When planning a move, one of the first questions is almost always: “How long will my move take?” The answer depends on more than just the drive. Packing, loading, travel, unloading, and settling all add time to the process.
For nearly 100 years, National Van Lines has helped families move. While every move is unique, our experience shows consistent patterns in how long each step usually takes. Knowing what to expect makes it easier to create an accurate schedule.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- How much time moving long distance in the U.S. can take
- What to expect from an international relocation
- What are the main factors that affect a moving timeline
- A sample schedule you can adapt for your own move
How Much Time Will Long Distance Moving Take Me?
If you’ve only moved locally before, the timing of moving long distance may come as a surprise. A local move (i.e., a move that occurs within the same city or county) can usually be done in one to two days.
Relocating across state lines takes more planning. On average, state-to-state moves take 7 to 21 days from start to finish. This includes loading, travel, and unloading, with delivery windows depending on mileage and season. Here’s a quick breakdown of the three core parts of a move:
- Loading: 1 day for most households
- Average Transit Times: 2-14 days, depending on mileage.
- A move from Chicago to St. Louis may take 2-3 days.
- Chicago to Los Angeles takes 7-10 days.
- A coast-to-coast relocation can take 14 days.
- Unloading: 1-2 days once the truck arrives.
This shortlist will help you visualize what the major parts of your move will look like before you even pack that first box. \
How Long Will It Take Me to Move Internationally?
International moves require far more planning than moving long distance within the U.S. Unlike a cross-country trip measured in days, overseas relocations might take weeks or even months. The timeline depends on more than distance. Families must account for the shipping method, customs, port schedules, and the paperwork that comes with crossing borders.
Typical timeframes include:
- Air freight: 2-3 weeks, though costs are higher
- Ocean freight: 6-12 weeks, depending on route and port traffic
Customs checks and port delays can add even more time. To stay ahead, families should begin planning at least three to four months before an international move.
What Factors Could Make My Long Distance Move Take Longer?
Several factors affect how long moving long distance will take:
- Size of household: A two-bedroom apartment may be packed and loaded in half a day. A five-bedroom home may need two full days.
- Distance: Shorter state-to-state moves typically take 2-5 days. On average, cross-country moves take 7-21 days.
- Season: Moving between May and August can extend delivery by several days, as it is the busiest time of year to move (also known as peak season). On the other hand, moving during the winter drives down costs… but can present challenges with snow and icy weather.
- Packing methods: In terms of packing methods, you can do it yourself (also known as DIY packing) or use a professional packing service. If you choose the DIY method, be aware you may be setting yourself up for more work… and more time.
- Special circumstances: Relocations with young children, pets, or job deadlines may need extra planning.
What Moving Timeline Should I Follow for a Long Distance Move?
Planning a long distance move can feel open-ended without a clear schedule. Families often ask when to start packing, how far in advance to book movers, and what to expect from the delivery window. A sample timeline makes it easier to pace yourself and avoid last-minute stress. While every move is unique, the outline below offers a solid framework:
- 8 weeks before: Sort belongings, donate or sell items, and book your movers.
- 6 weeks before: Pack items you won’t need soon, such as seasonal clothes or décor.
- 4 weeks before: Pack non-essential rooms, confirm travel plans, and gather important documents.
- 2 weeks before: Box up garage items, storage areas, and other low-traffic spaces.
- 1 week before: Finish packing bedrooms and kitchens, leaving out only essentials. Confirm details with your movers.
- Move day: Movers load your belongings, transport them, and start the delivery timeline.
- Delivery window: Expect your truck within 7–21 days when moving long distance, depending on distance and season.
- After arrival: Unpack essentials first, then settle into the rest of your home at your own pace.
Following this type of schedule helps families stay organized and reduces stress, while keeping their long distance moving plans on track.
Staying Ahead of the Clock
Every relocation has many moving parts, and timing is always a concern. Understanding the typical ranges for local, cross-country, and international moves gives you a clear picture of what lies ahead.
National Van Lines has supported families for nearly a century, and preparation is always the key. When you set aside enough weeks for planning, packing, and delivery, the entire process runs more smoothly.
As you look ahead to your own state-to-state or cross-country move, keep balance in mind. Allow enough time to prepare, stay flexible, and trust the process. With the right plan, you’ll arrive ready and confident to start your next chapter.
You just learned about what typical timelines look like for a variety of long distance moves. The next step is cost. Before you request quotes, check out our guide on the best questions to ask before choosing a long distance mover.
