Cross-country moving can be notoriously expensive no matter how you approach it. In fact, the average cost of a long-distance move runs anywhere between about $2,000 and $10,000 depending on whether you DIY or hire help. As a Los Angeles-based moving company, Affordable Moving LLC has seen firsthand how quickly costs add up – from truck rental fees and gas to lodging on the road or full-service mover charges. In this article, we’ll compare the most cost-effective ways to move cross-country, from do-it-yourself (DIY) options like rental trucks and portable containers to hiring professional movers. By understanding the pros, cons, and typical prices of each method, you can choose the option that best fits your budget and needs while keeping your move as affordable and stress-free as possible.
DIY Moving Methods: Save Money with a Little Elbow Grease
One of the surest ways to cut costs on a cross-country move is to do it yourself. DIY moving methods generally have lower base expenses, but require you to put in the labor and planning. We’ll cover three popular DIY approaches – renting a moving truck, using portable storage containers, and shipping your belongings – and weigh their pros, cons, and approximate costs.
Renting a Moving Truck: Pros, Cons, and Cost
Renting a moving truck (from companies like U-Haul, Budget or Penske) is often the go-to cheap option for long-distance moves. Cost-wise, truck rentals tend to be the lowest priced option for transporting a household across the country. For example, depending on the distance and size of truck, rates often linger under about $3,000 for a one-way cross-country rental. This base price typically includes the truck for a set number of days and a mileage allowance.
However, it’s important to budget for extra expenses on top of the rental fee. Fuel is a major added cost – a fully loaded 20-26 ft moving truck only gets around 8–10 mpg, so gasoline for a cross-country drive can easily cost several hundred dollars. You’ll also need to factor in tolls, insurance, and lodging or food on a multi-day drive. Once you add these on, a “cheap” truck rental can still end up costing a few thousand dollars in total for a coast-to-coast move.
Pros: The big advantage of a DIY truck rental is that it’s typically the cheapest base cost for moving a large volume of goods. You have full control of the schedule – you can load and drive on your own timeline, and there are many truck sizes available to fit different home sizes. Rental trucks are also easy to book online, and major providers have nationwide drop-off locations, making logistics straightforward.
Cons: On the downside, all the work is on you – and it’s a lot of work. You’re responsible for packing every box, lifting and loading heavy furniture, driving the bulky truck for thousands of miles, and then unloading everything at your destination. Not everyone is comfortable driving a 26-foot truck, especially through unknown cities or mountains. Additionally, the add-on costs can pile up – you may need to rent moving equipment (dollies, straps), purchase supplemental insurance for the truck and your goods, and pay for gas and hotels out of pocket. These factors can erode some of the savings of the DIY approach. In short, truck rental is the cheapest way on paper, but be prepared for a long journey and some hard labor to realize those savings.
Portable Storage Containers: Flexibility at a Mid-Range Price
Portable storage containers like PODS (pictured) offer a convenient DIY option: the container is dropped off at your home for you to load at your pace, and the company handles transport to your new location. With this option, a company delivers a large storage container (often 8’ to 16’ in length) to your driveway. You load your belongings into the container yourself, but you don’t have to drive it cross-country – the company will pick up the loaded container and ship it to your new home. If you don’t have a new address secured, they can also store the container for you (usually for an extra monthly fee).
In terms of cost, moving container services generally fall in between a truck rental and full-service movers on the price spectrum. You’re paying for the convenience of not driving, but since you handle the packing and loading, it’s cheaper than hiring a moving crew. The exact pricing depends on the container size, distance, and how long you keep it, but for long distances you can expect roughly $3,000 to $6,000 total in many cases (this often includes one month of storage). For example, one source found that a portable container move from New York to Los Angeles averages around $4,400, which is a bit more than a rental truck once fuel is included, but still well below a full-service move. In fact, container moves tend to be in the same ballpark as renting a truck in terms of overall cost – except you don’t have to personally drive a huge vehicle across the country.
Pros: Using a moving container offers greater flexibility and less hassle than a full DIY drive. You get to load at your own pace (often a window of days or weeks), and you avoid the stress of driving a truck long-distance. The containers are ground-level loading, making it easier to carry items in (no steep ramps to push up). If your schedule is uncertain, the built-in storage option is a huge plus – the container can be stored securely until you’re ready for delivery. Also, you typically pay only for the container size you need, and companies offer multiple sizes (e.g. 8’, 16’ containers) to fit different households.
