Moving Beyond Borders: How Local Movers Can Handle Interstate Relocations
If you’re searching for local movers that move out of state, here’s what you need to know:
| What to Know About Local Movers for Interstate Moves | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $3,500 for a typical long-distance move (7,000 lbs over 1,000 miles) |
| Booking Timeline | Schedule 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak seasons |
| Key Benefits | Local expertise + long-distance capabilities, personalized service, often more affordable than national chains |
| Required Verification | Check for FMCSA registration, DOT number, and insurance coverage |
| Red Flags | Avoid companies requiring large deposits or giving estimates without in-home assessments |
Planning an out-of-state move can feel overwhelming. While many people assume they need a national moving company for interstate relocations, many local movers that move out of state offer the same services with added benefits of personalized attention and local knowledge.
Local moving companies that handle interstate moves combine the best of both worlds: the personalized service and accountability of a community-based business with the capabilities and expertise needed for long-distance relocations. These companies understand both your current location and have experience navigating interstate regulations, making them uniquely positioned to handle your move efficiently.
Unlike moving brokers who simply connect you with third-party services, reputable local movers directly manage your entire moving process from packing to delivery. This direct management means better communication, more reliable service, and clear accountability throughout your move.
As the owner and president of Bernard Movers, I’ve spent decades helping families and businesses relocate across state lines with our team of dedicated local movers that move out of state. Since 1972, our family-owned company has specialized in providing stress-free interstate moving experiences while maintaining the personalized service of a local business.
Simple guide to local movers that move out of state terms:
– Local Moving
– local moving packers
– local piano movers
Understanding Local vs. Long-Distance Movers
Moving homes is a bit like choosing between a neighborhood stroll and a cross-country road trip – both get you to a destination, but they require very different planning and resources. Let’s break down what makes local movers that move out of state different from purely local or national moving companies.
What Defines a Local Move?
Picture this: you’re moving from one Chicago neighborhood to another, or perhaps to a nearby suburb. That’s a local move – typically staying within a 50-100 mile radius of your starting point.
When you hire local movers, they usually charge by the hour based on how many strong backs and trucks your move requires. These hometown heroes know every shortcut, tricky intersection, and building regulation in their service area. They’re the experts who understand that getting a couch into a third-floor walkup in Lincoln Park requires different skills than moving into a suburban home in Naperville.
What Constitutes a Long-Distance Move?
Cross a state line, and suddenly your move plays by different rules. Even if you’re just hopping from Chicago to Milwaukee (less than 100 miles), you’ve entered long-distance territory.
One delighted customer who relocated from Grandville, MI to sunny Hernando, FL shared: “In all of my years of moving, this was by far the best experience – from scheduling to packing to loading, delivering and unloading.”
Long-distance moves fall under federal oversight through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and the pricing structure shifts dramatically. Instead of hourly rates, you’ll typically see costs based on:
- The weight of your household goods (that vintage record collection adds up!)
- The miles between your old and new homes
- Any extra services you need (packing, storage, etc.)
- The time of year (summer moves often cost more)
Industry data suggests an average interstate move runs about $3,500 for a typical household (around 7,000 pounds of belongings) traveling 1,000 miles. But like fingerprints, no two moves are identical, and your actual costs may vary.
Can Local Movers Handle Interstate Relocations?
Here’s where things get interesting – and where many people get confused. Yes, many local moving companies, including Bernard Movers, have expanded their horizons to offer comprehensive long-distance services. These local movers that move out of state give you the best of both worlds.
A customer who relocated from Cypress, TX to Gilbert, AZ perfectly captured this dual benefit: “Overall the experience was great. Frequent and detailed communication, the driver and moving crews handled everything as if it was their own property (extremely careful!).”
At Bernard Movers, we’ve spent decades perfecting this hybrid approach. We bring our Chicago-honed expertise to your packing and loading process, then leverage our interstate experience to ensure your grandmother’s china cabinet arrives safely in Atlanta, Nashville, or anywhere else your life journey takes you.
The beauty of choosing local movers that move out of state is the personal relationship we build with you. Unlike massive national chains where you might feel like just another booking number, we remember your name, understand your neighborhood, and carry that same care across state lines to your new home.
Why Choose Local Movers That Move Out of State
When planning your cross-country trip, your first instinct might be to call one of those big national moving chains with the flashy commercials. But here’s a little secret from the moving industry: local movers that move out of state often deliver a better experience at a better price. Let me tell you why choosing a local company with interstate capabilities might be the smartest move you make.
