Moving to a new state? It's a thrilling adventure full of possibilities — but let’s face it, it can also come with some hefty costs. If you’ve been asking yourself, “What’s the average cost to move out of state?”, you’re not alone. Moving expenses can vary a lot depending on several factors, but don’t worry. In this guide, professional long-distance movers break down the numbers and give you some helpful tips on how to save money during your big move.

How Much Does It Cost to Move Out of State on the Average?

The price of moving out of state can range widely depending on your situation. Here’s what you can expect, based on 2024 data:

  • For a self-service move: $1,000 to $7,500
  • For a full-service move with professional movers: $4,200 to $12,000

Of course, these figures can shift depending on how far you’re going and how big your home is. To make it clearer, here’s a more detailed breakdown:

  • Professional movers: $4,505–$13,642
  • Moving container rental: $1,200–$2,455
  • Truck rental (for three days): $350–$1,172

Remember, these are just averages. Your actual cost could be a little higher or lower, so it’s always a smart idea to compare quotes from different moving companies to find the best deal that works best for you.

What Affects the Cost of Moving Out of State?

Several factors can influence the price of your move. Understanding these will help you plan your budget and, hopefully, find some ways to save a few bucks.

1. How Far Are You Moving?

The distance between your current home and your new location is one of the most significant factors in determining your moving cost. Long-distance moves naturally cost more due to:

  • Increased fuel costs
  • Higher labor expenses for multiple drivers
  • Additional vehicle maintenance
  • Higher insurance premiums for the moving company

2. Size and Weight of Your Belongings

More stuff means more money. If you’ve got a lot of furniture and boxes, you’ll need bigger (or more) trucks, more packing materials, and extra time for loading and unloading. This all adds up, so if you’ve been meaning to declutter, now might be a great time!

3. Type of Moving Service

The level of service you choose significantly impacts your moving costs:

  • DIY truck rentals: Generally the most affordable option, but requires the most effort on your part.
  • Moving container rental: It’s more convenient than driving a truck yourself, but it’ll cost a bit more.
  • Self-service movers: They handle the driving, but you’re in charge of the packing and loading.
  • Full-service moving companies: The most comprehensive and convenient option, handling everything from packing to unpacking.

4. Moving Period

Timing is everything! Moving costs fluctuate based on when you’re relocating. For example:

  • Weekends are typically more expensive than weekdays.
  • End-of-month moves often cost more due to higher demand.

Don’t Forget These Extra Costs

There are a few sneaky costs that people sometimes overlook when budgeting for a move. Make sure you plan for these:

  • Packing supplies: Boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and other materials can add up quickly.
  • Insurance: If you’ve got valuable or fragile items, extra insurance might give you peace of mind.
  • Storage fees: If your new place isn’t ready, you might need to stash your stuff in a temporary storage solution.
  • Travel expenses: Think about gas, food, and lodging if your move requires a long drive.
  • Utility setup fees: Connecting services like electricity, water, and internet at your new home can come with fees.
  • Cleaning services: Whether for your old home or the new one, this could be an additional cost.
  • Temporary housing: If there’s any delay in moving into your new place, you may need to stay somewhere short-term.

How to Reduce the Cost of Moving to Another State?

Moving to another state doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a few smart strategies, you can cut costs and make your move more affordable. Here’s how:

1. Hire Professional Full-Service Movers

It may sound like a splurge, but hiring full-service movers can actually save you money in the long run. Here’s why:

  • Experience counts: Pros know how to handle your stuff efficiently and safely. Less damage means less money spent on replacing broken items.
  • Insurance included: Most moving companies offer insurance, so you’re covered if something goes wrong.
  • Packing services: Movers are packing pros, which means your stuff is packed securely and faster — less risk of things getting damaged.
  • Fewer labor costs: Even though it feels like a bigger upfront cost, hiring movers can be faster, which cuts down on the total labor hours you’ll pay for.
  • Long-term savings: You’ll get settled into your new home quicker, which means you save on things like hotels and temporary living costs.

2. Plan Ahead and Book Early

A little planning can go a long way when it comes to saving money:

  • Try to book your movers at least two months ahead to get the best rates.
  • Beat the peak season rush by securing your move date early.
  • Make a moving checklist so you don’t forget anything (and avoid those last-minute costs!).

3. Declutter Before Moving

Less stuff means less to move, which means lower costs. Here’s how to lighten the load:

  • Host a garage sale and turn unwanted items into cash.
  • Donate to local charities, and you might even get a tax break!
  • Sell bigger items online and use the extra cash for moving expenses.

[CTA] Ready to Make Your Move?

Let our Chicago retail moving pros take the stress off your shoulders and handle the heavy lifting for you.

‍

[Get Your Free Quote Today]

4. Snag Discounts and Tax Deductions

There are a ton of ways to save money if you know where to look:

  • Check moving company websites for deals and promotions.
  • Ask about discounts for seniors, military members, or if you’re moving in the off-season.
  • Keep detailed records of your move — if you’re relocating for work, some of your moving expenses might be tax-deductible.

5. Be Flexible with Your Moving Date

The date of your move can make a big difference in how much you’ll pay. If you can, try to:

  • Move during the off-peak season (winter is a great time!).
  • Opt for a weekday instead of a weekend to avoid higher rates.
  • Avoid the end of the month, when moving companies tend to be busiest — and most expensive.

Alliance Moving & Storage: Your Affordable Solution for Long-Distance Moves

Moving out of state doesn’t have to break the bank! By understanding what drives up costs and using these money-saving tricks, you can make your move way more affordable.

Need help with your long-distance move? Alliance Moving & Storage offers competitive rates and personalized service to make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible. Reach out today to get your free quote and let us handle the hard part!