Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Nov, 02 2025
Planning a move to a new home can be a challenging experience, especially when it involves crossing state lines. As reliable long distance movers, we are here to provide professional long-distance moving services tailored to your unique needs. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and stress-free move, whether you're relocating within the United States or embarking on an interstate moving journey.
With years of experience in the moving industry, we understand the complexities involved in long-distance moves. From expert packing services to efficient transportation, we offer comprehensive solutions to help you transition to your new location with ease. Trust us to handle every aspect of your move with the utmost care and professionalism.
Why Choose Our Long-Distance Moving Services?
Years of Experience in the Moving Industry
With years of experience in the moving industry, we have built a reputation as one of the best long-distance moving companies in the United States. Our professional movers bring expertise in handling interstate moves, ensuring your relocation is smooth and efficient. Whether you are moving to a nearby state or across the country, we have the skills and resources to meet your needs.
Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. We take pride in delivering personalized relocation services to meet the unique requirements of each of our customers. From Washington DC to Los Angeles, San Diego, New Jersey, and beyond, our team has successfully handled countless long-distance relocations, earning trust and positive feedback from families and businesses alike.
Comprehensive Moving Solutions
We provide a wide range of full-service moving options to make your transition seamless. Our services include packing services, unpacking services, and junk removal to ensure every aspect of your move is covered. Whether you need help organizing your household goods or disposing of unwanted items, our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
For those embarking on a cross-country move or interstate move, we offer specialized auto transport and vehicle shipping services. These solutions allow you to move your car along with your belongings, saving you time and effort. Additionally, we offer storage units and storage facilities for short-term or long-term needs, giving you flexibility and peace of mind during your move.
What Sets Us Apart from Other Long-Distance Moving Companies?
Reliable and Affordable Long-Distance Movers
As a trusted long distance moving company, we are proud to be affiliated with reputable names like Allied Van Lines and United Van Lines. These partnerships enable us to provide reliable moving solutions for state-to-state, short-distance, and nationwide moving needs. Whether you’re moving to a new state or simply crossing state lines, our experienced teams ensure your belongings arrive safely and on time.
We understand that moving long distance can be stressful, which is why we focus on making the process as affordable as possible. Our goal is to provide exceptional service at competitive rates, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment. From start to finish, we prioritize transparency and efficiency, giving you peace of mind throughout your relocation.
Customizable Moving Options
Every move is different, and we believe in offering tailored solutions to meet your specific moving needs. We provide free moving estimates and obligation-free quotes so you can plan your move without any surprises. Our professional long-distance moving services also include special care for fragile items and valuable belongings, ensuring everything is handled with the utmost care.
To further enhance your experience, we offer additional services such as insurance coverage and truck rental. These options give you the flexibility to choose the best way to handle your relocation, whether you’re looking for a full-service mover or prefer to manage certain aspects of the move yourself. With our customizable moving options, you can create a plan that works for you.
FMCSA - Interstate Carriers Regulator
The Department of Transportation regulates interstate moving companies like they do other motor carriers that travel between a network of states. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, known as FMCSA, is the authority charged with licensing and issuing permits to movers as well as reducing accidents and casualties on interstate highways. It is also responsible for protecting consumers from fraud perpetrated by out-of-state companies in line with federal laws.
To that end, FMCSA requires all interstate movers to register and maintain a database of information on their safety records and complaint history. FMCSA regulations apply to move brokers (a moving broker facilitates moves by making connections between consumers and movers) and relocating companies.
Most states have rules like those adopted by FMCSA, but there is usually that allowable window for non-compliance, unlike the FMCSA, so if you are engaging in local moves, your service provider may not follow the same rules.
How We Ensure a Smooth Long-Distance Relocation
Expert Moving Teams and Packing Supplies
Our moving crews consist of highly trained professionals who excel in heavy lifting, efficient packing, and the safe transport of household goods. They are well-versed in packing tips and techniques to protect your belongings, including fragile items and valuable possessions. With the help of high-quality packing supplies, we ensure your items are securely packed and ready for the journey to your new location.
