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

Our Top Pick

Looking for a hassle-free and affordable moving experience? Look no further than Metro Hop Relocation, a fully licensed interstate moving broker based in sunny Boca Raton, Florida.

With a deep understanding of the challenges and stress of moving, Metro Hop Relocation is dedicated to providing customers with a seamless and stress-free relocation experience at a competitive price point.

As a professional interstate moving brokerage, Metro Hop Relocation offers comprehensive moving services with a personal touch. Their team of experienced moving consultants will handle every aspect of the process, from start to finish, so clients can focus on the excitement of their new journey instead of worrying about the logistics.

Whether you’re planning a long-distance move or need corporate moving services, Metro Hop Relocation has got you covered. Trust them to cater to your unique needs and make your move a breeze.

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5
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4.9
4.9
4.3
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2 + bedrooms
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30 days
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4.9

 

30 days of free & secured storage

 
Free Up to 7 Days Phone / Text / Video
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4.9

 

Free 30 Days

10%
Free up to 72 Hrs Phone / FaceTime / Text
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Largest Interstate Mover
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4.5
4.3
2 + bedrooms
30 days

30%
Free up to 72 hrs
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What You Need to Consider When Picking Cross Country Movers

cross country movers truck image

Moving is always challenging, but moving across the country is on another level!  To help ensure that your long-distance move is as smooth and stress-free as possible, we've created a comprehensive list of the key factors you need to consider when choosing a cross-country moving company: 

📦 Good reputation and reviews. 

Choosing a professional moving company can be difficult with so many options available. You want a company that will suit your needs and provides good service. Unfortunately, you can't always trust what a company says about itself. 

This is where public review platforms like Yelp and Google are helpful because people don't hold back. To get a sense of the company’s reputation, take some time and read its reviews.

Reading reviews could teach you important information you didn't know, good or bad. So don't skip this crucial step in the moving process.

📦 Additional insurance coverage is essential.

Finding a provider with good insurance coverage is vital when choosing moving services. Mishaps can and do happen - even with the best movers. 

So you must be prepared. Licensed interstate movers are required by law to offer two types of moving insurance: full value protection and released value protection. 

➡️ Released value protection

Released value protection provides basic coverage at no extra cost, typically calculated based on the weight of your belongings. 

This level of coverage means that your long-distance mover is only liable for 60 cents per pound per article if any of your belongings are lost, damaged, or destroyed during the move.

➡️ Full value protection

Full value protection is a more comprehensive level of liability coverage. It offers more protection for your belongings if they are lost, damaged, or destroyed during the move. 

With full value protection, the moving company must repair or replace any lost or damaged items or offer a cash settlement for the item's current market value.

This coverage comes at an additional cost and is calculated based on the declared value of your belongings.

Tip: It's important to note that even with full value protection, there may be certain limitations and exclusions in the coverage, so it's always a good idea to carefully review and understand the terms and conditions of any coverage offered by a moving company.

📦 Find a provider that offers storage. 

Storage is essential when deciding which company to handle your move.

Storage can provide a convenient and flexible solution for various moving challenges that can arise during a long-distance move.

Working with a reputable moving company that offers storage options ensures that your belongings are safely stored and easily accessible whenever you need them.

📦 Check that your cross-country moving company is properly licensed. 

Make sure your long-distance movers are properly licensed. It's essential to choose a mover registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) that has been assigned a unique USDOT number. 

You can verify their credentials and ensure they have insurance by checking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's database. Simply search for their USDOT number to guarantee peace of mind during your move.

📦 Inquire about moving agents.  

When choosing a long-distance mover, you must ensure that your chosen company has nationwide coverage. Not having nationwide coverage means that your moving company will subcontract part of the move out to a different party.

While there is nothing inherently wrong with using a third-party service during your move, it's important to keep in mind that subcontractors are not employees of the moving company. This means they may not be held to the same standards as the original company you hired. 

If you're comfortable with subcontractors, ask about their insurance coverage to ensure that you're protected from accidents or damages.

📦 If possible, get an in-person estimate.

