Written by


Alex is the founder of 9Kilo Moving, which he started to help people easily find and choose the right moving company to make their move as stress-free and seamless as possible. He has spent over 20 years working in the moving industry, so he knows every aspect of the business and uses his knowledge to write about the industry and give moving advice. More on about us page

Moving truck transporting goods across a city

Moving to a new state can be an exciting and life-changing event, but it can also be costly and time-consuming. From hiring a professional moving company to packing and transportation costs, there are many factors to consider when budgeting for an out-of-state move.

Moving costs can stack up quickly, and since you probably don’t have an unlimited moving budget, you may be feeling understandably anxious about hiring movers and paying the moving expenses. 

But don't worry! This comprehensive guide will examine how much it costs to move out of state in 2023. We'll also take a closer look at the various expenses involved and provide tips and insights to help you make a smooth and cost-effective transition to your new state.

What Is the Average Cost to Move out of State with a Professional Moving Company? 

The average cost of moving out of state varies widely depending on several factors, such as the distance of the move, the number of belongings being transported, and the level of service required. 

According to recent estimates, the average cost of an interstate move is around $4,500 for a distance of 1,000 miles, while a move of 2,000 miles or more can cost upward of $7,500.

To help give you a general idea of what to expect for a full-service move, below is a table with a rough overview of sample costs based on home size and distance:

Distance 1 Bedroom2 – 3 Bedrooms2 – 3 Bedrooms
50 miles or less$325 – $625$725 – $1,250$1,400 – $3,000
250 miles$900 – $1,850$1,650 – $3,600$2,000 – $4,450
1,000 – 2,500 miles$950 – $1,850$2,100 – $7,000$5,400 – $8,000
More than 2,500 miles$1,450 – $3,500$3,950 – $6,900$8,400+

Remember that these are just estimated costs, and the actual cost of your move will depend on many factors specific to your situation.

VanLines Inc.

4.9
Best Overall Value
Intro

VanLines Inc.

Intro

Looking to move soon? Look no further than Van Lines Inc.! Van Lines Inc. is a nationwide moving broker based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Established in 2001 by owner Efraim Balila who has over 20 years of experience in the industry, they specialize in a wide range of moves, from residential to commercial and industrial equipment relocations.

No matter what you need moving, Van Lines Inc. has the people and equipment to get you there. They're about more than just getting your belongings from point A to point B. 

They go the extra mile to ensure your move is stress-free by providing a personal moving coordinator for each client, ensuring open communication. And with proper licensing and insurance, you can trust that your belongings are in good hands.

But what if you have fragile or high-value items that need extra care and protection? Van Lines Inc. offers exceptional white-glove moving services by highly trained professionals who have been thoroughly vetted. Yes, these services come at a premium price, but the extra care and protection they provide are well worth it.

Despite facilitating over 200 moves a week, Van Lines Inc. doesn't treat you like just another number. They take pride in providing personalized attention and care to each customer. So, whether you're moving across the state or the country, trust Van Lines Inc. and let them take care of the rest.

Services

  • ➡️ Long distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking services
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Vehicle shipping
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Short and long-term storage
  • ➡️ Moving supplies
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services

Pros

  • Free quotes
  • Holds its partner carriers to a high standard
  • Transparent about pricing
  • 24/7 customer support chat
  • Nationwide availability
  • Experience in moving high-value items
  • Highly trained movers
  • Moving supplies delivered to your door

Cons

  • Third-party movers used, so quality can vary
  • Deposit required
  • No ball-park estimates
  • Unaccredited with the BBB

Why We Recommend Van Lines Inc.

➡️ Great support during a stressful move

One of the reasons we recommend Van Lines Inc. is because they provide a lot of support for customers during what can be a stressful move.

From the start, a dedicated moving assistant supports you through the initial consultation to unpacking the last box. They’ll tell you what to expect throughout the process, so you’re never caught off guard.