Cons: The main drawback is cost – container services, while cheaper than full movers, do cost more than a bare-bones truck rental. You’re essentially paying a premium for transport and storage convenience. Additionally, you still have to do all the packing and loading labor yourself (or hire help for that). Access can be a concern too: you need a place to drop the container at both origin and destination (some urban areas or apartments might not allow this). Lastly, getting quotes for container moves sometimes takes more effort – many container companies require you to call for a detailed quote based on your move specifics, rather than giving instant online estimates. This means you may have to spend a bit of time shopping around. Overall, for a mid-range budget, portable containers offer a nice compromise: you handle the loading work, but you save on driving and get flexibility in timing.
Freight Shipping or Mailing Items: Best for Small Loads
If you’re moving a very small household or just a limited number of items, you might consider shipping your belongings instead of renting an entire truck or container. This approach can take a few forms, such as freight shipping, or simply mailing boxes via parcel services. The idea is to pay only for the space or weight you actually need to move, which can be the cheapest way to move cross-country for a small load.
One option is using standard shipping carriers to send boxes to your new address. For example, you could box up your clothes, books, and smaller household items and ship them ground service. Parcel shipping costs will vary based on weight and dimensions of the boxes, so you’ll want to compare rates and choose an economical ground shipping option. This method is straightforward if you only have, say, a studio apartment’s worth of belongings or less. It saves you from driving anything at all – you just drop off packages or have them picked up.
For larger furniture pieces or a small apartment move, freight shipping is a viable alternative. Freight companies allow you to share space on a truck or trailer with other shipments. For instance, services or freight brokers can drop off an empty trailer or crate, let you load your items (or put them on a pallet), and then transport them with other freight going the same direction. Your belongings occupy only part of the truck, so you’re charged only for the portion of space (or weight) you use. This can be more affordable than paying for an entire truck when you don’t have much stuff. Freight shipping does require coordination on pickup and delivery timing, and your items may take a bit longer in transit (since the truck makes other stops), but it’s often an economical choice for small long-distance moves.
Cost: The cost for shipping items cross-country can range widely depending on the amount. To give a rough idea, moving industry data shows that freight shipping a cross-country load might cost roughly $1,000 up to $5,000 depending on volume and distance. Sending a single couch or a few boxes could be closer to the low end, whereas shipping several large pieces of furniture could approach a few thousand dollars. If you’re just mailing boxes, you might calculate the cost per box (for example, a large 50 lb box might cost $50-$100 to ship cross-country, so ten such boxes could be $500+). Always compare the cumulative shipping costs against the price of a rental truck—you may find that if you have more than a very small load, renting a truck or container is cheaper overall. But for minimalist moves, shipping items can indeed be the cheapest and easiest solution.
Pros: Shipping or freight can be very cost-effective for small moves. You only pay for what you actually need to transport, whether that’s a few boxes or a couple of furniture pieces. There’s no driving involved on your part, and professional transporters handle the long-distance hauling. This method is also scalable – you can ship just the high-priority items (or bulky items) and carry the rest in your car, for example. It’s a useful approach if you’re moving in stages or only relocating a part of your household.
Cons: This method doesn’t make sense for larger households – if you have a lot of furniture and boxes, the total shipping costs could exceed other options, and coordinating dozens of shipments would be impractical. There’s also more planning and research needed: you’ll likely have to get quotes from freight companies or calculate package shipping for each item. Packaging becomes crucial too – you must pack everything very securely for it to survive carriers who might stack or jostle your items in transit. Finally, you may end up with a longer wait to get all your stuff (freight shipments can take 1-3 weeks depending on schedule). In short, freight or mailing is best for small, manageable loads or specific items, but not a solution for moving an entire multi-bedroom home on the cheap.
Hiring Professional Movers: Cost vs. Convenience
When it comes to a cross-country move, the most convenient option is to hire a professional moving company to handle everything. Full-service movers will pack your belongings, load the truck, transport your items cross-country, and even unload at your new home. It’s the white-glove, low-stress approach – but it can carry a high price tag. Let’s break down the costs and benefits of hiring professionals, and when it might actually be worth the cost.
Cost (Average Prices): Hiring professional long-distance movers is usually the most expensive moving method. You’re paying for a trained crew’s labor, the moving truck and fuel, and often additional services like packing materials, insurance, and so on. Cross-country moving jobs by reputable companies can range anywhere from around $5,000 on the low end to $10,000 or more for large or long-distance moves. The price depends on the distance, the total weight or volume of your belongings, and any extra services you require (packing, specialty item handling, etc.). For instance, one estimate for moving a moderately furnished 2–3 bedroom home from New York City to Los Angeles (about 2,800 miles) is roughly $5,700 with a full-service mover. It’s worth noting that if you only have a very small load (like a few items or a studio apartment), some moving companies offer special rates or consolidated shipments that could be as low as a couple thousand dollars – but for most typical households, professional movers will be the priciest option. Try our cross-country moving calculator to estimate you moving cost.
