Relocating to a new home, whether across town or across the country, comes with more than just stress and boxes—it comes with a price tag. But how much should you really expect to spend? The answer depends heavily on whether your move is local or long-distance. Many people are surprised to find just how different the pricing structure is between the two.
At Moving Company Search, we’ve helped thousands of movers compare quotes, understand pricing, and avoid unexpected charges. Below, we break down the key differences between local and long-distance moving costs, explain what influences those costs, and share practical tips for staying on budget.
In the moving industry, a local move generally refers to a relocation within 50 to 100 miles, typically within the same city or nearby county. These moves are usually completed in a single day and billed hourly.
A long-distance move, on the other hand, involves a journey over 100 miles or that crosses state lines. These moves are priced differently—usually based on the weight or volume of your items and the distance traveled. They require more planning, more labor, and often involve overnight transport or storage.
Local moving companies almost always charge by the hour. Your final cost depends on how long the move takes and how many movers are involved. For a small apartment, you might finish in three or four hours with two movers. For a larger home, you’ll need more time and likely a larger team.
Here’s a general range:
Factors like stairs, tight hallways, and long walks from the truck to your door can increase time, and therefore cost. Some companies also charge extra for items like pianos, safes, or delicate antiques.
Long-distance moves are a different game. Instead of being billed by the hour, these moves are typically priced based on the total weight or volume of your shipment and the number of miles traveled. You’ll usually receive a flat-rate quote after an in-home or virtual inventory assessment.
Let’s say you're moving a two-bedroom apartment from New York to Atlanta. Depending on the weight of your belongings and services required, your quote could range from $3,000 to $6,000. A larger home moving coast-to-coast could easily cost $10,000 or more.
Other cost influencers include:
On the surface, local moves are far more budget-friendly. But that doesn't mean they're always cheap. A full-service move for a 3-bedroom house—complete with packing and furniture handling—can still run over $2,000, especially if the crew spends an entire day on-site.
Long-distance moves are typically 3–6 times more expensive than local ones. You're not just paying for labor but also for long-haul transportation, route planning, federal regulations compliance, and risk. For interstate or cross-country moves, hiring a reputable mover with transparent pricing is essential.
There are gray areas where local and long-distance pricing models start to blend. For example, if you're moving 80 miles but crossing state lines, some companies might treat it as a long-distance move. Others might stick to an hourly rate. It depends on the mover’s internal policies, so always clarify how they classify your move before signing a contract.
Even if you’re not packing every box yourself, there are a few practical ways to reduce your moving bill:
Most movers offer a virtual or in-home walkthrough to estimate the total weight or volume of your shipment. You'll then receive a flat-rate quote based on distance and services required.
Not typically, but you may save by reducing crew size or moving on a slower day. Always ask if there are promotions or discounts available.
Basic coverage is often included, but for long-distance or high-value moves, consider purchasing full-value protection or third-party insurance.
Yes, DIY moves are usually cheaper upfront—but you’ll be responsible for all labor, fuel, insurance, and logistics. The cost savings might not be worth the stress.
Whether you're moving across town or across the country, understanding your cost structure is key to avoiding surprise expenses. Local moves tend to be more affordable and simpler, but long-distance relocations demand more planning, regulation, and protection.
To get the most accurate pricing, use Moving Company Search to compare pre-screened, licensed moving companies near you. With the right partner, your move can be not just affordable—but smooth and stress-free.
