How We Choose the Best Out of State Movers
Moving out of state is exciting, but excitement always comes with a bit of chaos. Fortunately, the research team at Moving APT is here to help. We did a deep dive into the best out of state movers of 2023 so you can move with ease and enjoy your new start.
To bring you our list of the best of the best, we reviewed real customer feedback and pulled from our 22 years of experience in the moving industry – including face-to-face business with the pro movers in our network. We found out what movers will have you covered, and what movers just aren’t worth your time.
Read on to see our list of the best out of state movers of 2023, and check out our insider tips to make your move even easier.
Top 3 Recommended Out of State Movers
Adams Van Lines
- Binding estimate
- Experienced staff
Native Van Lines
- 30 Days free storage
- Custom moves available
Pricing Van Lines
- Good pricing system
- free no-obligation quotes
In this article
How Much Do Out of State Movers Cost?
Out of state moving companies can cost anywhere from $1200 to $17500 – and beyond. This is a huge window, but it all depends on the amount of stuff you’re hauling, and the distance you’re traveling.
Here is an example of how the costs might be broken down:
| Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2 – 3 Bedroom | 4 – 5 Bedroom |
| 100 miles | $1200 – $1500 | $1250 – $1700 | $1500 – $3400 |
| 500 miles | $1400 – $2000 | $1800 – $3500 | $3700 – $6500 |
| 1000 miles | $1600 – $2900 | $3800 – $6900 | $6800 – $8200 |
| 2000 miles | $1800 – $3700 | $5200 – $7500 | $8500 – $12700 |
| 3000 + miles | $2100 – $4500 | $6100 – $9200 | $13200 – $17500 |
There are a few different options you can choose when you’re planning your out of state move, and they all have their pros and cons. Check out this section to learn more about DIY, moving containers, and full service movers – and read on to learn more about how long your out of state move may take.
How Long Does an Out of State Move Take?
An out of state move can take anywhere between one and 21 days (and sometimes longer) depending on how far you’re moving and how much you have to move.
Keep in mind that sometimes less stuff actually means a longer wait. Movers won’t send half-empty trucks across country. Instead, they’ll wait for a truck to fill up with other people’s stuff to avoid any wasted space.
This means more time waiting for deliveries and stops while your belongings are shipped to you – unless you can fill an entire truck by yourself.
| Miles | Days |
| 0-500 miles | 1-7 days |
| 500-1500 miles | 3-14 days |
| 1500-2500 miles | 5-21 days |
| 2500+ miles | 7 -21 days |
List of 5 Best Out of State Movers
We searched through the best movers in our network to bring you a list of the top 5 out of state movers. All you have to do is decide which one sounds best for your needs.
If you’re moving out of state, Adams Van Lines is an excellent choice – especially if you need extra help planning your move. They’ll help you every step of the way, from planning, to packing, hauling and unloading.
The pros at Adams Van Lines know that no two moves are alike. That’s why they help customers come up with customized moving plans. They’ll work closely with you to ensure a stress-free moving experience, and they’ll communicate with you about any extra services your move may require.
Pros
- Reliable flat-rate pricing and price matching
- Experienced and background-checked staff
- Certified antique and piano moving company
- Binding estimate
Cons
- Online quotes may take several minutes
Why We Recommend Adams Van Lines
Adams Van Lines is more than just a reliable moving company. They apply their experience to ensure their customers are satisfied and taken care of throughout their entire move, and we appreciate them for it. Their custom moving options are super useful, too.
Native Van Lines is an excellent option if you’ve got a complicated move on your hands. They’re an out of state moving company that has tons of experience with awkward, hefty items such as pool tables and pianos – but they can handle more conventional moves as well. They also offer free storage for up to 30 days, in case you need a more flexible moving window.
To sweeten the deal, Native boasts overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, and a handful of awards, too. They have a solid reputation for a reason, and if you need help with your move, they’ve got you covered.
Pros
- Broad range of moving services
- Helpful with specialty items
- Free storage for up to 30 days
- No hidden fees
Cons
- Personal info required before requesting a free moving quote
Why We Recommend Native Van Lines
If you need to move out of state, you can’t go wrong with Native. They’re an experienced and helpful out of state moving company, with a reputation that backs up their services and services that can be tailored to meet your exact needs.
We’re big fans of their custom moves, especially when it comes to specialized items.
Pricing Van Lines got their start two decades ago, and ever since then, they’ve been a reliable and trustworthy moving broker that specializes in putting customers in touch with competent movers for all kinds of jobs. They provide valuable screening to make sure your move is handled by pros you can trust.
