The cost to move cross country can significantly vary in price, depending on your moving method, moving distance, time of the year, size of your move, and additional moving services. When planning a cross country move, it is important to budget accordingly and understand what can affect the cost of your move.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Across the Country?
The cost to move across the country can vary depending on various factors, such as the method of transportation you choose, the time of the year, and the size and distance of your move. The average cost to move across the country is typically between $2,000 and $8,000.
Your move will be on the lower end of that cost estimate if you choose a portable storage container or rent a moving truck and will be on the higher end if you choose professional movers. However, a coast-to-coast move can be even higher, reaching around $6,000 to $10,000 or more.
Cost to Move from the East Coast to the West Coast
These are approximate cost estimates for moving from these East to West Coast cities. These costs can fluctuate based on factors such as the time of year, the size of the move, additional services required, and specific service providers.
| Where To? | How Many Miles? | Portable Storage Container | Full Service Moving Company | Rental Moving Truck |
| New York City to Los Angeles | 2,800 miles | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| New York City to San Francisco | $2,900 miles | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Miami to Los Angeles | 2,700 miles | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Miami to San Francisco | 2,900 miles | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Boston to Austin | 2,000 miles | $1,500 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $6,000 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Seattle to Denver | 1,300 miles | $1,000 – $2,500 | $2,500 – $5,000 | $800 – $1,500 |
Cost to Move from West Coast to East Coast
These are approximate cost estimates for a move from the West Coast to the East Coast. It is important to remember that these prices can increase or decrease based on the size of your move, any additional services required, specific service providers, and the time of the year.
| Where To? | How Many Miles? | Portable Storage Container | Full Service Moving Company | Rental Moving Truck |
| Los Angeles to Boston | 2,600 miles | $1,800 – $3,500 | $3,500 – $7,000 | $1,300 – $2,500 |
| Los Angeles to New York City | 2,800 miles | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Orlando to Seattle | 2,800 miles | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Orlando to San Diego | 2,200 miles | $1,500 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $6,000 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Pittsburgh to Denver | 1,400 miles | $1,000 – $2,500 | $2,500 – $5,000 | $800 – $1,500 |
| Baltimore to Phoenix | 2,300 miles | $1,600 – $3,200 | $3,200 – $6,500 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Consider these advantages and disadvantages when deciding whether to rent a truck for a move. Assess your moving needs and know your budget before you make an informed decision.
Factors That Cause the Cost to Move Cross Country to Increase
Multiple factors can impact the cost of moving across the country.
Transportation Method
Depending on where you are moving, you can transport your belongings in different ways. If you ship your belongings on a plane, it will cost more than transporting your items using a moving truck.
Typically, the least costly method of transportation is to rent a moving truck, but it is more physically draining than if you were to hire the best cross country movers.
Mileage
As you already know, the cost to move cross country depends on mileage. The mileage varies depending on where you are moving to, and it will affect your cost of moving. The most cost-effective way to move a long distance is to rent a moving truck or portable storage container.
Packing Supplies
The cross country movers cost is also affected by any necessary packing supplies. For example, you must purchase your own packing supplies if you rent a moving truck or portable storage container. Many professional movers offer packing supplies and will even load and unload your items for an additional cost. Some of the most common packing supplies include:
- Cardboard boxes
- Tie down straps
- Paper
- Bubble wrap
- Dish crates
- Moving blankets
- Bankers’ boxes
- Plastic storage bins
- Plastic wrap
- Styrofoam peanuts
Time of the Year
The spring and summer seasons are the most popular time of the year for moving. Therefore, moving services are in high demand during this time and can cost more, especially interstate moving costs for a cross country move. Scheduling your move in the fall or winter can help you save money.
Additional Moving Services
Purchasing additional moving services can affect the cost to move cross country. These additional moving services can include:
- Use of a storage unit
- Unloading or unpacking assistance
- Packing services
- Assembly or disassembly of furniture
- Removal of packing materials
- Moving insurance
- Vehicle shipping
- Wrapping and transporting fragile items
- Moving specialty items, like a grandfather clock
- Use of additional moving personnel
Labor Costs
Labor costs can be some of the largest expenses regarding long-distance moving costs. If you choose a DIY move, you can recruit friends and family members to help you pack, load, unload, or unpack your belongings. Most family members or friends are happy to assist for free if you provide them with lunch.
