Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Nov, 26 2025
No matter the distance, moving is usually never easy on the wallet. If you’re planning an intrastate move, you’re likely wondering how much this endeavor will cost. Several factors come into play when calculating how much an in-state move will charge. While you can DIY your move and save a bit of money, hiring professional movers offers the most convenience.
With that said, we’re here to help you financially prepare for your upcoming move. Please continue reading for our comprehensive guide on how much in-state moves price, what goes into calculating these costs, and some money-saving tips!
What Is An Intrastate Move?
An move refers to any move that occurs within the same state. With this in mind, these relocations can also be called in-state moves. Although typically further than local moves (usually less than 50 miles), they stay within state lines. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) does not regulate moves. Instead, if you are planning a move in the same state, it’s important that you do the necessary research to understand the specific hauling terms and conditions in your state.
Each state has its rules and regulations regarding moving, and you must be familiar with them. To protect yourself as a consumer, it’s a good idea to speak with your state’s attorney general’s office to check if you live in a regulated state that oversees movers. Regarding cost, intrastate moves typically charge more than local moves but less than long-distance moves.
On the other hand, interstate moves involve passing goods outside of state lines. It’s important to note that even if you’re relocating to another city in the same state, it's considered an interstate move if your move requires you to cross state lines to get there. Perhaps you must take a major highway that weaves in and out of your state. Regardless, understanding the difference between an interstate move and a move will save you from hiring relocators who are not properly licensed to carry out interstate relocations.
What Is The Average Cost Of Moving To A State?
The average cost of moving in-state in the United States is approximately $1,200. This estimate is based on a home with two to three bedrooms and a total weight of goods at around 7,500 pounds. Nonetheless, if you plan on hiring professional shifters, you’re looking at spending at least $1,000 for your intrastate move.
Of course, the actual price of your relocation depends on numerous factors, including the total distance, specific date, the weight of your belongings, additional services, and labor expenses.
How Are Intrastate Fees Determined?
Moving costs are determined differently depending on whether it’s a long-distance move or a move. Moves are usually based on a flat amount per hour, which is impacted by several factors. These factors include labor expenses, additional services like packing and assembling furniture, your movers' having to climb stairs, and any extra add-ons.
Some haulers offer customers a flat rate option. This is determined based on the estimated number of hours they expect the move to take multiplied by their flat hourly rate. In most cases, this fixed price will also factor in any add-ons.
Factors That Impact the Expenses
When it comes to calculating the average cost of in-state moves, it’s important that you consider all the possible moving expenses. The following factors have the highest impact on the price of hauling in-state:
- The size of your move. If you have a big home or just a lot of stuff to move, your move will take longer, and it may require more movers, and your shipment will be heavier. In either case, you can expect the price of your move to increase. Generally speaking, the more stuff you have to move, the more expensive your move will be.
- Distance. The further your haulers travel to deliver your belongings, the more expensive your move will be. Your intrastate haulers charge an hourly rate – so the more time spent, the more you’ll pay. And yes, your relocators are still on the clock during the drive from point A to point B.
- Add-on services. Your removalists will charge you extra for any additional services you opt for, including packing and unpacking, upgraded insurance, furniture assembly and disassembly, and long-carry charges.
- Your moving date. Both the time of year and the specific day of the move affect the cost of your move. The moving industry's busiest season tends to be between April and September. During this time and around major holidays, the demand for movers is higher, which causes prices to rise. It’s also generally more expensive to move on weekends and on the first or last days of the month.
- Moving materials. Unless you have boxes or can scrounge some free ones, you must budget for all the necessary materials. In addition to cardboard boxes, you’re also going to need bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, and any other supplies you need for the move.
- Specialty items. If any of your items are heavy, valuable, awkward, or fragile, you will likely have to pay an additional fee to have them adequately protected and moved.
- Your hauling company. Hourly rates vary from enterprise, so requesting multiple quotes is highly recommended. That way, you can adequately compare and ensure you get the best deal possible.