Moving across the country is costly and complex. Because of this, we recommend you get an in-person estimate for the cost of your move, if possible. Regarding cross-country moving, in-home estimates are generally considered more accurate and reliable: 

➡️ Personalized assessment: In-home estimates allow moving companies to conduct a personalized evaluation of your belongings, which gives them a better idea of the scope of your move. This assessment can help movers provide you with a more accurate estimate.

➡️ Identification of potential issues: During an in-home estimate, the moving company can identify any potential issues that could affect the move, such as narrow doorways, staircases, or other obstacles. This knowledge can help them plan and avoid unexpected challenges on moving day.

➡️ Clarification of expectations: In-home estimates also allow you to clarify your expectations with the moving company and ask any questions. This ensures that both parties are on the same page.

How We Choose the Best Cross Country Moving Companies

We’ve reviewed more than 150 cross-country movers and analyzed over 220 relocation estimates to find the best professional cross-country movers in the U.S.

In order to get the list of the top cross-country movers, we considered many important factors such as pricing, the company’s location, services offered, customer reviews, and quality of services.

Cross Country Moving Company Reviews

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.

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

United Vanlines

4.3
Largest Interstate Mover
Intro

United Vanlines

Intro

  • ➡️ Long-distance moves
  • ➡️ Local moves
  • ➡️ International moves
  • ➡️ Storage facilities
  • ➡️ Car shipping

United Van Lines is a renowned moving company with a proven track record. They offer various services—that include basic and full-service packages—to make your long-distance move as smooth as possible. 

Whether you are moving locally, interstate, or internationally, or if you're a military family with unique needs, United Van Lines has got you covered. 

Customers can pack their belongings or rely on experienced movers for full-service packing, moving, and unpacking. 

Pros

  • A wide choice of moving services
  • Personalized quotes
  • Debris removal
  • Online quoting and in-home evaluation for an accurate estimate
  • Great electronics packing

Cons

  • United Van Lines does not offer pricing estimates for self-service options.
  • Quality may vary, as United uses third-party carriers
  • Higher prices than the competition

Why we recommend United Van Lines

No list of the best full-service movers would be complete without United Van Lines! They offer a wide range of services for just about any move. Whatever household belongings you need to move, they can accommodate you. 

Additionally, United is one of the few nationwide moving companies that offers in-home tech assistance. This unique service includes installing and uninstalling home theater systems and computer networks, which adds another layer of convenience to their moving services.

Cross-Country Movers - Runners-Up

cross country movers truck image around the world design

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.

International Van Lines

4.8
Best For: Overall
Intro

International Van Lines

Intro

As a leading long-distance moving company in the US, International Van Lines is consistently ranked at or near the top of best movers lists by customers and industry analysts alike.

Established in 2000, IVL initially focused on international moves before expanding into domestic services in 2007. Today, they offer a comprehensive range of solutions, including local, interstate, and long-distance moves, primarily focusing on long-distance relocations.

As a broker and carrier, IVL is a full-service moving company that collaborates with over 3,000 partners worldwide and handles an impressive 10,000 relocations annually. Their extensive services make them a one-stop shop for all long-distance moving needs, including full-service packing, automobile shipping, cleaning, online shipment tracking, and specialized services for military and government personnel.

In addition to these offerings, International Van Lines also provides storage options and office relocation services, further solidifying their trusted reputation in the moving industry.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moves
  • ➡️ Local moves
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking services
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Storage
  • ➡️ Moving supplies
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services
  • ➡️ International moves
  • ➡️ Military moves

Pros

  • Competitive pricing
  • Full-service move across the country
  • Offers a wide range of services
  • Flexible moving packages
  • Excellent customer satisfaction ratings
  • 30 days free storage
  • Offers a wide variety of discounts
  • Nationwide availability

Cons

  • Deposit required
  • Third-party movers are used in some moves so quality can vary

Why we recommend International Van Lines

Transparent pricing

International Van Lines stands out in the moving industry for its commitment to transparent pricing and going above and beyond to provide clients with an understanding of the costs associated with their move—making it one of the best cheap moving companies.

