Cheapest Way to Move Out of State

A penny saved is a penny earned.

When it comes to moving out of state, this couldn’t ring more true.

Let's face it: relocating across state lines can be an overwhelming process, not just emotionally but financially.

Did you know that according to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost of an interstate move ranges around $4,300 to $7,400 And that’s just the baseline and if you count the factors like distance and extra services, this number can climb much higher. 
For many, that’s a significant chunk of their savings.

Now, before you start stressing out, let us assure you that there are smarter ways to do this. You don’t have to shell out thousands if you know how to approach it strategically. There are plenty of options to make your move affordable.

In fact, cutting down your moving load can save you an average of $400 to $500.  So, let’s chat about the cheapest way to move out of state and how you can keep your hard-earned dollars in your pocket. 

Evaluate Your Moving Options

There are several ways to move out of state, and each option varies significantly in cost and convenience.

Choosing the cheapest way to move out of state depends on your unique situation.

DIY Truck Rental

Renting a moving truck and driving it yourself is considered one of the most economical ways to move.

According to moving data, renting a 10-foot truck for a one-way move from New York to Florida costs about $1,200.

This option gives you the flexibility to control your schedule, but it requires effort. 

Pros: It has an affordable base price, and you have full control over your belongings.

Cons: It is labor-intensive and has hidden fees like mileage and insurance.

Moving Container Services

Some moving companies provide a middle-ground solution.

You pack your belongings into a container, and they handle the transport.

Prices vary, but on average, using a moving container service for a long-distance move can cost $2,000 to $4,000.

Pros: It is less labor-intensive and has flexible scheduling.

Cons: It costs more than DIY rental and has limited control over delivery.

Professional Moving Companies

Hiring professional movers is the most convenient option, but it comes at a higher price.

A full-service move can cost between $4,000 and $10,000, depending on the distance and the volume of items.

According to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost for an interstate move is around $4,300 for 7,400 pounds of goods.

Pros: It is convenient, and professionals handle your items.

Cons: It is expensive, and you sometimes face scheduling conflicts.

How To Save Money Moving Across the Country

Finding the cheapest way to move out of state doesn’t stop at picking the right moving method.

There are additional strategies to save money during the process.

Plan Your Move During Off-Peak Times

Moving during peak season (typically summer) can significantly increase your costs due to high demand.

If possible, plan your move between October and April when moving companies offer lower rates.

Pro Tip: Moving mid-week or mid-month can also save you hundreds of dollars, as most people prefer to move on weekends.

Declutter Before Packing

Before you start packing, take a hard look at your belongings.

Selling, donating, or discarding items you no longer need can drastically reduce the volume of your move and, consequently, the cost.

In fact, the less you move, the less you pay.

Fun Fact: Cutting down your load by 1,000 pounds can save you an average of $400 to $500 on long-distance moves.

Budget-Friendly Packing Tips

Packing is where many people overspend. Here’s how to keep your packing costs low:

Use Free Packing Supplies: Check local stores and online marketplaces for free boxes and packing materials.

Get Creative with Padding: Instead of buying bubble wrap, use clothes, towels, or blankets to cushion fragile items.

Label and Organize: This might not save you money upfront, but it will save you time and stress when unpacking. 

How to Move Out of State on a Budget

Moving out of state on a budget requires careful planning and execution. Here are some steps to take:

Compare Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle for the first moving company quote you receive.

Reach out to at least three different companies and compare their offers.

Different listing websites (like My Moving Journey) can help you gather and compare quotes quickly.

Use Tax Deductions and Reimbursements

If you are moving for a new job that’s at least 50 miles farther from your old home, you might qualify for moving expense deductions on your federal taxes.

Check with a tax professional to see if you qualify, and keep receipts for all moving-related expenses.

Alternative Moving Solutions

If you are really looking to move on a shoestring budget, you can use these unconventional options:

Ship Your Belongings

If you have a higher volume of items, you can ship them via USPS, FedEx, or UPS.

It might be cheaper than renting a truck.

For smaller moves, this could be a cost-effective solution.

Use Your Own Vehicle

If you own a vehicle and don’t have a lot to transport, use your car to move.

But keep in mind the gas prices, wear and tear, and potential lodging if it’s a multi-day drive.

Find Affordable Lodging During Your Move

If your move takes more than a day, lodging can be an unexpected expense.

Use booking apps or Airbnb for budget-friendly overnight stays.

Pro Tip: If you are part of a rewards program or have a credit card with travel perks, you could redeem points for free or discounted lodging.

Use Community and Social Networks

Don’t underestimate the power of community.

Post on local Facebook groups to find people willing to lend a hand or sell moving supplies at a low cost.

Some people even offer rideshare opportunities where they are moving to the same state and can share transport costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Move Out of State

When it comes to moving out of state, one of the first questions that likely pops into your mind is, “How much does it cost?”

Well, we are glad you asked because this is one of those topics that really benefits from a deep insight.

Detailed Cost Breakdown Table

Here’s a table that lays out typical costs for different aspects of moving out of state:

Example Cost Scenarios

To give you an even clearer picture, let’s discuss some real-life examples:

Example 1: Small Move (1-bedroom apartment)

Distance: 500 miles
Method: DIY Truck Rental

Breakdown:

Truck Rental: $1,000
Gas: $150
Insurance: $100
Packing Supplies: $50

Total Estimated Cost: $1,300

Example 2: Large Move (4-bedroom house)

Distance: 1,500 miles
Method: Full-Service Movers

Breakdown:

Base Moving Cost: $7,500
Insurance: $500
Packing Services: $1,000
Fuel Charges: $500
Storage (1 month): $200

Total Estimated Cost: $9,700

What Affects the Cost of Moving Out of State?

There are some factors that can affect the cost of moving out of state. 

Distance of the Move: The further you move, the higher the cost. 
For example, a move from New York to California (around 2,900 miles) is much more expensive than a move from New York to Pennsylvania (about 150 miles).

Weight of Your Belongings: The more items you move, the higher the cost.

Most full-service movers calculate their prices based on the weight of your items.

Time of Year: Moving during peak season (summer months) can increase costs by up to 20-30% due to higher demand.

Additional Services: Costs for services such as packing, loading, and unloading add up quickly. 
For example, professional packing services can range from $500 to $1,500 or more.