Average Cost to Move a 1 Bedroom Apartment Cross Country: Essential Insights
Published by Chris Townsend
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment cross country can be a daunting and complex task, especially when factoring in the costs involved. From transportation fees to packing services, understanding the average expenses is crucial for effective budgeting and avoiding unexpected surprises.
The cost of your move can vary significantly based on factors such as distance, the size and weight of your belongings, the type of moving service you choose, and additional fees like insurance or storage. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into these cost factors, helping you plan ahead and make informed decisions.
With the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure a smoother and more affordable relocation experience.
Understanding Expenses for Cross Country Relocations
Overall, you can expect an average moving cost to be around $1,500 to $4,500 for hauling one bedroom across country if you hire a professional moving company like Three Movers.
That’s a lot of variation, though. Wondering why some moves may be a lot more expensive than others? Here are a few reasons:
- Total distance of your move – Moving from New York City to Tampa, Florida is a “cross country move,” but is only 1,130 miles. Shifting from New York to San Francisco is more than 2,900 miles. The moving companies charge the interstate haul by the mile in most cases, so the longer the haul, the more you’ll pay.
- Volume of stuff – Every one bedroom apartment is different, and some are bigger than others. You will likely need a large moving truck if you have more furniture or have lots of stuff closets and in storage areas, since the total volume of your items has a large effect on the overall moving costs.
- Season & moving demand – Demand for hauling services is the highest in the spring and summer, so many moving companies tend to have additional charges and costs during this time. In contrast, hauling during the fall and winter is usually cheaper.
- Extra insurance – You will get basic insurance coverage from all interstate movers, but this only reimburses you for part of the value of your stuff if it’s damaged. You will need to pay for additional coverage if you are worried about high-value items being damaged.
- Additional moving services – If you want to store your stuff in a storage unit for a little while, need full-service moving including packing and unpacking and other add-ons, or require other extra shifting services, this will add more costs to your hauling job.
Cheapest Ways To Haul
The moving option you choose also affects the cost of hauling a 1 bedroom apartment across the country. The cheapest ways to relocate your 1 bedroom apartment across the country are:
- Rental Truck
- Cargo Trailer
- Freight Trailer
- Pallet Shipper
- PODS
- Relo Cube
- Affordable Moving Companies
1. Rental Truck
Renting a truck to move across the country is a good option for DIY moves. When you rent a truck for moving, you should expect to do tasks like packing, loading, unloading, disassembly, and reassembly on your own. Since rental trucks are available in multiple sizes, you can choose the size that best fits your needs. So, you don’t have to pay for a space that you don’t need. If you cannot drive the rental truck on your own, you should take help from your friends or family to keep the cost as low as possible.
2. Cargo Trailer
This method is quite similar to renting a truck. This method is only applicable for people looking to carry out DIY hauls. The fact that you can use your own personal vehicle to tow the cargo trailer makes this option very cheap. Although using a cargo trailer is probably the cheapest moving option, we don’t recommend it for everybody. That’s because cargo trailers are small and will only be able to move a small amount of stuff. So, if you have a relatively big 1 bedroom apartment then renting a cargo trailer is not a viable option for you.
3. Freight Trailer
Freight trailers are a lot bigger than cargo trailers. This means that you can move a lot of stuff in a freight trailer, making them a good option for large 1 bedroom apartments. But, this option is a lot more expensive because of the size of the trailer and also because you’ll not be able to tow a freight trailer with your personal vehicle. So, a freight trailer is a good option only in a few situations.
4. Pallet Shipper
If you have limited stuff that can be packed into a few small boxes, this method is perfect for you. You can take help from commercial shipping companies like DHL and FedEx to move very small apartments. Pallet shipments are also very safe and reliable despite the fact that you’ll not be traveling together with your belongings when you choose this method.
5. PODS
You can get storage containers for moving from PODS. When your news temporary storage service as well, you cannot use methods mentioned above. You can get two services for the price of one when you choose PODS. You also have to carry out tasks like packing and loading on your own when you use PODS. But, you will not have to drive on your own. When you put your stuff in PODS containers, you can expect them to be safe and secure. There are only three sizes of PODS containers available and the smallest one is probably the only good option for a 1 bedroom apartment as 12-foot and 16-foot containers are probably too big for a 1 bedroom apartment. Also, learn about the PODS moving cost to make your decision.
6. Relo Cube
ReloCube is also a storage container for moving provided by U Pack. U Pack is also a very reliable company. ReloCubes are only available in 1 size i.e. 6’. This is a big enough container for 1 bedroom. ReloCube is also cheaper than PODS but is not as readily available as PODS.