While it's true that no full-service moving company can instantly offer a binding quote due to the many variables at play, International Van Lines takes the initiative by displaying sample moving prices on its website. This lets customers understand the potential costs involved in their move, which many companies avoid disclosing upfront.

International Van Lines strives to educate customers about their pricing structure, ensuring that clients are well-informed and not caught off guard by any charges. The company is open about common charges not included in moving estimates, such as a $75 surcharge per flight of stairs or a $150 fee for bulky items like treadmills and canoes.

Senior discounts

Another reason we recommend International Van Lines is that they offer great promotions for customers on a budget. Unlike most moving companies who shy away from offering discounts on long-distance moves.

IVL offers a 15% senior discount that can lead to substantial savings—potentially hundreds or even thousands of dollars for larger homes. International Van Lines also offers a 15% discount for car shipping services.

Allied

4.7
 
Intro

Allied

Intro

Allied Van Lines is a renowned moving company with a proven track record. They offer various services, including basic and full-service packages, to make relocations as smooth as possible. 

Whether you're moving locally, interstate, or internationally, or if you're a military family with unique needs, Allied Van Lines has got you covered. 

Customers can pack their belongings themselves or rely on Allied Van Lines' experienced movers for full-service packing, moving, and unpacking.

Pros

  • A wide variety of moving services
  • Personalized quotes

Cons

  • Allied Van Lines does not offer pricing estimates through any self-service options.
  • Customers who need full insurance coverage

North American Van Lines

4.1
Best for Complex Moves
Intro

North American Van Lines

Intro

North American Van Lines is a well-established moving broker that’s been operating in the United States for over 85 years. With a network of more than 500 agents throughout the country, North American Van Lines offers a comprehensive range of solutions for all types of relocations, including local, long-distance, interstate, international, and state-to-state moves. 

North American Van Lines goes above and beyond by offering specialized corporate relocation services, convenient storage solutions, packing services, vehicle transportation, and specialty moving services for fragile or oversized items. Last but not least, they offer a unique container-moving option called Blue Express.  

North American Van Lines is a trusted name in the moving industry with a reputation for providing high-quality service and reliable transportation.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking
  • ➡️ Storage services
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability
  • ➡️ Vehicle shipping
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Mobile storage containers

Pros

  • Not-to-Exceed Pricing ensures your moving cost will never be higher than your quote
  • No deposit is required
  • Website includes helpful moving-related resources for customers
  • GPS tracking

Cons

  • No instant quotes
  • Limited storage options
  • Your moving experience may vary depending on your location

Why we recommend North American Van Lines

Comprehensive moving services 

North American Van Lines is one of the best interstate moving companies because they offer a variety of moving services to meet the needs of all customers. Their full-service moving packages include:

🚚 Household moves are available for residences of all sizes, from small studio apartments to large multibedroom houses.

🚚 Corporate relocation services are also available for businesses looking to move domestically or abroad.

🚚 Long-distance moves: North American Van Lines has agents who can handle long-distance moves, including cross-country and interstate moves. 

North American Van Lines’s services include loading and unloading, basic liability coverage, and shipment tracking—all at no additional cost. In addition, North American Van Lines offers premium services for an extra fee to make your move even more straightforward. 

These premium options include:

📦 Packing assistance that includes different options such as full-service, fragile-only, or partial packing.

📦 Temporary storage for when your move-in and move-out dates don't align

📦 Installation and assembly of furniture and appliances

📦 Specialized care for heavy or fragile items such as pianos and antiques

📦 North American Van Lines also offers full valuation coverage, which provides more extensive protection if goods are damaged or lost during the move

How Much Do Cross-Country Movers Cost?

cross country movers app screen image

Moving across the country can range from $2,000 to $15,000. This range is wide because there are many factors to consider when moving long distances. 

