How Much Does It Cost For Movers Across Country

Preparing for a move across the country is never easy, especially for those who have never relocated such a long distance before. Many find themselves unsure where to start, and one of the biggest challenges is not knowing how much for movers across the country will actually cost. Without a clear idea of the expenses involved, planning a detailed move can be difficult.

This article will explain how much it costs for movers nationwide, helping you budget effectively and make strategic decisions for your upcoming relocation. We’ll also discuss the factors that affect moving costs and explore the best ways to save on your relocation.

Disclaimer: The prices provided below are general estimates and may not accurately reflect the specific costs for your cross-country move, as moving expenses can vary depending on distance, services required, and other factors. For the most precise and updated pricing details, we recommend contacting a professional moving company directly to discuss your unique moving needs.

The Average Costs to Move Across a Country

When planning a move across the country, you should understand all the potential costs to avoid surprises and budget confidently. Cross-country relocations are much more complex than local moves, and several key factors can influence your total expenses.

Below is a breakdown of the average costs you'll likely encounter during a cross-country relocation:

Professional Movers' Fees

The biggest expense in a cross-country move is hiring professional movers. These companies typically charge based on the total volume or weight of your things, the distance being traveled, and the specific services you require (such as packing, loading, and unloading).

On average, a full-service move across the country can range from $4,000 to $10,000 or even more for a three-bedroom home. This price can increase if you have many heavy or bulky items, require additional services, or move during peak season.

Packing Services and Supplies

If you request professional packing services, you will incur additional fees. Movers may offer to pack and unpack your belongings for a set price or by the hour. Rates can go for a few hundred dollars for smaller moves and increase significantly for larger homes.

Furthermore, you'll need to pay for packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and specialty containers, which can add several hundred dollars to your total bill even if you pack yourself.

Insurance Coverage

Standard moving estimates generally include basic liability coverage at no extra cost, but this offers only minimal protection—often around $0.60 per pound per item. For more comprehensive coverage, such as full-value protection, expect to pay a premium based on the total value of your belongings. This can also add a few hundred dollars to the cost.

However, having insurance can give you peace of mind in case of loss or damage during the move.

Transportation and Fuel Costs

The distance traveled directly affects transportation and fuel expenses for your move. Professional movers factor in mileage, tolls, and fuel charges when providing a quote. If you're renting a truck or using a moving container, you'll have to pay for the rental as well as fuel and possibly extra charges for returning equipment to a different location. Depending on the distance, these costs can range from several hundred to thousands of dollars.

Storage Fees

If your new home is not ready when you arrive, you may have to store your things temporarily. Most moving companies provide short and long-term storage solutions, with prices based on the size and duration of storage needed. Storage fees can go for $100 to

$300 per month or more, and it will depend on the amount of space you require.

Additional Services and Fees

Other potential costs include moving specialty items (such as pianos or large appliances), assembling or disassembling furniture, and navigating stairs, elevators, or long carry distances from the truck to your new space. Each may incur extra charges on top of your base moving fee.

In summary, the total cost for a cross-country move will always depend on the size of your space, the distance of your move, and any extra services you require. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000 or more for professional movers, plus extra expenses for packing services, insurance, transportation, storage, and any unique moving needs.

Factors Affecting the Costs to Move Across the Country

Several factors can greatly impact the overall price of a move across the country. Learning these variables helps you better anticipate expenses and make strategic decisions when planning your relocation.

Below are the key factors that affect how much you may pay for movers across the country:

• Distance of the Move. The farther you need to relocate, the higher your moving costs will be. Cross-country moves that span thousands of miles need more time, fuel, and logistical planning. Moving companies factor in the total mileage when calculating their rates. For example, a move from Colorado to New York will be more expensive than a move from Colorado to California.

• Volume and Weight of Belongings. The total amount of items you plan to take with you plays a role in cost. Movers may charge based on your shipment's weight or volume. The more furniture, boxes, and personal items you have, the larger the moving truck—and sometimes, multiple trucks—will be required.

• Timing and Seasonality. Moving during weekends, holidays, summer months, or any other peak times may increase the moving prices. Demand for moving solutions is at its highest during these periods, and companies may raise rates accordingly. If you have flexibility in your moving dates, you may be able to save by scheduling your transition during off-peak seasons.

