Long distance moving prices in 2025 can mean different things depending on what is included. Some quotes focus only on basic truckload rates, while others blend mileage with packing, insurance, storage, and peak season surcharges. The guide below walks through typical price ranges by distance and home size, how different service levels change the bill, what really drives costs, and practical ways to keep a long distance moving budget under control.
Key Points (2025)
- Typical price range: In 2025, most long distance moves land somewhere between $2,200 and $17,000+, depending on distance, shipment weight, service level, and whether packing or storage are included.
- Distance and size: A one bedroom apartment moved under 500 miles often costs around $2,000-$4,000. A 4+ bedroom home going coast to coast can reach $10,000 – $18,000+ when full services are added.
- Market trends: Compared with 2024, prices in 2025 tend to be about 8 – 12 percent higher as diesel, labor, and equipment costs stay elevated. Moves booked off season or with flexible dates usually see savings of 20-35 percent.
- Service level: The type of service matters as much as the miles. A transport only move can be roughly 40-50 percent cheaper than a full service move for the same route and shipment size.
Typical Long Distance Moving Prices in 2025
Reputable long distance movers usually price jobs using a mix of weight or volume and mileage. On top of that, they layer in charges for packing, materials, storage, and other extras. The table below gives a feel for common full service price ranges in 2025. These examples assume standard access at both homes and no unusual items like pianos or hot tubs.
| Distance | Small Home / Apartment Studio-1 BR (2,000-3,000 lbs) |
Medium Home 2-3 BR (5,000-8,000 lbs) |
Larger Home 4+ BR (10,000-15,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to about 250 miles | $1,800 – $3,000 | $3,500 – $6,500 | $6,000 – $9,500 |
| 250 – 1,000 miles | $2,200 – $4,200 | $4,000 – $8,500 | $7,500 – $13,000 |
| 1,000 – 1,500 miles | $2,700 – $5,000 | $4,500 – $9,500 | $8,500 – $15,000 |
| 1,500 – 2,500 miles | $3,000 – $6,000 | $5,500 – $11,000 | $9,000 – $16,000 |
| 2,500+ miles (coast to coast) | $3,500 – $7,000 | $6,500 – $13,000 | $10,000 – $18,000+ |
These numbers reflect typical full service ranges. Transport only moves, container services, and heavy specialty handling can land above or below these bands. Prices also assume 2025 market conditions with higher than pre pandemic fuel and labor costs.
How Service Level Changes the Price
Two quotes that look like they describe the same move can still be thousands of dollars apart. Often, those estimates are not really answering the same question. One may be focused on moving the truck from point A to point B, while another is covering packing, materials, storage, and extra protection for your belongings.
| Service Type | What It Includes | Typical Cost Impact | Usually a Good Fit For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport Only | Loading, transport, and unloading of the items you have already packed. | Baseline cost (think of this as 100 percent) | People on a tighter budget who are comfortable packing themselves. |
| Partial Packing | Professional packing for breakables or certain rooms, while you pack the rest. | Often about 15-25 percent more than transport only | Households that want help with fragile or high stress areas but still want to save. |
| Full Service Move | Packing, materials, loading, transport, unload, and basic furniture setup at the new place. | Roughly 40-60 percent more than transport only, depending on home size | Busy families, long distance relocations for work, or anyone who values time over labor. |
| Premium Full Service | Everything in full service, plus unpacking, detailed setup, and sometimes short term storage. | Sometimes 70 – 90 percent more than transport only | High value homes, complex household moves, or situations where you need a turn key experience. |
| DIY Rental Truck | You rent the truck and handle packing, loading, driving, and unloading yourself. | Commonly $600 – $4,500 depending on distance and truck size | Small homes, short or regional moves, and people comfortable doing the physical work. |
| Moving Containers | A container is dropped off, you load it, and the company transports and delivers it. | Often $900 – $4,500+ for long distance, depending on the number of containers and miles | Moves where you want flexibility and are fine loading and unloading over several days. |
As one example, a 2-3 bedroom move from Texas to California might be around $3,500 for transport only if you pack, and $12,000 or more for a full service package that includes packing, unpacking, and storage. The route is the same, but the experience is very different.