Van Lines Inc. works hard to prevent the horror stories that are too common in the moving industry. Their team of experts serves as the go-between between you and the moving company, ensuring that your needs and expectations are always met. Customers are constantly kept informed and up to date on the progress of their move.

After your move is complete, Van Lines Inc. will continue to communicate with you to ensure that everything went smoothly and that you’re completely satisfied with the service provided.

➡️ A la carte moving packages

Van Lines Inc. offers a range of flexible moving packages that can be customized to handle as much or as little as you need. Whether you’re a senior citizen with priceless china that need to be carefully crated or a business that needs to move across the country, Van Lines Inc. has the resources to help you.

Their consultants will take the time to listen to your concerns and preferences and will work with you to build a personalized moving plan that meets your needs – ranging from a full-service moving experience to handling some aspects of the move yourself.

This customized service means you can have peace of mind knowing you’re working with a company that genuinely cares about your moving experience.

➡️ Nationwide availability

From New York to California, Florida to Alaska, and everywhere in between, Van Lines Inc. can handle moves of any distance.

Their extensive network of resources and partners ensures they can provide seamless and efficient moving services to customers nationwide.

With Van Lines Inc., you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re working with a company that truly understands the complexities of long-distance moving and has the resources to get you there, wherever “there” may be.

🏆 Customer opinion

“We were able to book them at the last minute to move from Boston to Miami when another moving company did not show up. The customer service was perfect. They arrived on time and gave me a call when they were heading over so I knew to be ready. They packed up my goods very carefully, disassembled my furniture quickly without breaking anything, and took safe care. They arrived at the new location 7 days after pickup and were able to unload my goods extremely fast as well. They put all the boxes where I asked them to, and they put my furniture back together extremely fast and arranged my room the way I wanted. I would recommend them to anyone who is moving.”

Yaron Baker

Midland Van Lines

4.9
Highest Quality Service
Intro

Midland Van Lines

Intro

Midland Van Lines is a family-owned and operated business, and moving long distances is their specialty. Every year they help thousands of families move across the U.S.

Experience and going the extra mile set them apart from other national moving services; Midland Van Lines boasts a highly skilled and knowledgeable team with 15+ years of experience in interstate moving.

Midland Van Lines is ideal if you want to spend a little more to enjoy a seamless moving experience. They offer comprehensive moving services to fit your unique needs. Don’t worry if you don’t have an unlimited budget. If you book early with Midlands, you can receive up to 40% off the price of your move.

They are also well known for their white-glove professional moving services, great customer service, and innovative use of technology; the company has garnered an excellent reputation as one of the best in the business.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing service
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Commercial moves
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability

Pros

  • Free Date Changes
  • Providing the Best Combination of Price and Service
  • Owns and Operates Their Own Fleet of Trucks & Semi-Trailers
  • Customer Service Support 7 Days Per Week
  • Experts in long-distance moves
  • Experts in moving high-value items

Cons

  • Must Request Quote to Learn About Pricing

Why we recommend Midland Van Lines

Customizable moving options

A one-size-fits-all approach may not work for everyone, as each individual or family has different requirements when it comes to moving. To go the extra mile for their customers, Midlands Van Lines provides personalized moving solutions.

A representative from Midlands Van Lines will create a customized plan to tailor their services to match your specific needs, including packing, storage, or additional services.

This level of personalization can make the transition to your new home smoother, as you can trust that everything is being taken care of in a way that fits your lifestyle and budget.

White-glove moving services

With Midlands Van Lines; you can expect nothing but the best from start to finish. Their team of highly trained and experienced professionals will handle every aspect of your move with white-glove care, ensuring that your belongings are transported safely and securely.

Midland Van Lines can also take on more unique or complex large homes or commercial space relocations. They are well equipped to transport heavy and valuable items like large furniture, antiques, and even priceless art.

It doesn’t stop there. They offer secure packaging and complete crating solutions for your high-value items. Also, Midland Van Lines is insured for up to $200,000 in the unlikely event of property loss or damage.

