What Does an Out of State Movers Quote Actually Cost?
Getting an out of state movers quote is the first step to planning a long-distance move — and knowing what to expect can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what most interstate moves cost:
| Move Size | Distance | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment | 400+ miles | $2,200 – $3,500 |
| 2-3 bedroom home | 400+ miles | $6,700 – $9,250 |
| 4-5 bedroom home | 400+ miles | $12,900 – $16,900 |
| 2-3 bedroom home | ~150 miles | $5,500 – $7,500 |
Costs vary based on shipment weight, distance, services, and time of year.
The average long-distance move costs around $4,500, based on roughly 7,000 lbs of household goods over 1,000 miles. But that number shifts significantly depending on how much you’re moving and how far.
For a family like Emily’s — relocating from Chicago to Florida — the distance alone puts the move well over 1,000 miles. That means pricing is based on the weight of your shipment and the total mileage, not an hourly rate. Understanding this early helps you avoid surprises when quotes arrive.
Long-distance quotes also vary by what’s included. Some cover only loading, transport, and unloading. Others add packing, storage, and specialty item handling — each at an additional cost.
This guide breaks down exactly how interstate moving quotes are calculated, what affects the price, and how to compare quotes with confidence.
Introduction
Moving across state lines is a massive undertaking, especially when you are navigating the busy streets of Chicago or coordinating a departure from Melrose Park. Whether you are headed to the sun-drenched coasts of Florida or the rolling hills of Georgia, the logistics of an interstate relocation require precision. Unlike a local move down the block in Des Plaines or Park Ridge, an out-of-state move involves federal regulations, weight scales, and long-haul transportation schedules.
At Bernard Movers, we have spent years helping Illinois residents transition to new chapters across the country. We know that the biggest question on everyone’s mind is the cost. When you request an out of state movers quote, you aren’t just looking for a number; you are looking for a roadmap for your budget. Understanding the timeline and the mechanics of these quotes is essential for a stress-free experience.
Understanding Your Out of State Movers Quote
When you receive an out of state movers quote, it is important to realize that it is more than just an estimate of labor. In long-distance moving, the industry operates under specific Illinois and federal regulations, including guidelines from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide you with a copy of the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet. This document outlines the federal laws that protect you during the relocation process. For moves originating in Chicago, Melrose Park, or Evanston, the price is primarily driven by two main factors: the weight of your belongings and the distance to your destination.
A professional Out Of State Moving quote begins with a detailed inventory. We don’t just guess how much your sofa weighs; we use industry-standard averages or physical scales to determine the shipment’s mass. This is a critical distinction from local moves, which are usually billed by the hour. For a long-distance haul, the truck is weighed at a certified scale before and after loading to confirm the exact weight of your goods. This weight-based system ensures that you are paying for the actual volume of items being transported across state lines.
Factors That Influence an Out of State Movers Quote
Several variables can cause your quote to fluctuate. It is rarely a “one size fits all” situation. Here are the primary drivers:
- Inventory Volume and Weight: The more items you have, the higher the weight. A 7,000-pound shipment (roughly the contents of a 7-room house) is the industry benchmark for an average move, but if you have heavy oak furniture or a library of books, that weight climbs quickly.
- Distance (Linehaul Charges): This is the cost of transporting your goods from point A to point B. A move from Skokie to Milwaukee is significantly cheaper than a move from Skokie to Miami because of fuel consumption and driver time. This is often referred to as the “linehaul” charge.
- Fuel Surcharges: Because gas prices fluctuate, movers apply a surcharge that adjusts based on the current national average. This protects both the mover and the customer from sudden spikes in energy costs.
- Labor Costs: This covers the professional team loading the truck in Melrose Park and unloading it at your new home. It includes the physical effort of wrapping furniture and securing the load for a long journey.
- Accessorial Fees: These are “extra” services. If the moving truck cannot park near your front door in a cramped Chicago alley, a “shuttle fee” might apply to move items via a smaller van. Other fees may include “long carry” charges if the distance from the truck to your door exceeds 75 feet.
Understanding Interstate Moving Company Rates requires looking at these line items individually to see where your money is going.
Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates for Illinois Residents
One of the most confusing parts of an out of state movers quote is the type of estimate you receive. In Illinois, you will generally encounter three types:
- Non-Binding Estimate: This is a “best guess.” The final price is determined by the actual weight of your shipment and the services performed. If your shipment weighs more than expected, you pay more. This is often the most flexible but least predictable option.
- Binding Estimate: This is a fixed price. As long as your inventory doesn’t change between the quote and move day, the price is set. This offers the most peace of mind for budgeting, as you know exactly what to write on the check.
- Binding Not-to-Exceed: This is the gold standard. You won’t pay more than the quote, but if your shipment weighs less than estimated, your price actually drops. It provides a price ceiling while allowing for potential savings.
We always recommend that Moving To Different State Movers ask for a binding or binding not-to-exceed estimate to avoid “sticker shock” on delivery day.
Included Services and Potential Add-on Fees
A standard out of state movers quote typically includes the basics: loading, transportation, and unloading. However, there are many “hidden” tasks that can add to the total.
- Packing Services: Having professionals pack your fragile china and artwork ensures safety but adds to the labor and material cost. This is often the best way to ensure your items survive a 1,000-mile trip.
- Stair Fees and Long Carries: If your apartment in Evanston is on the fourth floor with no elevator, or if the walk from the truck to your door is over 75 feet, expect a small additional charge (often around $75 per flight).
