Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Jan, 25 2026
Moving across the country is one of life's most significant transitions. Whether you're chasing a career opportunity, seeking a fresh start, or moving closer to family, the journey to your new home deserves to be handled with care and precision.
At Three Movers, we've helped thousands of families navigate cross-country relocations, treating your belongings—and your peace of mind— as if they were our own.
What Is a Long-Distance Move?
A long-distance move typically crosses state lines or covers more than 400 miles. These relocations differ significantly from local vs. long-distance moves in pricing, timelines, and logistics.
When your moving truck travels interstate, the Department of Transportation oversees the process, requiring proper licensing and insurance from professional movers. Your belongings might spend several days in transit, potentially sharing truck space with other shipments. Understanding these distinctions helps you ask the right questions when selecting your moving company.
Our Long-Distance Moving Services
Packing & Loading
Our packing services include high-quality materials designed for long-distance transport. We carefully wrap, cushion, and secure everything from delicate china to bulky furniture. Our loading techniques maximize space efficiency while prioritizing safety, with strategic positioning and securing to prevent shifting during the journey.
Transportation & Delivery
Our modern fleet of well-maintained trucks, operated by experienced drivers, makes sure your belongings travel safely across any distance. We provide tracking capabilities and consistent communication through our customer service team so you always know where your possessions are during transit.
Storage Options
Life doesn't always follow a perfect timeline. Our storage services provide secure, climate-controlled facilities where your belongings remain safe for as long as needed—whether you require short-term storage during a transitional period or longer-term solutions.
How Much Do Long-Distance Movers Cost?
Several factors influence long-distance moving costs:
- Shipment weight: The primary cost determinant for interstate moves
- Distance traveled: Longer routes cost more
- Additional services: Packing services, specialty item handling, and storage needs
- Route accessibility: Remote locations may carry additional fees
Most cross-country moves range from $2,000 to $10,000, though larger households or longer distances can exceed these figures. If you're considering alternative options, you can also compare PODS moving costs to traditional full-service moving. At Three Movers, we provide detailed, itemized quotes with no hidden fees.
How to Choose a Reliable Long-Distance Moving Company
Selecting the right moving company requires careful research.
To begin, verify credentials by checking the company's USDOT number through the FMCSA database. Additionally, research online reviews across multiple platforms and check the Better Business Bureau for accreditation status.
Next, request in-home or video estimates—reputable professional movers assess your belongings before providing quotes. Furthermore, read contracts completely before signing, ensuring you understand liability coverage, delivery windows, and payment terms.
Finally, watch for red flags such as unusually low quotes, demands for large deposits, a lack of a physical address, or pressure to sign quickly. Remember, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Why Three Movers is America's #1 Cross-Country Movers
We've built our reputation on an unwavering commitment to excellence, and we are proud of it.
Our entire team is rigorously trained not only in proper handling techniques but, just as importantly, in empathetic customer communication. You can move with confidence knowing we hold full licensing, comprehensive insurance, and maintain complete Department of Transportation compliance.
Our accreditation with the Better Business Bureau isn't just a badge; it's a sincere reflection of our dedication to the highest ethical practices.
From your very first quote to the final delivery, our pricing is completely transparent. We promise: no games with estimates and absolutely no surprise charges. We understand that a successful move is about more than just logistics; it requires empathy, pride in our work, and clear, constant communication throughout your entire moving process.
Get a Long-Distance Moving Quote Today!
Ready to start planning your cross-country move? Contact Three Movers for a free, no-obligation quote. Our long-distance movers will assess your specific needs and provide an accurate estimate that respects your budget.
Call us today or fill out our online form to take the first step toward a stress-free moving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Long-distance moving typically ranges from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on shipment weight, distance, and services needed. A one-bedroom apartment moving 1,000 miles might cost $2,000 to $3,500, while a four-bedroom home could run $5,000 to $8,000 or more. Always request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance moving companies.
For many households, $5,000 comfortably covers a cross-country move, especially for smaller homes or apartments. However, larger households with extensive belongings may need $6,000-$10,000. Factor in additional expenses like travel costs, temporary housing, and utility deposits when budgeting for your new home.
Major red flags include: demanding large cash deposits upfront, providing quotes without seeing your belongings, no physical business address, missing USDOT numbers, significantly lower prices than competitors, and pressure tactics to sign immediately. Always verify licensing and check online reviews before committing to any moving company.
