What is the Meaning of Interstate Moving?

Interstate moving means relocating your household goods from one state to another. Any move that crosses state lines is considered interstate, even if you only travel a few miles. This type of move follows federal rules set by the FMCSA and costs more than local moves.



What Does Interstate Moving Really Mean?

Interstate moving is simple to understand. It's any move where your belongings cross from one state into another. The key word here is "interstate" - which means "between states."

But there are some surprises about what counts as interstate moving. You might think you need to move far, but that's not true. Even if you move just 10 miles from New York to New Jersey, it's still an interstate move.

The Official Definition

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate moving means "transportation of goods in the United States which is between a state and a place outside of that state (including a place outside the United States); or between two places within a state that travels through another state or place outside of the United States."

This means interstate moving happens when:

• You move from one state to another state
• Your belongings travel through another state to reach your new home
• You move from the US to another country
• You move from another country to the US

When Moving Trucks Don't Cross State Lines

Here's something that might surprise you. The moving truck doesn't have to physically cross a state line for your move to be interstate. For example, if you ship some items by plane or train across state lines, and movers handle part of the process, it's still an interstate move.

How Interstate Moving is Different from Other Types of

Moves

Understanding the three main types of moves helps you know what to expect. Each type has different rules and costs.

Local Moves

Local moves happen within 50 miles of your current home. These are usually charged by the hour. The moving company doesn't need special federal licenses for local moves.

Intrastate Moves

An intrastate move is a relocation that starts and ends in the same state. It can cover a wide range of distances, which can span longer than 50 miles — but as long as it stays within the state lines, it's still considered intrastate moving.

For example, moving from Dallas to San Antonio in Texas is intrastate because you stay within Texas the whole time. These moves follow state rules, not federal ones.

Interstate Moves

Interstate moves cross state boundaries. They follow federal rules and need special licenses. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, about 8.2 million Americans made interstate moves in 2022, making up 19.9% of all movers.

Why Interstate Moving Has Special Rules

Interstate moves follow federal laws because they involve commerce between states. The government wants to protect people who move across state lines.

Federal Oversight

If yours is an interstate move it will be governed by FMCSA rules and regulations. The FMCSA makes sure moving companies:

• Have proper licenses
• Carry the right insurance
• Give customers required paperwork
• Follow safety rules

Required Licenses and Numbers

Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number. This special number shows they can legally transport goods across state lines. You can check if a company has this number on the FMCSA website.

Important Documents for Interstate Moves

Interstate moves require special paperwork that local moves don't need.

Bill of Lading

The bill of lading is the legal document that allows movers to transport your household goods over state lines. A bill of lading or BOL is the contract between the mover and the customer.

This document includes:

• Your contact information
• The mover's USDOT number
• Pick-up and delivery addresses
• List of your belongings
• Cost breakdown
• Insurance information

Your Rights and Responsibilities Booklet

For interstate moves, movers must give you the "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" guide, explaining your rights, dispute resolution, and regulatory contacts.

Written Estimates

Moving companies must give you a written estimate before your move. There are two types:

• Binding estimate: The final cost is fixed
• Non-binding estimate: The final cost can change based on actual weight

How Much Does Interstate Moving Cost?

Interstate moves cost more than local or intrastate moves. Several factors affect the price.

Average Costs

The average cost for an interstate move is about $3,500. However, costs can range from as low as $2,200 to over $10,000 depending on factors like distance and home size.

The average interstate moving rate ranges from $0.50 to $0.80 per pound for a 1,000-mile move.

What Affects Interstate Moving Costs

Several things make interstate moves more expensive:

Distance: Longer moves cost more because of fuel, time, and wear on trucks.

Weight: Moving companies typically charge by the weight of the items on your move for interstate moves.

Time of Year: Summer is peak moving season, so prices are higher. Moving between October and April usually costs less.

Special Services: Packing, unpacking, and moving specialty items like pianos add to the cost.

Fuel Costs: Gas prices affect your final bill, especially for long distances.

Why More Americans Choose Interstate Moving

Moving between states has become more popular in recent years.

Recent Moving Trends

Data from North American Van Lines' 2024 Migration Report shows that around 25.87 million Americans moved in 2024. Many chose to move to different states for better opportunities.

The most moved-to states in 2024 were Idaho, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia.

Top Reasons People Move Interstate

In 2024, Americans moved to places with affordable housing and cheaper communities. Many individuals had remote jobs and could leave expensive cities to work from home in an affordable suburb.

The main reasons include:

• Lower cost of living
• Better job opportunities
• Family reasons
• Retirement
• Climate preferences
• Lower taxes

Popular Moving Routes

Some of the largest state-to-state migration flows in 2022 involved people moving to and from highly populated states. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's migration data, the two largest flows came either to or from the four most populous states: large numbers of people moved from California to Texas and from New York to Florida.

Choosing the Right Interstate Moving Company

Picking a good moving company is crucial for interstate moves.

What to Look For

USDOT Number: Make sure the company has this required federal license number.

Insurance: The company should offer both basic and full coverage options.

Written Estimates: Get estimates from at least three companies.

Good Reviews: Check online reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings.

Clear Contracts: All agreements should be in writing with clear terms.