What Drives Long Distance Moving Costs in 2025
Long distance prices are not random. A handful of factors show up again and again in every detailed quote. Getting familiar with these helps you understand why the number looks the way it does, and where there is room to adjust.
Distance and Mileage
More miles almost always means a higher total bill. At the same time, the cost per mile often drops on very long routes because the truck stays full and productive for more of the trip. A 500 mile move for a 2 bedroom home may sit around $2,200-$3,500, while a move of more than 2,500 miles for the same size often falls in the $6,500-$13,000 range.
Weight and Volume
Most full service movers price interstate jobs by weight. As a rough guide, studios often come in around 2,000 – 3,000 pounds, one bedroom homes around 3,000 – 5,000 pounds, two bedroom homes around 5,000 – 8,000 pounds, and so on. The more you bring, the higher the cost tends to run. When people trim 2,000 pounds of belongings, it is not unusual to see savings in the hundreds or even low thousands of dollars.
Packing and Materials
Packing can be a significant part of the overall bill. Full packing for an average sized home can add roughly $1,500-$5,000 between labor and materials. Having the movers pack only breakables or certain rooms keeps help where it matters most and often keeps costs closer to a few hundred dollars per room.
Timing and Seasonality
Long distance moving is highly seasonal. Summer and early fall are the busiest times, especially May-September and around month end. Quotes during those periods often come in 20 – 35 percent higher than a similar move in January or February. Midweek and mid month dates usually sit in a more budget friendly zone.
Fuel and Surcharges
Fuel costs show up as either a separate fuel surcharge or as part of the base rate. When diesel is higher, movers have to account for that in the price. Over a 2,000 mile trip, even a modest per mile fuel adjustment can make a real difference.
Additional Services
Every extra service carries its own cost. Vehicle shipping, third party crating, long term storage, hoisting, or special handling for items like hot tubs and pool tables all add to the total. A single piano move can add hundreds or thousands of dollars, and shipping a car typically adds several hundred to more than a thousand dollars depending on distance and service type.
Access and Special Conditions
Some homes are simple to reach, and others are not. Stairs, elevators, long walks from parking to the door, tight city streets, and gated communities can all require extra labor or a smaller shuttle truck. Those adjustments often appear as additional line items on the estimate.
Valuation and Protection
Basic liability coverage is usually very limited, often just a small amount per pound. Full value protection, which covers repair or replacement up to an agreed amount, gives more peace of mind but also increases the cost of the move. Many families choose a higher level of protection for long distance relocations.
Why Moving Quotes Disagree So Much
If you are collecting multiple estimates, it is very normal to see a wide spread in numbers. Often, that spread comes down to the type of estimate and the way the quote is structured.
Non Binding Estimates
These are best seen as informed guesses. The mover looks at your inventory description and offers a price that can go up if the weight is higher or more services end up being needed. The starting number may be attractive, but there is less certainty around the final bill.
Binding or Not To Exceed Estimates
A binding estimate, sometimes called not to exceed, sets a ceiling on what you will pay as long as the inventory and services do not change. If the shipment ends up lighter, the final price can even drop. Many people prefer this format because it makes budgeting simpler.
Hybrid Approaches
Some companies offer a blend, with binding pricing on the main transport and more flexible estimates on add ons like packing or storage. In those cases, the fine print becomes especially important to read.
When two quotes look very different, it can help to check which items are binding, what is simply an estimate, and whether both companies are truly including the same scope of work.
Regional Price Patterns in 2025
Northeast and Mid Atlantic
Busy corridors between large cities help keep base rates competitive, especially for metro to metro moves. At the same time, dense urban areas often come with challenges like elevators, limited parking, and narrow streets, which can add to labor and access costs, especially for high rise buildings.
