How to Choose the Best Interstate Moving Team
Finding trustworthy professional movers state to state can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re entrusting your life’s possessions to strangers who’ll transport them hundreds of miles away, knowing what to look for makes all the difference.
Before signing any contract, take time to verify a mover’s licensing and insurance. Any legitimate interstate mover must have a USDOT number you can verify through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This isn’t just a formality—it’s your first layer of protection against fly-by-night operators.
Next, examine their insurance levels. The best professional movers state to state offer Full Value Protection that covers the replacement value of your items, not just the minimum liability coverage. This might cost a bit more upfront but provides tremendous peace of mind during your journey.
Don’t just take the company’s word for it—dive into customer reviews across multiple platforms. Look for patterns in feedback about timeliness, care with belongings, and how the company handles challenges. A few negative reviews among many positive ones is normal, but watch how the company responds to criticism.
Always insist on binding estimates in writing. This means the price you’re quoted is the price you’ll pay, with no surprise fees on moving day. Reputable movers will provide this after conducting a thorough inventory of your belongings, either in person or via video call.
Guaranteed delivery dates are another hallmark of quality interstate movers. While delivery windows are common in the industry, the best companies will work with you to establish clear timeframes and maintain communication throughout the journey.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve spent over five decades perfecting our interstate moving process. I’m Mina Georgalas, and our family-owned company has proudly helped countless families relocate across 45 states from our Chicago headquarters. We understand that moving isn’t just about transporting boxes—it’s about transitioning lives with care and respect.
For more comprehensive information about how we handle your belongings with expertise, visit our Packing, Loading & Storage page.
Professional movers state to state services typically range from $2,800 to $14,000 depending on your home size, distance traveled, and services selected. Planning should ideally begin at least 8 weeks before your move date to secure preferred dates and the best rates.
As United Van Lines wisely notes: “Moving can be one of the more personal experiences you’ll have in your lifetime, especially if your move is taking you across the country.” That’s why choosing the right partner matters so much.
Need help with other moving services? Check out our specialized offerings:
– Local Moving
– Local Moving Packers
– Local Piano Movers
13 Questions to Ask professional movers state to state
Before hiring any interstate moving company, arm yourself with these essential questions:
- How do you conduct inventory and provide estimates?
- What deposit is required, and under what conditions is it refundable?
- How does your claims process work if something is damaged?
- Will the same crew handle my belongings throughout the move?
- Do you subcontract any portion of my move?
- What’s your cancellation policy?
- How do you handle delays due to weather or mechanical issues?
- Can you provide references from recent interstate moves?
- What additional fees might apply to my situation?
- How do you handle specialty items like pianos or artwork?
- What’s your process for communicating updates during the move?
- Do you offer any guarantees on delivery timing?
- What valuation coverage options do you offer?
The answers to these questions will reveal volumes about a company’s professionalism and reliability.
Red-Flag Warning Signs
Trust your instincts when evaluating professional movers state to state. Be wary of companies that demand large deposits (anything over 20% of the total cost is suspicious) or ask for cash payments. A legitimate mover will accept credit cards and provide detailed receipts.
Run the other way if you’re presented with blank contracts to sign or vague “we’ll fill this in later” promises. Every detail should be documented before you agree to services.
If a moving company has no physical address or their trucks lack proper markings, these are serious warning signs. Legitimate interstate movers maintain real offices and properly branded vehicles.
According to Move.org’s analysis of over 10,000 customer reviews, the most common complaints involve unexpected price increases, delayed deliveries, and damage claims. By choosing carefully and asking the right questions upfront, you can avoid becoming part of those statistics and enjoy a smooth transition to your new home state.
What Counts as a State-to-State Move?
When you hear “state-to-state move,” it’s pretty straightforward – you’re moving from one state to another. But there’s actually more to it than just crossing a border. Most moving companies use the 400-mile rule as a benchmark for classifying a move as long-distance, but the real defining factor is whether you cross state lines – even if it’s just a few miles over the border.
This distinction matters because interstate moves fall under federal regulation through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which creates a whole different ballgame compared to local moves. These federal regulations actually work to protect you during what can be a vulnerable transition period.
As Kerry, who recently moved with United Van Lines, happily finded: “My move actually cost about $300 less than initially quoted. The interstate regulations actually worked in my favor since the company had to honor their binding estimate.”