Benefits of Hiring Local Movers That Move Out of State
The beauty of working with a local mover for your interstate relocation lies in the perfect balance they offer. You get the personalized service of a neighborhood business combined with the capabilities needed for a long-distance journey.
When you call Bernard Movers, you’re not reaching a distant call center – you’re speaking with people who know Chicago’s streets, buildings, and neighborhoods intimately. As one of our customers recently shared: “All the staff were professional and friendly from answering the phone to the in-home estimate to the very caring men who packed and moved our items. A+++”
That personal touch extends to pricing, too. Without massive corporate overhead, local movers that move out of state can offer more cost-effective solutions. We regularly save our customers hundreds or even thousands compared to national chains. One family moving from Chicago to Tampa told us they saved nearly $2,300 by choosing us over a national competitor – while receiving far more attentive service.
The local expertise we bring is invaluable. We know which Chicago high-rises have service elevator restrictions, which neighborhoods have tricky parking situations, and how to steer the city efficiently. This local knowledge, combined with our interstate moving experience, creates a seamless transition to your new home state.
Perhaps most importantly, we offer truly flexible options. Need full-service packing for your kitchen but want to handle your clothes yourself? No problem. Want storage for a few weeks while your new home closes? We’ve got you covered. Local companies like ours can tailor our services to your specific needs rather than forcing you into pre-packaged options.
How Local Movers That Move Out of State Ensure a Smooth Move
Moving across state lines involves more regulations than a local move, and local movers that move out of state must maintain proper credentials. At Bernard Movers, we maintain complete regulations compliance with all federal requirements, including FMCSA licensing and a valid USDOT number. This ensures your move is handled legally and professionally from start to finish.
Our experienced staff includes specialists trained specifically in interstate relocations. They understand both the local challenges of navigating Chicago and the specific requirements for safely transporting your belongings hundreds or thousands of miles. From properly securing items for a long journey to understanding interstate moving regulations, our team has the expertise your move requires.
The logistics planning for an interstate move is significantly more complex than a local relocation. We create detailed moving plans that account for distance, potential weather challenges, and precise delivery timing. A customer who relocated from Chicago to Atlanta noted: “From start to finish the experience was great. Attention to detail, follow up and care of our household belongings was exceptional. Communication was excellent at every step.”
Perhaps most valuable during a stressful interstate move is our continuous customer support. Rather than dealing with an impersonal call center, you’ll have direct access to the team handling your move. Questions about your delivery timeline? Concerned about a valuable item? Want to add something to your shipment? One quick call connects you directly with someone who knows your move intimately.
When you choose local movers that move out of state like Bernard Movers, you’re getting the best of both worlds: the personal touch and accountability of a local business with the capabilities and expertise needed for a successful interstate relocation. It’s why so many families trust us with their most precious belongings for their cross-country moves.
Services Offered by Local Movers for Out-of-State Moves
When you’re planning that big move across state lines, knowing exactly what services are available can make all the difference. Local movers that move out of state like us at Bernard Movers don’t just load up a truck and drive away – we offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to make your interstate journey as smooth as possible.
Core Interstate Moving Services
Moving your entire life to another state involves much more than just transportation. Our core services start with professional packing and unpacking, where our experienced team carefully wraps and boxes everything from your grandmother’s china to your kids’ toy collection. We understand that some items hold special value, which is why we offer both full-home packing and selective packing for just your most precious possessions.
The heavy lifting comes next – literally! Our crews handle loading and unloading with the care and precision that comes from decades of experience. We treat your belongings as if they were our own, using proper techniques to prevent damage during the journey.
“The movers were incredibly respectful of our belongings,” shared one customer who relocated from Chicago to Tampa. “I watched them carefully wrap my antique dresser with more padding than I would have used myself!”
When it comes to larger furniture pieces, our furniture disassembly and reassembly service saves you both time and potential headaches. That complicated bed frame or massive entertainment center? We’ll take it apart at your current home and put it back together exactly where you want it in your new place.
Throughout the entire process, your belongings are protected with our basic valuation coverage, providing you peace of mind as your possessions travel across state lines.
Storage Solutions
Life doesn’t always align perfectly with moving dates. That’s why local movers that move out of state typically offer flexible storage options. Our storage solutions include:
When Melissa from Kingston, MA moved to Saint Johns, FL, she found herself in a common predicament: “We needed storage for almost three months between homes. Having everything handled by the same company made the process so much simpler than coordinating multiple services.”