This doesn’t mean they’re a totally hands-off company, though. Pricing Van Lines has a nationwide network of skilled and dedicated agents, and they’re committed to making sure your move goes as smooth as possible
Pros
- Customized moving strategies
- Offers free no-obligation quotes
- One of the most competitive pricing systems in the industry
- Useful online resources
- Well-trained and background-checked staff
Cons
- Not a totally hands-on moving company themselves
Why We Recommend Pricing Van Lines
You can’t beat the numbers. Pricing Van Lines has moved thousands of people out of state for over 20 years. We’re big fans of their screening and selection process, and they go to great lengths to ensure your out of state movers are the best at what they do.
Allied Van Lines has over 80 years of experience in the moving industry, and they’ve lasted that long for a reason. They provide excellent customer service, accurate in-home estimates, and a wide variety of custom moving options. If you’re moving out of state, you can trust them with all your moving needs.
When you’re moving long distance, you need a mover who can communicate with you about all the extra fees and factors behind the price tag.
Fortunately, Allied Van Lines can help with accurate in-home estimates, walking you through how you should prepare accordingly for your move.
Pros
- In-home moving estimates
- Responsive customer service agents
- Disconnection and reconnection of appliances
- Pricing transparency
Cons
- No cheap storage options for small items
Why We Recommend Allied Van Lines
Aside from their excellent customer service and proven track record, Allied Van Lines won us over with their commitment to clear communication. It all comes back to their estimates and their willingness to explain every step of a move.
On moving day, you’ll be thankful they took the time to walk you through the process, including giving you a heads-up about those extra fees.
Despite what their name would suggest, Two Men and a Truck has over 300 locations across the United States. While they’re a widespread company with offices just about everywhere, they still provide small-town attention to detail and excellent customer service.
They’ve won numerous awards for their moving services, and their customer reviews paint a picture of a company who really cares.
When you move with Two Men and a Truck, you’re getting personalized service from experienced movers. Aside from their excellent customer service, they’ll help you out every step of the way – from planning, to hauling, and even junk removal.
Pros
- Easy booking process
- Positive online customer reviews
- Free, instant quotes
- Junk removal services
Cons
- No price-matching policy
Why We Recommend Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck has been a constant fixture in our lists of top movers, and for good reason. They provide a variety of services that can make your move easier, and their commitment to their customers really shines.
Top Qualities to Look For Out of State Movers
There are many out of state moving companies to choose from, and some offer services that others don’t. When you’re planning an out of state move and shopping around for movers, keep an eye out for the following qualities:
- Reasonable prices. Some prices are too good to be true. When it comes to a full-service mover, don’t let yourself get roped in by an unusually low price. You get what you pay for – and if a mover seems too cheap, their service might be too cheap, as well.
- Binding estimates. Movers offer different types of estimates. Non-binding estimates mean your final price may be adjusted before, during, and even after the move. On the other hand, a binding estimate means your price is set in stone.
- Deposit info. Communicate with your mover to figure out your deposit well in advance of your actual moving day. Most companies charge a deposit of up to 50% of your total price, so it’s best to get this info early so you’re sure you can afford everything.
- Customer reviews. Good reviews are a sure way to tell if you should choose an out of state moving company. Look for reviews that mention responsiveness, reliability, safe delivery, professional movers, and helpful customer service.
- Confidence. Make sure your long distance movers are professional, properly licensed, and insured. Check out our section on avoiding scams to make sure you never get ripped off.
- Extra perks. It’s always nice to get an extra bonus. Look for companies that throw in additional benefits like a month of free storage, real-time location tracking, special discounts, and additional insurance.
Different Ways to Move: A Look at Your Moving Options
Moving Containers
Renting a moving container can will cost you anywhere between $2000 and $8200, and sometimes even higher. It all depends on the size of your moving container, and how far it needs to move.
If you’re seeking a midpoint between a full DIY job and hiring out full-service movers, a moving container is a great solution. These containers serve as temporary storage that you can load and unload on your own time. When you’re ready to move, the moving container company will come to pick up the container and haul it to your destination.
To read more about moving containers, check out this article for an in-depth analysis.
Truck Rentals
Truck rentals can cost anywhere from $1600 to $5200 and up for an out of state move. They’re a great option for budget-conscious movers, but you’ll have to remember that you’ll be doing all the heavy lifting yourself.
Several factors determine the price of moving truck rentals. These include the distance traveled, the time of rental, equipment used, date of move, type of move (one way or round trip), as well as fuel charges. Don’t forget, you’ll have to pay for food and lodging if you’re moving a really long distance.
To read more about moving trucks, check out this article for more info.