7. Affordable Moving Companies
This method might be more expensive than other options on theory. But, DIY moves are not as smooth as you think. You can expect cost overruns if you have limited experience in moving. The cost of almost fixed when you hire a full-service moving company. Also, if you need a stress-free hauling experience, this is probably the only option. Hiring a hauling company is good for your mental as well as physical health as you’ll not be carrying heavy-duty tasks like piano and other heavy appliances when you hire moving companies. You can hire affordable movers like Three Movers at a very low price.
Top Moving Companies for Cross Country Apartment Moves
When planning a long-distance move, choosing the right moving company is essential for a seamless experience. Several reputable companies specialize in cross country relocations, offering various services tailored to apartment moves. Here are some top options:
1. U-Haul
- Provides flexible truck rentals that allow you to control your moving schedule and budget.
- Offers a variety of moving supplies and equipment to assist with packing and transportation.
2. Mayflower
- Known for its comprehensive moving services, including packing assistance and insurance options, ensuring that your items are secure during transit.
- Their experienced team can help coordinate every aspect of your move, from planning to execution.
3. American Van Lines
- Highly rated for customer service and reliability, they offer binding estimates for precise moving quotes.
- Their services include customizable packing and loading options tailored to specific needs.
Researching these companies can help you find the best fit for your specific needs. Each of these movers brings unique strengths to the table, whether you require flexibility, comprehensive services, or specialized support.
How to Calculate the Cost of Moves Across Countries?
Calculating the cost to move across countries involves several steps to ensure you get an accurate estimate. Here's a guide to help you calculate the cost:
- Determine the Distance: Find out the mileage between your current location and the destination country. Longer distances will typically result in higher moving price.
- Inventory of Belongings: Make a detailed inventory of all the items you plan to move. Categorize them into furniture, household items, electronics, etc. The volume and weight of your belongings will play a significant role in calculating the cost.
- Obtain Moving Quotes: Contact several international moving companies to get charge estimates. Provide them with your inventory list and all relevant details, such as the destination, moving date, and any other addition you may require in terms of service. Some companies may have an online hauling price calculator on their site which you can also use.
- Compare Services: Review the quotes carefully, comparing the services offered by each hauling company. Ensure they include packing, loading, unloading, and transportation to the destination country.
- Consider Additional Services: If you need any additional facilities, such as storage, custom clearance, or pet transportation, make sure to factor in those costs.
- Insurance Coverage: Inquire about insurance options for your belongings during the international haul. Evaluate the coverage provided and consider purchasing additional insurance if needed.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Check the customs duties and taxes that may apply when moving your belongings across borders. These prices can vary depending on the destination country's regulations.
- Visa and Documentation Costs: If you need visas or other permits to move to the destination country, factor in the associated charges.
- Currency Exchange Rates: Take into account any currency exchange rates if you need to convert your local currency to the destination country's currency for payment.
- Additional Expenses: Consider any additional expenses, such as flights or accommodation, if you need to travel separately from your belongings.
- Budget for Unforeseen charges: Allow some buffer in your budget for unexpected expenses that may arise during the shipping and delivery process of the international move.
It's essential to communicate clearly with the hauling company and ask questions about any unclear or hidden charges. Don't agree to pay any cash in advance to avoid scammers A reputable international moving company will guide you through the process and provide a transparent breakdown of all the charges involved without asking for a deposit. Remember that moving across countries can be complex, so it's crucial to plan well in advance and seek professional advice when needed.
Estimated Costs for Long-Distance Apartment Moves
Learn about the costs of moving 1 bedroom apartment across the country. The table below shows some charges examples for one bedroom apartment moves based on the distance:
| To / From | Distance | Cost Of Moving A 1 Bedroom Apartment Cross Country |
|---|---|---|
| Anaheim, CA to Washington D.C | 2262 Miles | $3053.7 – $3845.4 |
| Chicago, IL to Anaheim, CA | 2091 Miles | $2822.85 – $3554.7 |
| Anaheim, CA to Seattle, WA | 1161 Miles | $1567.35 – $1973.7 |
| Atlanta, GA to Bakersfield CA | 2190 Miles | $2956.5 – $3723 |
| Bakersfield CA to Detroit, MI | 2296 Miles | $3099.6 – $3903.2 |
| Jacksonville, FL to Chula Vista, CA | 2339 Miles | $3157.65 – $3976.3 |
| Chula Vista, CA to Oklahoma City, OK | 1312 Miles | $1771.2 – $2230.4 |
| Fremont, CA to Tulsa, OK | 1706 Miles | $2303.1 – $2900.2 |
| Austin, TX to Huntington Beach, CA | 1374 Miles | $1854.9 – $2335.8 |
| Atlanta, GA to Long Beach, CA | 2186 Miles | $2951.1 – $3716.2 |
| Los Angeles, CA to Durham, NC | 2518 Miles | $3399.3 – $4280.6 |
| Little Rock, AR to Oakland, CA | 1954 Miles | $2637.9 – $3321.8 |
| Tulsa, OK to Oxnard, CA | 1488 Miles | $2008.8 – $2529.6 |
| Cincinnati, OH to Sacramento, CA | 2273 Miles | $3068.55 – $3864.1 |
Contact Us To Get A Quote For Shifting Your 1 Bedroom Apartment!