Southeast
Rapid growth and strong job markets in cities across the Southeast have attracted many national and regional carriers. That usually translates into healthy competition and reasonable long distance pricing. Moves into rural areas or resort communities may still carry premiums, especially during peak retirement or vacation seasons.
Midwest and Central States
Central geography works in favor of many Midwest routes. With shorter average deadhead miles, trucks tend to be used efficiently, which can help the bottom line. Weather and rural access still need to be factored in, but metro to metro moves in this region often sit at the more affordable end of national ranges.
Mountain West
Moves that cross mountain passes or serve remote high elevation communities face a different set of realities. Long stretches between towns, winter weather, and steep grades put extra demands on trucks and drivers. Prices for these routes often run higher, especially in cold weather months.
West Coast
The West Coast has dense populations and active housing markets, which supports a large number of movers. That said, local labor costs, traffic congestion, tolls, and regulations can push long distance prices up compared with some other regions. Moves leaving expensive metro areas often combine high local costs with long distances.
Cross Country Routes
Coast to coast and border to border routes are some of the longest that movers run. Popular migration paths with steady flows in both directions often have friendlier pricing. When most people are moving only one way, trucks may have to travel many miles empty to reset, and that can show up in the quote. Read more at Cross Country Moving Costs
Popular Long Distance Moving Routes and Approximate Prices (2025)
Certain corridors see steady traffic year round, and that often translates into more predictable pricing and established carrier networks. Here is a snapshot of some of the most common long distance routes families move along, with typical 2025 price ranges for a standard 2-3 bedroom household (around 7,000 pounds).
| From | To | Distance | Transport Only | Full Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | Boston, MA | ~215 miles | $2,500 – $3,500 | $4,500 – $6,500 | Well traveled Northeast corridor with strong carrier presence. |
| Los Angeles, CA | San Francisco, CA | ~380 miles | $3,000 – $4,200 | $5,500 – $7,500 | High cost local market but short route. Both cities have expensive access costs. |
| Chicago, IL | Dallas, TX | ~920 miles | $3,500 – $4,800 | $6,000 – $8,500 | Central hub routing keeps costs moderate despite distance. |
| Miami, FL | New York, NY | ~1,280 miles | $4,000 – $5,500 | $7,000 – $10,000 | One of the heaviest traffic corridors with competitive pricing. |
| Phoenix, AZ | Denver, CO | ~600 miles | $3,200 – $4,500 | $6,000 – $8,000 | Southwest hub routes benefit from carrier density. |
| Houston, TX | Los Angeles, CA | ~1,550 miles | $4,500 – $6,000 | $8,000 – $12,000 | Popular migration route with good competition but longer distance. |
| Atlanta, GA | Washington, DC | ~640 miles | $3,000 – $4,200 | $5,500 – $7,500 | Southeast growth corridor with steady traffic and competitive rates. |
| Seattle, WA | Portland, OR | ~175 miles | $2,200 – $3,200 | $4,500 – $6,000 | Short route with high local labor costs offsets distance advantage. |
| Austin, TX | Nashville, TN | ~1,100 miles | $3,800 – $5,200 | $6,500 – $9,000 | Growing tech hub destinations with increasing carrier competition. |
| San Diego, CA | Phoenix, AZ | ~355 miles | $2,800 – $3,800 | $5,000 – $7,000 | Regional route with moderate rates but high California labor costs. |
| Boston, MA | Charlotte, NC | ~635 miles | $3,200 – $4,500 | $6,000 – $8,500 | Northeast to Southeast corridor showing increasing traffic. |
| Denver, CO | Salt Lake City, UT | ~525 miles | $3,000 – $4,200 | $5,500 – $7,500 | Mountain West routes face elevation and weather considerations. |
These estimates reflect typical 2025 full service and transport only pricing for a standard 2-3 bedroom household (approximately 7,000 pounds). Actual quotes may vary based on seasonal demand, specific access conditions, and individual mover pricing models. Peak summer moves typically run 15-25 percent higher, while off season moves may be 20-30 percent lower. Prices assume standard weekday delivery windows. Guaranteed date delivery typically adds 10-30 percent to the quoted rate.