Local vs. Interstate: Core Differences
When you’re planning your move, understanding the differences between local and interstate relocations helps set proper expectations for both cost and timing.
With local moves, you’re typically paying for time – essentially, how many hours it takes the crew to load, transport, and unload your belongings. But with professional movers state to state, the pricing structure shifts completely. Instead of hourly rates, you’ll pay based on the weight or volume of your shipment and the distance traveled.
The timeline changes dramatically too. A local move usually wraps up in a single day, but state-to-state relocations come with delivery windows that might span several days or even weeks, depending on how far you’re going.
Travel fees are another significant difference. Local movers might charge a small travel fee to get to your location, while interstate moves build transportation costs into the overall price based on mileage bands.
Perhaps most importantly, interstate moves face much stricter regulations, which means more paperwork but also more consumer protections.
Legal Must-Haves Before Crossing State Lines
Before you hire any professional movers state to state, make sure they have these essential credentials:
A valid USDOT number is non-negotiable. All legitimate interstate movers must register with the U.S. Department of Transportation and display this number on their website and documentation. You can (and should) verify this number through the FMCSA’s mover search tool.
Your mover must also maintain active cargo and liability insurance – don’t be shy about asking for proof and verifying coverage amounts. Federal law requires interstate movers to offer both basic released value protection (which covers just 60 cents per pound per article) and full value protection options. The difference in coverage is substantial, so understand what you’re getting.
Finally, get everything in writing. Interstate movers must provide a written estimate and a bill of lading, which serves as the legal contract between you and the mover.
As Antonio D., one of our satisfied customers, noted after his interstate move: “Frequent and detailed communication, the driver and moving crews handled everything as if it was their own property (extremely careful!). The USDOT licensing really makes a difference in accountability.”
At Bernard Movers, we take pride in our spotless compliance record with all federal regulations for interstate moving. We believe these regulations don’t just protect customers – they help us provide better, more consistent service across all 45 states we serve.
Services Offered by Professional Movers State to State
When you’re planning a cross-country move, understanding what services are available can make all the difference in your experience. Professional movers state to state offer a variety of options that can be custom to your specific needs and budget.
Think of interstate moving services as a menu – you can choose just the basics or opt for the full-service experience. Most of our customers at Bernard Movers start by considering what they can handle themselves versus what they’d rather leave to the professionals.
The core services we provide include transportation (the foundation of any move), packing assistance (from partial to comprehensive), loading and unloading (saving your back and your friendships!), furniture disassembly and reassembly (so you’re not puzzling over that IKEA bookcase), and specialty item handling for those treasured possessions that need extra care.
Sarah from Chicago, who recently relocated to Tampa with us, told me, “I never realized how much stuff I had until I started packing. Having professionals take over halfway through saved my sanity – and probably my marriage!”
Beyond these basics, we also offer storage solutions if your new home isn’t quite ready, car shipping to save you a long drive, and debris removal so you’re not left with a mountain of boxes. Our specialty item handling has been particularly appreciated by clients moving pianos, artwork, and antiques across state lines.
Full-Service vs. Broker: Which professional movers state to state model fits?
When researching your options, you’ll encounter two main types of moving companies: direct carriers and brokers. Understanding the difference is crucial for setting proper expectations.
As a direct carrier, Bernard Movers owns our trucks and employs our moving crews directly. This means we handle your belongings from the initial packing to final placement in your new home. We maintain direct control over quality and training, which gives many customers peace of mind during what can be a stressful time.
Moving brokers, on the other hand, act as middlemen. They don’t own trucks or employ movers, but instead coordinate with partner companies to execute your move. This can sometimes result in competitive pricing as they “shop around” your job, but it also means the crew who shows up might not be the company you initially researched.
Michael, who moved his family from Chicago to Atlanta last year, shared his experience: “After getting quotes from both types, I chose Bernard as a direct carrier because I wanted accountability. When you’re moving everything you own across multiple states, knowing exactly who’s responsible matters tremendously.”
The right choice depends on your priorities. If budget is your primary concern, a broker might offer more competitive rates. If consistency and accountability are more important, a direct carrier like us might be the better fit.