Whether you need short-term storage while closing dates align or long-term storage while you’re figuring out exactly what fits in your new home, we’ve got you covered. Our climate-controlled facilities ensure that sensitive items like wooden furniture, electronics, and family heirlooms remain protected from temperature and humidity fluctuations that could cause damage.
Vehicle Transport
Moving across state lines often means figuring out how to get your vehicles to your new home. Many local movers that move out of state either provide vehicle transport directly or coordinate with trusted partners to ensure your cars arrive safely.
For standard vehicles, open transport offers a cost-effective solution, while those with luxury, classic, or particularly valuable cars might prefer the additional protection of enclosed transport. And with door-to-door service, your vehicle is picked up and delivered exactly where you specify – no need to arrange drop-offs at inconvenient terminals.
Special Item Handling
One major advantage of working with experienced local movers that move out of state is our ability to handle specialty items that require extra care.
James, who moved his family from Denver to Nashville, was particularly impressed with our piano moving service: “They even moved my baby grand piano without a scratch. The specialized equipment and expertise they brought for just that one item showed me they weren’t just general movers but true specialists.”
From piano moving that requires specialized equipment and techniques to antiques and fine art that might need custom crating, we understand that some possessions need extra attention. Your home theater setup with complex wiring? Our teams are experienced with electronics and appliances, ensuring proper disconnection, preparation, and reconnection. Even bulky exercise equipment like treadmills and weight machines can be disassembled, transported, and reassembled in your new home gym.
Additional Services to Improve Your Move
Beyond the essentials, we offer several services designed to make your interstate move even more convenient and stress-free.
After you’ve unpacked and settled in, you’ll likely find yourself surrounded by empty boxes and packing materials. Our debris removal service takes care of this final step, saving you trips to unfamiliar recycling centers in your new state.
For those seeking a truly hands-off experience, our full-service moving packages handle absolutely everything. From packing your first kitchen utensil to placing the last decorative pillow, we take care of it all. This comprehensive approach includes complete packing and unpacking, furniture arrangement according to your preferences, and even basic cleaning services.
We understand that every move is unique, which is why we offer customized packages custom to your specific needs. As Robert, who moved from Ocala, FL to Lexington, NC, shared: “Very efficient and comprehensive. Covered all phases and aspects of the move. Easy to contact and flexible in accommodating changes.”
Many local movers that move out of state now offer virtual surveys and digital tools to streamline the process. These technological advancements allow us to provide accurate estimates without in-person visits and give you the ability to track your shipment as it makes its way to your new home.
By combining local expertise with interstate capabilities, companies like Bernard Movers offer the best of both worlds – personalized service with the resources and knowledge needed to handle cross-country relocations. When you’re ready to make your move, knowing which services will make your life easier is the first step toward a successful transition to your new state.
Protecting Yourself from Moving Scams
Let’s face it – interstate moves can unfortunately attract some shady characters. The good news? With a little knowledge, you can easily spot the difference between legitimate local movers that move out of state and those looking to take advantage of you.
Tips for Identifying Reputable Local Movers
When I talk with clients about finding trustworthy movers, I always emphasize the importance of proper credentials. Legitimate local movers that move out of state must have a USDOT number issued by the Department of Transportation, an MC (Motor Carrier) number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and appropriate state licensing. You can easily verify these on the FMCSA website – it takes just a few minutes but can save you endless headaches.
One industry expert I respect always says: “Get 2-3 IN-HOME estimates from real moving companies with representation in your area.” This advice is golden! When a mover wants to see your belongings in person before quoting, that’s a good sign. They’re being thorough and professional, not just throwing out numbers to win your business.
Be very cautious of any company willing to give you a firm quote without seeing what you’re moving. I’ve heard too many stories of customers being quoted one price over the phone, only to face a much higher bill on moving day when the “estimator” claims there’s more stuff than expected.
Check credentials by verifying the company’s physical presence too. A legitimate business should have a real office you can visit, local phone numbers (not just toll-free lines), company-owned trucks with proper markings, and uniformed staff. When I started Bernard Movers, establishing a visible, professional presence was one of my first priorities – it builds trust.
Before signing anything, review contracts carefully. The agreement should clearly spell out pricing, delivery timeframes, valuation coverage, potential additional fees, and cancellation policies. One of our customers nearly hired another company before noticing hidden fees buried in the fine print that would have added thousands to their move!
Request in-home estimates whenever possible. This approach typically results in more accurate quotes and gives you a chance to meet representatives face-to-face – a great way to gauge their professionalism and attention to detail.
