Finding Reliable Budget Long Distance Movers Without Breaking the Bank
When planning a cross-country move, finding budget long distance movers who deliver reliable service at affordable pricing can feel overwhelming. To quickly choose the right mover for your budget, it helps to understand general cost ranges and what’s typically included. While prices can vary widely, many two-bedroom long-distance moves fall between $2,500 and $5,000, depending on factors like timing, distance, and how much help you need.
As someone who has overseen countless budget-friendly relocations, I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers, with over 30 years helping families find reliable and affordable budget long distance movers. Let’s dive deeper into understanding your options.
Budget long distance movers terms at a glance:
Understanding the Costs of Long-Distance Moves
Before you start browsing websites and gathering quotes from potential budget long distance movers, it’s helpful to grasp exactly what factors impact the final cost of your move. A little knowledge can save you big bucks (we’re talking thousands of dollars here!) and give you more control over your moving budget.
Distance
Let’s start with the most obvious factor: distance. Simply put, the farther you move, the more you’ll pay. Many long-distance moving providers base their pricing partially on mileage between your old home and your new destination.
Here’s a quick snapshot: moving less than 500 miles typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500, while trips between 500 and 1,000 miles usually run from $2,500 to $5,000. Planning an epic journey of more than 1,000 miles? Your costs could easily reach $4,000 to $10,000 or even more.
“Any move that’s more than 400 miles is considered long-distance,” explains one industry expert. “Local moves are usually within about 50 miles, whereas cross-country moves involve crossing state lines.”
Weight/Volume
Beyond distance, the amount of stuff you’re relocating plays a huge role in pricing. Many long-distance movers charge according to either how much your belongings weigh or how much space they take up (volume).
For example, a two-bedroom apartment move might weigh around 5,000–6,000 pounds, while a typical three-bedroom home can weigh between 7,000–8,000 pounds or more. Container-style moving services often charge based on how much space you use, sometimes employing a “pay-for-what-you-use” type of pricing. Efficient packers can save hundreds of dollars by using less space.
Additional Services
Next up: the level of service you choose. This can dramatically affect your final bill.
If you prefer not lifting a finger, full-service moving (which includes packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking) can cost anywhere from $4,000–$10,000 or more.
Prefer some help but don’t mind doing your own packing? Partial-service moving (loading, transporting, and unloading) typically ranges between $2,500–$7,500.
Container services—where you pack yourself and the moving company handles transportation—usually run from $2,000–$5,000. If you’re willing to tackle everything yourself, DIY truck rentals often cost between $1,500–$4,000. Just remember to factor in fuel expenses, equipment rentals, and your time and effort.
Time of Year
Surprise! The timing of your move matters—a lot. Your costs could vary significantly depending on when you decide to relocate.
The most expensive times to move are during peak season (May through September). During these months, prices can spike by as much as 20–30%. On top of that, moving on weekends or close to the beginning or end of a month can add another 10–15%.
On the flip side, the off-season (October to April) generally offers the best rates. Mid-month, mid-week moves can also score you additional discounts.
One happy customer shared, “I saved over $800 by moving in February instead of June. The weather was a bit chillier, but the savings made the extra sweater totally worth it!”
At Bernard Movers, we’re currently offering a special seasonal discount: 20% off moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. It’s the perfect way to stretch your budget even further during the off-season.
To protect yourself and thoroughly understand your moving estimates, check out the latest research on moving costs directly from the FMCSA.
By understanding these crucial factors—distance, weight or volume, additional services, and timing—you’ll be better equipped to choose the perfect budget long distance movers and get the most bang for your buck!
Budget Long Distance Movers: Affordable Options
Now that we understand what drives moving costs, let’s explore your three main options for budget long distance movers and find which might be perfect for your upcoming relocation.
Full-Service Budget Long Distance Movers
Picture this: you sit back with a cup of coffee while professionals handle every aspect of your move. That’s the full-service experience—convenient but typically more expensive than other options.
When you choose full-service movers, they’ll take care of everything from carefully wrapping your grandmother’s china to reassembling your bed frame in your new bedroom. These services typically include professional packing of all your belongings, furniture disassembly, loading, transportation, unloading, placement of items, and furniture reassembly. Many companies even offer unpacking services if you want to start your new life without facing a mountain of boxes.
