Long-Distance Moving Costs in 2025: Real-World Ranges & How to Save
Planning an interstate move this year? Here’s a clear, up-to-date guide to how long-distance pricing really works in 2025—plus smart ways to trim the bill without risking your belongings.
How Long-Distance Pricing Works in 2025
For interstate moves, carriers price mainly on weight × distance plus any accessorial services (packing, crating, shuttles, stairs, elevators, storage-in-transit, bulky items, etc.). A mover must perform a physical survey—on-site or virtual—unless you waive this in writing. After the survey, you receive a written estimate and a tariff-based bill of lading on move day. FMCSA 49 CFR § 375.401.
Fuel markets also influence surcharges. The EIA publishes weekly diesel averages that most carriers reference when setting or adjusting fuel surcharges. See the latest EIA Gasoline & Diesel Update.
Estimate Types: Binding vs Non-Binding
- Binding estimate: Flat price for listed services/items after the survey. You pay the amount on the binding estimate at delivery (if scope doesn’t change). 49 CFR § 375.403.
- Non-binding estimate: An informed projection; final charges reflect actual weight and services. On delivery under a non-binding estimate, movers must release goods when you pay up to 110% of the estimated amount; the balance is billed later. 49 CFR § 375.405 and Subpart E.
Not sure which to choose? If your inventory is stable and you want budget certainty, ask AFM for a binding quote. If you may add/remove items, a non-binding route can work—just understand the 110% rule and how re-weighs work.
Talk to an expert coordinator about which estimate type fits your move.
Transparent 2025 Cost Ranges (by home size & mileage)
Why ranges? Real-world pricing moves with weight, miles, dates, access, and fuel. To set expectations, below are AFM’s typical 2025 quote bands (non-binding snapshots) seen on full-service, interstate shipments with basic loading/unloading and no premium add-ons. Your written estimate—after a survey—always wins.
Home size (typical weight*) | <500 miles | ~1,000 miles | 1,500–2,000 miles |
---|---|---|---|
Studio / 1-BR (≈2,000–3,000 lb) | $1,800–$3,300 | $3,000–$5,600 | $3,800–$6,800 |
2–3 BR (≈5,000–8,000 lb) | $3,800–$6,800 | $5,500–$9,800 | $7,000–$12,800 |
4–5 BR (≈10,000–15,000 lb) | $6,800–$11,500 | $9,500–$15,800 | $12,000–$19,500 |
Official DoD/USTRANSCOM Weight Estimator (2025).
Get your tailored long-haul quote (virtual or in-home survey available).
What Increases Costs (and how to avoid it)
- Peak dates: Late spring–summer and month-ends book up quickly. Shifting to shoulder days can lower labor and linehaul.
- Fuel surcharges: Diesel trends feed into tariffs. Track weekly movements at the EIA site.
- Access challenges: Long carries, stairs, elevators, tight streets (requiring a shuttle truck), or parking permits add time & fees.
- Special handling: Crating for glass, marble, artwork, or extra-fragile items adds materials and skilled labor. (See our crate & specialty packing.)
- Storage-in-transit (SIT): If your new home isn’t ready, SIT adds daily storage plus warehouse handling. We also offer temperature-controlled options.
7 Proven Ways to Save—Without Stress
- Declutter aggressively. You pay by weight. Donate, sell, or recycle.
- Move off-peak. Mid-week and mid-month dates are friendlier to budgets.
- Self-pack smartly, then spot-hire pros. Use AFM for fragile-only packing while you box clothing/linens.
- Reserve parking. In dense cities, a permit prevents shuttles/long carries (more below).
- Ask for a binding quote. If your inventory is set, binding eliminates surprises.
- Ship sooner, arrive later? Flexible delivery windows can reduce expedited fees. If speed matters, consider expedited shipping.
- Protect only what needs it. Review valuation options; you can pair basic coverage with third-party riders for high-value items.
See expert long-haul options (binding quotes, guaranteed windows, VIP handling).
8-Week Timeline & Mini-Checklists
Use this week-by-week plan to keep your costs—and stress—down.
W8: Research & Declutter
- Inventory each room; mark sell/donate/toss.
- Compare long-distance carriers; verify DOT/MC and FMCSA complaint history.
W7: Book Movers & Dates
- Schedule your survey (virtual or in-home). Choose binding vs non-binding. Book AFM.
- If in a city, begin parking permit process (see below).
W6: Supplies & Specialty Crating
- Order boxes, tape, paper, mattress bags.
- Identify glass/marble/art for custom crates.
W5: Address Updates & Utilities
- Set USPS change of address online (ID verification fee applies). USPS Forward Mail.
- Schedule utility shutdown/turn-on at both ends.
W4: Pack Non-Essentials
- Label by room and destination.
- Photograph high-value items for condition.
W3: Inventory & Insurance
- Finalize your item list; alert AFM about changes for an updated estimate.
- Choose valuation coverage and list high-value items.
W2: Essentials Kit & Pets
- Pack a 72-hour kit: meds, documents, chargers, linens, basic cookware.
- Confirm pet transport plan; ask about pet transport services if needed.
W1: Move-Day Checklist
- Reserve elevator/loading dock if applicable.
- Clear walkways; protect floors; confirm parking has signage.
- Walk the truck at origin/destination; sign the inventory.
Want help unpacking? We can set up kitchens/bedrooms so you’re livable on Day 1.
Permits, Parking & Rules That Can Affect Your Price
Big-city moves often require temporary no-parking or moving truck permits to reserve curb space near your address. Missing a permit can force a shuttle (smaller truck transfer) or long carry—both add cost. Examples:
- Boston: reserving curb space is optional but common; the City lists current rules and approximate fees. See Boston.gov Moving Truck Parking.
- Philadelphia: the Streets Department issues Temporary No Parking permits for moving trucks. Start here: TNP Application and general guidance via the Philadelphia Parking Authority.
For interstate consumer protections (pickup/delivery windows, estimates, claims process), review FMCSA’s “Your Rights & Responsibilities When You Move.”