The Complete Guide to Long-Distance Moving
Moving across state lines is one of life’s biggest logistical challenges. Unlike local moves, long-distance relocations involve federal regulations, multi-day transit times, and significantly higher costs. This guide covers everything you need to plan a successful interstate move.
What Qualifies as Long-Distance?
Any move over 100 miles or across state lines is considered long-distance. Interstate moves are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which means your moving company must have:
- An active U.S. DOT number
- An active MC (Motor Carrier) number
- Proper insurance and bonding
At Extra Help Moving, every mover on our platform is FMCSA-verified in real-time — we check their DOT and MC numbers against the federal database before they can access job listings.
How Long-Distance Moving Costs Are Calculated
Unlike local moves (charged hourly), long-distance moves are priced based on:
- Total weight of your shipment
- Distance from origin to destination
- Additional services (packing, storage, specialty items)
- Time of year (summer is 20–30% more expensive)
Timeline for Planning a Long-Distance Move
8 Weeks Before: Research movers, submit service orders, get AI estimates and compare quotes.
6 Weeks Before: Book your mover, start decluttering, begin packing non-essential items.
4 Weeks Before: Notify utilities, forward mail, update your address with banks, insurance, and subscriptions.
2 Weeks Before: Confirm move date with your mover, finish packing, prepare an essentials box.
1 Week Before: Do a final walkthrough, clean, and confirm all logistics.
Moving Day: Be present for loading, take inventory, get a copy of the bill of lading.
Types of Long-Distance Moving Services
- Full-Service Moves: The mover handles everything — packing, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking.
- Loading & Unloading Only: You pack, they load/unload. Works well with container services (PODS, U-Pack).
- Driving Only: You pack and load, they drive the truck to your new location.
How to Choose the Right Long-Distance Mover
- Verify FMCSA credentials — check DOT and MC numbers
- Get binding estimates — avoid non-binding quotes
- Read reviews from verified customers
- Ask about insurance — understand Released Value vs. Full Value Protection
- Compare multiple quotes — use Extra Help Moving’s free AI estimate as your benchmark
Get Started Today
Submit a free service order on Extra Help Moving. Our AI instantly calculates an estimated price range for your long-distance move. FMCSA-verified movers within your area will contact you directly with their quotes, so you can compare and choose with confidence.