“Professional movers offer expertise, proper equipment, and efficient methods that reduce the risk of injury and damage, ultimately saving time and stress,” a moving expert recently told me.
Full-service moves shine for busy professionals who can’t take time off work, families juggling young children, seniors who shouldn’t be lifting heavy items, or anyone who values convenience and has some flexibility in their budget.
You can still save money with full-service budget long distance movers by packing non-fragile items yourself, requesting a binding estimate (so your price won’t jump on moving day), booking during the winter months, and downsizing before your movers arrive.
One of our customers from Chicago shared her experience: “We hired Bernard Movers for our move to Florida last winter. By booking during their seasonal promotion and packing our clothes ourselves, we saved nearly 30% compared to other quotes we received.”
Want to explore affordable full-service options? Visit our Affordable Moving Companies page for detailed information.
Self-Service Budget Long Distance Movers
If you’re looking for that sweet spot between doing everything yourself and hiring full-service movers, self-service moving might be your answer. You handle the packing and loading while professionals take care of the transportation.
Container services have revolutionized the moving industry by delivering a container to your home, allowing you to pack at your own pace, then transporting it to your new location. This approach gives you control over the packing process without having to drive a large truck across the country.
Costs for these container services can vary, often ranging from around $2,000 to $5,000 for a two-bedroom move, depending on factors like distance and the amount of space you use. The biggest perk of container services is the built-in storage option: many include a set period of storage in their price, a perfect solution if your new home isn’t ready right away.
One of the best perks is that you don’t have to handle driving a truck, which can be a relief for many people. Container drop-off and pick-up are typically scheduled at your convenience, making for a flexible and budget-friendly approach compared to full-service movers.
DIY Budget Long Distance Moving Solutions
For the most budget-conscious movers willing to roll up their sleeves, DIY truck rental remains the most affordable option in many cases. This approach puts you in complete control—you’ll handle everything from packing and loading to driving and unloading.
Truck rental costs can range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on distance, truck size, and whether you need a one-way or round-trip rental. Fuel expenses, equipment rentals, and potential road tolls can add to your budget, so be sure to factor those in.
Before jumping into a DIY move, consider these important factors:
- You’ll need to accurately estimate the size of truck you require.
- Large rental trucks often have low gas mileage, which can add up on a long trip.
- Check insurance coverage and understand any potential fees for mileage, fuel, or late returns.
- Make sure you’re comfortable driving a large vehicle and have help loading and unloading heavy items.
“Using specialized equipment like dollies, hand trucks, and high-quality packing materials minimizes the risk of injuries and ensures that delicate items are protected during the move,” advises a moving professional.
DIY moving can definitely be cost-effective if you plan carefully, but keep safety and potential hidden fees in mind. It’s wise to weigh whether the savings are worth the extra work and stress.
Tips to Save Money on Your Long-Distance Move
When it comes to picking budget long distance movers, every dollar counts—especially when you’re planning a big move. Luckily, you don’t need to sacrifice quality or convenience to save money. With a bit of smart planning and these practical strategies, you’ll be surprised at how much you can trim off your moving expenses.
Decluttering Before Your Move
Here’s a simple truth: the less you move, the less you pay. Before you start packing, take the time to go through your home and identify items you no longer need or use.
Consider hosting a garage sale about 4-6 weeks before moving day. It’s a great way to lighten your load and earn a little extra money. You can also sell valuable items online through marketplace platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
Donating usable goods to charity is another excellent choice—plus, you’ll likely qualify for a helpful tax deduction. And for items that are broken, damaged, or just generally past their prime, it’s best to recycle or discard them.
Maria, one of our Bernard Movers customers from Chicago, found that decluttering her three-bedroom home reduced her belongings by nearly 30%. This simple step alone saved her over $1,200 on the total move cost to Florida. Not bad for a bit of cleaning, right?
Timing Your Move Strategically
Believe it or not, when you move matters almost as much as how you move. Movers often charge higher rates during summer months (May through September), weekends, and the start or end of the month. If your schedule allows, aim for an off-peak month like October through April. Choosing mid-week, mid-month days can also make a noticeable difference in pricing.
