Planning a long distance move can feel overwhelming. There are boxes to pack, utilities to manage, and a hundred details to juggle. It is one of those life events that can quickly feel bigger than you expected.
At National Van Lines, we have helped families move across states and across the country for nearly a century. That experience has shown us where people get stuck and how the right preparation makes all the difference. This guide answers the most common questions about long distance moving so you can approach your relocation with less stress and more confidence.
What Is Considered a Long Distance Move?
A long distance move (sometimes known as an intrastate or cross country move) usually means relocating more than 100 miles from your current home. Sometimes that is within the same state, like moving from New York City to Buffalo, and other times it means crossing state lines or even going coast to coast.
The main difference between local and long distance moving is the level of complexity. Regulations change when you cross into another state. Travel takes longer. Planning has to be tighter. That is why many families turn to professional long distance movers. They are equipped to handle the details that make these relocations more challenging than a simple local move.
Why Hire Professional Movers for Long Distance Moving?
When you are moving across a state or halfway across the country, the stakes feel higher. A trip from New York to California or even New York to Boston is not the same as moving across town. Professional movers are trained for exactly these kinds of challenges.
One of the biggest advantages is their knowledge of regulations. Interstate movers understand the paperwork and rules that come with crossing state lines, which can be tricky if you have never done it before. They also bring specialized equipment such as heavy duty boxes and trucks designed for long hauls that keep your belongings safe on the road.
Just as important, professional movers save you time and stress. Instead of worrying about logistics, you can focus on your new neighborhood, whether that is Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles— or anywhere else you end up. Hiring experts means fewer headaches and more peace of mind when the distance is measured in hundreds of miles, not just blocks.
PSA: Curious to know about what options are out there for long distance moving companies? We’ve got you covered: Read our expert guide on the top long distance movers so you can pick with confidence.
How Should I Plan a Long Distance Move?
Planning ahead is the difference between a chaotic move and a smooth one. The earlier you start, the more control you will have over the process.
A good first step is to build a timeline. Mark down when to start packing, when utilities need to be transferred, and when movers will arrive. Families moving from New York to Texas, for example, often start planning months in advance to make sure everything lines up.
Next, take the time to declutter. The fewer items you bring, the less you will spend on transportation. Donating or selling what you do not need is a simple way to cut costs and make unpacking easier in your new home.
Finally, choose your mover carefully. Look for long distance moving companies with transparent pricing, proper licensing, and proven experience. The right partner makes all the difference, whether you are relocating from Brooklyn to Buffalo, or San Francisco to Austin.
How Much Does Long Distance Moving Cost?
The first thing most people want to know is simple: what will my cross country move cost? The truth is, there is not one fixed price. Costs depend on a mix of factors such as the distance you are traveling, how much you are moving, and the services you choose.
For example, moving from New York City to Los Angeles will naturally cost more than moving from New York to Philadelphia because of the extra miles, fuel, and time on the road. Families relocating from Dallas to Austin may pay less than those going from Buffalo to San Diego, even if they have similar household sizes.
The size of your home matters too. A one bedroom apartment does not require the same resources as a four bedroom house. Add on services like packing, unpacking, or storage can also raise the total, while decluttering before the move can help lower it.
Timing plays a role as well. Summer is what is known as peak moving season, so booking your move in July may cost more than scheduling it in January. Movers are often more flexible and sometimes more affordable during the off season.
The bottom line is this: the more details you share with a mover, the more accurate your estimate will be. Be upfront about your origin, destination, and special items so your budget matches the reality of your move.
What Happens on Moving Day?
Moving day for a long distance move usually starts early and moves quickly. When your movers arrive, they will do a walkthrough of your home to confirm what is being packed, what is fragile, and anything that needs special handling.
If you are in New York, that might mean navigating a walk up apartment in Manhattan or a tight driveway in the suburbs. In Texas, movers may need extra time for large furniture in sprawling homes, while in California, access and parking can sometimes be the biggest challenge. Professional movers are used to adapting to these situations.
Once everything is ready, furniture is disassembled if needed and boxes are loaded carefully onto the truck. Movers will keep you updated throughout the day, especially if the move involves multiple stops or a long drive out of the city.
To help your movers maximize their time and talent, make sure pathways are clear, boxes are sealed and labeled, and parking is available for the truck. Good communication is the key to a smooth day, so let your movers know right away if you have specific instructions or concerns.
Moving Forward with Confidence
In the past, you may have approached your own moving plans with limited information… making the entire process way more stressful than it needed to be. Now, with the information available at your fingertips (like this guide!), you’re able to gather information on licensed movers and create a clear plan of how you want to prepare for your big day. This kind of digital access and support makes it easier to stay organized and avoid surprises.
At National Van Lines, we know that every move is more than just a change of address. It is the start of a new chapter. The choices you make now, from decluttering to planning early to hiring the right mover, will help set the tone for your next home. With the right tools and knowledge to guide you, you can be fully empowered throughout the moving process.
You’ve just received the quick facts on what you can expect throughout a long distance or interstate moving process. Now, you’re probably wondering how to start figuring out how much to budget for your move. Read our article on what to expect when asking for a long distance moving quote.
