While DIY moves can save upfront costs, full-service movers offer better value for long-distance or state-to-state moves. They handle packing, loading, transport, and unloading saving you time, reducing stress, and minimizing the risk of damage.
How much does a state to state move cost? Average Prices & Factors

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The cost of a state-to-state move depending on your move size, distance, services, and time of year. Small studio or one-bedroom moves might be on the lower end, while large multi-bedroom homes with full-service packing can exceed $9,999.
Hiring professional full-service movers may seem more expensive upfront compared to a DIY rental truck, but it often delivers far greater value saving time, reducing stress, and ensuring your belongings are handled by licensed, insured experts.
Key Factors That Affect State-to-State Moving Costs
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Distance Between States – The farther you move, the higher the transportation cost.
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Home Size & Weight of Items – Moving heavier loads costs more in labor and fuel.
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Moving Date & Season – Summer and weekends are peak moving periods with higher rates; winter months can be 20–30% cheaper.
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Service Level Chosen – Full-service packing, fragile item handling, storage, and furniture assembly will increase the total.
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Specialty Items – Large pianos, antiques, or heavy safes often require extra fees.
Full-Service Movers vs. DIY for State-to-State Moves
While DIY truck rentals can seem cheaper at first, costs often rise when you factor in fuel, tolls, insurance, lodging, and the physical labor involved. Full-service movers handle packing, loading, transportation, and unloading and provide valuation coverage for your belongings, making them a safer choice for long distances.
Ways to Save Money on Your State-to-State Move
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Book early – Lock in lower rates before peak season.
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Move during off-peak months – January and February can save up to 30% compared to summer.
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Declutter before moving – Less weight means lower costs.
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Compare multiple licensed movers – Always get at least three written estimates from FMCSA-registered companies.
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Benefits of Using Full-Service State-to-State Movers
Hiring full-service state-to-state movers takes the stress and heavy lifting out of state-to-state relocation. Instead of coordinating multiple services on your own, you get a single, licensed moving company to handle every step of the process from start to finish.
Key benefits include:
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Time Savings – Professional movers pack, load, transport, and unpack your belongings, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your move.
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Expert Packing & Protection – Trained crews use high-quality packing materials and proven techniques to safeguard furniture, electronics, and fragile items during transit.
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Reduced Risk of Damage – Full-service movers carry liability coverage, meaning your belongings are protected if an accident occurs.
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No Heavy Lifting – Avoid the physical strain and potential injuries of moving large furniture or appliances yourself.
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Streamlined Logistics – From route planning to delivery scheduling, movers handle all transportation details for a smooth, on-time arrival.
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Specialized Equipment – Access to dollies, furniture blankets, hoists, and custom crates for large or delicate items.
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Stress Reduction – Knowing professionals are managing your move gives you peace of mind, especially for cross-country or multi-state relocations.
Final Thoughts
A state-to-state move is a major life event, and knowing your expected costs upfront helps you plan better. For most households, professional movers cost $1,499–$9,999 depending on distance, services, and timing. If you value convenience, safety, and reduced stress, hiring full-service movers is often worth the investment.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are state-to-state movers licensed and insured?
Yes. Legitimate state-to-state moving companies must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and carry insurance to protect your belongings during transit. Always verify a mover’s USDOT number before hiring.
How long does a state-to-state move take?
Most state-to-state moves take 3–14 days depending on the distance, moving company schedule, and whether you book a direct or shared truck.
Can I get a free quote for my state-to-state move?
Yes. Reputable movers offer free, no-obligation quotes either online or through an in-home/virtual survey. This ensures accurate pricing based on your actual inventory and moving needs.
Is it cheaper to hire full-service movers or move myself?