- Storage: If your new home isn’t ready, you may need “Storage-in-Transit” (SIT). Usually, the first month might be offered at a specific rate, with monthly fees following (roughly 75 cents per cubic foot). This is different from long-term storage, as the goods remain on or near the moving truck for quick delivery.
- Valuation Coverage: Basic liability is often included at $0.60 per pound, but for high-value items, you’ll want “Full Value Protection.” This ensures that if an item is damaged, the mover will either repair it, replace it with a similar item, or offer a cash settlement for the replacement value.
Checking your Moving Out Of State Checklist can help you identify which of these services you actually need.
Planning and Saving on Your Interstate Relocation
Moving from the Chicago area to another state is expensive, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little strategy, you can trim the fat from your out of state movers quote. Planning ahead allows you to make logical decisions rather than emotional ones during the final weeks of your move.
One of the most effective ways to save is to “purge” before the movers arrive. Since you are paying by weight, every heavy item you sell or donate puts money back in your pocket. If you haven’t used that treadmill in three years, don’t pay to ship it to Georgia! Consider donating to local Chicago organizations like the Brown Elephant or the ARK in Glenview. For more tips, check out our Ultimate Cheap Out Of State Guide.
Average Costs for Long-Distance Moves from Chicago
To give you a better idea of what to expect when moving from our service areas like Wilmette, Glenview, or Mount Prospect, look at how weight and distance interact.
| Home Size | Weight Estimate | 1,000 Mile Move | 2,000+ Mile Move |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1BR | 2,000 – 3,500 lbs | $2,200 – $3,800 | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| 2-3 Bedroom | 7,000 – 9,000 lbs | $4,500 – $7,000 | $7,500 – $11,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom | 12,000+ lbs | $10,000 – $14,000 | $15,000 – $19,000 |
These Average Cost For Movers Out Of State figures are based on industry data and our own experience serving the Illinois market. Transit times for these distances can range from 5 to 14 days depending on the route and the season. Remember that these are estimates; your actual quote will be tailored to your specific inventory.
How to Compare an Out of State Movers Quote Effectively
Don’t just look at the bottom line. When comparing quotes from different companies, ensure you are comparing “apples to apples.” A low-ball quote often hides missing services that will be added later.
- Inventory Accuracy: Did both companies see the same amount of furniture? A lower quote might just mean the estimator “missed” the contents of your garage or attic. Ensure every item is accounted for on the inventory sheet.
- Virtual vs. In-Home Surveys: For the most accurate out of state movers quote, we recommend a virtual walkthrough or an in-person visit. Virtual surveys allow you to use your smartphone to show an estimator your home in real-time, ensuring they see the bulky items and the tight corners of your Northfield or Glencoe home without needing an appointment.
- Reviews and Ratings: Look for companies with high referral rates. A 96% referral rate or a 4.5+ star rating on Google is a good sign of reliability. Check for consistency in their service over several years.
- Licensing: Ensure the company has a valid USDOT number and the necessary Illinois Commerce Commission licenses. You can verify a mover’s safety record and insurance status through the FMCSA’s SAFER system.
If you’re ready to see how we stack up, you can Get a Personalized Quote from Bernard Movers. We pride ourselves on transparency and clear communication throughout the entire process.
Timing and Preparation for State-to-State Moves
When you book your move can be just as important as who you book with. The “peak season” for moving is between April and September. If you can schedule your move during the winter months (October to March), you will likely find more availability and potentially lower rates. Mid-month moves are also generally cheaper than moves scheduled for the first or last day of the month.
At Bernard Movers, we want to make your transition even easier. We are currently offering a unique promotion: a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. This is a perfect opportunity for those planning to head south for the winter or relocate permanently to the Sun Belt.
Before you go, make sure you have checked off the Things To Do Before Moving Out Of State. From transferring school records in Winnetka to setting up utilities in your new city, preparation is the key to a “boring” (which means perfect!) move. Taking the time to organize your documents now will save hours of frustration later.
For more information or to start your journey, visit us at https://www.bernardmovers.com/. We serve a wide range of locations including Chicago, Melrose Park, Des Plaines, Franklin Park, Park Ridge, Elmhurst, Wood Dale, Wilmette, Skokie, Morton Grove, Glenview, Mount Prospect, Evanston, Winnetka, Glencoe, Northfield, and Northbrook.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an out-of-state move typically take? Most long-distance moves take between 5 and 14 days. The duration depends on the total mileage, the size of your shipment, and external factors like weather or traffic. We always provide a delivery window so you can plan your arrival accordingly.
Can movers ship my car along with my furniture? Yes! Many interstate movers can coordinate auto transport. This is often done via a third-party carrier on a separate specialized truck. Costs vary by distance, but it is a great way to avoid the wear and tear of a 1,000-mile drive.
Should I tip my long-distance movers? While not required, tipping is a common way to show appreciation for hard work. For a long-distance move, a tip of $10 to $40 per day, per mover, is considered customary for good service.
What items are movers not allowed to transport? Federal regulations prohibit us from carrying hazardous materials (like propane tanks, paint thinner, or fireworks), perishable food, and live plants. We also recommend that you keep high-value items like jewelry, cash, and important legal documents in your personal possession during the trip.
When is the best time to request an out of state movers quote? You should start gathering quotes at least 8 weeks before your desired move date. If you are moving during the busy summer season, 12 weeks is even better. This gives you time to compare options and secure your preferred dates.
By understanding the components of your out of state movers quote, you can take control of your relocation. Whether you are moving from a studio in Evanston or a 5-bedroom estate in Northbrook, we are here to ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new front door. Safe travels!