Add-On Extras That Save Time
Beyond the basics, professional movers state to state offer premium services that can significantly reduce your stress and save valuable time during your transition.
Custom crating provides additional protection for delicate items like artwork or chandeliers – something particularly important for long-distance transportation. Electronics setup and appliance connection services mean you won’t spend your first weekend in your new home figuring out which cord goes where or how to reconnect your washing machine.
For many of our busy professional clients, our unpacking services have been game-changers. Instead of living among boxes for weeks, they come home to a fully functional space with items placed in cabinets, closets, and drawers according to their preferences.
One of our most requested add-ons for Chicago residents moving south is our climate-controlled transportation. As Jennifer, who relocated to Savannah last winter, noted: “I was concerned about my wooden furniture and artwork going from freezing Chicago to humid Georgia in January. The climate control option gave me peace of mind that my belongings wouldn’t be damaged by the dramatic temperature change.”
Other popular time-savers include expedited delivery for those who need guaranteed arrival dates, and debris removal so you’re not left with the aftermath of unpacking. Some customers even opt for pre-move-in cleaning services to ensure their new home is fresh and ready before their belongings arrive.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve found that the right combination of services can transform what might otherwise be an overwhelming experience into a smooth transition to your new home across state lines. And remember, if you’re planning a move to Georgia or Florida, we’re currently offering an additional 20% discount on moves booked for delivery by March 15, 2025.
How to Choose the Best Interstate Moving Team
Finding the right professional movers state to state isn’t something to leave to chance. A little homework now can save you countless headaches later. Here’s how to find moving partners you can trust with your most precious belongings:
Step 1: Verify Credentials
Start with the basics – make sure any company you’re considering has a valid USDOT registration number. This isn’t just paperwork; it means they’re legally authorized to transport your belongings across state lines. Check that they carry proper insurance coverage (both liability and cargo), and look for membership in professional organizations like the American Moving and Storage Association, which holds members to higher standards.
“I found out the hard way that not all movers are created equal,” shares Michael from Chicago, who recently moved to Tampa. “The company with the lowest quote couldn’t show me a USDOT number. That was my cue to walk away – and I’m so glad I did.”
Step 2: Research Reputation
Don’t just take a company’s word that they’re amazing. Dig into reviews across multiple platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Look specifically for reviews about interstate moves similar to yours. Check their BBB rating and complaint history – and pay special attention to how they’ve responded to any negative feedback. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from past customers who made similar interstate journeys.
Step 3: Compare Estimates
Get at least three written estimates to compare. Professional movers state to state should insist on seeing your belongings, either through an in-home visit or a detailed virtual survey. Be wary of any company willing to give you a firm quote over the phone without seeing what you’re moving – that’s a recipe for surprise charges later.
When comparing quotes, look beyond the bottom-line price. Consider what services are included, the company’s reputation, and their communication style. The cheapest option often ends up costing more in stress and damaged items.
Step 4: Evaluate Communication
Pay attention to how potential movers communicate with you from the very first interaction. Are they responsive to your calls and emails? Do they take time to thoroughly explain their processes and pricing? Are their representatives professional and knowledgeable? These early interactions often reflect how the entire moving experience will unfold.
As Jillian B., a recent interstate mover noted: “Our experience throughout the entire process was exceptional! From the initial inquiry for information and pricing to the professional staff who showed up to load, everyone was extremely pleasant and helpful. The online process was easy and they were always available to help with questions.”
At Bernard Movers, we’ve built our reputation on clear communication. Each customer receives a dedicated move coordinator who provides regular updates from booking through delivery. We believe you should never wonder where your belongings are or when they’ll arrive.
For more detailed information about our comprehensive services, visit our Packing, Loading & Storage page.
13 Questions to Ask professional movers state to state
Before signing on the dotted line with any moving company, arm yourself with these essential questions:
“What is your USDOT number, and how long have you been handling interstate moves?” This verifies both legal compliance and experience with the complexities of cross-state relocations.
“Do you provide binding estimates, and what could cause this price to change?” Understanding your financial commitment upfront helps avoid unwelcome surprises on moving day.
“What valuation coverage options do you offer, and what are the costs?” Basic coverage of 60 cents per pound isn’t enough for valuable items – know your protection options.