Booking your move early also pays off. Reserve your movers at least 2-3 months before moving day. Not only does early booking ensure availability, but you’ll usually lock in significantly better rates.
Industry experts recommend renting moving trucks or booking movers as early as possible. One pro tip: Bernard Movers currently offers a special 20% additional discount for moves to Georgia and Florida scheduled for delivery by March 15, 2025. By timing your move smartly, you could stack up your savings even more.
Comparing Multiple Quotes
Never jump at the first quote you get, even if it sounds tempting. To get the best deal from budget long distance movers, it’s crucial to compare several different estimates—ideally at least 3-5. Make sure each quote clearly outlines the services and fees included to avoid surprises later.
Watch out for hidden costs or unclear terms. Ask plenty of questions and if possible, request a binding estimate, which guarantees your moving price won’t suddenly shoot up on moving day.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has a handy “110% rule” for non-binding estimates. It means movers can’t charge you more than 110% of their original estimate. It’s important to know details like this to stay in control of your budget.
Packing Strategically
If you’re handling your own packing, a few clever strategies can save major bucks. Instead of buying expensive boxes, visit grocery or liquor stores, or check online marketplaces for reliable and free boxes.
Skip the bubble wrap by padding delicate items with household items you already own—clothing, towels, and linens make excellent cushioning. Pack carefully and efficiently, especially if you’re using container services where space directly affects your cost. And don’t forget to label boxes clearly; trust us, your future self will thank you when unpacking is a breeze.
Negotiating with Movers
Did you know moving prices aren’t always set in stone? Many moving companies are open to negotiating or price matching. Don’t hesitate to ask about current promotions or discounts. You might find movers offering special rates for seniors, military personnel, students, or off-season bookings.
Bundling additional services like storage or packing assistance can sometimes secure you a discounted rate too. One mover even stated, “As long as we are matching in size, we will match or beat any reputable carrier price.”
For even more tips on finding great, affordable moving companies, check out our page dedicated to the Best Affordable Moving Companies.
Saving money on your long-distance move doesn’t have to mean cutting corners—you just need the right strategies, a bit of planning, and maybe a little elbow grease. Before you know it, you’ll be settling into your new home with extra cash in your pocket.
How to Choose Budget Long Distance Movers
Choosing budget long distance movers isn’t just about finding the lowest price—it’s also about ensuring your movers are reliable, professional, and trustworthy. At Bernard Movers, we’ve seen how investing a little extra time upfront can make your move smooth, stress-free, and budget-friendly. Here’s a warm, friendly guide to help you make the best choice for your family and your wallet.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
First things first: always check your mover’s licensing and insurance. For moves across state lines, legitimate movers must have a U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) number and an MC number. You can easily verify these credentials on the FMCSA’s Protect Your Move website.
Also, ask about their insurance coverage options. Basic liability coverage usually comes standard—but for valuable items, consider opting for full-value protection. It may cost a bit more upfront, but it offers peace of mind knowing your belongings are fully protected.
As one industry expert wisely advises, “Moving companies must have valid FMCSA licensing and a U.S. Department of Transportation number for interstate moves.” So don’t skip this step—it’s your first and easiest safeguard against moving scams.
Read Customer Reviews Carefully
Let’s face it: customer reviews can be your best friend when choosing budget long distance movers. Reviews help you see how real families felt about their moving experience—and can quickly reveal if a company is reliable or if there are issues lurking beneath the surface.
Take your time to check reviews on multiple platforms—Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are great starting points. Look for patterns: consistently positive feedback suggests reliability, while multiple similar complaints might signal red flags. Also, see how a company responds to negative reviews. A company that thoughtfully addresses concerns likely values their customers and their reputation.
One of our Bernard Movers customers recently said, “I’d highly recommend Bernard Movers. They were quick, efficient, and reliable—they really hustled! Moving is stressful, so it was wonderful having dependable movers.”
Understand Estimates Thoroughly
When you’re gathering quotes, understanding the estimate type is crucial:
- A binding estimate locks in your price, ensuring no surprises on moving day.
- A non-binding estimate can change based on the actual weight or time required.
