how much to move cross country: a realistic guide

It hinges on weight, distance, and how much labor you outsource. Plan a range, then tighten what you can actually control.

What drives cost

• Distance and fuel surcharges.
• Weight/volume: every 100 lbs matters.
• Service level: full-service, container, or rental truck.
• Timing: summer and month-ends spike.
• Access: stairs, shuttles, long carries, permits.

Realistic ranges

Full-service: $5,000 - $12,000 for 2 - 3BR ~2,500 miles. Container/DIY: studio/1BR $1,500 - $3,500; larger $3,500 - $7,500. Truck rental: $2,000 - $4,500 plus fuel and lodging. Auto: $900 - $1,600 per car. Valuation: ~1 - 3% of declared value.

My practical win: I weighed my 1BR in Flagstaff; the certified ticket trimmed the bill by $180. Quiet, satisfying.

Quick, honest checklist

1. List every room; flag heavy items.
2. Get three binding estimates, not "ballparks."
3. Ask about shuttles, stairs, long-carry, storage.
4. Confirm delivery window and any guarantees.
5. Pick valuation and deductible you can sleep with; keep a 10 - 15% buffer.

Trim without regrets

• Purge dense items: books, plates, old files.
• Flat-pack furniture; remove drawers and legs.
• Shift dates by a week to dodge peaks.
• Pack sturdy items yourself; let pros handle fragile.
• Tax note: federal deductions generally apply only to active-duty moves.