We also provide comprehensive packing and unpacking services to save you time and effort. Whether you need assistance with boxing up items or setting them up at your new home, our expert team is here to help. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence guarantee a seamless moving experience from start to finish.
Storage Services for Flexible Moving Needs
For those requiring storage solutions during their move, we offer access to top-tier storage companies and facilities. Our storage units are designed to accommodate a wide range of needs, from temporary storage to long-term options. Whether you’re downsizing, waiting for your new home to be ready, or simply need extra space, our storage services provide the flexibility you need.
By working with trusted storage companies, we ensure your belongings are kept safe and secure until you’re ready to retrieve them. This added convenience allows you to focus on other aspects of your move, knowing your items are in good hands. With our storage solutions, you can enjoy peace of mind during your relocation.
Helpful Tips for Your Next Move
To make your next move as stress-free as possible, we recommend following a detailed moving checklist. This checklist can help you stay organized and ensure that no important tasks are overlooked. From packing supplies to transportation arrangements, having a plan in place will make your relocation smoother and more efficient.
It’s also important to plan your move date well in advance. By coordinating with our moving consultants, you can secure the best time for your relocation and avoid last-minute complications. Additionally, taking advantage of expert advice and moving tips from our team can help you navigate challenges and make informed decisions throughout the process.
Car shipping
We offer car shipping services as well with our partners A1 Auto Transport. If you are not driving your car to your new destination then you can take this service. Learn More.
Debris removal
We also assist you with clean up. You may need assistance with cleaning after you move to your new apartment. Learn more about this service.
Storage Assistance
As the best long-distance companies, we offer storage services to our customers. From short term to long term we can assist with storage facilities. Learn More.
How We Ensure a Smooth Long-Distance Relocation
Expert Moving Teams and Packing Supplies
Our moving crews consist of highly trained professionals who excel in heavy lifting, efficient packing, and the safe transport of household goods. They are well-versed in packing tips and techniques to protect your belongings, including fragile items and valuable possessions. With the help of high-quality packing supplies, we ensure your items are securely packed and ready for the journey to your new location.
We also provide comprehensive packing and unpacking services to save you time and effort. Whether you need assistance with boxing up items or setting them up at your new home, our expert team is here to help. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence guarantee a seamless moving experience from start to finish.
Storage Services for Flexible Moving Needs
For those requiring storage solutions during their move, we offer access to top-tier storage companies and facilities. Our storage units are designed to accommodate a wide range of needs, from temporary storage to long-term options. Whether you’re downsizing, waiting for your new home to be ready, or simply need extra space, our storage services provide the flexibility you need.
By working with trusted storage companies, we ensure your belongings are kept safe and secure until you’re ready to retrieve them. This added convenience allows you to focus on other aspects of your move, knowing your items are in good hands. With our storage solutions, you can enjoy peace of mind during your relocation.
Helpful Tips for Your Next Move
To make your next move as stress-free as possible, we recommend following a detailed moving checklist. This checklist can help you stay organized and ensure that no important tasks are overlooked. From packing supplies to transportation arrangements, having a plan in place will make your relocation smoother and more efficient.
It’s also important to plan your move date well in advance. By coordinating with our moving consultants, you can secure the best time for your relocation and avoid last-minute complications. Additionally, taking advantage of expert advice and moving tips from our team can help you navigate challenges and make informed decisions throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Long distance moving is cheapest during winter or late fall and early spring, typically between the end of September to end of April. This is when the demand for long distance movers is at its lowest. However, if you have children, the best time to move is when they are out of school, and that’s summer, another time to move is in the middle of a school year.
If weather is a factor for timing your long distance moves, spring and fall are the best seasons to move. It is generally recommended to move mid-month and mid-week when demand will be at its lowest.
Contact moving services six weeks ahead of your planned moving date for visual survey and estimates and decide on a moving company at least four weeks to your moving date. Ensure that you have an agreed schedule with the mover on packing, loading, and delivery dates, based on your proposed move in day to your new location. During off-peak periods, you may not require much length of time to contact interstate movers.
To find long distance movers, ask for recommendations from family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. They might be able to recommend some van lines best services they have used in the past. You can also ask trusted local moving companies if they do long distance moving or if they have partners they can recommend.