- A not-to-exceed estimate sets a cap—your final cost can go lower but never higher.
If staying strictly within your budget is important, ask specifically for a binding or not-to-exceed estimate. An industry report explains clearly, “A binding estimate is a fixed price that won’t change, while a non-binding estimate can fluctuate based on actual conditions on moving day.”
At Bernard Movers, we offer in-home estimates for Chicago-area residents and convenient virtual surveys for our long-distance customers. This process ensures accuracy and transparency, helping you budget confidently.
Watch for Red Flags
Unfortunately, moving scams do exist—but knowing the warning signs can keep you safe. Be cautious if you notice:
- Extremely low estimates that seem too good to be true (they usually are!)
- Movers asking for large upfront deposits (more than 20% is suspicious)
- Companies that don’t openly share a physical address or clear licensing details
- Generic-sounding company names or unmarked moving trucks
- Refusal to provide a written estimate or contract
Sue Lawless, Executive Director and Chief Safety Officer at FMCSA, advises: “First, invest time researching and comparing companies. Check their licensing status with FMCSA, read reviews, and get recommendations from friends and family who recently moved.”
Don’t Skip In-Home or Virtual Surveys
For the most accurate and transparent estimate, always request an in-home or virtual survey. Estimates based solely on phone calls or online forms can be inaccurate, which might lead to unexpected expenses.
When you schedule a survey, be thorough and honest. Show the estimator every room and item you’ll be moving. Don’t forget to mention things that require special handling (like pianos, appliances, or valuable antiques). Also, discuss access issues at your current home or destination—things like narrow staircases or parking restrictions can affect your quote.
One reviewer notes that many professional moving companies require an in-home or virtual survey for accurate quotes rather than instant online estimates, highlighting that this is a best practice in the moving industry. At Bernard Movers, we wholeheartedly agree and follow this approach for all our customers.
Choosing budget long distance movers doesn’t have to be stressful. By verifying credentials, thoroughly checking reviews, carefully understanding estimates, watching out for scams, and ensuring an accurate survey, you’ll confidently select a mover you can trust—without breaking the bank.
For more great tips on spotting moving scams, visit How to spot scams.
Frequently Asked Questions about Budget Long Distance Movers
What factors affect the cost of a long-distance move?
When planning a move, you’ll quickly notice that prices can vary widely. Several key factors directly impact what you’ll pay when hiring budget long distance movers.
First, distance matters a lot—the longer your move, the more you’ll typically pay. Additionally, the volume or weight of your belongings significantly affects the price. A larger household or more possessions will naturally increase your moving costs.
The level of service you choose can also make a big difference. Full-service movers who pack, load, and unload everything for you cost more than self-service or DIY options, where you handle more of the work yourself.
Also, timing plays a crucial role. Moving during peak summer months, on weekends, or at the start or end of the month usually costs more. Booking well in advance can help secure better pricing.
Don’t forget about potential access challenges at your new or current home—stairs, elevators, narrow streets, or long walks from the truck can add extra fees. Finally, special items like pianos, large safes, or valuable artwork typically require special handling and additional charges.
Understanding these factors can help you better plan your budget and avoid surprises. As one industry analysis puts it, “The cost depends on factors such as moving distance, move size, additional services, and whether the move is local or long-distance.”
How can I avoid hidden fees with moving companies?
Nobody likes surprises, especially when it comes to moving costs. The best way to avoid hidden fees is to clearly understand your estimate and ask the right questions upfront with your chosen budget long distance movers.
First, always get everything in writing. Ask your mover for a detailed list of included services and potential charges. Request a binding estimate whenever possible—this locks in your price and prevents unexpected charges on moving day.
Don’t hesitate to specifically inquire about extra charges some movers add, such as staircase fees, elevator usage, long carry distances, or shuttle services (if the big truck can’t reach your home directly). Also, clarify any extra costs for packing materials, storage options, or cancellation policies.
As one moving industry report noted, “Common additional fees in long-distance moves include shuttle fees, long carry fees, and stair fees.” Knowing about these upfront gives you peace of mind and helps you manage your moving budget like a pro.
Are additional services worth paying for even on a tight budget?
Even when watching every dollar, some additional moving services can actually save you money and stress in the long run.