Full-service moving option

If you're looking for a genuinely luxurious moving experience, Midlands Van Lines provides a full-service moving package.

With this comprehensive package, you can expect a team of highly trained professionals to take care of everything, from packing your belongings to unloading them at your new home.
Midlands’s experienced movers will care extra for your high-value items if needed.

In addition, they offer concierge services such as unpacking and setting up your new home, and arranging for storage solutions for any items you may not want to bring with you.

With a full-service package, you can relax and let Midlands Van Lines take care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free relocation.

🏆 Customer opinion 

“I thought moving would be a disaster because I hired a moving company that I had no knowledge about. I expected the worst and just went on with it. But I did not know this moving company would impress me instead. They were amazing! All the people were professional, efficient and caring. They moved all the furniture very nicely and gently. They returned everything the way it was. Plus, their rate was very low and reasonable. I ended up with a great moving company! I highly recommend Midland van lines to all.” 
Philip R.

Mayzlin Relocation

4.6
Professional and Transparent
Intro

Mayzlin Relocation

Intro

Mayzlin Relocation is a family-owned national carrier based in Charlotte, North Carolina. With over a decade of industry experience, owner Semen Mayzlin founded the company in 2016 to offer premier national moving services.

Mayzlin Relocation strives to provide exceptional customer service and professionalism.
The company handles local moves within Charlotte, interstate moves, and even overseas relocations to multiple locations.

As a reputable carrier, Mayzlin Relocation is a member of the American Trucking Association and an authorized Consumer Affairs partner. They are certified on Angie’s List and accredited by the Better Business Bureau.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking
  • ➡️ Storage services
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability
  • ➡️ Government and military moves
  • ➡️ Moving insurance

Pros

  • Free quotes
  • Advanced moving technology
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Lenient cancellation policy
  • A BBB rating
  • Experts in long-distance moves

Cons

  • No instant quotes
  • Deposit required at booking
  • No upfront pricing info online

Why we recommend Mayzlin Relocation

Lenient cancellation policy

Mayzlin relocation understands that life can be unpredictable. Plans can change at a moment's notice. They offer a cancellation policy to give customers flexibility and peace of mind.

Unlike many other carriers, they won't penalize you for changing your moving plans. Their customer-friendly policy lets you cancel your move up to seven days before the scheduled date and provides a full refund with no hidden fees.

Great customer service

Mayzlin Relocation makes getting in touch with them really easy. Customers can reach out via the phone number or email listed on the company's website to receive a free estimate or schedule an appointment. Mayzlin also offers a live chat feature for quick questions or concerns for convenient communication.

There is also a 24/7 emergency phone number to ensure customers can receive assistance outside of regular business hours.

Focusing on providing excellent customer service, Mayzlin Relocation strives to make every step of the moving process as stress-free as possible for its clients.

Specialists in military moves

Mayzlin is a top-rated national moving company equipped to handle military moves. They understand that planning a PCS (permanent change of station) move can be overwhelming and are equipped to help military personnel with every aspect of their relocation.

As a registered Department of Transportation carrier, Mayzlin partners with carriers authorized to work with the military to ensure a smooth and seamless move. They have received General Services Administration approval, guaranteeing that there will be no issues obtaining personally procured move (PPM) reimbursements.

With Mayzlin, military personnel can rest assured that their move will be stress-free and handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.

🏆 Customer opinion 

“They were very responsive, professional, and clear about explaining their service and what I could expect. They took care of our furniture very carefully and packed our stuff safely and carefully. They also prep and cover the floor when moving our stuff to the new house. The guys were very nice and also helped us move some stuff from the garage to the second floor. Their price is fair. I would definitely call and hire them again if I need!” 

Keita Eli

Northern Worldwide Van Lines

4.8
 
Intro

Northern Worldwide Van Lines

Intro

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30 days of free & secured storage

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VanLines Inc.