Questions to Ask Local Movers That Move Out of State
When interviewing potential moving companies, asking the right questions can reveal a lot about their reliability. I always encourage customers to dig into these key areas:
For cost breakdown, ask whether they can provide a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate, what additional charges might appear beyond the quote, and if there are fees for stairs, long carries, or weekend service. Understanding how the final cost is calculated – by weight, volume, or a combination – can prevent unpleasant surprises.
Regarding insurance coverage, find out what valuation protection is included in the basic price and what additional options they offer. Ask how claims are filed if something is damaged during the move, and request proof of cargo insurance and general liability coverage. At Bernard Movers, we’re always happy to share our insurance documentation – it’s part of being transparent.
The delivery timeframe matters tremendously in interstate moves. Ask if they can guarantee a specific delivery date or window, what happens if items arrive later than promised, and how they’ll communicate with you during transit. Some companies offer guarantees regarding on-time delivery – knowing their policies can give you peace of mind.
Investigating the company’s background is crucial too. How long have they been handling interstate moves? Are their movers employees or temporary workers? Will your items be transferred between trucks or handled by different crews? Requesting references from recent interstate moving customers can provide valuable insights.
Here’s perhaps the most important tip I can share: “Never, NEVER give a mover a deposit. Payment should be a cashier’s check paid at time of delivery.” This simple rule protects you from one of the most common moving scams – companies that take deposits and then disappear or hold your belongings hostage for additional payments.
At Bernard Movers, we welcome all these questions. We believe informed customers make for smoother moves, and we’re always ready to provide clear, honest answers to your concerns. After all, your peace of mind is just as important to us as safely transporting your belongings to your new home.
Preparing for Your Out-of-State Move
Let’s face it – moving across state lines can feel like organizing a small military operation. But with the right preparation and a reliable team of local movers that move out of state, your interstate relocation can be surprisingly manageable. Here’s how to make your move as smooth as possible:
Timeline Planning
Think of your move as a countdown mission, with each stage requiring specific actions. About 2-3 months before your big day, start researching and selecting your moving company. This is also the perfect time to begin the sometimes emotional process of deciding what stays and what goes.
As you move into the 1-2 month window, confirm your moving date and start packing those items you won’t need until after the move – seasonal decorations, extra linens, and those books you’ve been meaning to read but haven’t touched in years.
One of our Chicago customers who relocated to Tampa shared: “Creating a week-by-week checklist kept me sane during what could have been an overwhelming process. By the time moving day arrived, I felt completely prepared.”
When you’re about 2-4 weeks out, the packing should intensify. This is when detailed labeling becomes your best friend – future you will be incredibly grateful to know exactly what’s in each box and which room it belongs in.
The final week before moving day should focus on essentials – packing what you’ll need immediately upon arrival in a clearly marked box or suitcase. This might include medications, important documents, a few changes of clothes, basic toiletries, and perhaps your coffee maker (because some things are non-negotiable, even during a move).
Inventory Management
Creating a detailed inventory isn’t just about staying organized – it’s about protection. When your belongings are traveling across state lines, having documentation of what you own and its condition can be invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim.
Take clear photos of valuable items before they’re packed, and note any existing damage on furniture. Keep digital copies of these records along with your moving contract and estimate. This simple step has saved many of our customers significant headaches down the road.
A Bernard Movers customer who relocated from Fairport, NY to Cincinnati, OH advised: “I have now used Mayflower 2 times for out of state moves… I highly recommend for timeliness, efficiency, quality of total services.”
Downsizing Strategies
There’s wisdom in the saying that the cheapest items to move are the ones you don’t take with you. Since interstate moves are typically charged by weight, this is the perfect opportunity to lighten your load.
Instead of tackling your entire home at once, focus on one category at a time – clothes, books, kitchen items. The one-year rule can be helpful: if you haven’t used something in the past year, it might be time to let it go.
Before committing to moving large furniture pieces, measure your new spaces. That sectional sofa might have been perfect in your current living room, but will it fit through the doorway of your new home? Sometimes, the cost of replacing an item is less than moving it across state lines.
Best Practices with Local Movers That Move Out of State
Early Booking
The best local movers that move out of state often fill their schedules months in advance, especially during the busy summer season. Booking early not only secures your preferred date but often gives you access to better rates. Aim to schedule your move at least 2 months ahead, or even earlier if you’re moving during peak season (May through September).
