Average Cost of Moving Across Country

Whether you’re thinking about moving across country for a new job opportunity or for a change of pace or scenery, one of the first things you’re going to wonder is: What is the average cost? We understand the desire to have a general idea of what you’ll need to budget for before you start requesting quotes from moving companies and giving out your email address and/or phone number. Well, we’re here to help!

The following guide outlines the costs that you can expect to hire movers for your cross-country, or long-distance, relocation. Though, at the end of the day, requesting a quote from a professional hauling company is going to give you the best idea of how much it’ll cost you to move across country. There is simply no substitute.

What is the Average Cost of Moving Across Country?

Hiring professional relocators is the most common way to move across country. Although it is usually the most expensive option, it is also the most convenient and secure, as trained professionals will be in charge of the safety of your belongings. The haulers also bring their own equipment, trucks, and supplies to transport your stuff. But, how much does service like this cost?

The average cost of moving across country ranges from about $1,500 to $6,000. Whereas, the cost of moving from coast to coast can be much more – usually between $2,000 and $8,000. Though, the actual price of shifting cross-country depends on a number of factors, with household size and distance being the key determinants.

What Factors Impact the Cost of Shifting Across Country?

When budgeting for a cross-country move, there are more variables at play than just distance and household size. It’s important that you consider all of the factors that impact the cost of moving across country. That way, you can budget properly and there are no surprises. That said, here are the cost factors that affect cross-country moving:

• Distance: More specifically, how far do your belongings have to travel to reach their final destination. In general, the farther the move, the more expensive it will be. Though, as mileage increases, the rate decreases.
• Size of your house: The bigger your house, the more stuff you’ll have to move and the more expensive your move will be. Some haulers base the cost of your move on the total weight of your shipment, which may vary from the quote to the final bill.
• Labor costs: Professional companies include the cost of loading and unloading your boxes, furniture, and other belongings in their rates, but you can expect to spend more on labor for packing and unpacking, disassembling and reassembling, and any additional services.
• Storage fees: If you need storage at any point during your move, whatever the reason may be, this will be an additional cost. So, if you suspect that you’re going to need storage, make sure you ask your movers about the costs and conditions involved.
• Timing and season: Shifting rates are higher during the busy season, as the demand for shifting help is higher. Generally speaking, peak season for the moving industry is from May to September. It’s also typically more expensive to shift on a weekend and at the beginning or end of the month.
• Moving materials: Unless your haulers are providing all of the supplies and materials, these will be an extra expense. Most movers usually include shrink wrap and blankets in their estimates, but you’ll need to purchase all the necessities for packing like boxes and packing paper.
• Fuel costs: With movers, there usually isn’t any additional fees for fuel. In fact, it’s almost always included in the quote. However, there are rare cases where companies charge extra so make sure to check!
• Rescheduling fees: If you end up needing to reschedule your move, your relocating company can charge you a pretty hefty fee if you don’t notify them within a specific time frame.
• Moving insurance: Most movers offer basic protection for your belongings during the move. It’s also worth checking with your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policy to see if they cover your stuff during the move. If not, it’s highly recommended that you get the most comprehensive insurance to protect your belongings – especially during long-distance relocations.

If you were to choose to DIY your move instead, there are even more factors to consider, such as the stress of driving the rental truck, hotel and food costs on the road, and more.

How to Move Across Country on a Budget

Though the average cost of moving across country with professional movers can be pretty pricey, there are ways that you can save money and stay within your budget. These include:

1. Get rid of your stuff. Like most people, you’ve probably amassed a lot over the years and much of it you likely don’t need anymore. One of the best ways to save money when shifting across country is to get rid of the stuff you no longer need, want, or have a use for. You can sell the items online or have a garage sale to make some extra money. Then, anything leftover can be donated to a local charity in your area. By reducing the number of things that need to be moved, you make packing and unpacking easier and also reduce the cost of your move. After all, the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move is going to be.
2. Find free moving boxes and materials. Another great way to cut down on hauling costs is to try to collect as many free materials as you can. Look out for used boxes, packing tape, and packing paper at local retailers, community groups, and online forums. You can also ask your family, friends, and coworkers if they have any old boxes lying around.
3. Select a better moving date. Again, the date that you move plays a big role in the cost. To save money, avoid peak shifting days such as weekends, the first and last weeks of the month, dates from May to September, and all major holidays. Try your best to aim for a weekday, in the middle of the month, and somewhere between October and April.
4. Ask for discounts. When you’re researching hauling companies, try to seek out those that are offering specials or discounts. You may be surprised by what deals you qualify for. Most companies offer deals for military service members, seniors, AAA members, first-time customers, or returning customers. After all, it doesn’t hurt to ask!
5. Request multiple moving estimates. To ensure that you get the best deal possible, you want to collect moving quotes from at least three companies. Do so well in advance of your move, as companies usually book about six to eight weeks out. The further out that you plan for your move, the best offers you’ll likely receive.

Why Full-Service Movers?

While hiring full-service movers may be more expensive than the other alternatives, you enjoy the benefit of having everything handled for you. This means no heavy lifting, no driving a large rental truck, and all the resources and materials provided by the company.

Though, by far the greatest benefit of hiring a professional full-service money company is the reduced stress. Undeniably, relocating can be incredibly stressful, no matter how far you’re going. By hiring professionals to handle the job, much of that stress can be alleviated as the packing, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking are all taken off of your shoulders.

Ready to Move?

Again, few things beat the convenience and effortlessness of working with full-service haulers for your move across the country. So, if you’re in the market for a cross-country moving company, look no further than Three Movers for the job.

Contact us today by filling out our online request form or calling toll-free at (888) 202-0036. Our cross-country shifting experts are standing by to provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate, address any concerns you may have, and help you save 20% on your next move!