Once you have a list of moving services, carry out a “trust search” with the Better Business Bureau, and look for a moving company with a remarkable average rating and outstanding customer care.
Some of the top long distance companies are Three Men and Truck, International Van lines, American Van Lines, Allied Van lines, and United van lines.
Interstate moves regulation requires companies to obtain auto, cargo, and general liability insurance. You should confirm that your mover has these requirements. Otherwise, contact other long distance carriers who have the insurance requirements.
You can check the websites of moving services for their licenses and insurance. You can also ask for their DOT and MC license numbers when contacting them.
Long distance movers are prohibited from moving the following items:
Gases and Propellants including LPG, gasoline, fire extinguishers, kerosene, oxygen, acetylene, compressed gas cylinders, etc..
Corrosive chemicals and poisons including drain cleaners, pool chemicals, photography chemicals.
Batteries (alkaline or acid), including automobile batteries except if it’s a vehicle being shipped.
All flammables and explosives such as flares, ammunition, and gunpowder, fireworks, industrial explosives, detonation device, wax candles especially those made of paraffin wax, aerosol spray cans.
Household cleaning products, including drain cleaners, pool chemicals, photography chemicals, lawn and garden chemicals (pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, bug bombs).
Live animals or plants
Any illegal and banned items, and substances such as drugs and narcotics.
Since live animals and plants are prohibited by long distance movers, you might be wondering how can transport your plants and pets on long distance moving. The best way to handle pets and plants is by moving them yourself.
However, you will also need to check the regulations of your destination whether they allow foreign foliage. Some states do not allow some plants to be moved in from other states.
Estimates of distance movers vary from one mover to the other. However, you can expect to be charged for Moving truck fee which covers the mileage, fuel, and other utilities such as furniture pads, straps, and dollies used for your long distance moving. You will also be charged based on crew size, the total weight of goods being moved, the cost of additional industrial coverage, and other costs.
For example, if you are hiring for full service moves which might include full or partial packing options, there will be other charges as well.
Most long distance carriers will require a moving deposit, which is usually about 15% of the estimated fee when making your booking. The balance will be expected before your goods are unloaded at your new location. There are also flexible payment such as credit cards, bank checks, money orders, and more.
The basic contract to sign with a moving company is called the bill of lading. This contract should be signed before they bring their moving truck. Read the contract step by step, only sign when you are satisfied with all the terms and conditions, you can hire a moving broker to ensure that you are getting a fair deal for your long distance moving. Also, keep the bill of lading document until you have a successful move and all charges and claims are sorted.
There are different reasons why you may need to hire a moving broker, getting fair contracts and filing for damages and losses. Also, when companies knows that you are using a broker, they will likely act more professionally.
Moving services are expected to be as detailed as possible to their customers when it comes to estimates, billings, and contracts. As a customer, you have FMCA-sanctioned rights and responsibilities which the mover should make reference with you in your conversation.
International van lines suggests the following checklists in preparation for your long distance move:
Confirm your moving date at least a month before your move, and make a reservation with a moving company of your choice.
If doing the packing yourself purchase the required packing supplies, but if you hire a full service mover, this would be covered in the estimate.
Organize your garage and closets and discard the things you don’t need. You can donate unwanted stuff to charity.
If you have children, start contacting the local school to transfer records.
Get a change of address card from your local post office.
Start notifying all vendors of your address change.
Your move is will require packing, loading, and unloading at the destination point. Are you packing yourself or using the same movers for packing? If hiring full service, you might expect faster packing which helps you gain time.
Another factor that affect the duration of your packing is how close the truck can get to your door so loading can be faster. Other main factors that affect a long distance move include the size of your house, volume and magnitude of your household goods, and the distance of the final destination. Generally, you can expect to complete your long distance moves in two weeks.
It’s possible that you experience a delay in moving to your new location, you can get storage services for your long distance move. That can be because your new home is not ready yet. Some companies offer secure and safe temporary storage for your non-crucial items pending the time your new place is ready.
Some other companies also offer long-term storage facilities as well in case you sold your house and you’re not ready to move to a new place yet.