“What is your claims process if items are damaged or lost?” A straightforward answer here indicates how problems are handled when things don’t go perfectly.
“Will you be performing my move directly, or will it be subcontracted?” You want to know exactly who will be handling your treasured possessions.
“What is your cancellation policy?” Life happens – understand your options if plans change.
“How do you handle specialty items like pianos, artwork, or antiques?” Special items require special care – make sure they know how to properly transport your valuables.
“What is your delivery window, and do you offer guaranteed dates?” For interstate moves, this helps you plan your own travel and temporary accommodations if needed.
“What deposit is required, and when is final payment due?” Clear payment terms protect both parties.
“Do you provide storage options if needed?” Flexibility during transition periods can be invaluable.
“What packing materials do you use, and are they included in the estimate?” Quality materials protect your belongings – know what you’re getting.
“How do you handle items that won’t fit in my new home?” Having a plan for oversized furniture before moving day prevents last-minute scrambling.
“Can you provide references from recent interstate moves similar to mine?” Speaking with someone who’s been in your shoes offers invaluable insight.
Rachel, who received a moving grant for her cross-country move, shared: “The crew was very friendly and professional, and they were able to load my belongings into the truck in two hours. Asking detailed questions beforehand helped me know exactly what to expect.”
Red-Flag Warning Signs
Trust your instincts when evaluating professional movers state to state. Be especially wary if you notice any of these warning signs:
Unusually Low Estimates that seem too good to be true probably are. Significantly lower quotes than competitors often lead to dramatic price hikes once they have your belongings.
Large Deposits shouldn’t be necessary. Reputable movers typically require modest deposits (10-25%), not large upfront payments that could disappear along with your would-be movers.
No Physical Address is a major red flag. Legitimate moving companies have real offices, not just websites and phone numbers. If you can’t find them on a map, keep looking.
Generic Names that are difficult to research online may indicate a company that frequently changes identities to escape poor reviews.
No Written Estimates offer zero protection. Verbal quotes can be denied later when the bill suddenly increases.
Blank Contracts with empty fields could be filled in later with terms you never agreed to. Never sign incomplete documents.
No USDOT Number means they’re operating illegally for interstate moves – full stop.
Demand for Cash Payment limits your ability to dispute charges and leaves no paper trail. Professional companies accept multiple payment methods.
Wilder, who recently completed a cross-country move, cautioned: “I researched extensively before choosing my mover. One company wanted a 50% deposit upfront with cash only on delivery – that was an immediate red flag I’m glad I avoided.”
By taking time to thoroughly vet your moving partners, you’ll dramatically increase your chances of a smooth, stress-free interstate move. You’re not just hiring a truck – you’re choosing partners to help transition your entire life to a new state. Choose wisely!
Budgeting Your Move: Quotes, Costs & Discounts
Let’s talk money—because interstate moving costs can feel like a bit of a mystery until you understand what’s behind the numbers. Most families moving across state lines can expect to pay between $2,800 and $14,000, with the typical household falling somewhere in the $4,800-$10,000 range. But what causes such a wide range?
Your final price tag depends on several key factors that all professional movers state to state consider when building your quote. Think of your move like a recipe—each ingredient affects the final result!
The weight or volume of your belongings forms the foundation of your estimate. Traditional full-service movers typically price by weight (those bathroom scales under the truck aren’t just for show!), while container services often use cubic footage measurements instead. Either way, the more stuff you’re moving, the higher your cost will be.
Distance plays a huge role too. Moving companies typically organize pricing into distance bands—0-500 miles, 501-1000 miles, 1001-2000 miles, and 2001+ miles. Each jump in distance means a jump in your final price, which makes sense when you consider the additional fuel, labor hours, and wear-and-tear on equipment.
The level of service you choose dramatically impacts your bottom line. It’s like the difference between flying economy or first-class—both get you there, but the experience (and price) varies wildly! From basic transportation to white-glove service where professionals handle everything from packing your sock drawer to hanging your family photos, each additional service adds to your total.
Timing your move strategically can lead to significant savings. The moving industry has distinct seasons:
Peak Season (May-September) brings a 20-30% price increase as families rush to move during summer break. Off-Season (October-April) offers lower rates and better availability—perfect if your schedule is flexible. Even the day of the week matters—weekday moves typically run 10-15% cheaper than weekend relocations when demand spikes.
