How much does a state to state move cost? Average Prices & Factors

State to state moving

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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

  1. Distance Between States – The farther you move, the higher the transportation cost.

  2. Home Size & Weight of Items – Moving heavier loads costs more in labor and fuel.

  3. Moving Date & Season – Summer and weekends are peak moving periods with higher rates; winter months can be 20–30% cheaper.

  4. Service Level Chosen – Full-service packing, fragile item handling, storage, and furniture assembly will increase the total.

  5. 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

  • Book early – Lock in lower rates before peak season.

  • Move during off-peak months – January and February can save up to 30% compared to summer.

  • Declutter before moving – Less weight means lower costs.

  • 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:

  1. Time Savings – Professional movers pack, load, transport, and unpack your belongings, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your move.

  2. Expert Packing & Protection – Trained crews use high-quality packing materials and proven techniques to safeguard furniture, electronics, and fragile items during transit.

  3. Reduced Risk of Damage – Full-service movers carry liability coverage, meaning your belongings are protected if an accident occurs.

  4. No Heavy Lifting – Avoid the physical strain and potential injuries of moving large furniture or appliances yourself.

  5. Streamlined Logistics – From route planning to delivery scheduling, movers handle all transportation details for a smooth, on-time arrival.

  6. Specialized Equipment – Access to dollies, furniture blankets, hoists, and custom crates for large or delicate items.

  7. 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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