4.9
Best Overall Value
Intro

VanLines Inc.

Intro

Looking to move soon? Look no further than Van Lines Inc.! Van Lines Inc. is a nationwide moving broker based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Established in 2001 by owner Efraim Balila who has over 20 years of experience in the industry, they specialize in a wide range of moves, from residential to commercial and industrial equipment relocations.

No matter what you need moving, Van Lines Inc. has the people and equipment to get you there. They're about more than just getting your belongings from point A to point B. 

They go the extra mile to ensure your move is stress-free by providing a personal moving coordinator for each client, ensuring open communication. And with proper licensing and insurance, you can trust that your belongings are in good hands.

But what if you have fragile or high-value items that need extra care and protection? Van Lines Inc. offers exceptional white-glove moving services by highly trained professionals who have been thoroughly vetted. Yes, these services come at a premium price, but the extra care and protection they provide are well worth it.

Despite facilitating over 200 moves a week, Van Lines Inc. doesn't treat you like just another number. They take pride in providing personalized attention and care to each customer. So, whether you're moving across the state or the country, trust Van Lines Inc. and let them take care of the rest.

Services

  • ➡️ Long distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking services
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Vehicle shipping
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Short and long-term storage
  • ➡️ Moving supplies
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services

Pros

  • Free quotes
  • Holds its partner carriers to a high standard
  • Transparent about pricing
  • 24/7 customer support chat
  • Nationwide availability
  • Experience in moving high-value items
  • Highly trained movers
  • Moving supplies delivered to your door

Cons

  • Third-party movers used, so quality can vary
  • Deposit required
  • No ball-park estimates
  • Unaccredited with the BBB

Why We Recommend Van Lines Inc.

➡️ Great support during a stressful move

One of the reasons we recommend Van Lines Inc. is because they provide a lot of support for customers during what can be a stressful move.

From the start, a dedicated moving assistant supports you through the initial consultation to unpacking the last box. They’ll tell you what to expect throughout the process, so you’re never caught off guard.

Van Lines Inc. works hard to prevent the horror stories that are too common in the moving industry. Their team of experts serves as the go-between between you and the moving company, ensuring that your needs and expectations are always met. Customers are constantly kept informed and up to date on the progress of their move.

After your move is complete, Van Lines Inc. will continue to communicate with you to ensure that everything went smoothly and that you’re completely satisfied with the service provided.

➡️ A la carte moving packages

Van Lines Inc. offers a range of flexible moving packages that can be customized to handle as much or as little as you need. Whether you’re a senior citizen with priceless china that need to be carefully crated or a business that needs to move across the country, Van Lines Inc. has the resources to help you.

Their consultants will take the time to listen to your concerns and preferences and will work with you to build a personalized moving plan that meets your needs – ranging from a full-service moving experience to handling some aspects of the move yourself.

This customized service means you can have peace of mind knowing you’re working with a company that genuinely cares about your moving experience.

➡️ Nationwide availability

From New York to California, Florida to Alaska, and everywhere in between, Van Lines Inc. can handle moves of any distance.

Their extensive network of resources and partners ensures they can provide seamless and efficient moving services to customers nationwide.

With Van Lines Inc., you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re working with a company that truly understands the complexities of long-distance moving and has the resources to get you there, wherever “there” may be.

🏆 Customer opinion

“We were able to book them at the last minute to move from Boston to Miami when another moving company did not show up. The customer service was perfect. They arrived on time and gave me a call when they were heading over so I knew to be ready. They packed up my goods very carefully, disassembled my furniture quickly without breaking anything, and took safe care. They arrived at the new location 7 days after pickup and were able to unload my goods extremely fast as well. They put all the boxes where I asked them to, and they put my furniture back together extremely fast and arranged my room the way I wanted. I would recommend them to anyone who is moving.”

