Get a 20% discount from our partners! Discount code will get added automatically when you submit the form. 
The cost of a long-distance move typically ranges between $2,200 and $5,700. While the national average for moving is around $1,400 for local moves, relocating far away can elevate this figure due to factors such as distance, weight of belongings, and the type of moving service selected.
Planning a move far away? Relocating to a distant location can bring various challenges, with cost being one of the primary concerns for many. The expenses for long-distance moves differ from local relocations, and understanding the factors that play into this can help you budget effectively and prepare for the journey ahead.
Determining the Average Expenses of a Long-Distance Move
Relocating your belongings over a long distance can indeed sap funds; however, understanding the average moving costs can help you budget effectively. The expenses relating to long-distance moving typically encompass packing, transportation, and labor, which can be calculated per mile or on an hourly basis. Additionally, insurance costs for securing the move, costs arising from the complexity of the move, such as handling delicate items, and unexpected charges should be taken into consideration.
Many of these variables are set in stone, but some can be managed. For instance, doing your own packaging can help reduce costs. Whether you choose to hire a full-service moving company, rent a moving truck, or use a portable moving container, there are decisions that will significantly influence the overall cost. The choice, therefore, lies in balancing affordability and convenience while keeping these factors in mind.
The Role of Distance in Moving Costs
Understanding how distance impacts the cost of moving is crucial when planning a transition between cities or states. Essentially, the farther you are planning to move, the more expensive the overall cost is likely to be. The reason for this is quite straightforward. Moving companies calculate their prices based on the time and labor required to transport possessions from one place to another. Naturally, covering greater distances demands more from both of these resources, which in turn influences the total fees.
Consequently, this cost-driver cannot be manipulated by customers to save money. Unlike factors such as the size and nature of items to be moved, which can be tinkered with to potentially lower costs, no control can be exerted over geographical distance. This inherent impact on relocation expenses underscores the importance of thoroughly researching moving companies and their pricing structures to find the most economical option for a given route.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance of the move plays a significant role in determining the overall costs. The further the distance, the more you have to pay for fuel, labor, and transportation. So, in general, long-distance moves are more expensive than short-distance moves.
The average expenses of a long-distance move can vary greatly depending on the size of your household and the distance of the move. However, it typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. This cost includes expenses such as moving company fees, packing materials, fuel charges, and insurance.
Several factors are considered in the costs of a long-distance move. These include the distance of the move, the weight and volume of your belongings, the time it takes to pack, load, and unload your items, the number of movers needed, and the time of year you choose to move.
There are several ways to reduce the costs of a long-distance move. These include downsizing your belongings before the move, packing your items yourself, choosing an off-peak moving season, and comparing quotes from multiple moving companies to ensure you're getting the best price.
Yes, there can be unexpected costs in long-distance moving. These could include charges for packing materials, extra fees for handling heavy or oversized items, costs for dismantling and reassembling furniture, and additional insurance costs. You should ask your moving company for a detailed quote to avoid any surprises.
Share on Facebook 
Share on LinkedIn 
Share on Twitter 