Full-Service Movers
Full service movers can cost anywhere from $2200 to $16,650 and up, depending on how much stuff you have to move, and how far you have to move everything. But, it’s important to remember that you’re getting what you pay for.
When you contact full-service movers, they handle everything from packing to hauling and unpacking at your destination.
Full service movers are a great option if you want to cut down on the stress of your move. Read on to learn more about the factors behind how much you’ll pay for an out of state move.
Factors Behind the Cost of Your Move
The total cost of your move depends on several factors. Here are a few extra fees you should keep in mind when you’re planning out a state to state move:
- Weight. Moving companies will measure up the weight of your stuff before they go through with a move. It gives them an idea of how long it’ll take to load everything up, and how much space your stuff will take in a truck.
- Distance. It’s simple math. A longer move costs more money, and a shorter move is usually cheaper. If you’re moving to the next state over, you’ll pay less than you would if you were moving all the way across the country.
- Moving supplies. Unless you’ve already got all this stuff lying around, expect to pay a little more for moving and packing materials such as labels, cardboard boxes, packing tape, packing paper, and foam pouches.
- Shuttle fees. Some cities don’t allow you to park an entire semi-truck on their streets. Instead, your movers will have to park the semi somewhere else, and pay for a smaller truck to shuttle everything from the semi to your new place.
- Access fees. Long driveway? Stairs? Elevators? These are all challenges for movers, and you’ll have to pay extra if they have to navigate their way into a new place. Go over all the details with a mover beforehand so you know what kind of fees to expect.
Pro Tip
If you’re searching for an ultimate checklist that will guide you through the entire moving process, you’re in the right place.
Check out our step-by-step moving checklist so you can keep track of hiring movers, hauling your stuff, and all the steps in between.
Avoiding Scams While Shopping for Movers
Last year, the National Consumer Complaint Database received over 4,000 complaints from customers whose belongings were held hostage, delayed, or lost by movers. Don’t let it happen to you. Read these steps to avoid getting ripped off by movers.
Research Your Options
Check for residential movers on the Better Business Bureau website, where they’re rated based on factors such as complaints and legal actions taken against the mover. Yelp is also an excellent source for reviews on movers, but don’t base your entire decision on what you read on easily-accessible online review sites.
Run Background Checks on Moving Companies
Take a closer look at each recommendation you receive. You’ll need the company’s name, USDOT number, and MC (Motor Carrier) number. Using this info, you can search for a company on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. If a moving company refuses to provide their USDOT number and MC number, cross them off your list.
Ask Questions
How does a mover calculate estimates? Will they charge for extra services? What kind of access fees should you prepare for? How long does it take for a mover to answer your questions? Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions. It’ll give you a good idea of the services offered by a mover, and their commitment to customer support.
Don’t commit to an out of state move unless you’re totally confident in your movers. Ask plenty of questions, research your choices, and check out our tips to prepare for moving day.
7 Ways You Can Make Your Out of State Move Easier
Eliminate the stress of state-to-state moves with these tips.
Out of state moves don’t have to be stressful. Here’s how you can prepare for moving day ahead of time:
1. Budget Accordingly
A cross country move can cost anywhere between $1600 to $16,650 and up. This means budgeting well in advance so you know what kind of moving service you’ll be using, and how much you’ll have to DIY. Start by giving yourself a rough budget that you don’t want to exceed, and shop around for your moving options to find out how much they’ll cost you.
2. Research Your Movers
If you’re planning on letting the pros handle everything, it pays to do a little research in advance. Search up state to state movers and weigh the pros and cons of each moving company before calling them for quotes. We recommend getting no less than three different quotes from different out of state moving companies if you’re trying to get a full picture of what you can expect for your move.
Pro Tip
Remember to ask about any extra charges you may incur during your move.
3. Reduce Your Stuff
You’ll do more than arrange furniture, electronics, paperwork, and clothes when packing. You’ll also need to decide what to keep, and what you want to get rid of. Aside from pawning off your stuff to family and friends, you can also organize a garage sale, or donate to nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, and Goodwill.
4. Pack Before Moving Day
The more you do today, the less you do tomorrow – and moving experts suggest starting with packing as early as three months in advance. We recommend setting one room aside as a specific packing room to avoid any confusion with the stuff you’re trying to sell or donate before moving day. Clearly label everything, and arrange your boxes by how often you’ll need them.
Pro Tip
As you get closer to moving day, put together an essentials bag. Get a suitcase or backpack, and pack it as if you’re going on a trip. You can live out of this bag while you’re going through with your move, and you won’t have to search through boxes to find your toothbrush.