Yaron Baker

Midland Van Lines

4.9
Highest Quality Service
Intro

Midland Van Lines

Intro

Midland Van Lines is a family-owned and operated business, and moving long distances is their specialty. Every year they help thousands of families move across the U.S.

Experience and going the extra mile set them apart from other national moving services; Midland Van Lines boasts a highly skilled and knowledgeable team with 15+ years of experience in interstate moving.

Midland Van Lines is ideal if you want to spend a little more to enjoy a seamless moving experience. They offer comprehensive moving services to fit your unique needs. Don’t worry if you don’t have an unlimited budget. If you book early with Midlands, you can receive up to 40% off the price of your move.

They are also well known for their white-glove professional moving services, great customer service, and innovative use of technology; the company has garnered an excellent reputation as one of the best in the business.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing service
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Commercial moves
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability

Pros

  • Free Date Changes
  • Providing the Best Combination of Price and Service
  • Owns and Operates Their Own Fleet of Trucks & Semi-Trailers
  • Customer Service Support 7 Days Per Week
  • Experts in long-distance moves
  • Experts in moving high-value items

Cons

  • Must Request Quote to Learn About Pricing

Why we recommend Midland Van Lines

Customizable moving options

A one-size-fits-all approach may not work for everyone, as each individual or family has different requirements when it comes to moving. To go the extra mile for their customers, Midlands Van Lines provides personalized moving solutions.

A representative from Midlands Van Lines will create a customized plan to tailor their services to match your specific needs, including packing, storage, or additional services.

This level of personalization can make the transition to your new home smoother, as you can trust that everything is being taken care of in a way that fits your lifestyle and budget.

White-glove moving services

With Midlands Van Lines; you can expect nothing but the best from start to finish. Their team of highly trained and experienced professionals will handle every aspect of your move with white-glove care, ensuring that your belongings are transported safely and securely.

Midland Van Lines can also take on more unique or complex large homes or commercial space relocations. They are well equipped to transport heavy and valuable items like large furniture, antiques, and even priceless art.

It doesn’t stop there. They offer secure packaging and complete crating solutions for your high-value items. Also, Midland Van Lines is insured for up to $200,000 in the unlikely event of property loss or damage.

Full-service moving option

If you're looking for a genuinely luxurious moving experience, Midlands Van Lines provides a full-service moving package.

With this comprehensive package, you can expect a team of highly trained professionals to take care of everything, from packing your belongings to unloading them at your new home.
Midlands’s experienced movers will care extra for your high-value items if needed.

In addition, they offer concierge services such as unpacking and setting up your new home, and arranging for storage solutions for any items you may not want to bring with you.

With a full-service package, you can relax and let Midlands Van Lines take care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free relocation.

🏆 Customer opinion 

“I thought moving would be a disaster because I hired a moving company that I had no knowledge about. I expected the worst and just went on with it. But I did not know this moving company would impress me instead. They were amazing! All the people were professional, efficient and caring. They moved all the furniture very nicely and gently. They returned everything the way it was. Plus, their rate was very low and reasonable. I ended up with a great moving company! I highly recommend Midland van lines to all.” 
Philip R.

Mayzlin Relocation

4.6
Professional and Transparent
Intro

Mayzlin Relocation

Intro

Mayzlin Relocation is a family-owned national carrier based in Charlotte, North Carolina. With over a decade of industry experience, owner Semen Mayzlin founded the company in 2016 to offer premier national moving services.

Mayzlin Relocation strives to provide exceptional customer service and professionalism.
The company handles local moves within Charlotte, interstate moves, and even overseas relocations to multiple locations.