Special Offer: Looking to head south? Bernard Movers is currently offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. This off-season special helps you save significantly while taking advantage of our expertise in moves to these sunshine destinations.
Understanding Binding, Not-to-Exceed & Non-Binding Estimates
When gathering quotes from professional movers state to state, you’ll encounter three types of estimates, each with different levels of price protection:
Binding Estimates are like a price guarantee—what you’re quoted is what you’ll pay, as long as your inventory stays the same. While they might be slightly higher than non-binding quotes, they provide wonderful peace of mind for budgeting. Most experienced interstate movers recommend this option for the financial certainty it provides.
Not-to-Exceed Estimates (also called binding maximum) offer the best consumer protection. You’ll pay either the estimated amount or the actual cost based on weight/services—whichever is lower. It’s like having an insurance policy against overcharges, though companies may charge a premium for this flexibility. These work beautifully if you’re not entirely sure about your final inventory.
Non-Binding Estimates are merely approximations of your final costs, with actual charges determined after weighing your shipment on moving day. While they might look attractive initially, they can lead to unpleasant surprises when the final bill arrives. For interstate moves, most experts advise avoiding these unless you’re comfortable with potential price fluctuations.
Leslie, who moved from South Carolina to Vermont, shared her experience: “From beginning to end, Colonial moved two households with superb communication and expert movers. The binding estimate gave me complete peace of mind throughout the process.”
Beyond your base estimate, be aware of potential additional fees that might appear on your final bill:
Long Carry Fees apply when movers must transport items far from the truck to your home. Stair Fees kick in for multi-level access without elevators, while Elevator Fees cover time charges for elevator loading/unloading. If your new home can’t accommodate a full-size moving truck, expect Shuttle Service charges for transferring your belongings to a smaller vehicle. Storage Fees and Specialty Item Handling for pianos, safes, or artwork round out the common extras.
Smart Ways to Cut Costs Without Cutting Safety
Moving between states is a significant investment, but you can trim expenses without compromising on quality or safety:
Declutter before moving day to save money on every pound you don’t transport. Host a garage sale, donate to charity, or simply part with items you no longer need—your wallet will thank you! Choose off-peak timing by moving during fall or winter months to save 20-30% compared to summer rates, and book midweek (Tuesday through Thursday) when demand is lower.
Packing yourself can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars, though be honest about your skill level when handling fragile items. Getting multiple quotes creates healthy competition among movers and often leads to better pricing. Don’t be shy about asking about discounts—many movers offer special rates for military personnel, seniors, students, or off-season relocations.
For those with flexible schedules, consolidated shipping (sharing truck space with other customers moving along your route) can significantly reduce costs. Being flexible with delivery dates by allowing a wider window can also lower your price. And don’t forget to check if your move qualifies for tax deductions if it’s job-related—consult your tax professional about potential savings.
At Bernard Movers, we pride ourselves on offering flexible options that help customers balance cost and convenience. Our Chicago customers moving to southern states particularly appreciate our shared-load options, which can reduce costs by 15-25% for those with flexible delivery windows. After all, we understand that every dollar saved on moving is another dollar to help make your new house feel like home.
Preparing Your Belongings for a Safe Journey
When you’re moving across state lines, how you prepare your belongings makes all the difference between items arriving intact or damaged. I’ve seen how proper packing transforms the moving experience for our customers at Bernard Movers.
Think of interstate moving as sending your treasured possessions on a long journey – they’ll be loaded and unloaded multiple times, travel hundreds of miles, and possibly experience different climates along the way. This isn’t like carrying a box from one room to another; it requires thoughtful preparation.
Packing Tips From the Pros
After helping thousands of families relocate across state lines, our team has learned what truly works. Start by creating a detailed inventory with photos of your belongings before a single box is packed. This visual record becomes invaluable if you need to file a claim later.
Quality packing materials aren’t just a suggestion for interstate moves – they’re essential. Your items will face more handling and longer transit times than a local move. Double-walled boxes protect heavy books, while specialized dish packs cradle your kitchenware. Wardrobe boxes keep clothes wrinkle-free, and proper mattress covers shield bedding from dirt and damage during the journey.