For example, professional packing of fragile items like dishes or glassware can be worth every penny. These pros pack quickly and safely, greatly reducing the chance of costly damage to your delicate belongings. Many movers offer partial packing services, meaning you can keep costs low by packing non-breakable items yourself.
Another smart investment is basic insurance coverage. At Bernard Movers, we recommend at least the basic valuation coverage provided by movers (typically around $0.60 per pound). If you have valuable items, consider upgrading to full-value protection.
Hiring movers to handle furniture disassembly and reassembly can also be surprisingly cost-effective. Paying a little extra upfront is usually cheaper than repairing or replacing furniture damaged by improper handling.
As a moving expert puts it, “For improved protection, full-value protection options can be added to cover potential damage or loss.” So yes, some extra services are definitely worth considering, even on a budget.
How far in advance should I book budget long distance movers?
Booking timelines can vary based on when you’re moving.
If you’re planning a summer move—peak moving season—it’s best to schedule your movers at least 2-3 months ahead. During slower seasons (October to April), booking 4-6 weeks in advance is usually sufficient.
Moves scheduled at the beginning or end of the month tend to fill up faster, so add another week or two to the timelines above. Of course, life happens. If you suddenly need to move on short notice, some movers specialize in last-minute relocations—but expect to pay a higher rate.
A moving professional advises, “Plan your move in advance, allowing professionals to load and unload items efficiently.” Booking early gives you the best choice of dates, services, and pricing.
What items won’t movers transport?
Not everything can safely hitch a ride with your budget long distance movers. Typically, movers won’t transport hazardous materials such as paint, aerosols, chemicals, gasoline, propane, and ammunition. Additionally, perishable items like food and live plants usually can’t be moved long distances.
For safety and security reasons, movers also avoid handling valuable personal items like cash, jewelry, and important documents. Pets, of course, can’t ride in the moving truck either—although your furry family member might enjoy a road trip trip with you instead!
One industry source confirms clearly: “Hazardous materials such as chemicals, flammable liquids, perishable food items, plants, pets, and weapons or firearms cannot be transported.” Knowing this ahead of time helps you plan accordingly and keeps your move safe and stress-free.
How much should I budget for tipping movers?
Tipping your movers is a thoughtful way to thank them for their hard work—but how much is appropriate?
For standard service, budgeting around $4-$5 per hour per mover is typical. If your movers really go above and beyond—say, carefully handling tricky furniture or working quickly and cheerfully—consider bumping it up to $6-$10 per hour per mover.
For a full day of work, this usually translates to about $20-$40 per mover for standard service, and $50-$100 per mover for exceptional help. But remember, tipping is a personal decision based on the quality of service you receive and what feels right to you.
As one industry guide notes, “Tipping standards vary by service complexity, with recommendations ranging from $20–$40 per mover for local moves to $50–$100 for more extensive moves.” A sincere thank-you goes a long way, too—especially with a cold drink or snacks to keep spirits high!
Conclusion
Finding reliable budget long distance movers doesn’t have to mean choosing between affordability and quality. With some careful planning and a bit of savvy research, you can confidently select movers who fit your budget without sacrificing peace of mind.
Whether you prefer the hands-off convenience of full-service movers, the flexibility of container-based self-service moves, or tackling a DIY move for maximum savings (and bragging rights!), there’s an option out there that’ll meet your needs. By understanding how distance, timing, additional services, and your total move size can impact your costs, you’re well-equipped to make smart choices that keep expenses manageable.
At Bernard Movers, we’re committed to making your long-distance move not only affordable but also genuinely stress-free. That’s why we’re excited to offer a 20% additional discount on moves heading to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025—a deal so good, you might just start packing today.
With convenient locations throughout Illinois—including Chicago IL and Melrose Park IL—we handle moves of all sizes and distances, always prioritizing your belongings’ safe arrival. Our friendly and experienced team is here to help every step of the way, whether you’re heading across the state line or clear across the country.
Ready to turn your moving stress into moving success? For more information or to request your free, no-obligation quote, visit our Out of State Moving page. Or simply give us a call—our team can’t wait to help make your next trip a smooth and budget-friendly one!