How to Read a Long Distance Moving Quote
At first glance, a moving estimate can look like a wall of numbers. Breaking it into a few key pieces usually makes it easier to see what you are paying for.
- Estimate type: It helps to notice right away whether the estimate is binding or non binding. That single word changes how much certainty you have about the final bill.
- Base transport vs extras: The base linehaul covers the main trip. Items like packing, long carries, stairs, and storage usually appear in their own sections. Seeing those groups separately can make comparisons easier.
- Assumed weight: Many quotes list an estimated weight for your shipment. That estimate should stem from a room by room inventory, not just a guess based on square footage.
- Coverage level: A quick look at the valuation section shows what kind of protection is built in and what upgrades are available. Basic coverage and full value protection are very different products.
- Delivery timing: Some estimates list a delivery window, while others mention guaranteed dates as an option. The cost difference between a standard window and a firm date is often significant.
- Vague fees: If any fees are labeled in a way that is hard to interpret, a short follow up question usually clears them up. Reputable companies are comfortable explaining each line.
Methodology and Definitions for Long Distance Pricing
- Linehaul: The primary charge for moving your shipment from origin to destination, based on weight and miles.
- Accessorial charges: Additional services such as packing, crating, storage, shuttles, long carries, and special handling for fragile or oversized items.
- Weight based pricing: A method that uses the actual loaded weight of your belongings to calculate the base cost of the move.
- Volume based pricing: An approach, often used in container moves, that prices based on cubic feet instead of pounds.
- Fuel surcharge: A variable charge that reflects the cost of fuel during your move.
- Valuation: The declared value of your shipment for coverage purposes. This is separate from any third party insurance you might carry.
- Binding estimate: A written quote that sets a firm maximum price for the described services and inventory.
- Non binding estimate: A quote that can change if the actual weight or services differ from what was originally discussed.
A Quick Recipe for Comparing Quotes
When several estimates are sitting in your inbox, a simple side by side process can make the choice feel less overwhelming.
- Clarify the service level: It often helps to note whether each quote covers transport only, partial packing, or full service. Comparing a full service bid to a transport only bid rarely feels fair.
- Line up the key numbers: Many people like to jot down total price, estimated weight, distance, and whether the estimate is binding on a single page or spreadsheet.
- Look at what is included: Some quotes roll materials and basic protection into the main number, while others list them separately. A quick check there can explain part of the price gap.
- Check timing and flexibility: Delivery windows, date flexibility, and options for storage in transit all have value. A slightly higher price with a better schedule might still be the better fit.
- Consider the overall experience: Communication style, clarity, and professionalism on the front end often hint at how move day will feel. Price matters, but it is not the only signal.
- Confirm in writing: Once you are leaning toward a company, a final written confirmation of services, dates, and price brings the plan together.
Planning Checklist for Long Distance Moving Costs
About 3 Months Before
- It usually helps to sketch out a rough moving budget based on home size and distance.
- Many families choose a service level around this time, such as full service or partial packing.
- Sorting and decluttering early often makes packing easier and trims the final bill.
- Checking your new lease or closing date keeps the timing realistic.
About 6-8 Weeks Before (Peak Season)
- Most people start collecting detailed written quotes at this stage.
- It is a good moment to ask questions about delivery windows, storage, and coverage options.
- Elevator reservations, building notices, or parking permits are easier to arrange with a bit of lead time.
- Sharing photos or doing a virtual walk through helps movers quote more accurately.
2-4 Weeks Before
- This is a natural point to choose a mover and sign your agreement.
- Packing supplies arrive or packing dates are scheduled.
- Utility shut offs at the old home and turn ons at the new home get lined up.