5. Transfer Your Utilities
Remember to contact the utility providers of your new home to transfer and set up your gas, internet, water, electricity, satellite, security system, and sewage. Also keep in mind that you’ll need to turn off the utilities for your old place when you’re moving. Contact the utility providers of your old home and let them know when you’ll be moving.
6. Forward Your Mail
Forwarding your mail is easy but incredibly important. Just log on to www.USPS.com and let them know when to start forwarding your mail to your new home address. Do this sooner rather than later – the last thing you want is to fall behind on bills because of your move.
7. Keep Every Receipt
If you’re donating anything to a charitable organization, make sure you keep your receipts. You’ll be able to deduct the value of your gifted items from your total wages on your income tax form. The same applies to work relocations. You may be able to deduct moving expenses such as your truck rental and gas costs from your taxes.
Out of State FAQ
Who are the best out of state movers?
We recommend Adams Van Lines, Pricing Van Lines, Native Van Lines, Allied Van Lines, and Two Men and a Truck. These are all highly-trusted out of state moving companies with excellent customer service. Read this section for more detail, and do some shopping around to see what movers meet your needs.
What is the cheapest way to move from state to state?
The cheapest option for a state to state move is always going to be DIY, but it may not be as cheap as you think. When you factor in the price of gas, the price of food and lodging, and the hours of work you’ll be missing, a DIY move may only be slightly less expensive than your other moving options.
What should you not send with movers?
Anything flammable or explosive is immediately off the list. Movers won’t touch fireworks, gasoline, hazardous chemicals, and propane tanks. They also won’t transport firearms, so it’s safer to just contact a local FFL and have your guns shipped to an FFL holder in your new location. Get in touch with your movers for a more complete list of what they can’t transport.
Is it better to use a moving broker or a moving company?
Moving brokers and moving companies both have their own pros and cons. A moving broker acts as a filter, putting you in touch with qualified movers in your area and helping you avoid sketchy companies. On the other hand, moving companies do the actual heavy lifting. If you don’t have a specific moving company in mind, a broker will find one for you.
How much does an out of state furniture move cost?
Moving out of state can cost anywhere from $1600 to $16,650 and up. It’s a big window, but the final moving cost all depends on how much you’re moving, and how far you’re moving. This section will give you a better idea of all the additional fees you can expect on top of your initial estimate.
What month and time of the year is best for moving?
June, July, and August are peak moving season. Outside of the summer, you should avoid any major holidays. Try to schedule your move for the middle of the week, and in the middle of the month to avoid the rush that comes with the beginning of new leases.
How do moving companies charge for out of state moves?
Moving companies charge by distance traveled and the weight of your stuff. When you request an estimate, they may send a representative to your home to check out how much you’ll have to move. These in-home estimates are a valuable tool for movers to figure out what your move may entail, and for you to figure out how much you should set aside in your budget.
How much should I tip out of state movers?
You should tip between 15% and 20% of the total cost of your move, to be divided up across your whole moving team. Some companies may explicitly decline tips or gratuities, but they’re a small minority. Otherwise, tipping is generally accepted (and expected).
Here’s How We Rank Our Out of State Movers…
Moving APT has 22 years of experience in local and long distance moving, and we do real business with movers to get data that’s more in-depth and reliable than anything else online.
Our rating methodology is based on the following:
Reviews
- Reputation: Reviews and profiles show if movers are highly-rated and experienced.
- Industry-Insider Info: We see what the best companies in the industry are doing.
- Mystery Shopping: We call and pose as complete strangers to keep movers honest.
Licensing and Accreditation
- Arbitration Program: We ensure movers provide arbitration for lost or damaged items.
- Active Claim Department: We monitor how quickly movers help with compensation.
- Safety Record: We get up-to date safety information about accidents and inspections.
- Moving Insurance: We make sure movers provide full or released-value protection.
Client Feedback
- Video and phone reviews: Client testimony tells us which movers are worth your time.
- Online surveys: We read about each completed move to see how movers perform.
As a moving broker, Moving APT deals with movers on a daily basis. We negotiate for our clients, and we ensure movers always honor their contracts. It’s how we help you get moved, and it’s how we maintain clear communication between clients and moving companies.
More customers for better movers If a mover is exceeding expectations, we send them more business. If a mover needs to improve, we don’t. It’s simple.
Start Your Journey with the Best Out of State Moving Companies
An out of state move is a fresh start, but it can be a hassle. Fortunately, the right out of state moving company can make your moving experience as easy as possible. Moving APT did the research – now all you have to do is get in touch with a mover and find a quote.
Ready to start planning? Print or download our moving checklist to start crossing items off your to-do list.