• Type of Moving Services Requested. Whether you hire a full-service move or a more self-directed move affects your overall expenses. Full-service movers handle packing, loading, transporting, and unloading, which is convenient but expensive. On the other hand, if you choose to pack and unpack on your own or use a moving container service, you might be able to cut down on expenses. Although, you will need to invest more personal effort.

• Accessibility and Logistics. The accessibility of your old and new home can influence moving costs. If movers encounter obstacles such as narrow staircases, long carries from the truck to your door, lack of elevators, or limited parking for moving vehicles, they may charge extra fees to account for the extra labor and time needed to complete your move.

• Special Items or Requirements. Transporting special items like safes, antiques, or large refrigerators can raise the costs. These belongings usually require special handling, packing materials, and maybe even specialized transport. Movers may charge custom rates based on the complexity, size, and fragility of these items.

• Insurance and Liability Coverage. The level of insurance or valuation you choose can also influence your total cost. While basic liability is generally included, full-value protection or added insurance comes with added fees. Higher coverage levels give you greater peace of mind and increase your moving bill.

• Storage Needs. If you need storage before, during, or after your move, this will increase your overall costs. Temporary or long-term storage is often priced separately, depending on the time and size of storage required. Some moves require storage-in-transit, which can further add to total expenses.

Effective Ways to Lower Expenses When Moving Across the Country

While it's true that a cross-country relocation is expensive, you can still find other ways to reduce your overall costs as much as possible.

Here are several ways you can lower your moving expenses across the country:

Declutter and Downsize Before the Move

One of the most impactful ways to reduce moving costs is to move fewer items. Before packing, sort through your belongings and decide what to bring. Sell, donate, or recycle anything you no longer use. Decluttering means you'll only need a smaller truck, less packing material, and reduced labor.

Compare Multiple Moving Quotes

Don't settle for the first price you see or hear from moving companies. Contact several reputable moving companies and request written estimates based on in-home or virtual surveys. Comparing quotes lets you know the going rates in your area and can give you leverage to negotiate a better deal. Be sure to check for hidden fees or services included in each quote for an accurate comparison.

Move During Off-Peak Times

Moving companies typically charge bigger rates during the summer, on weekends, and at the start or end of the month when demand is highest. If you have a flexible schedule, consider transitioning during the fall or winter, on a weekday, or mid-month. Choosing off-peak times can lower rates and increase the availability of moving crews and trucks.

Pack and Unpack Yourself

Hiring professional packers adds convenience but also substantially increases your costs. If you want to save, handle the packing and unpacking yourself. Collect free or inexpensive boxes from local stores or friends, and use household items (like towels and blankets) to wrap fragile items. Packing on your own allows you to organize at your own pace and save on hourly labor charges.

Take Advantage of Tax Deductions and Employer Assistance

In some cases, moving costs incurred for work may be tax-deductible or eligible for reimbursement from your employer. Check current tax laws or your company's relocation policy to see if you qualify for any financial assistance or write-offs. This can make a sizable difference in your overall moving expenses.

Ship Belongings Economically

For small moves or if you have very few belongings, consider shipping boxes through freight or postal services rather than using a moving company. Flat-rate shipping or freight may be much cheaper for limited items, so assess your inventory and explore this option if it applies.

What Is the Most Expensive Part of Moving Across the Country?

The most pricey part of moving is usually hiring professional movers for a cross-country relocation. Their fees are determined by the distance, the total volume and weight of your belongings, and the specific services you choose. This typically represents the largest portion of your overall moving expenses.

The second most expensive part is generally the cost of packing services and supplies, especially if you hire professional packing or need specialty materials to protect your items during transport. Together, these two categories make up the bulk of the costs associated with moving across the country.

Moving to Long Distances Around the US? Call Meridian Moving & Storage Now!

Planning a move across the country can be overwhelming for some, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Meridian Moving & Storage knows that every long-distance move is unique, and we're here to offer expert guidance and flexible solutions to make the journey as smooth as possible. Whether you want the assurance of our white-glove service with guaranteed delivery days or the value of our standard, expedited option, we are ready to customize a plan that matches your preferences.

Call us today for a personalized quote and begin your cross-country move with a team of experts dedicated to streamlining the process.