As a reputable carrier, Mayzlin Relocation is a member of the American Trucking Association and an authorized Consumer Affairs partner. They are certified on Angie’s List and accredited by the Better Business Bureau.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking
  • ➡️ Storage services
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability
  • ➡️ Government and military moves
  • ➡️ Moving insurance

Pros

  • Free quotes
  • Advanced moving technology
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Lenient cancellation policy
  • A BBB rating
  • Experts in long-distance moves

Cons

  • No instant quotes
  • Deposit required at booking
  • No upfront pricing info online

Why we recommend Mayzlin Relocation

Lenient cancellation policy

Mayzlin relocation understands that life can be unpredictable. Plans can change at a moment's notice. They offer a cancellation policy to give customers flexibility and peace of mind.

Unlike many other carriers, they won't penalize you for changing your moving plans. Their customer-friendly policy lets you cancel your move up to seven days before the scheduled date and provides a full refund with no hidden fees.

Great customer service

Mayzlin Relocation makes getting in touch with them really easy. Customers can reach out via the phone number or email listed on the company's website to receive a free estimate or schedule an appointment. Mayzlin also offers a live chat feature for quick questions or concerns for convenient communication.

There is also a 24/7 emergency phone number to ensure customers can receive assistance outside of regular business hours.

Focusing on providing excellent customer service, Mayzlin Relocation strives to make every step of the moving process as stress-free as possible for its clients.

Specialists in military moves

Mayzlin is a top-rated national moving company equipped to handle military moves. They understand that planning a PCS (permanent change of station) move can be overwhelming and are equipped to help military personnel with every aspect of their relocation.

As a registered Department of Transportation carrier, Mayzlin partners with carriers authorized to work with the military to ensure a smooth and seamless move. They have received General Services Administration approval, guaranteeing that there will be no issues obtaining personally procured move (PPM) reimbursements.

With Mayzlin, military personnel can rest assured that their move will be stress-free and handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.

🏆 Customer opinion 

“They were very responsive, professional, and clear about explaining their service and what I could expect. They took care of our furniture very carefully and packed our stuff safely and carefully. They also prep and cover the floor when moving our stuff to the new house. The guys were very nice and also helped us move some stuff from the garage to the second floor. Their price is fair. I would definitely call and hire them again if I need!” 

Keita Eli

Northern Worldwide Van Lines

4.8
 
Intro

Northern Worldwide Van Lines

Intro

If you want a more accurate estimate of how much your move will cost, you can use our moving cost calculator:

Out-of-State Moving Cost Factors

Person looking up the factors affecting the cost of a move on their tablet

Several critical factors affect the cost of moving out of state, including: 

➡️ Mileage
➡️ Weight
➡️ Packing supplies
➡️ The waiting period
➡️ Extra expenses

Mileage (distance of the move)

Adding more miles between here and there can add more cost to your bottom line or budget.

The simple truth is that the further you travel, the more it costs. Regardless of the transit method to move to another state, long-distance moving companies will need to charge for not just fuel but employee time, vehicle wear and tear, liability insurance, and more. 

While moving costs can be significant, there are ways to lower your expenses and potentially save money.

Many full-service moving companies offer lower rates to fill up a moving truck that otherwise would have departed only half-full. If you can find a mover with a move already scheduled to your destination and a truck that isn’t filled to capacity, you may be able to lower the rate. 

Are you looking to relocate? Check out our top picks for the best out-of-state moving companies

Weight (number of bedrooms)

Along with distance, the weight of your belongings will impact the cost of your move. The more stuff you have, the more your long-distance move will weigh, resulting in a higher cost.

On average, most professional moving services or truck rental companies like U-Haul estimate that the contents of a one-bedroom apartment will weigh less than 2,000 pounds, in contrast to the 20,000-pound weight estimate for the contents of a five-bedroom house. Chances are good that the weight of your belongings will fall somewhere in between, and every pound will cost you more money.

Many long-distance movers estimate moving charges by weight and mileage. A heavier shipment means you may need large moving trucks, more movers, and packing supplies, increasing your moving costs. 

The best way to save money and keep costs down is to downsize your belongings. Not only does it feel good to donate what you don’t use or don’t need, but it reduces the cost of an interstate move. Decluttering should be added to your moving checklist to reduce the moving cost.

