5 Best Interstate Moving Companies
Crossing state lines with everything you own is completely different from moving across town. A hiccup or two is annoying but manageable when you move locally. With an interstate trek, your belongings are traveling hundreds or thousands of miles, and you really can’t afford to make mistakes.
Hiring professionals is one of the best ways to ensure a successful move. Trained movers can reduce the stress of long-distance travel and give you peace of mind during complicated transitions. But before you choose one, you need to know what to look for. Read on for five of the best interstate moving companies and what makes each one worth considering.
How To Choose Moving Companies for Out of State
Want to separate the reliable movers from the regrettable ones? Here’s how to compare them:
- Budget: Long-distance moving costs vary, so get a few estimates before you make a decision. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Check licensing and verify insurance: Look into how the movers are insured and what protections apply if something goes wrong. Ask how they handle claims if your belongings are damaged and what level of accountability the moving company accepts.
- Reputation: Look at each interstate moving company’s track record. Read recent reviews for insight into their professionalism and trustworthiness.
Average Cost for Long-Haul Moving Companies
Costs for long-distance moves vary based on several factors. Most interstate moving companies charge between $0.50 and $0.80 per pound, which gives you a starting point for estimating how much you’ll end up spending.
Distance, shipment weight, and the season all influence the base rate. Total costs can range from $2,700.00 to more than $10,000.00 for an out-of-state relocation. Packing services add to the final price and typically fall between $280.00 and $2,200.00, including supplies.
Moving companies calculate the final price by weighing the truck before and after loading or by weighing it after unloading at your destination. The most reliable way to estimate how much a long-distance move will cost is to get quotes from a few licensed businesses.
Here’s an approximate price breakdown based on the size of your home:
| Number of Bedrooms | Pounds | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1,500–3,000 | $700.00–$3,500.00 |
| 2 | 4,000–6,000 | $1,000.00–$6,500.00 |
| 3 | 7,000–10,000 | $1,400.00–$8,500.00 |
| 4 | 11,000–14,000 | $1,800.00–$11,000.00 |
| 5 | 15,000–17,000 | $3,500.00–$13,000.00 |
| 6 | 18,000+ | $4,500.00–$16,000.00 |
5 Best Companies for Long-Distance Moving
Here are five of the top companies for long-distance moving.
1. College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving
College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving offers full-service interstate and cross-country moves. We do it all, from packing and loading to transporting and unloading. Comprehensive packages are available, and we also work by the hour—whatever suits your needs.
In addition to moving services, we offer junk removal and donation pickups to help you declutter before moving day. Quotes are always free, and they’re easy to request through our website.
Giving back is a core part of our mission. We partner with local charities and donate up to 70% of the items collected during junk removal. And anything we can’t donate is recycled whenever possible. Plus, every service we complete donates two meals to children in need through U.S. Hunger.
2. Allied Van Lines
This moving company opened its doors in 1928 and has more than 400 agent locations across North America. Their services are customizable to your needs, whether that’s local, international, or cross-country moves.
Allied Van Lines has an extensive list of add-on services, including vehicle relocation and corporate moving. However, some customers report negative experiences with the service quality and damaged or missing goods.
3. International Van Lines (IVL)
These international and long-distance movers are a recognized name in the industry. They’ve been around for over two decades and handle over 20,000 moves annually. IVL offers services, such as packing, storage, and auto transport. Quotes are free, and they provide a 5% discount when you call to book.
In some cases, IVL may act as a broker, which means a third-party service handles your shipment. This can lead to inconsistent service.
4. Mayflower Moving
Mayflower Moving offers full-service long-distance and international moves. They also offer storage solutions for people who need temporary space during a transition. If you prefer more control, Mayflower offers a Do-It-Yourself container system. This option lets you pack at your own pace while still relying on professional transportation.
Mayflower Moving has over 90 years in the industry. But they use independent, contracted local agents to perform moves, so your experience may vary.
5. Colonial Van Lines
This trusted interstate moving company has a large network of independent agents and partner companies. Their teams complete hands-on training in long-distance moves before starting work.
Specializing in out-of-state and international moves, Colonial Van Lines has completed over 250,000 relocations and counting. You can even customize service packages with add-ons like car shipping and storage. Like IVL and Mayflower Moving, this mover uses independent agents, and this can impact the quality of the service you receive.
Top Tips for Long-Distance Moving
Protect your belongings and avoid surprises with these tips for interstate moves.
Create a Timeline
Interstate and cross-country moves require more coordination than local ones. Start planning at least six to eight weeks ahead of time. Create a weekly schedule and a to-do list to keep you organized and avoid last-minute stress. Make sure you include booking a moving company, packing, and shutting off your utilities.
Declutter Ahead of Time
Every item you transport adds weight, which increases the cost of your long-distance move. Keep the bill as low as possible by tossing or donating anything you don’t need. You can also sell items or give them to friends and family.
Pack Strategically
Start with non-essentials like seasonal clothes and books. As moving day gets closer, box up items you use more often like kitchen appliances. This approach helps you get things done on time without the stress of losing access to items you use regularly. Clearly label all your boxes to make unloading and unpacking easier. To make it even easier, hire a packing company if you want to save time.
Plan the Logistics Properly
Long-distance moving involves many moving parts, pun intended. Things can go sideways if you’re not prepared. Confirm your movers’ arrival window. Make sure there’s parking for the truck, and reserve the elevator at one or both locations if needed.
Pack a separate essentials bag with a change of clothes, toiletries, and chargers to take with you. Delivery windows for interstate moves can shift, and this keeps all your important items in arm’s reach.
Document Everything Before the Truck Leaves
Create a detailed inventory of your belongings and furniture before the moving truck leaves. List every packed box, its contents, and the condition of all items. Take a few photos of any particularly fragile pieces for an added layer of protection. Documenting everything protects you during an interstate move. If anything arrives damaged, it gives you the proof you need to create a claim with the moving company.
Why Hire Professional Movers?
Moving interstate or cross-country on your own means renting a truck and driving it for hours. You’re in charge of packing, loading, and unloading everything. This increases the risk of damage. Hiring a trained crew changes all of that.
Professional movers like College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving are trained to handle everything from fragile items to heavy furniture in tight stairwells. We have all the necessary equipment, and we’re insured, which protects your belongings. When we handle the tough stuff, you get time back in your day to focus on the administrative details of your moving checklist.
Trust College HUNKS for Interstate Moves
The right moving company makes an interstate or international haul far more manageable. When it comes to choosing the one that’s best for you, you need to understand your own priorities, budget, and timing.
Between our professionally trained, in-house crews and transparent pricing, you’ll spend less time worrying and more time looking forward to the future. When you’re ready to move forward, College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving is waiting. We make the entire process easier, starting with a free estimate.