Average cost for movers out of state 2025: Decode Smartly
Understanding the True Cost of Your Out-of-State Move
Knowing the average cost for movers out of state is crucial for budgeting your relocation. Out-of-state moves typically range from $1,400 to over $8,000, with a national average around $4,300.
Quick Cost Overview:
- Studio/1-bedroom: $1,400 – $3,500
- 2-3 bedroom home: $2,700 – $7,000
- 4+ bedroom home: $4,000 – $12,000
- Average cost per mile: $6 – $16
This wide price range depends on key factors like distance, home size, time of year, and services needed. Moving during peak season (May-September) can increase costs by 20-30%, while off-peak moves offer savings.
Whether you’re moving from Chicago to Florida or from Melrose Park to another state, understanding these costs helps you make informed decisions.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner of Bernard Movers. With nearly 30 years of experience, I’ve helped countless families steer long-distance relocations and understand the average cost for movers out of state. With over 50 years serving Chicago and Illinois, we know transparent pricing and clear expectations are key to a successful move.
What is the Average Cost for Movers Out of State?
Planning an out-of-state move from Illinois? You’re likely wondering about the cost. The average cost for movers out of state ranges from $1,400 to $8,000, with most families spending around $4,300. If you’re moving a 2-3 bedroom household more than 1,000 miles away, expect to budget around $6,300.
These numbers reflect the complexity of interstate moves. Relocating from Chicago to Florida or from Melrose Park beyond Illinois borders is considered a long-distance move. Unlike local moves charged by the hour, out-of-state relocations use a different pricing model.
Any move crossing state lines is an interstate move, subject to federal regulations and unique pricing structures. The key is that costs are based on the weight of your belongings and the distance, not the time it takes.
For over 50 years, Bernard Movers has helped Illinois families with these complex moves. We provide transparent pricing from the start to avoid surprise bills, ensuring your interstate move is as smooth as possible.
For more details about our specialized long-distance services, check out our Professional Movers for Long Distance page.
Key Factors That Influence Your Final Bill
Several factors determine your final cost. Understanding them helps you budget accurately.
Distance traveled is a major factor. Movers often charge $6 to $16 per mile, though this is usually part of a flat rate for moves over 100 miles. Every mile adds up.
The weight of your belongings directly impacts costs, with movers charging $0.50 to $0.80 per pound. We recommend decluttering before you move—every pound saved is money saved. It might be cheaper to sell a bulky item like an old treadmill and buy a new one at your destination.
Home size affects costs, as larger homes have more items. However, the actual volume and weight of your possessions matter more than square footage.
Timing your move dramatically affects the cost. Peak season (May-September) is 20-30% more expensive than the off-season (October-April). Choosing a weekday over a weekend also brings savings.
Illinois winter weather can also cause delays, potentially affecting your timeline and costs.
For comprehensive budgeting advice, visit our Moving Out of State Budget guide.
Comparing Moving Options: Bernard Movers Services
You have several options for your out-of-state move, each with different costs and convenience levels.
Full-service moving is our specialty. We handle everything: packing, loading, transportation, and unloading. We can also help with unpacking and furniture assembly. While these moves range from $4,200 to $12,000, the peace of mind is often worth it.
Our experienced teams pack belongings securely, reducing the risk of damage. We also offer storage solutions if your new home isn’t ready, eliminating timing stress.
Our labor costs are included in our comprehensive quotes for full transparency. Our experienced teams handle everything from antiques to bulky furniture, ensuring safe arrival.
Packing and unpacking services are available as add-ons or in our full-service packages. Professional packing saves time and ensures items are protected using the best materials and space-saving techniques.
The convenience is significant. Instead of packing and worrying about logistics, you can focus on other aspects of your move, like setting up utilities.
For more information about all your moving options, read our An Essential Guide to Out-of-State Moving Options.
Typical Price Ranges for Moving Out of State
Here’s what you can expect to pay based on home size and distance. Your specific quote will depend on the unique factors of your move.
One-bedroom apartments moving 250-500 miles cost $1,400-$4,100. For moves over 1,000 miles from Illinois, the average is around $3,500, reaching up to $7,000 for cross-country trips.
Two to three-bedroom households: Moves of 250-500 miles range from $2,800 to $4,700. A 1,000-mile move costs $3,200-$5,700, while cross-country moves can reach $9,500.
Four-bedroom homes and larger: Moves over 2,500 miles can cost $4,900-$7,300, with some cross-country relocations reaching $12,000 or more.