The two most important factors influencing the cost of your move are your home size and the travel distance. Here’s a table that shows average cross-country moving cost by home size, assuming a move of 2,000 miles:

A breakdown of the costs might look like this:

1 Bedroom$2,250 – $4,500
2 Bedroom$4,000 – $6,250
3 Bedroom$5,000 – $8,500
4 Bedroom$6,500 – $12,000
5 Bedroom$8,000 – $13,500

Factors that affect the cost of moving cross country 

cross country movers

➡️The size of your home  

The most critical factor in determining the cost of your move is the size of your property. 

Professional long-distance moving companies must follow regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that limit the weight they can load onto each vehicle.

If you have a bigger property, your moving company may need additional trucks to transport your belongings, raising costs. As a rule, the bigger your home, the higher the moving expenses.

Tip: The type of items you’re moving will impact the cost of your move. Some items require specialized equipment or packing materials to transport safely. You may want to hire certified movers specifically trained to move your high-value items, increasing your move's cost further.

➡️Distance

The distance you need to travel is also essential to factor in. Traveling further increases the expenses your moving company will need to cover, which increases the total cost of your move.

The cost of your move will also be influenced by:

🚚 Toll charges

🚚 Gas fees

🚚 Labor costs

🚚 Overnight accommodation for movers

🚚 Any permits or paperwork required for moving certain items across the country

➡️ Service requirements 

The cost of moving is dependent on the level of assistance you require on your cross-country move. 

Additional services will increase the total cost of your move and include the following: 

🚚 Storage (more on that below) 

🚚 Specialty-item moving 

🚚 Full or partial packing assistance 

🚚 Shuttle service 

🚚 Moving containers

🚚 Packing and moving supplies 

Tip: Before you move, take some time to think about precisely what services you need and factor those into your budget and requirements when searching for a provider.

➡️ Storage

When facing a complex long-distance move, you may opt to have a long-distance moving company temporarily store your belongings before, during, or after the move. 

Keep in mind that this service comes at an additional cost. Storage fees can vary among professional cross-country movers, so inquire about the specific details and costs.  

➡️ Moving dates are important

The moving industry experiences a busy season during spring and summer, resulting in higher rates due to increased demand. On the other hand, the off-season during fall and winter sees a decrease in demand and lower rates.

The day of the week and date can also dramatically affect the price of your move. For example, moving on weekends or during peak season tends to cost much more than a weekday, off-season move.

The cheapest way is to consider moving during the week in winter.

Tip: Ensure you haven’t booked the move on a national holiday, as this will add cost to your cross-country move.

➡️ Insurance coverage

The best long-distance moving companies typically provide basic insurance to protect your belongings during the move. Still, this coverage may not be sufficient, especially when moving across the country. 

To ensure adequate protection, consider purchasing additional insurance through the moving company. Added cover will, of course, increase the cost of your move.

Calculate the cost of moving cross-country

Do you want to figure out how much your cross-country move will cost? Use our free moving cost calculator to find out.

Let us know where you're moving from and the destination of your new home. Use the drop-down function to select the number of bedrooms and your contact details. We’ll email you the best quotes from top movers.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Cross-Country Moving Tips

➡️ Do your research: You have decided to move cross-country, great! In the months leading up to your move, research the new city. It's a good idea to check out neighbourhoods, homes, stores, and schools—if you have kids.

💡Tip: It's also a good idea to check out the crime statistics for your chosen area. Check out this link to get started.

➡️ Declutter: The less stuff you have, the cheaper it will be to move cross-country. In the months leading up to your move, start to get rid of items you don't want or need.

➡️ Change address: Make sure your mail gets to you by visiting the United States Postal Service website to fill out an official Change of Address form. If possible, try to do this three months before your move. 
➡️ Set up utilities in your new home: Don't forget to set up your utilities such as gas, water, trash, phone, cable, and Internet before the move-in day.

💡Tip: Don’t forget to cancel your current utilities and services such as yard and pool care, pest control maintenance, house cleaners, etc.

➡️Pause subscriptions: If you're planning to move across the country, remember to update your subscription address and suspend services temporarily to avoid missing a delivery.
➡️Start packing: The first step is gathering supplies and boxes. Make sure your cardboard boxes are sturdy enough to survive a cross-country move. We’ll discuss how to pack your belongings in detail below.