As you can see from the information outlined above, the cost to haul a 1 bedroom apartment across the country can vary a lot, so if you want an informed estimate, the best thing to do is to get in touch with a moving company like Three Movers for a quote. Contact us online or give us a call at (888) 202-0036 now, and we’ll give you an idea of the estimate for the charges of your haul!
Also Read: Average Cost To Move A 4 Bedroom House
Frequently Asked Questions
If you hire a professional moving service like Three Movers, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,500 to relocate a one-bedroom apartment across the nation.
Renting a vehicle and doing the relocation yourself is the cheapest option to relocate across the nation. Consider getting a moving truck from a trustworthy truck rental business if you're willing to drive across the nation or you can simply hire us i.e. Three Movers for a complete Hassle-free moving service.
A cross-country relocation for a one-bedroom apartment will cost between $1,000 and $4,500, depending on how much you're relocating and whose moving company you hire.
You should start the process of planning your move about two months out from your move-in date, begin packing about 2-3 weeks before you move in, and be finished a few days to a week before.
You can get free boxes anywhere. Craigslist, Liquor Stores, Barnes & Noble, Starbucks, U-Haul Customer Connect, Office Depot or OfficeMax, Walgreens, PetSmart, Walmart, Target, WinCo, Costco, OfferUp, LetGo, Facebook Community Groups, Freecycle, Dollar Store, Petco, and Rite Aid are your goto place.
Packing an apartment depends on the home size. It can take for a One-bedroom apartment 1-2 days to a Three-bedroom apartment for 3-5 days to pack on average.
The cost of moving to a new location can be influenced by several factors, including:
Distance: The distance between the current location and the destination plays a significant role in determining the cost. Longer distances typically result in higher moving costs.
Volume and Weight: The amount of belongings being moved, including furniture, household items, and personal belongings, affects the cost.
Moving Services: The type and extent of moving services required, such as full-service packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking, can impact the overall cost.
Access and Location: The accessibility of both the current and new locations can affect the cost. Difficult-to-reach areas, narrow roads, flights of stairs, or elevators may require additional effort, energy and cost.
Time of the Year: Moving during peak seasons or holidays can result in higher costs, as demand for moving services tends to be higher during these periods.
Special Items: The presence of delicate, valuable, or oversized items that require special handling may add extra charges to the moving cost.
Insurance Coverage: Opting for additional insurance coverage for your belongings during the move can increase the overall cost.
Storage: If storage services are required, such as when there's a delay between moving out and moving in, it will add to the total moving cost.
Additional Services: Any supplementary services, such as disassembling and reassembling furniture, appliance servicing, or pet transportation, may come with extra costs.
Company and Location: Different moving companies have their pricing structures, and the cost of living in the departure and arrival locations can also influence the final moving cost.
It's essential to get detailed quotes from multiple moving companies and discuss all the potential factors that could affect the cost to get an accurate estimate for your specific move.
Yes, when calculating the cost to move across long distances, there are several hidden costs to consider. These can often add up and impact your overall moving budget. Some of the hidden costs include:
Packing Supplies: The cost of packing materials like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper may not be included in the initial moving quote.
Insurance Coverage: While most moving companies provide basic valuation coverage, it might not be enough to fully protect high-value items. Purchasing additional insurance might be necessary.
Storage Fees: If there's a delay in moving into your new house, you may need to store your belongings in a storage facility, which comes with additional costs.
Long Carry Fees: If the moving truck cannot park near your residence, movers may charge extra for carrying items a long distance to and from the truck.
Shuttle Service: If your new home's location is not accessible to large moving trucks, a shuttle service may be required, incurring an additional fee.
Additional Services: Any extra services, such as disassembling and reassembling furniture, hoisting items through windows, or handling specialty items, may come with added costs.
Fuel and Transportation Costs: Moving trucks use fuel, and depending on the distance, fuel expenses can add up significantly.
Lodging and Meals: If the move requires an overnight stay for the moving crew, you may need to cover their lodging and meal expenses.
Accessorial Charges: These are additional fees that may apply for specific services or circumstances, such as elevator fees, long flights of stairs, or narrow hallways.
Parking Permits: In some urban areas, you might need to obtain parking permits for the moving truck, which can incur costs.
To avoid surprises, it's crucial to discuss these potential hidden costs with your moving company during the quotation process. Request a detailed breakdown of all charges and read the fine print to understand what's included and what's not. Planning and budgeting for these hidden costs will help ensure a smoother and less stressful long-distance move.