Red Flags to Avoid

Be careful of companies that:

• Ask for large deposits upfront
• Don't have a USDOT number
• Give estimates over the phone without seeing your belongings
• Have very low prices compared to others
• Don't provide required paperwork

Tips for a Successful Interstate Move

Start Planning Early

Begin planning your interstate move at least 8 weeks ahead. This gives you time to:

• Get multiple estimates
• Research moving companies
• Sort through your belongings
• Handle address changes

Reduce Your Load

The more items you need to move, the more money you should expect to pay. Consider:

• Selling items you don't need
• Donating clothes and furniture
• Using up food and cleaning supplies
• Taking important documents with you

Pack Smart

• Use your own boxes when possible to save money
• Pack heavy items in small boxes
• Label everything clearly
• Keep important documents with you
• Take photos of valuable items

Understand Your Insurance Options

Interstate moves come with two insurance choices:

Released Value Protection: This basic coverage is free but only pays 60 cents per pound for damaged items.

Full Value Protection: This costs extra but covers the full replacement value of your belongings.

What Happens on Moving Day

Interstate moving day is different from local moves.

Loading Process

The movers will:

• Do a walk-through of your home
• Create an inventory list
• Wrap and protect your furniture
• Load everything onto the truck
• Give you copies of all paperwork

During Transport

Your belongings might:

• Stop at a warehouse for consolidation
• Share truck space with other customers' items
• Take several days to reach your new home

Delivery Day

When your items arrive:

• Check everything against the inventory list
• Note any damage before signing paperwork
• Pay the remaining balance
• Keep all receipts and documents

Interstate Moving and Taxes

As of 2017 with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, moving expenses are not tax deductible for most people. Active-duty military personnel who meet the necessary requirements may still be able to claim a deduction.

Common Interstate Moving Mistakes

Avoid these common problems:

Not Getting Everything in Writing

Make sure all agreements are written down. Verbal promises don't count if there are problems later.

Choosing Based Only on Price

The cheapest option isn't always the best. Look at the company's reputation and services too.

Not Reading the Fine Print

Understand what's included in your estimate and what costs extra.

Packing Prohibited Items

Some items can't be transported across state lines, including:

• Hazardous materials
• Perishable food
• Plants (in some cases)
• Ammunition

Storage During Interstate Moves

Sometimes you need storage during your interstate move. This happens when:

• Your new home isn't ready
• You're downsizing
• You want to move in stages

Most companies include 30 days of free storage in the rental price. After that, you'll pay monthly storage fees.

Interstate Moving for Special Situations

Military Moves

Military families get special help with interstate moves. The government often pays for these relocations and has specific rules about timing and coverage.

Senior Moves

Senior moving company services can help older adults with interstate relocations. These services often include extra packing help and careful handling of delicate items.

Corporate Relocations

Some companies pay for employee interstate moves. These commercial movers handle the business side of relocations.

Technology and Interstate Moving

Modern moving companies use technology to make interstate moves easier:

• GPS tracking for your belongings
• Online inventory systems
• Digital contracts and payments
• Mobile apps for updates

Environmental Impact of Interstate Moving

Interstate moves use more fuel and resources than local moves. Some ways to reduce your impact:

• Choose companies with fuel-efficient trucks
• Reduce the weight of your shipment
• Use reusable packing materials
• Donate items instead of throwing them away

Legal Protection for Interstate Moves

Federal laws protect people making interstate moves:

• Companies must provide required documents
• Clear pricing rules prevent surprise charges
• Insurance requirements protect your belongings
• Complaint processes help resolve disputes

If you have problems with your interstate move, you can file complaints with the FMCSA.

Planning Your Interstate Move Timeline

8 Weeks Before

• Start researching moving companies
• Get estimates from multiple companies
• Begin sorting through belongings

6 Weeks Before

• Choose your moving company
• Confirm your moving date
• Start using up perishable items

4 Weeks Before

• Notify schools and doctors
• Start change of address checklist process
• Order packing supplies

2 Weeks Before

• Confirm details with your mover
• Pack non-essential items
• Arrange time off work

Moving Day

• Be present for loading
• Keep important documents with you
• Do final walk-through

Interstate Moving Costs by Distance

Here's what to expect for different distances:

Under 500 miles: $2,500-$4,000 for a 2-3 bedroom home 500-1000 miles: $3,000-$5,500 for a 2-3 bedroom home
Over 1000 miles: $4,000-$8,000+ for a 2-3 bedroom home

These are rough estimates. Your actual cost depends on many factors including the exact weight of your belongings and extra services.

Final Thoughts

Interstate moving means relocating your belongings from one state to another. It's more complex than local moves because it involves federal regulations, special licenses, and typically higher costs. Understanding what interstate moving means helps you prepare better and avoid problems.

The key things to remember are that interstate moves require companies with USDOT numbers, involve specific paperwork like the Bill of Lading, and cost more due to distance and regulations. In 2022, over eight million Americans made interstate moves, showing this is a common experience.

Whether you're moving for a job, family reasons, or just want a change of scenery, knowing what interstate moving means puts you in control. Take time to research companies, get multiple estimates, and understand your rights. With good planning, your interstate move can be the start of an exciting new chapter.

Ready to start your interstate move? Contact professional long-distance moving companies to get estimates and begin planning your relocation across state lines.