How Much Does It Cost to Move Cross Country in 2026?
Real cost ranges by home size, distance, and season. No fluff. Just honest numbers.
The Short Answer
Most long distance moves cost between $1,500 and $10,000. The exact cost depends on four things — how far you are moving, how much stuff you have, when you move, and what services you need.
Here is a simple breakdown by home size for a move of roughly 1,000 miles:
- Studio or 1 bedroom:$1,500 — $2,500
- 2 bedrooms:$2,500 — $4,000
- 3 bedrooms:$4,000 — $6,500
- 4 bedrooms or more:$6,500 — $10,000
These are estimates. Your actual cost depends on your specific move. Get a free binding quote from MoveSafe and we will give you an exact number within 24 hours.
Moving Costs by Home Size
| Home Size | Short Distance under 500 miles | Medium Distance 500 to 1,500 miles | Long Distance over 1,500 miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 Bed | $800 - $1,500 | $1,500 - $2,500 | $2,000 - $3,500 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,200 - $2,500 | $2,500 - $4,000 | $3,500 - $5,500 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,000 - $4,000 | $4,000 - $6,500 | $5,500 - $8,500 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $3,500 - $6,000 | $6,500 - $10,000 | $8,500 - $14,000 |
These ranges reflect typical costs for standard moves without specialty items. Costs vary based on specific inventory, access challenges, and additional services. Last updated April 2026.
What Affects the Cost of Your Move
Distance
The further you move the more it costs. This is the single biggest factor in long distance moving costs. A move from Florida to Georgia costs significantly less than a move from Florida to California.
Home Size and Weight
Moving companies calculate cost based on the weight of your shipment. More stuff equals more weight equals higher cost. Decluttering before your move can meaningfully reduce your bill.
Time of Year
Peak moving season runs from May through September. Moving during this period typically costs 20 to 30 percent more than moving in the off season. If your schedule is flexible October through April offers the best rates.
Packing Services
Adding full packing services to your move increases the cost but saves you significant time and stress. Partial packing — just fragile and specialty items — is a cost effective middle ground. Learn more about our full packing services.
Specialty Items
Piano moving, auto transport, and oversized item handling all add to your total cost. These items require specialized equipment and expertise. If you need auto transport alongside your move we can arrange both together. Learn more about our auto transport.
Storage
If you need storage before or after your move that adds to the total. Short term storage for a few weeks costs less than long term storage. Learn more about our storage services.
Peak Season vs Off Season — How Much Does Timing Affect Cost?
Moving between May and September is more expensive. Period. This is the busiest time of year for moving companies and brokers and prices reflect that reality.
Moving between October and April is typically 20 to 30 percent cheaper for the same move. If you have any flexibility in your timeline the off season is the smartest time to move.
The cheapest months to move are typically January and February. The most expensive are June and July.
If your timeline is fixed and you have to move in peak season book as early as possible. The further in advance you book the better your rate will be.
Binding Quotes vs Non-Binding Estimates — This Difference Matters a Lot
This is the most important thing to understand about moving costs.
A non-binding estimate is not a price. It is a guess. The final cost can be higher — sometimes much higher — based on actual weight and time.
A binding quote is a guaranteed price. It will not change on moving day regardless of weight or time. This is what you always want in writing before you pay anything.
Every quote from MoveSafe is binding. When we give you a number that is your number. It does not change.
Always ask any moving company whether their quote is binding before you pay a deposit. If they cannot give you a binding quote in writing that is a red flag.
Hidden Moving Costs That Can Surprise You
Even with a binding quote there are additional services that may add to your total if you did not include them upfront. Here is what to discuss with your mover before you book.
Stairs and long carry fees
If your home has stairs or the truck cannot park close to your door some companies charge extra. Ask about this upfront.
Elevator fees
If you are moving to or from a high-rise building with elevator requirements this can add to your cost.
Shuttle service
If a large truck cannot access your street a smaller shuttle truck may be needed. Ask if this applies to your move.
Packing materials
If you want the moving company to supply boxes and materials this is typically an add-on cost. Clarify what is included in your quote before you sign anything.
With MoveSafe we discuss all of these factors before we give you a binding quote. Your quote covers everything we agreed on. No surprises.
Local Moving Costs vs Long Distance Moving Costs
Local Moving Costs
Local moves are typically shorter and less complex than long distance. Most local movers charge by the hour. MoveSafe provides binding quotes for local moves — your price is fixed before we start regardless of how long the job takes.
Learn more about local movingLong Distance Moving Costs
Long distance moves are priced based on weight and distance. The further and heavier the move the higher the cost. MoveSafe provides binding quotes for all long distance moves. Your price is locked in before your move starts.
Learn more about long distance movingHow to Save Money on Your Move
Here are the most effective ways to reduce your moving costs.
- 1.Move in the off season if you can. October through April is significantly cheaper than peak season.
- 2.Declutter before you move. Less stuff means less weight means lower cost. Donate, sell, or throw away anything you do not need in your new home.
- 3.Book early. The earlier you book the better your rate. Last minute moves cost more.
- 4.Pack yourself if you can. Packing services add to your cost. If you have time and ability packing your own non-fragile items saves money.
- 5.Get multiple quotes. Compare at least three binding quotes before you decide. Make sure all quotes are binding — a low non-binding estimate is not a real price.
- 6.Ask about off-peak discounts. Some companies offer discounts for mid-week or mid-month moves when demand is lower.
How MoveSafe Quotes Work
Getting a quote from MoveSafe is straightforward.
You call us at 833-995-3200 or fill out the form on our contact page. We take down the details of your move — where you are going, what you have, and when you need to move.
We do a free virtual or in-home survey to assess your inventory accurately. This is how we make sure your binding quote reflects your actual move.
Within 24 hours you receive a written binding quote. That is your price. It does not change on moving day.
No pressure. No obligation. Just an honest number from a company that has been doing this since 1998.
Moving Cost Questions
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Ready to Get Your Exact Moving Cost?
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