A popular route is moving from Chicago to Florida (over 1,000 miles). Costs are typically on the higher end of these ranges. We’re currently offering a special 20% additional discount for moves to Florida or Georgia booked for delivery by March 15, 2025.
Understanding these ranges helps you set a realistic budget, though the cost per mile varies.
For detailed information about interstate relocation costs, explore our Cost to Relocate to Another State guide.
Don’t Get Surprised: Common Additional Fees and Surcharges
While we offer transparent pricing, some situations can add costs. Understanding these potential charges helps you budget accurately.
Packing services add convenience and cost. A one-bedroom apartment costs $250-$500 to pack, while a three-bedroom home adds $1,000-$1,800. We also offer partial packing for fragile items.
Storage fees apply if there’s a gap between move-out and move-in dates. Monthly costs range from $100 to $450, depending on unit size and location.
Specialty items require extra care and have additional charges. Piano moving adds $450-$1,300. Hot tubs add $300-$1,000, and pool tables add $300-$800. Special crating for fine art can cost $150-$2,500 per piece.
Long carry fees ($200-$500) apply if our truck can’t park within 50-75 feet of your door, common in dense Chicago areas. Shuttle service ($300-$500) is needed if large trucks can’t access your street.
Elevator fees and stair charges reflect the extra labor required. Expect these fees if moving from a Chicago high-rise or walk-up apartment.
We discuss all potential fees during our consultation, so you know what to expect. For guidance on protecting your valuable items during the move, check out our tips on how to Pack Fragile Items for Long Distance Move.
How to Manage and Reduce Your Moving Expenses
Moving out of state is a big financial commitment, but with thoughtful planning, you can significantly reduce the average cost for movers out of state. The key is being proactive.
Your most powerful tool is time. Planning early opens doors to savings that aren’t available last-minute. From our decades of experience moving families from Chicago, Melrose Park, and Illinois, I’ve seen how preparation saves money.
Every decision made weeks or months ahead is a chance to save. Decluttering, strategic timing, and booking in advance all pay dividends.
To help you stay organized throughout this process, our Moving Out of State Checklist provides a comprehensive roadmap for your planning journey.
Smart Ways to Lower the Average Cost for Movers Out of State
Let’s explore effective strategies for trimming moving expenses. Most just require time and effort.
Decluttering is your secret weapon. Since movers price by weight and volume, every item you eliminate directly reduces your cost. Make honest decisions about what you truly need.
Selling items reduces shipment weight and generates cash for moving expenses. Use garage sales or online marketplaces. Donating goods also reduces weight and may offer tax benefits.
Timing your move strategically yields savings. Booking in advance (2-3 months) secures better rates and availability with movers like Bernard Movers.
Moving during off-peak season (October-April) costs 20-30% less than in summer. Mid-week moves are cheaper than weekends. Avoiding the first and last days of the month also helps. Even small timing adjustments can make a difference.
Strategic packing impacts your bill. Packing some items yourself, like non-fragiles, can reduce labor costs. Leave delicate items to us. Using free supplies from local stores or repurposing towels as padding also saves money.
Compare multiple quotes from reputable companies. Get at least three binding estimates and ensure you’re comparing the same services to find the best value.
For additional money-saving strategies, explore our guide on the Least Expensive Way to Move Out of State.
Understanding Your Protection Options and Choosing a Mover
Reducing costs is important, but so is protecting your belongings and choosing the right mover for your peace of mind.
Understand moving insurance to avoid surprises. Federal law requires movers to offer Released Value Protection ($0.60 per pound per item) at no charge. For a 5-pound laptop, that’s only $3. Full-Value Protection costs more but covers replacement value and is often worthwhile.
Selecting the right mover protects your belongings and wallet. After 50+ years serving Illinois, I know the cheapest quote can be the most expensive mistake.
Verify FMCSA registration to ensure your mover is legally authorized for interstate moves. The FMCSA’s database for company safety ratings provides valuable safety and track record insights.
Read reviews and check references to see how companies treat customers. Insist on binding estimates to prevent price hikes and review contracts carefully to understand what you’re buying.
Experience matters in long-distance moving. The complexities of regulations, packing, and logistics require expertise. Our decades of experience as Reliable Long Distance Movers mean we understand these intricacies.
The goal is finding the best value, not the lowest price. A reputable company may cost slightly more upfront but can save you from damage, delays, and hidden fees from less professional movers.
To learn more about how we balance affordability with quality service, visit our page about affordable moving services and find how we can make your Illinois-to-anywhere move both cost-effective and stress-free.