Long Distance Moving: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Everything you need to know about interstate moves, from planning to execution.
Long distance moving presents unique challenges that differ significantly from local moves. Whether you're relocating for a new job, family reasons, or a fresh start, understanding what to expect and how to prepare can make your interstate move much smoother and less stressful.
Understanding Long Distance Moves
What Qualifies as Long Distance?
Generally, any move over 100 miles or crossing state lines is considered long distance. These moves are priced differently than local moves and require additional planning and regulations.
Key Differences from Local Moves:
- Pricing Structure: Long distance moves are typically priced by weight and distance, not hourly rates.
- Timeline: Delivery may take several days to weeks, depending on distance and schedule.
- Regulations: Interstate moves are regulated by federal law and require licensed carriers.
- Binding Estimates: You'll receive a binding or binding-not-to-exceed estimate based on inventory.
Planning Your Long Distance Move
Start 8-12 Weeks in Advance:
1Research Moving Companies
Not all moving companies handle long distance moves. Look for:
- • USDOT number (required for interstate moves)
- • Positive reviews and ratings
- • Transparent pricing and contracts
- • Adequate insurance coverage
- • Experience with your specific route
2Get Multiple Quotes
Request in-home or virtual surveys from at least three companies. Accurate estimates require a detailed inventory of your belongings.
3Understand Your Estimate
Long distance moving estimates come in three types:
- • Binding: Price won't change unless you add items
- • Binding Not-to-Exceed: Final cost may be lower, never higher
- • Non-Binding: Final cost based on actual weight (avoid these)
4Book Early
Long distance movers book up quickly, especially during peak season (May-September). Reserve your dates 6-8 weeks in advance.
Cost Factors for Long Distance Moves
Understanding Your Moving Costs
Long distance moving costs vary significantly based on several factors. Understanding these helps you budget accurately.
Weight of Shipment
The primary cost factor. Average 3-bedroom home weighs 7,000-10,000 lbs. Declutter to reduce weight and costs.
Distance
Longer distances cost more. Expect $0.50-$1.00 per pound per 1,000 miles as a rough estimate.
Time of Year
Summer months (peak season) cost 20-30% more than winter. Mid-month dates are cheaper than month-end.
Additional Services
Packing, unpacking, storage, and specialty item handling add to the base cost but provide convenience.
Packing for Long Distance Moves
Special Considerations:
- Pack More Securely: Items will be in transit longer and experience more handling. Use extra padding and sturdy boxes.
- Consider Professional Packing: For long distance moves, professional packing often pays for itself through reduced damage and insurance coverage.
- Create Detailed Inventory: Document everything with photos and lists. This helps with insurance claims if needed.
- Pack Essentials Separately: You'll need clothes, toiletries, and important documents during the transit period.
- Don't Pack Prohibited Items: Hazardous materials, perishables, plants, and pets cannot be transported by movers.
Understanding Moving Insurance
Protect Your Belongings
Standard carrier liability is minimal (60 cents per pound). For long distance moves, additional insurance is highly recommended.
Insurance Options:
Released Value Protection (Free)
Minimum coverage at $0.60 per pound. A 50-lb TV would only be covered for $30. Not recommended for valuable items.
Full Value Protection (Recommended)
Mover repairs, replaces, or reimburses full value of damaged items. Costs about 1% of shipment value but provides peace of mind.
Third-Party Insurance
Separate insurance policy for high-value items. Good for antiques, art, or expensive electronics.
The Moving Day Timeline
What to Expect:
Loading Day
- • Movers arrive and conduct walkthrough
- • Review and sign Bill of Lading (your contract)
- • Movers load truck (typically 4-8 hours for average home)
- • Receive copy of inventory list
- • Get contact information and tracking details
Transit Period
- • Your belongings travel to destination (1-14 days typical)
- • Stay in contact with moving coordinator
- • Confirm delivery window 24-48 hours before arrival
- • Arrange to be present for delivery
Delivery Day
- • Movers arrive within agreed delivery window
- • Check items off inventory list as they're unloaded
- • Note any damage on inventory sheet before signing
- • Payment due before unloading (cash, certified check, or credit card)
- • Tip crew if satisfied with service
Common Long Distance Moving Mistakes
❌ Choosing Based on Price Alone
Extremely low quotes often indicate scams or hidden fees. Research companies thoroughly and read reviews.
❌ Not Reading the Contract
Understand all terms, including delivery windows, payment terms, and liability coverage before signing.
❌ Underestimating Packing Time
Long distance moves require more secure packing. Start at least 4 weeks before moving day.
❌ Forgetting to Update Address
Notify USPS, banks, insurance, and subscriptions well before your move to avoid missing important mail.
Money-Saving Tips
- Move During Off-Peak Season: October through April offers lower rates and more flexibility.
- Declutter Aggressively: Every pound costs money. Sell, donate, or discard items you don't need.
- Be Flexible with Dates: Mid-week and mid-month moves cost less than weekends and month-ends.
- Pack Yourself: If you have time, self-packing saves money (but ensure items are packed securely).
- Ship Some Items: Books and clothes might be cheaper to ship via USPS than include in moving truck.
Ready for Your Long Distance Move?
OnTime Moving Co specializes in long distance relocations across the United States. Our experienced team handles every detail, from packing to delivery, ensuring your belongings arrive safely at your new home.