Packing supplies

Another critical factor that increases your moving costs is packing supplies. It may not seem like an important factor, but the cost of packing materials can add up when moving a large number of belongings. 

As we’ve mentioned above, donating or otherwise shedding unwanted belongings will not only help decrease the weight of your out-of-state move, but it can have another fortunate side effect—decreasing the cost of your packing supplies.

While you can purchase packing supplies from your full-service moving company, it comes at a higher price. So if budget is a concern, this may not be the best option for you.

Once again, having some planning time can really help you manage and reduce the cost of your moving expenses. Consider visiting local grocery stores or home goods stores and asking whether they have any gently used boxes or discarded packing supplies you can take. Many stores will happily give these to you just to get them out of the store.

Ask your network whether anyone who has recently moved has extra packing supplies they no longer need. Again, many families will be happy to have someone swing by and take bulky boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper off their hands.

You may still need to purchase certain packing supplies, especially if you move any high-end, delicate, or fragile belongings such as musical instruments, fine china, and similar items. 

The waiting period

When you move out of state, delays can significantly impact your moving costs. Whether it's waiting for your new home to be ready, dealing with weather-related disruptions, or navigating other unexpected obstacles, delays can be costly for several reasons.

For instance, if you have to extend your utility service or rent temporary storage units and hotel rooms due to a delay, these additional expenses can add up quickly. Furthermore, delays can impact your moving schedule, potentially requiring you to make other arrangements or pay for extra services from your moving company.

Extra expenses

Despite your best efforts to manage your moving costs, some expenses related to an out-of-state move are simply unavoidable, even after accounting for the major big-ticket items.

Moving pets 

Moving with pets can add a layer of complexity and cost to your move. Many states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection—which verifies your pet's health and vaccination records—and this may require a visit to the vet before your move.

In addition, you may need to consider the cost of hiring a pet shipping service to help coordinate your pet's relocation, which can also add to your moving expenses.

Damage to belongings 

During a move, unexpected expenses can arise if your belongings are damaged or broken in transit, particularly if items you were counting on using at your new destination are affected. To minimize this risk, choosing a reliable and trustworthy moving company is important.

When reviewing your moving contract, read all the details, including any fine print, to understand how to file a claim for missing or damaged items. We also highly recommend you purchase third-party insurance to fully cover the cost of any items damaged during interstate moves. 

Out-of-State Moving FAQs

Person asking questions about moving on their phone

I’ve decided to do an interstate move; what do I do now? 

If you've decided to move interstate, congratulations! Here are a few steps you can take to get started:

1️⃣ Research moving companies: Research reputable moving companies offering interstate moving services. Look for companies with a proven track record of quality service and customer satisfaction, and be sure to check their credentials and reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau. 

2️⃣ Get quotes: Use our moving costs calculator to estimate your move's cost. We’ll provide you with free quotes from several moving companies so you can compare prices to get the best possible price. 

3️⃣ Plan your budget: Based on the quotes you receive, create a detailed moving budget that includes all anticipated costs, such as packing materials, transportation fees, and insurance coverage.

4️⃣ Plan your move: Use our comprehensive moving checklist that has everything you need to stay organized and on track.

How can I reduce out-of-state moving expenses?

Here are a few ways to keep your cost to move down: 

✅ Ask your employer: If you’re moving for a new job, consider speaking with your employer and asking if your company offers relocation bonuses or assistance.

✅ Locate free moving supplies: While your moving company can provide you with packing supplies at an additional fee, it’s usually more affordable to collect these items yourself. Ask local stores, friends, or neighbors if they can give you any leftover moving boxes.

✅ Downsize: The easiest way to lower costs is to reduce shipment size. Downsizing can help you save money on your move by lowering the total weight of your shipment and making the packing process faster and easier. If you’re looking for extra cash for your move, consider sorting through your things and hosting a garage sale.