- A simple inventory list can help you double check what is included in the estimate.
Final 1-2 Weeks
- Most boxes are packed or ready for the packing crew.
- Important documents, valuables, and essentials are set aside to travel with you.
- A quick call or email with your move coordinator confirms arrival times and parking details.
- Going back over the estimate one more time keeps move day billing simple and predictable.
Cost Glossary
- Linehaul: The main transport charge that covers moving the shipment from origin to destination.
- Accessorial charges: Fees for additional services such as packing, long carries, shuttles, or storage.
- Valuation: The value assigned to your belongings for coverage. This is not the same as traditional home or renter insurance.
- Binding estimate: A quote that sets a firm maximum price for the described services and inventory.
- Non binding estimate: A quote that may change based on actual weight or services used.
- Fuel surcharge: An extra fee that reflects the cost of fuel during your move.
- Deadhead miles: Miles that a truck travels while empty, often to reach your origin or next job.
- Peak season: The busiest part of the year for moving companies, usually late spring through early fall.
- Off season: Cooler months when demand is lower and pricing can be more flexible.
Ways to Keep Long Distance Moving Costs Manageable
Even in a higher cost year, there are plenty of levers that help bring the total down without sacrificing too much convenience.
- Lighten the load: Every item that does not make the trip is one less thing to pay to move. Many families donate, sell, or recycle bulky furniture and duplicate items before a long distance move.
- Mix DIY with help: A common middle ground is to handle most of the packing and let the movers focus on fragile items, large furniture, and loading.
- Lean into off peak times: When schedules allow, choosing an off season month or even just a midweek date can have a noticeable effect on the quote.
- Stay flexible on delivery: Wider delivery windows are not always convenient, but they do give dispatchers more options to place your shipment on efficient routes.
- Compare more than one option: Looking at several companies side by side tends to reveal a clear middle band for fair pricing on your route.
- Ask about discounts: Some movers offer reduced rates for military families, seniors, corporate relocations, or repeat customers.
FAQ
What is a realistic budget for a 2-3 bedroom cross country move in 2025?
For a 2-3 bedroom home going coast to coast, many households see full service totals somewhere between $6,500 and $13,000. A transport only move where you handle the packing can often fall closer to the $3,500-$7,000 range for the same route.
Why do quotes for the same move look so different?
Differences usually come from what is included, how much weight is assumed, and whether the estimate is binding. One mover may include packing and full value protection in the main number, while another lists those as optional add ons.
How far ahead should long distance movers be booked?
For summer and month end dates, many people feel most comfortable booking 6-8 weeks ahead. During the off season or for flexible mid month moves, 3-4 weeks can still provide good options.
Is renting a truck always cheaper than hiring movers?
Renting a truck often looks cheaper at first glance, and for shorter local moves it can be. For long distance routes, the total cost of truck rental, fuel, lodging, equipment, and time off work sometimes comes close to a professional transport only quote.
What months tend to be the most affordable for moving?
January and February are often the slowest months for movers, followed by late fall. Moves in these windows usually have the best chance of landing near the lower end of typical price ranges.
Can moving quotes be negotiated?
Many companies are open to a conversation, especially when you have a written estimate from another reputable mover for the same services. It is usually easiest to talk about matching scope and value first, then talk about price.
References
- moveBuddha – The Cost to Move Out of State (2025). Comprehensive analysis of interstate moving prices by distance, home size, and service type.
- Allied Van Lines – Long Distance Moving Cost Calculator (2025). Industry benchmarks for household goods moves and pricing by shipment weight.
- Forbes Home – How Much Does It Cost to Move Across the Country (2025). Data driven analysis of cross country moving expenses and service comparisons.
- FMCSA – Safer Database. Federal resource to verify USDOT numbers, MC numbers, and moving company credentials.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration – Diesel Fuel Prices. Weekly and monthly diesel price data that influences 2025 moving surcharges.