How to properly pack your belongings

📦 Create an inventory

Make a list and photograph all your belongings before packing. If something goes missing, it will provide proof to support your claim. 

📦 Set up a packing station: 

To make packing more efficient, create a designated space in your home. Set up all the supplies you need there and get packing! 

📦 Set up boxes as needed: 

Having too many boxes in your space is stressful. To keep your space as manageable as possible, only set up boxes when you’re ready to fill them. Once a box is filled, take it to the packing station for taping and labeling.

📦 Start with nonessentials: 

Start packing your nonessentials first. Nonessential items include picture frames, books, knick-knacks, spare pillows, blankets, exercise equipment, and extra dishes.

📦 Distribute the weight:

Ensure heavy items are packed in separate boxes to prevent breakage; this avoids overpacking your boxes and suffering damage. It is better to spread out the weight of your items across several boxes than to pack everything heavy into one large box.

📦 Use linens and towels as packing materials:

You might be surprised by how many everyday household items can be repurposed for packing! 

Protect delicate items such as glasses or perfume bottles by wrapping them in socks for extra padding. Use linens and towels to cushion fragile objects like lamps and vases. Wrap sharp objects like knives in dish towels and secure them with a rubber band. 

 📦 Suitcases aren’t just for clothes: 

Suitcases with wheels are a great way to move heavy items. So rather than using your suitcase for your clothes, consider using your suitcase for items like books and heavy dishes. 

📦 Keep the hardware in a plastic bag: 

Label and place small furniture hardware like screws in a sealable bag when disassembling furniture. Tape the bag to the corresponding furniture piece, or keep all bags together in a box.

📦 Label everything:

To streamline your packing process, label everything—including boxes—with the corresponding room and assign each room a specific color. You can also put the name of the room the box belongs to or label the contents.

However, if you are using movers, don't write the contents on the box because it might confuse them.

📦 Pack a moving essentials box:

An “essentials box” is a must-have on a moving day. Pack it with everything you need for your first night in your new home, including paper towels, toilet paper, water, paper plates, and plastic utensils. 

If you have kids or pets, don't forget to add their essentials like diapers, clothes, food, and toys. With your essentials box, you'll be ready to enjoy your new home right away.

📦 Pack a moving day bag:

Pack a bag with items you'll need on moving day, including pajamas, underwear, baby items, a toothbrush, and toilet paper.

📦 Pack the packing supplies last:

You will need your packing items right until moving day, so leave them unpacked and at the packing station until the very end.
For more tips and tricks, look at our long-distance moving checklist.

How long does a cross-country move take?

It's hard to predict how long cross-country movers will take to arrive at your new location. Times will vary depending on how many belongings you have and the distance to your new home.

Generally, a cross-country move can be between 10 and 14 days, but it can take as long as three weeks or more. We’ve created a table to give you a rough estimate of how long your long-distance move might take: 

MilesDays
0-200 miles1-3 days
200-500 miles2-7 days
500-800 miles3-10 days
800-1,200 miles4-12 days
1,200-1,700 miles5-14 days
1,700-2,500 miles6-21 days
2,500-3,300 miles7-21 days

Long Distance Moving FAQs

Do cross-country moving companies guarantee delivery dates?

No. It's unlikely that your long-distance moving company can provide an exact delivery date due to various factors affecting the delivery timeframe, including weather conditions, traffic density, and vehicle issues. 

Additionally, movers typically consolidate shipments when moving across the country, further complicating the delivery schedule. As a result, professional moving companies provide a delivery window and a range of dates when your belongings are expected to arrive. 

For cross-country moves, it can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks for your shipment to arrive, so the delivery window usually ranges from 3 to 14 days.

💡Tip: To reduce stress, overestimate how long the move will take and plan what you will do if your belongings arrive late.

How far in advance should an out-of-state move be scheduled?

A good rule of thumb is to book your move as soon as you have finalized the details of your cross-country move. 

We recommend booking moving services at least six months before your move date. 