Why consider it, then? Because what you get for that higher cost is value in other forms – time saved, labor avoided, and peace of mind.
Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers include:
- Time and Effort Savings: You won’t have to lift heavy furniture, navigate a truck, or spend days in transit. The movers handle all the packing, loading, driving, and unloading, which saves you a tremendous amount of time and physical effort during an already stressful life event. This is especially valuable if you cannot take much time off work or have other responsibilities.
- Safe and Expert Handling: Professionals bring expertise and experience in handling delicate or valuable items and in loading a truck efficiently. They have the right equipment (dollies, lift-gates, padding) to move large items safely. This reduces the risk of you injuring yourself or damaging your belongings. Your items are also covered by liability insurance during the move – if something is broken or lost, the mover’s policy can compensate you (up to certain limits).
- Reduced Stress: With a full-service mover, much of the logistical worry is off your shoulders. A professional team coordinates the details, which greatly reduces the stress of a cross-country move. You can focus on family, work, or travel arrangements while the movers tackle the heavy work. Many people find the expense is worth the peace of mind knowing experts are handling the relocation.
- Additional Services: Moving companies often offer add-on services that can make your move easier, such as packing services, furniture disassembly/reassembly, storage solutions, or even unpacking at your destination. These services (usually for additional fees) can solve specific problems and further streamline your move. You’re effectively buying convenience at every step.
When Professional Movers Might Be Cost-Effective: It may seem counterintuitive, but there are scenarios where hiring movers can be more economical or practical than a DIY move. If you have a large household (multiple bedrooms of furniture) or heavy, specialty items (piano, large appliances), the logistics of moving those yourself can be very challenging and risky. You might end up needing to rent special equipment or hire labor help even if you rent a truck, which starts to narrow the cost gap. Also, consider that a cross-country drive has its own costs (fuel, motels, your time off work). In some cases, when you tally up all those costs and the value of your time, paying a mover begins to look more sensible.
For families with young children or pets, or people who simply cannot take on the physical toll of a DIY move, using an affordable professional mover may actually be the “cheapest” realistic option once you factor in personal costs and risks. Industry experts note that for those with a lot of stuff or complicating factors, a budget-friendly moving company can ultimately save you money and headaches in the long run. Essentially, if doing it all yourself is likely to lead to damage, health risks, or significant inconvenience, then the higher upfront price of professionals can pay off. Every move is different – the key is to weigh the dollar cost against the intangible benefits of less stress and effort.
Of course, hiring movers requires due diligence: always vet companies for proper licensing and insurance, and watch out for deals that seem too good to be true (rogue operators might lure customers with low quotes and then inflate costs). But with a reputable company like Affordable Moving LLC, you can get a fair price and the confidence of an experienced team handling your cross-country relocation.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Methods
To recap the cost considerations, here’s a quick comparison of the major cross-country moving methods. Note: Actual prices vary by distance, load size, and season, but these are rough ranges for a typical long-distance move:
| Method | Estimated Cost (Cross-Country) | Key Pros | Key Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Truck Rental | ~$1,500 – $4,000 (plus fuel, lodging) | – Lowest base price of all options– Full control of schedule and route | – Labor-intensive: you do all packing, loading, driving– Extra costs for fuel, insurance, hotels, etc. |
| Portable Container | ~$3,000 – $6,000 (depending on distance and size) | – No driving required (company transports the container)– Can double as storage unit (flexible timing) | – Mid-range cost (more than truck rental)– You still handle all the packing and loading work |
| Freight Shipping / Mailing | ~$1,000 – $5,000 (for small loads) | – Pay only for the space/weight you need (good for small moves)– No need to drive; professionals handle transport | – Not practical for large household moves– Requires careful packing and coordination of shipping logistics |
| Full-Service Movers | ~$5,000 – $10,000 (for long distances) | – Hands-off convenience: entire move handled by pros– Time-saving, with packing, loading, and driving done for you; includes basic insurance coverage | – Highest cost option upfront– Less flexibility (must work on the movers’ schedule; potential for delays or added fees) |
(Cost ranges above are general estimates for a cross-country move. Your actual quotes may differ based on location, season, and how much stuff you have.)