Professional movers state to state always recommend packing room by room. This systematic approach not only makes packing more manageable but transforms unpacking from chaotic to organized. Consider color-coding your boxes – maybe blue for the bathroom, yellow for the kitchen – which helps both movers and you quickly identify where things belong in your new home.
Smart packing means balancing weight distribution. Keep boxes under 50 pounds to prevent both back injuries and box failures. Pack your heaviest items (like books) in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger ones. Your back will thank you, and so will your movers!
Save money and improve protection by using soft household items as cushioning. Wrap that fragile vase in a fluffy towel instead of buying extra bubble wrap. Tuck socks around stemware glasses. Your linens and clothing become free packing materials that need to be moved anyway.
Don’t forget to create a “first night” box with essentials you’ll need immediately upon arrival – toiletries, medications, phone chargers, a change of clothes, basic kitchen items, bedding, and shower necessities. After a long day of moving, you won’t want to search through dozens of boxes to find your toothbrush.
Clear labeling saves countless headaches. Mark each box with contents, destination room, and handling instructions like “FRAGILE” or “THIS SIDE UP” when needed. For electronics, snap quick photos of cable connections before disconnecting – future you will be incredibly grateful when setting everything up again.
For more comprehensive guidance on preparing for your cross-state move, visit our Out of State Moving page.
Protecting High-Value & Irreplaceable Items
When it comes to treasured possessions – family heirlooms, valuable artwork, antiques – standard protection often isn’t enough for the interstate journey. Consider upgrading to full-value protection insurance, which ensures damaged items will be repaired, replaced, or compensated for at current market value. While it costs more than basic coverage (which only pays by weight), the peace of mind is worth every penny.
For particularly fragile valuables, custom crating provides superior protection. These wooden crates are built specifically for items like chandeliers, artwork, or antique mirrors, keeping them secure through all the bumps and vibrations of interstate travel.
Living in Chicago, many of our customers moving to warmer states like Florida or Georgia worry about how temperature changes might affect certain belongings. Climate-controlled transport protects items sensitive to temperature or humidity fluctuations – musical instruments, fine art, antique wooden furniture, wine collections, and sensitive electronics. This specialized service maintains consistent environmental conditions throughout the journey.
Some things are simply too precious to trust to anyone else. Consider personally transporting irreplaceable items like family heirlooms, important documents, jewelry, and medications. Keep these treasures with you rather than packing them for the moving truck.
For collections of exceptional value, specialized third-party insurance offers additional protection beyond what movers provide. This extra layer of security makes sense for rare collections or extremely valuable individual pieces.
Barry, one of our customers who entrusted us with his antique furniture collection for an interstate move, later told us: “In all of my years of moving, this was by far the best experience. They handled everything as if it was their own property – extremely careful!”
At Bernard Movers, we specialize in safely relocating valuable items across state lines. Our climate-controlled vehicles are particularly valuable for customers moving between Chicago’s variable climate and the consistent warmth of states like Florida or Georgia – just one of the reasons we’re proud to offer our 20% discount on moves to these popular destinations.
FAQs About Professional Movers State to State
How far in advance should I book interstate movers?
Planning ahead is your best friend when it comes to interstate moves. We typically recommend booking your professional movers state to state at least 8 weeks before your desired move date. This timeline gives you enough room to research companies, get multiple estimates, and secure your preferred dates.
If you’re planning to move during the summer months (May through September), which is our industry’s busiest season, it’s wise to extend that timeline to 12 weeks. During these peak times, the best moving companies fill their schedules quickly, and waiting too long might leave you with fewer options or higher prices.
That said, we understand life doesn’t always allow for perfect planning. Last-minute moves are certainly possible, but be prepared for potentially higher rates and limited scheduling flexibility. At Bernard Movers, we do our best to accommodate urgent situations, but booking early will always give you more choices and better rates.
Nelson A., one of our customers who planned ahead, shared his experience: “We received proactive communication throughout the entire process which kept us up-to-date and our minds at ease. Everything was picked up and arrived on-time. The entire team, from start to finish, were very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful.”
Do movers guarantee delivery dates?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and it’s an important one. Most professional movers state to state provide delivery windows rather than exact dates. This flexibility is necessary because interstate moves involve many variables – weather conditions, road construction, seasonal traffic patterns, and logistical coordination with multiple customers.
