Get Your Free Moving Estimate
The cheapest way to move your belongings to another state is typically by renting a truck or using portable moving containers. While this DIY approach can significantly cut costs, it also requires more time, physical effort, and careful planning.
If you’re willing to handle the labor yourself, it’s a smart budget-friendly option but be prepared for the extra workload and responsibilities that come with it.
Here are the most budget-friendly ways to relocate long distance:
1. Rent a Moving Truck (DIY Move)
Cheapest upfront costs
Ideal for small loads or flexible timelines
Requires driving, fuel, tolls, and self-loading
2. Use a Moving Container
Mid-range pricing
You pack, they ship
More flexible than full-service movers
3. Hire State-to-State Moving Companies
Best for convenience and large moves
More expensive but includes packing, loading, transport, and delivery
No need to drive a truck or lift heavy items
Feature | Full-Service Movers | U-Haul |
|---|---|---|
Price | Higher (includes all services) | Lower (you load/unload) |
Convenience | High (zero lifting) | You do all the packing, loading & driving |
Packing Supplies | Often included | You do it yourself |
Insurance Coverage | Usually included | Optional add-on |
Risk of Damage | Professionals reduce risk of damage | Higher, especially with inexperience |
Hiring licensed State-to-State movers offers serious advantages:
FMCSA Licensing & Insurance
Ensures legal compliance for state-to-state moves
Protects your belongings against damage or loss
Professional Logistics
Movers handle everything from scheduling to routing
Avoids delays or wrong turns on major routes like CA to TX or IL to FL
Total Convenience
No heavy lifting, no driving
Optional services: packing, storage, furniture assembly
Faster & Safer
Streamlined process, fewer risks of damage
Trained crews load efficiently and securely
Book early (at least 6 weeks in advance)
Compare licensed movers (get 3+ quotes)
Move mid-month or weekdays for lower rates
Declutter to reduce shipment weight
Ask about hidden fees (stairs, long carries, storage)
Declutter Before You Pack
Fewer items mean lower weight and reduced costs donate or sell what you don’t need.
Move During Off-Peak Seasons
Rates are lower in winter and mid-month. Avoid summer and end-of-month rush.
Do the Easy Tasks Yourself
Pack non-fragile items on your own, but let pros handle heavy or valuable belongings.
Choose Licensed and Insured Movers Only
Going with a cheaper, unlicensed mover can lead to damage, theft, or scams.
Get Multiple Quotes and Compare Services
Use above our listed best companies to compare trusted State-to-State movers offering fair pricing and protection.
Avoid Last-Minute Bookings
Planning ahead locks in better rates and gives you time to vet companies properly.
Read Reviews and Check Credentials
A cheap quote isn’t worth it if the mover has poor reviews or hidden fees.
As remote work, lifestyle shifts, and cost-of-living concerns continue to shape the housing market, State-to-State moves are on the rise. Here are the most common state-to-state moving trends in 2025:
New York → Florida
Driven by warmer weather, lower taxes, and retirement appeal
Popular destinations: Miami, Tampa, Orlando
Trend: Many families and retirees leaving NYC and upstate NY
California → Texas
Motivated by job growth, lower cost of living, and no state income tax
Top cities: Austin, Dallas, Houston
Trend: Tech workers and business owners are relocating in large numbers
Illinois → Arizona
Attracting retirees and remote workers
Major hubs: Phoenix, Tucson
Trend: A shift from high-tax Midwest states to sunny, affordable cities
New Jersey → North Carolina
Drawn by suburban growth, affordable real estate, and job markets
Key areas: Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham
Trend: Young professionals and families looking for better quality of life
Washington → Idaho
Rising due to lower home prices and quieter living
Focus: Boise and surrounding suburbs
Trend: Urban-to-rural shift as people leave Seattle metro area
Massachusetts → South Carolina
Motivated by lower home prices, better weather, and remote work
Popular cities: Charleston, Greenville
Trend: Steady outflow from the Northeast to the Southeast
The cheapest way to move to another state is by renting a moving truck or trailer and handling the packing and loading yourself.
Sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need. The less you move, the lower your cost especially for weight-based pricing.
Moving in winter, on weekdays, and in the middle of the month often results in the lowest rates due to reduced demand.
Yes, especially for interstate moves. Basic coverage may be free, but purchasing extra protection can save you from expensive losses.
Yes, many moving companies provide instant free quotes online without requiring sign-up.
Yes, 10 Top moving companies offer free cost calculators online to help you estimate expenses based on distance, weight, and services.
