How much does it cost to move across the country from Boston?
How much you’ll pay to move across the country from Boston depends on several factors, including where you’re moving to, the size of your move and more.
If you choose the right company for your cross-country move, however, the cost may be well worth it. If you’re moving from Boston to Chicago or moving from Boston to California, you may want to time your move so it happens when demand is low and fewer people are making moves.
To find out how much it will cost you to move across the country, contact the top movers in Boston.
What is considered a long-distance move in Boston?
The general threshold of a long-distance move is 100 or 400 miles, depending on the moving company. Moving from Boston to New York City might be considered long-distance because it’s a distance of 200-plus miles.
Moving to the following cities and states are generally considered long-distance moves if you live in Boston:
- Moving to California
- Moving to Atlanta
- Moving to Seattle
- Moving to Texas
If you’re planning an upcoming move -- whether it’s a cross-country, local or long-distance move -- reach out to the best movers in Boston for help.
How do I choose the best long-distance moving company in Boston?
The right company for your long-distance move will have skilled drivers and careful movers who know how to get the job done quickly and safely. The traffic in Boston, and even outside the city, is notorious for slowing down drivers.
Make sure your movers are licensed by the Department of Public Utilities if you’re moving within Massachusetts. Look for a company with a solid safety record and drivers who are experienced in navigating the city and its surrounding towns.
As you’re comparing the best long-distance movers in Boston, take note of the movers’ reviews and ratings. You’ll want to hire movers who provide quality work, show up on time and are easy to work with. And get estimates from several companies who fit your criteria to ensure you pay a fair price.
How much does it cost for long-distance movers?
Long-distance movers transport your belongings across the country for you. No more renting a trailer and road-tripping from state to state with your entire house hitched to your bumper. Long-distance movers make the move happen so you can fly to your new home, suitcase in hand, and wait for your furniture to arrive. Nationally, the average price range for long-distance movers is $1,490-$2,230. The distance you are moving and the number of cubic feet the movers have to transport will both affect cost. Another factor in long-distance moving costs is whether you choose to pay for an exclusive move or a consolidated move.
In an exclusive move, which is more expensive, your belongings are the only cargo on the moving truck. The movers travel directly to your new house and deliver your belongings on a scheduled day. A consolidated move is more affordable because the movers transport your belongings along with those of other people, saving them time and gas — which means you save money. The downside is that your belongings typically arrive with a two-week delivery window rather than on a prescheduled day. Read reviews to make sure you can trust the company with your possessions to ensure a peaceful moving process.
What is considered a local move vs. a long-distance move?
Local moves are among the most common moves. Unlike a long-distance move, a local move is typically less than 50 miles and does not cross state lines. Generally, a local move only takes one day, and movers tend to charge by the hour.
The definition of a long-distance move may vary depending on the moving company. Generally, a long-distance considered to be any move of 400 miles or more. However, some say a long-distance move is over 50-100 miles.
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Local Move |
A move under 50 miles |
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Long-Distance Move |
A move over 50-100 miles or over 400 miles; may also be called an “interstate move” or “out-of-state move” |
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Out-of-State Move |
A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “interstate move” or “long-distance move” |
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Interstate Move |
A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “out-of-state move” or “long-distance move” |
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Intrastate Move |
A move that begins and ends in the same state, typically beyond 50 miles |
Interstate moves require additional legal preparation and will incur additional costs for distance, the amount and weight of your items, the preparation required and various other factors. Moving companies tend to do an initial weighing of the truck, which you should be present for.
A move that crosses state lines is considered an interstate move or an out-of-state move. Contrast this with an intrastate move, which begins and ends in the same state, but is typically above 50 miles.
To determine whether your move is local or long-distance, contact the best movers in your area.
How much does it cost to move out of state?
Moving out of state costs an average of $5,630, according to the American Moving & Storage Association. However, this is just an estimate — how much you’ll pay to move out of state will likely depend on the weight of your belongings, if you need storage, the distance of the move and more.
To avoid any surprising or hidden fees, get free estimates from movers near you.
What is the cheapest way to move long distance?
The cheapest way to move long distance is to plan ahead. This allows you to capitalize on several money-saving strategies. For example, you may consider renting a portable moving container. These are often cheaper than moving trucks, though moving truck rentals are a great option for moderately sized homes.
Planning ahead also gives you time to start looking around for free moving boxes and supplies. You might also be able to snag discounts from moving companies if you book far out in advance and ask movers for a deal. Try not to move during the peak season (spring or summer), as prices tend to be highest during that time.
Contact the best long-distance movers in your area to get free estimates and figure out a way to save money.
How do I choose the best long-distance moving company?
First, compare the best long-distance moving companies by performing an online search for national or local moving services.
Pay close attention to the moving companies’ ratings and reviews. When reading the reviews, take note of any feedback related to the movers’ pricing, professionalism, ability to work quickly and whether the company has damaged customers’ belongings. You should also check to make sure the moving company has the proper license or insurance within your state.
Once you’ve found a few movers that fit your criteria, contact the companies to get free estimates. Compare quotes between moves to decide if a quote is fair. And keep an eye out for any deals and discounts movers may be offering during non-peak seasons.
What should I pack first when moving?
First on your packing checklist are non-essential items you don’t need to access for the next couple of weeks or so. This can include things like holiday decorations, extra towels and collectibles.
Then, move on to artwork, entertainment items and special kitchenware you hardly ever use.
As moving day draws near, pack children’s games, jewelry, artwork and all linens except for an essential set for each household member.
Next up is kitchen equipment, items in your medicine cabinet, bathroom supplies, laundry supplies and electronics.
One to two days before your move, pack furniture, rugs and tools.
On moving day (or a few days before), pack your clothes, bedding, cleaning supplies, and other necessities like snacks and food.
How much do you tip long-distance movers?
Movers are generally tipped 10% to 20% or around $50 to $200 per mover. However, it may make less sense to tip a percentage of the total cost of the move because there might be more travel, gas and other fees compared to local moves.
But if you’ve got cash to spend and are very satisfied with the job, you can always tip more. Of course, tipping is not mandatory — especially if you’re not satisfied with the move.