What items should I not take on my cross-country move?

Long-distance moves are more complicated than local moves, often involving multiple days over long distances. Due to the distance—and applicable transport regulations—there are some items you should avoid packing when moving across the country. 

Hazardous materials  
Cross-country movers will supply you with a list of hazardous items that can't go in a moving truck. These items can include, but aren’t limited to:

⚠️ Gasoline
⚠️ Oxygen bottles
⚠️ Lighter fluid
⚠️ Matches
⚠️ Propane cylinders
⚠️ Nail polish remover
⚠️ Paints and paint thinners
⚠️ Fireworks

Perishable food items 
When it comes to moving cross-country its important to remember that your items could spend up to three weeks on a truck. Don’t pack any food that can go off in transit. Also, avoid packing perishable food in glass jars as they can crack, leak, or mold before arrival. 
Food items safe to pack include boxed or canned items, dried fruits, spices, or cooking oils.

💡Tip: If you are unsure about what food items are prohibited, get in touch with your movers and ask.

Valuables
It's a good idea to keep valuable items or documents with you during your cross-country move. While cross-country movers will reimburse you for missing items, they’re typically sentimental items that can’t truly be replaced. 
Valuables can include: 

💎 Family photos
💎Jewelry
💎 Heirlooms
💎 Collections (coins, stamps, etc.)
💎 Cash
💎 Important documents (deeds, wills, bonds, stocks, etc.)

When deciding what items to have movers pack, it's essential to ask yourself a few key questions:

❓Can this item be easily replaced once we’ve arrived at our new home?
❓Would it be devastating to lose this item during the move?
❓Do I need this item while traveling, such as important documents or passports?


What additional services do out-of-state moving companies offer?

In addition to standard moving services, cross-country moving companies may offer:

➡️ Moving containers
➡️ Virtual inventory surveys
➡️ Storage services (long-term, short-term, storage-in-transit)
➡️ Packing and unpacking services
➡️ Junk removal
➡️ Custom crates and fragile packing
➡️ Furniture disassembly and reassembly
➡️ Appliance disconnection and reconnection
➡️ Vehicle, boat, and RV shipping
➡️ Boxes and moving supplies

How can I save money on my out-of-state move?

A few ways to save money during your long-distance move require a little planning beforehand: 

➡️ Get multiple quotes.
A great way to get a competitive moving rate is to get multiple quotes. You can then compare and contrast different options to get the best estimates.

💡Tip: Get three quotes to compare prices to get the best possible deal.

➡️ Downsize your belongings. 
The cost of your move is determined by how much weight needs to be hauled. It's a good idea to spring clean before you move to save on paying a premium for items you don’t need anymore. 

➡️ Read the fine print.
Reading the fine print is crucial when choosing a cross-country moving company, because it can help you avoid potential issues and unexpected costs that could arise during your move.

Cross-country moving companies may have additional charges not disclosed up front, such as fuel surcharges, packing materials, or long-carry fees. You can identify hidden fees and avoid unexpected costs by reading the fine print.

💡Tip: If you need to cancel your move or change your plans, it's important to understand the company's cancellation and refund policies. Reading the fine print can help you avoid any surprises or penalties.

➡️ Get an in-person estimate.

Getting an online quote is easy and convenient, but it’s not as accurate as having a professional come out to survey your belongings. Because cross-country moves are expensive, getting an accurate estimate will help you to stick to your budget. 

💡Tip: Some moving services may offer discounts to certain customers, like senior citizens or veterans. Be sure to ask a representative about potential discounts when they’re assessing your belongings.

How 9Kilo Can Help You Choose a Cross-Country Mover

Experience a stress-free and seamless cross-country move with 9Kilo Moving—the premier choice to help you find the right long-distance moving service. 

Our unparalleled network of top-rated national movers and long-distance moving companies is designed to provide you with a moving experience tailored to your specific needs and budget. 

Our team of expert moving industry veterans is backed by years of experience and knowledge, ensuring a smooth and efficient move—no matter the distance or complexity.

Ready to find a cross-country mover?

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