Moving across state lines involves more than just packing boxes and renting a truck. Professional interstate movers operate under federal regulations, require specific licensing, and follow protocols that differ significantly from local moving companies. The average cost ranges from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on distance and home size, with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requiring all legitimate companies to maintain proper registration and insurance.
Understanding Interstate Moving Regulations
Interstate moves fall under federal oversight, which means different rules apply compared to moves within a single state. The FMCSA regulates all companies that transport household goods across state lines, requiring them to register and obtain a USDOT number.
You can verify any company’s legitimacy by checking their USDOT number through the FMCSA’s online database. This simple step helps you avoid unlicensed operators who may hold your belongings hostage or disappear with your deposit. Legitimate companies display their USDOT number prominently on their website and marketing materials.
The distinction between interstate and intrastate moves matters legally. An interstate move occurs whenever your belongings cross state lines, even if you’re only moving 10 miles.
Carriers vs. Brokers: Know the Difference
One of the most important distinctions in the moving industry involves carriers and brokers. Carriers own their trucks and employ their own moving crews. Brokers coordinate moves by connecting customers with carriers, essentially acting as middlemen.
Working with a carrier means the company you hire shows up on moving day. Brokers may assign your move to a third-party carrier you’ve never heard of, which can lead to unexpected service quality issues. Ask any moving company directly whether they operate as a carrier or broker before signing a contract.
Cost Factors for Interstate Moves
Distance and weight determine the baseline cost for most interstate moves. Companies typically charge between $0.50 and $1.00 per pound for long-distance relocations. Federal regulations require movers to provide written estimates and explain all charges before your move.
Key cost factors include:
- Distance traveled between origin and destination
- Total weight of your shipment
- Timing of your move (peak vs. off-season)
- Additional services like packing or storage
- Specialty item handling for pianos or antiques
Summer months, especially June through August, represent peak moving season with prices rising 20% to 30% above off-season rates. Moving during fall or winter often provides better rates and more flexible scheduling options.
Weight-based pricing means decluttering before your move saves money directly. Every 100 pounds you eliminate from your shipment reduces your bill by $50 to $100.
Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates
Understanding estimate types prevents surprise charges on moving day. Binding estimates guarantee a fixed price that won’t change unless you add services or items. Non-binding estimates provide approximate costs that can increase based on actual weight or services required.
The FMCSA’s “110% rule” protects consumers with non-binding estimates. Companies cannot require payment exceeding 110% of the estimate at delivery, though they can bill you later for additional amounts owed.
Request binding estimates whenever possible to avoid payment surprises. Some companies offer “not-to-exceed” estimates, which cap your maximum cost while allowing charges to decrease if your shipment weighs less than estimated.
Valuation Protection and Insurance
Federal regulations require all interstate movers to offer two valuation protection options. Released Value Protection comes free but provides minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per item. Full Value Protection costs extra but requires the mover to repair, replace, or compensate you for the current market value of damaged items.
Released Value Protection rarely covers actual losses adequately. A 50-pound television damaged in transit would only receive $30 compensation under this basic coverage. For valuable belongings, Full Value Protection typically costs $8 to $10 per $1,000 of declared value.
Third-party moving insurance provides additional coverage beyond what movers offer. Keep detailed inventory lists and photographs of valuable items before the move.
Red Flags When Hiring Interstate Movers
Several warning signs indicate potentially problematic moving companies:
- Companies that won’t provide their USDOT number or refuse in-home estimates
- Unusually low estimates compared to competitors
- Requests for deposits exceeding 25% of total cost
- Lack of physical address or local phone number
- No presence on FMCSA database
If one estimate comes in 50% lower than others, investigate carefully before committing. Reputable companies typically don’t require deposits exceeding 25% of the total cost, and some charge no deposit at all.
Essential Questions to Ask Movers
Before hiring any interstate moving company, gather specific information about their operations and policies. Start by confirming their USDOT number and verifying it through the FMCSA website. Ask whether they operate as a carrier or broker.
Inquire about their claims process and settlement rates. Companies with established procedures for handling damage claims demonstrate professionalism and accountability. Clarify all charges included in the estimate, asking specifically about fees for stairs, long carries, shuttle service, and packing materials.
Request information about tracking capabilities. Modern moving companies offer GPS tracking that lets you monitor your shipment’s location throughout the journey.
Preparing for Your Interstate Move
Start planning at least two months before your moving date. Request quotes from multiple companies, comparing not just prices but services offered, customer reviews, and company credentials. Three to five quotes typically provide enough information to make an informed decision.
Create a detailed inventory of items you’re moving. Photograph valuable or fragile items and note any existing damage. Declutter aggressively before packing. The less you move, the lower your costs and the simpler your unpacking process.
Label boxes clearly with contents and destination rooms. Keep essential items in a separate “first night” box that travels with you rather than on the moving truck.
Conclusion
Hiring interstate movers requires careful research and understanding of federal regulations that govern cross-state relocations. Verifying USDOT numbers, distinguishing between carriers and brokers, and selecting appropriate valuation protection form the foundation of a successful move.
The difference between legitimate and problematic moving companies often becomes apparent through warning signs like unusually low estimates, excessive deposit requirements, or reluctance to provide licensing information. Taking time to request multiple quotes, ask detailed questions, and verify credentials protects both your belongings and your budget.