Tips to Reduce Moving Costs Regardless of Method
No matter which moving method you choose, there are plenty of ways to save money on your cross-country move. Here are some expert tips to keep costs down:
- Downsize before you move. The golden rule is: the less you move, the cheaper the move. Long-distance moving costs are often based on volume or weight, so purge any items you don’t truly need. Sell, donate, or dispose of old furniture, clothes, and clutter rather than paying to haul them across the country. Remember, the more stuff you own, the more expensive your move will be – getting rid of excess can significantly cut costs.
- Move during the off-season if possible. Summer is peak moving season, when demand (and prices) are highest. If you can schedule your move for the fall or winter months, you’ll often get lower quotes and more availability. Cross-country movers and truck rental rates tend to be cheaper from about October through March compared to the busy summer. Similarly, aim for a mid-month, mid-week move date – avoiding end-of-month and weekends can sometimes save money too.
- Compare quotes and ask about discounts. Don’t take the first estimate you get. Shop around with multiple companies – whether for rental trucks, containers, or movers – and let them know you’re comparing options. Many movers will price-match or offer competitive rates. Also ask about discounts: movers and truck rental firms often have discounts for AAA members, military, seniors, students, or even simply booking online. These can shave a good chunk off the price if you qualify. Being upfront about your budget and timing might lead to special offers or the ability to negotiate a better deal.
- Pack yourself and source free materials. One simple way to reduce costs is to do your own packing instead of paying movers to pack (if you chose a full-service option). Packing labor can be costly, so DIY here if you can. Get moving boxes for free from local stores or online marketplaces (people often give away used boxes). Use towels, blankets, and clothing you already have as padding to save on bubble wrap. In general, avoid paying for extra packing supplies that you could find for free or cheap. Just ensure you pack carefully to prevent damage, since a poorly packed box can cost you if items break.
- Plan and book in advance. Last-minute moving arrangements can be expensive. If possible, reserve your truck or movers well ahead of time. Booking 4-8 weeks in advance can not only guarantee you the availability on your desired dates, but sometimes it locks in lower rates before they rise closer to peak times. The farther ahead you book, the better chance you have of getting the services you need at a good price. Early planning also gives you time to strategize – for example, to prepare a hybrid moving approach (such as shipping some items and driving others) that can save money.
By following these tips – trimming your load, choosing the right timing, and being savvy about planning – you can significantly reduce your moving expenses no matter which method you use. A little extra effort and flexibility can translate into hundreds or even thousands of dollars saved.
Choosing the Most Affordable Way to Move
When asking “what is the cheapest way to move across the country,” the honest answer is “it depends.” It depends on your budget, how much stuff you have, how much work you’re willing (or able) to do yourself, and what you value most in the moving process. If you’re a young individual with a light load, driving a rented truck or packing a small container might be the absolute cheapest route. If you have a family, a large household, or special circumstances, a DIY move’s challenges might outweigh the savings – and a professional mover could be the more cost-effective choice when you consider the big picture.
As we’ve discussed, DIY methods like truck rentals or freight shipping can save you money, but require significant time and effort. Hiring professional movers, on the other hand, minimizes effort and risk at a higher dollar cost. For many people, a hybrid approach ends up being ideal: perhaps you rent a truck for the bulk of your items, but hire movers at both ends to help load and unload, or you ship out some items and drive the rest in a smaller rental truck. By mixing strategies, you can balance cost and convenience to fit your situation.
Our expert recommendation: Start by evaluating your move’s specifics. Get a few quotes for each approach – a truck rental quote, a container quote, and a full-service moving quote. Compare the totals (and remember to factor in the “hidden” costs you’d incur with each). Consider your own bandwidth for driving and lifting. The cheapest option on paper isn’t always cheapest when you factor in personal costs like exhaustion, potential injury, or time off work. Choose the method that offers the best value for you. If you’re still unsure, you can even consult a reputable moving company for advice – many will give honest input on where you can save money, even if you don’t end up hiring them outright.
In the end, the goal is to make your cross-country move affordable and successful. With careful planning, budgeting, and the strategies outlined above, you can relocate on a budget without sacrificing your peace of mind.
Make Your Cross-Country Move Affordable with Affordable Moving LLC
Planning a long-distance move from Los Angeles or elsewhere? Affordable Moving LLC is here to help make your cross-country move both affordable and stress-free. With years of experience in long-haul moves, we offer competitive rates and personalized service to fit your budget. Whether you decide on a DIY approach or need full professional assistance, our team can provide as much or as little help as you require. Contact Affordable Moving LLC today for a free, no-obligation quote and let us show you how moving across the country can be easier and more cost-effective than you think. We’re committed to delivering top-notch service at an affordable price, so you can start your new journey with confidence and extra savings in your pocket. Safe travels and happy moving!