✅ Choose a different moving date: Don't move during peak moving season. Movers tend to be less busy from September through April. If you can afford to wait for a weekday move in winter or early spring, you can often save a lot of money. 

✅ Look into moving discounts: When researching moving companies, look for deals on their websites. Many full-service movers offer discounts to seniors and military veterans. Also, long-distance professional movers will offer reduced rates to customers who book their move far in advance. 

How do I move to another state without a job?

First, you must plan and check your savings to move to another state without a job. Consider essential factors such as expenses associated with moving, living, and utilities at least for a span of six to eight months. Once you’ve estimated your budget and savings, you can look for jobs in local newspapers and search online for suitable opportunities near your interstate move’s destination.

What states are the best to move to?

If you're considering an interstate move in the US, it's essential to research factors such as the local economy, transportation, education, cost of living, job market, and crime rate. 

According to recent data, states like Washington State, Minnesota, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Texas, Colorado, Wisconsin, Virginia, and Florida are among the top states to move to. These states offer excellent employment opportunities, quality health care, education facilities, and attractive tourist destinations.

What states will pay you to move there?

Many states will pay you incentives if you’re willing to relocate. The city of Tulsa in Oklahoma is not just offering an incentive of $10,000, but also a $1,000 housing stipend. Other states like Iowa, Vermont, Alaska, Maine, and Ohio also assist with relocation expenses and financial incentives for remote workers.

What is the first thing to do when moving to a new state?

Relocating to a new state can easily cost between $2,000 to $5,000, or more. To prepare for the expenses associated with moving and essential utilities, it's important to review your savings and budget accordingly. 

If you own a vehicle, you must register it and update your driver's license address by contacting your local DMV office. Remember that your postal address will also change, so update your voter registration to ensure you're eligible to vote in your new state.

What is the cheapest and safest state to live in?

Each US state is not necessarily equally expensive to live in, and there are several states where the cost of living is lower. States located in the South or Midwest tend to have more affordable living costs and many of them boast lower crime rates. 

Mississippi, in particular, is known for its low cost of living—15% lower than the national average—with an average monthly housing cost of $795. Georgia is also a great option for those looking for a safe and affordable state to live in, with charming Southern towns and low crime rates.

Is it hard to get a job in another state?

Finding a job in a different state can be a challenging and overwhelming process. It can be frustrating to go through the application process and receive rejections, but being realistic and practical can help. 

The job market varies depending on the industry, your skill set and related experience, and the type of job you are looking for. To increase your chances, it's important to have a well-written cover letter and resume and to keep an eye out for job openings online and in local newspapers.

What is the prettiest state to live in?

The United States boasts a wealth of stunning destinations to call home, with California, Florida, and Washington ranking among the most beautiful. Known for their unique cities and gorgeous beaches, California and Florida are popular choices for those seeking natural beauty and vibrant culture. 

Meanwhile, Washington offers a diverse landscape that includes the stunning waterways of the Puget Sound and majestic mountain ranges. From the lush green hills of the east to the rugged peaks of the west, Washington has something for every nature lover. With their diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes, these three states are truly a feast for the eyes.

What is the best state to raise a family in?

There are a few great places to raise a family in the US. Massachusetts can be considered the best state in America to raise a family, because of its steadily growing access to schools, health care, safety, and socioeconomic status. Minnesota and New York are other states that offer good health care and educational facilities.

Bottom Line

Moving out of state can be expensive, but proper planning can help keep costs manageable. It's important to research and compare moving companies, consider packing and other additional services, and understand how weight and distance can affect the price. It's also essential to factor in costs like transportation, additional expenses, and living costs in your new state. 

By keeping these considerations in mind, planning your move ahead of time, and using resources like a moving cost calculator, you can make an informed decision about whether moving out of state is the right choice.

Once you've decided to move, that's where 9Kilo comes in. With our extensive network of reliable and trustworthy movers, we can help you find the best moving company to suit your budget and needs for your out-of-state move.