Average Moving Costs Per Mile

Unlike local moves where you are charged by the hour, the price of a long-distance move is generally calculated based on the total weight of your shipment and the distance your belongings must be transported. Every company does things a little differently, but you’re usually charged a rate per mile and a rate per pound.

Although costs can vary considerably, the average cost of moving long distance is determined by the hauling rates per mile, which is 75 cents per mile and approximately 50 cents per pound. In most cases, the farther the distance, the lower the mileage rate. So, although your move will be more expensive overall when moving a longer distance, the rate per mile is less. However, there is much more that goes into calculating the costs of a long distance move than rates per mile. Let’s dive in.

Factors of Long Distance Moving Costs

There are many factors to determine the hauling costs in a long distance move. The cost to haul varies according to distance, weight, and other additional factors. Insurance charges, fuel costs, extra hands, etc also factor in the change in moving prices. Again, while the costs of a local move are typically done on a “per hour” basis, long distance hauls usually involve three key factors:

• The total weight of your goods to be moved.
• The distance of the move.
• Cost of additional services requested.

Since it can be difficult to estimate the weight of your belongings, the best way to obtain the most accurate cost of your move is to have an in-home estimate done by at least three moving companies. In this case, the moving companies will either provide you with a non-binding or binding estimate. A non-binding estimate simply means that the cost may go up based on the final weight of your shipment. On the other hand, a binding estimate, also known as a “not-to-exceed” estimate, is a more defined agreement between you and your moving company.

With a binding estimate, the final cost can still change if you add items to your haul after the estimate is performed. However, these types of estimates provide the maximum cost that the movers agree not to exceed. It’s important to keep in mind that moving companies may charge extra for a binding estimate.

When moving companies prepare an estimate, they determine the weight of your shipment by calculating the average weight of items in homes that are a similar size to yours. Then, once hauling day rolls around, the moving company will calculate the actual weight of your shipment by weighing the empty hauling truck first and then again once it is full of your belongings.

Average Hauling Rates For Interstate Moves(Per Mile)

You must be wondering how much moving companies charge per mile. The cost of a long-distance move typically ranges between 50 cents and 70 cents per pound transported 1,000 miles. To put things into perspective, the approximate weight of items in a one-bedroom apartment is roughly 2,500 pounds, which translates to an estimated moving cost between $1,250 and $1,750.

Or, in other words, the average moving company cost per mile is about 75 cents. In fact, most hauling companies charge based on a “per-mile” rate. The hauling rates per mile are also affected by other potential costs such as fuel charges or tolls. Let’s break this down further:

• Studio apartment: The total weight of items in a studio apartment is between 1,800 and 2,000 on average. With this in mind, the average cost of moving the contents of your studio about 1,000 miles away is no less than $1,500, not including additional services.
• One-bedroom apartment: The household goods in a one-bedroom apartment weigh approximately 2,500 to 3,500 pounds. This translates to a cost range of between $1,800 and $2,500 for a long-distance move, without any extra moving services.
• A two-bedroom apartment or home: The items in a two-bedroom home weigh an average of 5,000 to 6,000 pounds. So, for a long-distance move that is around 1,000 miles, you’ll end up paying no less than $3,500 to $4,200. Again, this does not include any accessorial relocation services.

Keep in mind that these costs are very rough estimates, and the actual moving rates per mile will depend on numerous factors. Not to mention, you may have more or fewer items in your home compared to average.

Additional Price of Long Distance Relocating

Depending on the conditions surrounding your long-distance move, you may be charged for some additional services that your moving company provides. While incredibly convenient, the most expensive additional service is the packing and unpacking of your belongings.

Other additional costs that you may incur include:

• Using stairs or operating an elevator to move your goods.
• Hauling items a long distance between your house and the moving truck (typically over 75 feet).
• Disassembling and reassembling furniture.
• Disconnecting and reconnecting appliances.
• Storing your belongings at any point during the haul.
• Shuttle services if there isn’t enough parking for the moving truck near your home.
• Handling items that require special care, such as antiques, pianos, safes, pool tables, or artwork.

Another factor that may impact the final cost of your move is if you opt for full-value protection insurance. Most moving companies provide the minimum insurance protection – released value protection – at no extra cost to you. However, this insurance only covers $.60 per pound, per item in the unlikely event of loss or damage. Requesting for an additional truck may also elevate the moving costs. The hauling truck cost per mile is determined by the distance and weight to be traveled. Using additional trucks will increase the relocating rates per mile.

Additionally, the data can significantly influence the cost of your long-distance move. The peak season for the moving industry is typically from May through September. Because of the increased demand, hauling companies may drive up their prices by nearly 20 percent during this time. Moving costs also tend to be higher on weekends, major holidays, and at the beginning and end of every month.

Beware of Potential Moving Fraud

When it comes to planning a move, it is crucial that you choose the right company to avoid being a victim of moving fraud. There are a number of ways that you could become a victim of hauling fraud, each of which is expensive. In fact, in 2017 alone, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reported that over 4,100 consumers filed moving fraud claims. The average claim was a staggering $8,000. Around 53% of these consumers stated that they were overcharged for hauling services. Be sure to know and make sure that the moving rates per mile your company charges you are reasonable. While 41% experienced either damage or loss to their property.

However, 9% of these consumers were subjected to hostage load situations. This is when a moving company takes your belongings hostage until you fork over a higher fee than what was originally agreed upon or paid. To avoid any unpleasant costs as a result of moving fraud, keep an eye out for the following red flags:

• Estimates are given over the phone or via email without physically viewing your belongings.
• Refusing to provide the estimate in writing.
• Requesting that you sign a blank contract.
• Requiring a cash payment or large deposit before the moving day.
• Not having a valid address or only a cell phone number as a form of contact.

Before you consider a moving company, ALWAYS ask what kind of estimate they provide. If possible, insist on an in-home survey and make sure that you get everything in writing!

Achieving a Successful Long-Distance Hauls

When it comes to hiring a professional moving company for a long-distance relocation, the phrase “you get what you pay for” holds true. Choosing the right company that is reliable, trustworthy, and experienced will save you time, relieve a significant amount of hauling stress, ensure the safety of your belongings, and prevent personal injury.

So, if you want to know about the average moving rates per mile, contact one of our shifting experts today. We’ll start scheduling your FREE, in-home estimate and tell you how you could save up to 20% when you choose Three Movers as your long-distance haulers.

How Moving Costs are Calculated?

Moving costs are calculated based on relocation prices. You multiply the estimated time to complete the move and the shifting company hourly rate. Also, add the charge for other services like packing materials, travel time, and tips if you work with movers.

How Do I Know If My Move Is Considered Local Or Long-Distance?

Any move that is more than 100 miles is considered a long-distance haul, and also, the moves out of state are considered long-distance hauls even if the distance is below 100 miles.

Do I Have To Be Present During The Haul Or At The Destination?

We propose you be there for the on-site evaluation and on the day of departure from the original location. However, if you share all requirements clearly with us, we’ll supply impeccable service without supervision.

Why Move With the Three Movers?

Three Movers have worked for many years and are very experience. We have successfully completed hundred’s of hauls and are well known about the area. You’ll get affordable, safe move with Three Movers.

How Much Does It Cost To Pack And Move?

The cost of packing services can significantly vary based on the size of the haul and the fragility of the items being packed. It usually costs somewhere between $270 and $2,200 and the price of moving services to pack and move.