How Much Does It Cost To Move Across Country? Save on Moving

Average Cost To Move Cross Country

The average cost of moving across country is $3,718, with average prices for a cross country move ranging from $1,960 to $5,480 for the US in 2019 according to project costs reported by 789 members on HomeAdvisor.

Moving.com suggests nearly the same cost at $4,890 for a cross country move of $1,000 miles, with cost estimates based on moving a 2-3 bedroom house with 7,500 pounds worth of household items.

Thousands move from one side of the country to the other everyday. Many due to job relocation, family emergencies, to attend a college or university or just looking for a change of pace. In any case, it helps to know before you begin packing what your costs and options are in terms of hiring a moving company.

How Much Does It Cost To Move Across The Country? Depends!

Well it depends on a lot of factors. The specific dollar amount will vary widely depending on the kind of move you want, where you’re moving to, how much you have to move, the moving company itself and the time of the year.

So let’s take a look at each of the factors listed above.

The Kind Of Moving You Choose Can Be Expensive Or Cheap Let Your Budget Decide

Full service moves typically include a moving team to pack and load your belongings at both your current residence and will unload at your new location. Most across country moving companies offering full service moves charge more.

There are variations on full service moves. You can pack your own belongings and have the moving company load and deliver to your new location. Plus they will unload everything for you.

Self service moving could mean you pack and load. The company drives across country to your new location where you will then unload everything yourself. Some choose this option because it’s cheaper.

Then, of course, you can rent a moving truck from a moving company and do the packing, loading and driving yourself.

Location

Where you are moving from as well as where you are moving to. The distance in miles and accessibility could increase or decrease costs. You will need to speak with a moving company representative to find out what the actual cost may be.

How Much You Have To Move

The cost to move across country will be very different depending on how much you have to move. Obviously, someone moving an entire 3 bedroom home is going to have a lot more than someone moving a one-bedroom apartment or condo. Moving companies charge according to how much your belongings weigh.

If you’re on a tight budget you might consider selling furniture and other items you no longer have any use for. This way you may be able to significantly reduce the weight…which means reducing your overall costs.

When You Move Can Make A Big Difference In Cost

Certain times of the year are more expensive or cheaper. During peak moving season (summer months) you can expect to pay more. Off peak season means there are fewer people to move and business is generally slower. If you can move during the slow part of the season you will most likely pay less.

Miscellaneous Costs To Be Aware Of

If you choose a full service move, they pack, load, deliver and unload…you may be charged extra once the company arrives with your belongings. If the distance from the trunk to your door exceeds a specific distance some will charge an additional fee. This varies from company to company. Others may not charge at all.

If your new apartment or condo is on an upper floor…you will be charged an additional fee if elevator access is unavailable or if there is no elevator.

Moving Supplies

Even if you choose to pack on your own, you’re going to need lots of packing supplies. Boxes, tape, markers, labels, bubble wrap, padding etc…The moving service you choose will have all of the supplies you need. You can order them directly from them and have them delivered ahead of your move.

If on the other hand, you opt for a full service move, they will arrive with everything needed. You will still have to pay for the boxes and supplies they use to pack your belongings.

So Now What Should You Do Next?

Now that you have a better understanding of what is involved…you can now contact a moving company and ask for a moving quote. Some movers will send a representative to your home to estimate how much your move will cost. Others will have you fill out a serious of questions online. Still, others may ask you questions over the phone and give you an estimate that way.

Start calling movers as far in advance of your move as possible. Get a few quotes before making your final decision.