Storage
If you need to store your items in a storage facility, your cost of moving will increase depending on how much time you need to keep everything in storage. Many moving companies include 30 days of free storage in the rental price, but not all do. If you may need storage, it is ideal to inquire about storage options before selecting a moving company.
Hotel and Food
You will likely need to stay in a hotel throughout your cross country move, affecting your cost of moving. In addition, you will need to purchase food along the way for a few days. The average cost to stay in a hotel is around $212 per night, but that cost can vary depending on your location and the type of hotel.
Moving Insurance
Often, your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policy includes moving insurance to protect your belongings during your move. If it does not include it, many moving companies offer moving insurance for an additional cost to help protect moving furniture cross country.
Airfare
You can get to your new location by airplane if you hire professional movers. Airfare usually costs between $200 and $1,000 per person, but the cost ultimately depends on the airline, location, flight demand, and if you have any frequent flyer credits to apply towards the cost of your flight. There are also additional costs to transport your animals via airplane.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Full Service Movers
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Professional packing and unpacking | Higher cost compared to other moving options |
| Convenience and time saving | Less control over the moving process |
| Experienced and trained movers | Dependence on the schedule of the moving company |
| Reduced physical effort and heavy lifting | Limited flexibility in scheduling |
| Comprehensive insurance coverage | Potential for delays or logistical challenges |
| Handling of logistics and coordination | Limited ability to personally supervise the move |
| Storage options available if needed | Reliance on the reputation of the moving company |
Considering these advantages and disadvantages is essential when deciding whether to opt for full-service movers. Personal preferences, budget, and specific moving requirements will ultimately determine the best choice for your situation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Portable Storage Containers
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Flexibility in scheduling and timelines | Loading and unloading may require physical labor |
| Convenient for both short and long-term storage | Limited space and capacity for more significant moves |
| Ability to pack and load at your own pace | Access to belongings may be limited during transit |
| Elimination of the need for multiple trips | Additional fees for storage and delivery |
| Option to keep the container on-site for easy access | Limited availability in some areas |
| Weather-resistant and secure storage | Possible restrictions on what items can be stored |
When choosing a portable storage container for moving, it is essential to consider these advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to assess your budget and your specific needs to determine if this is the best option.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Renting a Truck
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Cost-effective for budget-conscious movers | Requires physical labor for loading and unloading |
| Flexibility in choosing moving dates and times | Driving long distances can be tiring and stressful |
| Control over the loading and unloading process | Limited space and capacity for more significant moves |
| Option to take direct routes or detours | Additional costs for fuel and mileage |
| Freedom to pack and arrange belongings | Lack of professional assistance and expertise |
| Can accommodate unique or oversized items | Limited availability during peak moving seasons |
| Convenient for both local and long-distance moves | Insurance coverage may require additional fees |
The Cost to Move Cross Country – FAQs
Is moving cross country expensive?
While the cost to move across the country varies based on your method of moving, it can be expensive depending on your budget. To help lessen the long distance movers cost, you can plan to move during the fall or winter, purchase your packing supplies, and deny packing and unpacking additional services.
When is the cheapest time of the year to move cross country?
The cheapest time of the year to move cross country is anytime from October through April. The fall and winter months are less in demand, which causes the prices to decrease.
How much should I budget for a cross country move?
You should budget between $2,000 and $10,000 for your cross country move. When determining your budget, remember your moving method and any additional costs, such as hotel stays, food, or fuel.
Final Thoughts
Moving cross country requires careful planning and budgeting. The cost of your move will depend on various factors, including the distance, your chosen method of transportation, the time of year, additional services, and the size of your move.
You can use the Agoyu app to research moving companies and compare reviews. Check out Agoyu today to begin planning your move.
