Moving out of state is fundamentally different from a local move in terms of pricing, regulations, and logistics. Interstate movers are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, pricing shifts from hourly to weight-based, and delivery timelines stretch from hours to weeks. This guide covers 2026 costs by distance band with specific route examples, so you know exactly what to expect for your interstate relocation.
Interstate moving costs vary primarily by distance and shipment weight. For a two-bedroom household in 2026, here are the averages by distance band. Short interstate moves of 100 to 250 miles cost $2,000 to $3,500. These include moves like New York to Philadelphia, Dallas to Houston, or San Francisco to Sacramento. Medium-distance moves of 250 to 750 miles cost $3,000 to $5,500 and cover routes like Chicago to Nashville, Denver to Phoenix, or Atlanta to Miami. Long-distance moves of 750 to 1,500 miles cost $4,500 to $7,500, including routes like New York to Atlanta, Chicago to Dallas, or Los Angeles to Seattle. Cross-country moves of 1,500 to 3,000 miles cost $5,500 to $9,000 and cover routes like New York to Los Angeles or Miami to Seattle.
The most popular interstate moving routes in 2026 and their average full-service costs for a two-bedroom home are as follows. New York to Florida runs $4,200 to $6,000. California to Texas costs $4,500 to $6,500. New York to North Carolina is $3,500 to $5,000. Illinois to Texas runs $4,000 to $5,800. California to Arizona costs $2,500 to $4,000. New Jersey to Florida is $4,000 to $5,800. New York to New Jersey runs $2,000 to $3,200. California to Washington is $2,800 to $4,200. Texas to Florida costs $3,500 to $5,200. Illinois to Florida runs $4,200 to $6,000. Pennsylvania to Florida is $3,800 to $5,500. Massachusetts to Florida costs $4,500 to $6,200. Ohio to Florida runs $3,500 to $5,000. Virginia to Florida is $3,200 to $4,800. Georgia to Texas costs $3,000 to $4,500. The direction matters: southbound and westbound moves are often slightly more expensive due to current migration patterns favoring Sun Belt destinations.
Unlike local moves that charge by the hour, interstate movers price based on weight and distance. Your shipment is weighed on a certified scale before and after loading, and you are charged per hundred pounds (CWT). Rates in 2026 range from $40 to $80 per CWT depending on origin, destination, and season. A 5,000-pound shipment moving 1,000 miles at $60 per CWT costs $3,000 for transportation alone, before any additional services. Binding estimates guarantee the price will not exceed the quoted amount as long as you do not add items. Non-binding estimates are approximations that can increase by up to 10 percent at delivery. Always request a binding or not-to-exceed estimate for interstate moves. The moving company must weigh your shipment and provide weight tickets upon request. You have the right to witness the weighing or request a reweigh if the weight seems inflated.
Interstate movers must be registered with FMCSA and carry a USDOT number. Before hiring any company, verify their registration at the FMCSA website and check their complaint history. Federal law requires interstate movers to provide a written estimate, a copy of "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move," and a bill of lading before loading. Movers cannot hold your belongings hostage for payment above the original estimate if you have a binding quote. Standard valuation coverage, included at no extra charge, covers your items at $0.60 per pound per article, which means a 50-pound TV is covered for just $30 regardless of its actual value. Full replacement value protection costs $50 to $200 and covers items at current market value. File a claim within 9 months of delivery for any damage or loss, and the company has 30 days to acknowledge and 120 days to resolve it.
The biggest savings on out-of-state moves come from reducing weight and choosing the right timing. Every 500 pounds you eliminate saves $200 to $400 on a 1,000-mile move. Move during winter months for 15 to 25 percent lower rates. Get at least four quotes since interstate pricing varies more between companies than local moves do. Consider a portable container if you are willing to load and unload yourself, as savings of 20 to 35 percent compared to full-service are typical. Ask about consolidated shipping if your timeline is flexible: your items share truck space with other shipments at a reduced rate, though delivery windows widen to 10 to 21 days. If you are moving for a job, negotiate relocation assistance with your employer before accepting the offer, as many companies are willing to cover $2,000 to $10,000 in moving expenses even when it is not initially offered.
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An out-of-state move for a two-bedroom home costs $2,000 to $9,000 in 2026, depending on distance. Short interstate moves of 100 to 250 miles average $2,000 to $3,500, while cross-country moves of 1,500 to 3,000 miles cost $5,500 to $9,000 with full-service movers.
Interstate movers price by weight and distance rather than by the hour. Your shipment is weighed on a certified scale and charged per hundred pounds at a rate determined by the distance. Additional services like packing, specialty items, and stairs add separate charges.
Check the company's USDOT number on the FMCSA website at protectyourmove.gov. Legitimate interstate movers must be registered, carry insurance, and provide written estimates. Avoid companies that require large deposits, refuse to do in-home surveys, or provide estimates over the phone without seeing your belongings.
Transit times vary by distance: 2 to 5 days for moves under 500 miles, 5 to 10 days for 500 to 1,500 miles, and 10 to 21 days for cross-country moves. Peak summer season can extend these windows. Dedicated truck service offers faster but more expensive delivery.
Statistics and cost figures are based on industry averages and publicly available data, provided for informational purposes.
Data last reviewed: March 2026. Learn about our data
