. Paying slightly more for a company with strong credentials and support is usually worth it.

Insurance and Protection for Long Distance Moves

When you’re moving across states or even across the country, your belongings will spend days or weeks in transit. The longer the journey, the higher the chance of damage, loss, or delays. That’s why understanding your insurance options is just as important as choosing the right mover.

The Two Standard Coverage Options

By federal law, interstate moving companies must offer two levels of liability protection:

1. Released Value Protection
   
   • This is the default option and comes at no extra cost.
     
   • However, coverage is very minimal — about 60 cents per pound per item.
     
   • Example: if your 50-inch TV weighs 60 pounds and is damaged, you’d only receive $36, no matter its actual value.
     

1. Full-Value Protection
   
   • This option costs extra but gives you much better coverage.
     
   • The mover is responsible for repairing, replacing, or paying the current market value of lost or damaged items.
     
   • Usually, you declare a total value for your shipment (for example, $50,000) and pay a premium of 1–2% of that value.
     

When to Consider Third-Party Insurance

Some customers choose additional moving insurance from a third-party provider, especially if they have:

• High-value electronics, antiques, or artwork.
  
• A cross-country move where risk of loss or damage is higher.
  
• Concerns about disputes with the moving company over claims.
  

Third-party insurance can sometimes fill gaps left by mover-offered coverage, such as natural disasters, theft, or storage-related damage.

Tips for Protecting Your Belongings

• Inventory and photograph everything before movers pack it. This makes claims easier.
  
• Read the fine print of your moving contract — many movers exclude fragile items unless they pack them.
  
• Ask about deductibles and claim timelines before purchasing extra coverage.
  
• Keep valuables with you (jewelry, documents, small electronics) instead of putting them on the truck.
  

💡 Tip: Don’t automatically settle for the free released value coverage. It rarely covers the real cost of replacement. For most households, full-value protection or a mix of full-value + third-party insurance gives much better peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on Long Distance Moves

A long distance move is more than just loading boxes onto a truck — it’s a major life transition that requires careful planning, budgeting, and decision-making. From understanding what qualifies as a long distance move, to comparing costs and choosing the right service, every step you take ahead of time helps reduce stress when moving day finally arrives.

Here are the key points to remember:

• Start early — movers book up fast, especially in summer.
  
• Declutter before you move to cut costs and simplify your life.
  
• Choose your service type wisely — full-service, container, or DIY all have trade-offs.
  
• Protect your belongings with the right level of insurance.
  
• Research movers thoroughly and avoid companies with vague estimates or hidden fees.
  

At the end of the day, a successful move comes down to preparation and trust. The more you plan, the smoother your relocation will be. Whether you’re moving across a few states or clear across the country, knowing your options puts you in control of both your budget and your peace of mind.