Standard delivery windows typically follow these patterns:
– Moves under 500 miles: 1-3 day delivery window
– Moves between 500-1500 miles: 3-7 day delivery window
– Moves over 1500 miles: 7-14 day delivery window
However, if you have time-sensitive needs, many companies (including Bernard Movers) offer guaranteed delivery date services for an additional fee. These premium services ensure your belongings arrive on a specific date, which can be invaluable if you’re starting a new job or have a tight timeline for getting settled.
When discussing delivery with your mover, be sure to understand whether you’re being offered a “guaranteed date” or an “estimated date” – the distinction matters tremendously when planning your transition.
What items can’t be transported across state lines?
Safety and legal regulations restrict professional movers state to state from transporting certain items. Understanding these limitations ahead of time helps prevent last-minute surprises on moving day.
Federal regulations prohibit the transportation of hazardous materials, which include everyday items you might not consider dangerous – paint cans, aerosol sprays, cleaning chemicals, propane tanks, and gasoline. These items pose safety risks during transport and need to be properly disposed of before your move.
Additionally, most states have agricultural restrictions that prohibit bringing in certain plants or plant products across state lines. These regulations help prevent the spread of invasive species and plant diseases.
Beyond the legal restrictions, most movers have their own “non-allowable” lists that include items they won’t take responsibility for. These typically include irreplaceable items like family heirlooms, important documents, cash, jewelry, and medications. It’s best to transport these personally.
If you’re moving with firearms, special arrangements are usually necessary. Some movers won’t transport them at all, while others require specific documentation and handling procedures.
Chris C., who recently completed an interstate move with us, noted: “From start to finish the experience was great. Attention to detail, follow up and care of our household belongings was exceptional. Communication was excellent at every step too.”
When planning your move, always ask your moving company for their complete list of prohibited items. At Bernard Movers, we provide this information upfront to ensure a smooth, surprise-free moving experience from Chicago to your new home in any of the 45 states we service – with special expertise in moves to Georgia and Florida.
Conclusion
The journey of moving across state lines marks a significant chapter in your life story. After helping thousands of families make this transition, we’ve seen how the right professional movers state to state can transform what might be a stressful experience into an exciting new beginning.
When you’re standing in your empty old home, watching the moving truck pull away with everything you own, having confidence in your moving team is priceless. That peace of mind comes from knowing you’ve done your homework and chosen partners who will treat your belongings with the same care you would.
Key Takeaways:
Throughout this guide, we’ve covered the essential elements of a successful interstate move. Remember to verify your mover’s USDOT registration and insurance coverage before signing anything. The difference between legitimate professional movers state to state and fly-by-night operations often comes down to these credentials.
Getting multiple binding estimates isn’t just about finding the lowest price—it’s about understanding exactly what services each company offers and how they structure their pricing. A clear, detailed estimate prevents surprises when the final bill arrives.
Your moving experience should match your needs and budget. Some families prefer the hands-off convenience of full-service packing, while others enjoy the control and cost savings of packing themselves. There’s no right answer—just what works best for your situation.
Time is your ally in planning an interstate move. Starting early—at least 8 weeks ahead—gives you options and leverage that last-minute planners simply don’t have. This is especially true during the busy summer months when the best movers book up quickly.
Your most precious possessions deserve special attention. Whether it’s family heirlooms, valuable artwork, or irreplaceable mementos, consider full-value protection and specialized handling services. The small additional cost provides significant peace of mind.
At Bernard Movers, our 50+ years of experience moving Chicagoans to new homes across America has taught us that flexibility and thorough preparation are the twin pillars of successful interstate moves. We’ve steerd everything from snowstorms to heat waves, ensuring belongings arrive safely regardless of what Mother Nature throws our way.
Special Offer: We’re currently offering a 20% discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. This special off-season rate makes our premium service even more accessible for those heading south from the Midwest.
The end of one chapter is the beginning of another. When you’re ready to turn the page and start your interstate moving journey, we’re here to help make it a story worth telling. Contact Bernard Movers today for a free, no-obligation estimate and find why so many Chicago residents trust us with their most precious possessions.
For more information about our Chicago-based moving services, visit our Chicago Local Moving page.