To ensure that your first night in your home is a smooth and enjoyable one, it is good to have a “first night” box where you pack items you will need for personal hygiene, cleaning, eating, and unpacking. Here’s a quick list:
Cleaning Supplies including disinfectant, broom and dustpan, brush, toilet cleaner, rags, paper towels, dish soap, trash bags, pliers, screwdrivers and screws, drill and drill bits, flashlights, light bulbs, shower curtain, etc.
Food and beverages including fast snacks, canned foods, and fruits, disposable plates, cups, and cutleries, napkins.
Linens including mattress cover, pillows, sheets, blanket, bathmat.
Clothing including pajamas, sweatshirt, a pair of slippers each for everyone, a sweatshirt, outfit for the next day.
Unpacking tools including scissors, box cutter, furniture assembly tools, trash bags, first aid kit, etc.
Your moving company can also advise you on how to pack your first night box and put it among the first item to offload.
The cost of long-distance moving services provided by professional moving companies can vary widely based on several factors. The average cost for a long-distance move could range from around $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the specific details of the move. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and prices may have changed since then.
Here are some key factors that can influence the cost of long-distance moving services:
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Distance: The distance between your current location and your destination is a significant factor. Longer distances generally result in higher transportation costs.
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Size of the Move: The volume and weight of your belongings impact the cost. More items and heavier loads require more resources and time.
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Additional Services: Services such as packing, unpacking, storage, and specialty item handling come with additional costs.
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Packing Materials: The cost of packing materials like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper will be included.
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Type of Move: Whether you opt for a consolidated or dedicated move can affect the price. Consolidated moves might be more cost-effective but could take longer.
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Time of Year: Moving during peak seasons (spring and summer) can result in higher costs due to increased demand.
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Company Choice: Different moving companies have varying pricing structures. Obtaining quotes from multiple companies will give you a better idea of the average cost for your specific move.
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Insurance: The level of insurance coverage you choose for your belongings will impact the cost.
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Additional Fees: Inquire about potential additional fees, such as fuel surcharges, tolls, and fees for navigating certain locations.
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Labor Costs: Labor costs vary based on the moving company’s rates and the number of workers required.
To get a precise estimate for your long-distance move, we recommend reaching out to several moving companies and providing them with detailed information about your move. Some companies might offer in-person or virtual assessments to better understand the scope of the move and provide a more accurate estimate. Prices can vary widely, so obtaining multiple quotes will help you understand the cost range for your specific situation.
The average cost of a long-distance moving company typically ranges from $2,200 to $5,700, with a national average of around $3,950. However, the exact cost of your move will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The size of your home or apartment
- The distance you are moving
- The time of year you are moving
- The services you need (e.g., packing, unpacking, storage)
- The type of moving company you hire
Here is a breakdown of some of the key factors that can affect the cost of your long-distance move:
- Size of your home or apartment: The larger your home or apartment, the more belongings you will have to move, which will increase the cost of your move.
- Distance you are moving: The longer the distance you are moving, the more expensive your move will be. This is because the moving company will have to factor in the cost of gas, tolls, and other travel expenses.
- Time of year you are moving: Moving companies tend to be busiest during the summer months, so moving during this time of year may be more expensive.
- Services you need: If you need additional services, such as packing, unpacking, or storage, this will also increase the cost of your move.
- Type of moving company you hire: There are two main types of moving companies: full-service moving companies and budget moving companies. Full-service moving companies offer a wider range of services, such as packing, unpacking, and storage. However, they are also more expensive. Budget moving companies typically only offer basic moving services, such as loading and unloading your belongings.
To get an accurate estimate of the cost of your long-distance move, it is important to get quotes from multiple moving companies. Be sure to ask about all of the services you need and any additional fees that may apply.
Three Movers provides coverage options to protect your belongings while they are in transit. Basic liability coverage is included, which reimburses a set amount per pound for lost or damaged items. Additional full-value protection can be purchased for more comprehensive coverage, giving peace of mind for valuable or fragile items throughout the journey.
You can include your car as part of a long-distance move. Many moving companies coordinate both vehicle and household transport so everything arrives around the same time. It’s a convenient option that saves you from arranging separate delivery services or long drives.
