The cost to move across the country ranges between $2,000 and $8,000. The cost may vary with the location; the most expensive is moving from the east to the west coast. However, multiple factors affect the overall cost, including the moving season.
It is observed that people tend to move during the summer months, i.e., May to August. In that period, it is tough to find a transportation company, and even if you do, they will charge more. They are pre-booked, and last-minute booking charges are quite expensive.
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How Much Does It Cost to Move Across the Country?
The average cost of moving across the country is between $2,000 and $8,000. However, it depends on multiple factors, like location, moving company, and method of transportation. In addition, you can experience a difference in price if you move from coast to coast.
Here are the prices based on the different coasts:
| Location | Cost |
| East Coast to West Coast | $4,600 – $ 10,300 |
| South East Coast to West Coast | $4,700 – $9,400 |
| East Coast to South East Coast | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| North East Coast to South East Coast | $3,000 – $8,000 |
Generally, the movers first provide the estimated cost (before the trip cost), which can differ from the actual expense (after the trip). The estimate includes the number of miles to travel, the packing and unpacking of your belongings, the number of boxes, and more.
6 Factors That Affect the Cost to Move
Here are the factors that affect the cost of moving across country:
1. Distance
The movers calculate the cost for the distance from fuel cost, the distance covered, and driver’s fees. The current average gas price is $3.385 and the prices change from state to state, for which the total expense would differ. Some transportation companies provide discounts for longer journeys.
2. Home Size
Home size affects the cost, as the moving companies charge differently for 1-bedroom and multi-bedroom houses. In addition, you may require more movers if you have larger homes.
| Home Size | Cost for Movers |
| 1 – bedroom | $320- $640 |
| 2 – bedroom | $720- $1,440 |
| 3 – bedroom | $1,120- $2,240 |
| 4 – bedroom | $1,440- $2,880 |
3. Transportation Type
The cost differs depending on the type of transportation, as a larger vehicle can cost you more. In addition, the plan includes the loading and unloading of your belongings. If you choose the cheapest plan, you may have to do all the lifting. However, it is better to leave most of the work to the professionals, as moving can be tiring and time-consuming.
Here’s the average cost of across-country movers according to the transportation type:
| Transportation Type | Cost |
| Rental Truck | $1,300–$2,100 |
| Container | $700–$3,200 |
| Full-Service Movers | $1,400–$9,700 |
4. Weight
Mover companies weigh your belongings to calculate the cost. Generally, the average cost is around $0.50 to $0.80 per pound.
5. Packing Supplies
Packing supplies used while moving adds up to a significant cost. To avoid the extra expenses, you can opt for reusable plastic bins, which would cost around $5 a bin.
The average cost for supplies like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap is $100 to $200. If you have two bedrooms, then it could go up to $200 to $600.
6. Additional Fees to Consider
Here are the additional fees you may have to pay, depending on your moving needs:
- Unpacking service
- Extra stops
- Elevator fee
- Specialty moving
- Expedited delivery services
- Stair carry fee
- Long-carry fee
5 Easy Ways to Cut Moving Costs
Multiple factors affect the cost, but with a few tips, you can try to cut the costs and save some money. Here are some ways to cut moving costs:
1. DIY
Through DIY, you can pack your belongings and move them into the truck. You can ask a friend or a family member to help you with moving. These little actions can save a significant amount of labor costs.
During the process, you can donate or throw away unnecessary clutter. It will eventually save some from the total weight cost.
2. Use Recycled Packing Supplies
Recycled packing supplies can greatly help you save money. You can use old boxes, suitcases, plastic bags, and containers to pack your belongings. In addition, you can use the old crates and cardboard boxes that your mother kept for years. You can also as a grocery store for waste boxes and other packing supplies.
3. Shifting on Weekdays
Moving on weekends costs more in comparison to weekdays. On weekdays, the moving companies are less occupied, because of which they are easily available. It is observed that companies keep prices lower on weekdays to attract more customers.
4. Get Multiple Moving Estimates
Many moving companies provide a free quotation, which is the moving estimate. It is better to read the reviews to check the professionalism and reputation of the company. Later, you can check and compare 4–5 quotations from different moving companies.
In addition, be aware of their cheapest plan scams. Many companies provide moving services at lower costs, but they miss out on many basic services. Some even added services that they didn’t provide after payment.
5. Explore Discounts
On the other hand, there are times when companies agree to match the lower quote you get from other companies. If you have to reach out and ask for a discount; there is a higher possibility of getting one.
Moving companies have various schemes under which you can get a possible discount. If you have any disability, or if you are a senior citizen or a veteran, you can opt for a moving assistance program.
Cost to Move Across Country: Bottom Line
The cost to move across the country sits around $2,000-$8,000. The cost may differ depending on the location. It can be expensive if you are moving from coast to coast. If you are looking for budget options, you have to cut costs in multiple instances, like packaging, supplies, and more.
Here are the different prices mentioned below:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much should you budget to move across country?
Moving across the country costs around $2,000–$8,000, depending on the company and transportation. A coast-to-coast move may cost up to $15,000.
What is the cheapest time of year to move across country?
Move between late September to April to save the most. Avoid peak moving season in summer and high demand in fall.
Can I negotiate moving expenses?
It depends on the company policy and its size. The company might provide some discounts, but you may have to substitute them with your vacation days.