Cost-saving Tips
If the above numbers scare you, have no fear! There are ways to save money on your upcoming in-state relocation. Here are some simple and effective ways to cut costs when moving within the same state:
- Purge your excess belongings. One of the easiest ways to save money on a move is to reduce the items you carry. Go room by room and take inventory of your belongings to determine what exactly is worth taking with you. Then, you can choose to sell, donate, or trash the excess.
- Handle the packing yourself. This may seem an obvious tip, but you can save a lot of money by packing yourself. While hiring professional packers is very convenient and ensures the safety of your belongings, it’s a service that doesn’t come cheap.
- Be flexible with your move date. If possible, aim for a move date in the middle of the week or the middle of the month. Also, avoid peak season (April to September) and major US holidays.
- Gather quotes from multiple companies. It's best to shop around before you choose relocators. Collect in-person quotes from at least three moving companies, and be as detailed as possible about the conditions surrounding your move.
- Ask about moving discounts. You may be surprised to learn what discounts you are eligible for. Ask your removalists if you qualify for any or if they have any special promotions running!
If you need assistance with an upcoming intrastate move, look no further than Three Movers. Contact us today to receive your free, no-obligation locomoting estimate and find out how you could save up to 20%.
Frequently Asked Questions
A typical in-state move ranges $900–$3,500 for most households. Costs rise with move size, the number of movers, packing needs, stairs or elevator access, long-carry distances, and heavier items such as pianos or safes. In-state moves remain within the same state but travel farther than a standard local move. Labor time, truck size, seasonal demand, and loading or parking restrictions also influence the total. For a quick estimate, see the average cost of movers calculator.
Most 2-bedroom in-state moves fall between $1,500–$4,000, depending on distance, weight, and whether packing is included. Crews of 2–4 movers often require 4–8 hours of labor for loading and unloading. Long hallway walks, limited elevator access, or difficult parking can add time. Seasonal surges and weekend schedules may slightly raise pricing. For specialized loading or heavy furniture handling, costs trend toward the high end. Compare with standard moving services for typical labor structures.
Movers typically calculate in-state pricing using labor hours, truck size, and travel distance. Larger homes require more movers and more time. Extra factors include packing and unpacking, fragile-item prep, disassembly, long-carry paths over 75 feet, stair flights, and building or HOA time windows that restrict loading periods. Weather delays, rural access roads, and fuel surcharges also influence totals. These elements create the final bill for any intrastate move.
Yes. In-state moves are usually 25–40 percent cheaper because they avoid federal FMCSA interstate requirements, longer transit mileage, and multi-day delivery windows. Intrastate jobs also involve fewer fuel and logistics charges. Pricing still rises with home size, packing work, heavy items, and complex access points such as high-rise elevators or restricted parking zones. When comparing both types, review standard long distance moving service structures to understand how distance impacts cost.
Local-distance intrastate moves can be completed the same day, while longer routes within the same state typically deliver within 1–3 days. Timeframes depend on loading complexity, crew size, weather conditions, and whether elevators, loading docks, or building time slots cause delays. Rural pickups or drop-offs can increase drive time. Larger homes may require extra loading hours, especially when packing is added to the schedule.
The biggest cost drivers are home size, packing labor, stairs or elevator use, long-carry distances, and oversized items like pianos, gun safes, or fitness machines. Travel distance within the state, weekend scheduling, and peak-season demand also increase pricing. High-rise buildings often require freight-elevator reservations and limited loading windows. Urban parking restrictions can add extra labor. Weather-related delays and narrow-access neighborhoods contribute additional time.
Professional packing typically adds $200–$1,000+ depending on the number of rooms, materials used, and how many fragile items require special handling. Kitchens, glassware, artwork, and electronics often increase labor time. Full-home packing may require an additional crew member to finish within a reasonable window. Review available packing and unpacking service options for material and labor expectations.
Yes. Movers regularly handle pianos, large safes, appliances, and fitness equipment, but these items typically add $100–$500+ depending on size, weight, and access conditions. Stairs, tight corners, or upper-floor units can add further labor time. Proper padding, floor protection, and safe handling procedures are standard, and some items may require team-lifts or specialized equipment. Always note these items during your estimate request.