Clear Communication
The foundation of any successful move is clear, consistent communication with your moving company. Make sure your movers have multiple ways to contact you, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if anything seems unclear. At Bernard Movers, we believe that no question is too small when it comes to ensuring your peace of mind.
After any phone conversation with your movers, follow up with an email summarizing what was discussed. This creates a paper trail that can be invaluable if questions arise later. And if any aspects of your move change – from the moving date to adding items – let your movers know immediately.
Flexible Scheduling
Interstate moves require a degree of flexibility that local moves don’t. While we work hard to provide accurate delivery estimates for our out of state moving services, factors like weather, road conditions, and unforeseen circumstances can affect timing.
Build buffer days into your schedule when possible, and consider having a contingency plan for temporary accommodations if needed. Many of our customers find that arranging to arrive at their new home a day before their belongings helps reduce stress and allows them to prepare the space.
Handling Special Items During the Move
Vehicles
When it comes to getting your vehicles to your new state, you have options. You can drive yourself (the most straightforward but potentially time-consuming choice), use auto transport services (which many local movers that move out of state offer), or tow behind a rental truck if you have the right equipment and experience.
If you choose auto transport, remember to remove personal items (which aren’t covered by insurance), document any existing damage with photos, maintain only a quarter tank of gas, and disable alarm systems. These simple steps help ensure a smooth transport process.
Pianos and Specialty Items
That baby grand piano or vintage pool table isn’t just another piece of furniture – it requires specialized handling. Make sure your movers have specific experience with these items and ask about custom crating options for valuable instruments.
One Bernard Movers customer shared: “The care they took with my antique grand piano was impressive—they used specialized equipment and techniques I hadn’t seen before.”
For musical instruments, consider professional tuning or servicing after the move is complete, as the change in climate and the moving process itself can affect their performance. The American Moving and Storage Association offers helpful guidelines for moving specialty items that are worth reviewing before your move.
Antiques and Valuables
When it comes to irreplaceable heirlooms and valuable collectibles, extra protection is worth the investment. Custom crating provides maximum protection during transit, and for extremely valuable items, you might consider transporting them personally if possible.
Be sure to discuss insurance coverage for these items with your movers, and provide detailed handling instructions. Taking close-up photos of these items before the move provides documentation of their condition that can be invaluable if issues arise.
Electronics and Smart Home Equipment
Our increasingly connected homes mean more sensitive electronics to move. Before disconnecting computers, back up all data. Take photos of wiring setups before unplugging anything – future you will thank you when it’s time to reconnect everything.
When possible, keep original boxes for electronics as they’re designed specifically to protect those items. For smaller electronics of high value, consider transporting them in your personal vehicle rather than on the moving truck.
By following these preparation strategies and working closely with experienced local movers that move out of state, you can transform what might seem like an overwhelming project into a manageable transition to your new home. At Bernard Movers, we’ve helped countless families make this journey since 1972, and we’re ready to help make your next move your best one yet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Local Movers That Move Out of State
How Much Does It Cost to Move Out of State with Local Movers?
Moving across state lines is a significant investment, and understanding the costs involved helps you budget appropriately. When working with local movers that move out of state, several factors influence your final price tag.
The distance between your current home and new destination plays a major role in determining costs. Naturally, a move from Chicago to Miami will cost more than relocating to a neighboring state. The weight or volume of your belongings also significantly impacts pricing—the more stuff you have, the more you’ll pay to transport it.
The level of service you choose makes a big difference too. Basic transportation services cost less than comprehensive packing and unpacking assistance. Many of our customers find that a middle ground—perhaps having professionals handle just the fragile items—offers the best value.
Timing matters as well. Summer moves (May through September) typically command premium prices since that’s when most families prefer to relocate. If you have flexibility, scheduling your move during the off-season could save you considerably.
Based on our experience and industry data, here are some real-world examples of what you might expect:
A one-bedroom apartment (around 3,500 pounds of belongings) moving 1,000 miles typically costs between $2,400 and $3,800. For a three-bedroom house (approximately 10,000 pounds), that same distance usually runs between $5,000 and $8,000.
Some specific moves from our recent customers include Chicago to Denver (about 1,000 miles) for $4,281.30, Chicago to Atlanta (roughly 700 miles) for $3,365.97, and Chicago to Phoenix (approximately 1,800 miles) for $4,173.43.
At Bernard Movers, we believe in transparent pricing. We provide detailed, binding estimates after conducting an in-home assessment, so you won’t face surprise charges on moving day. We’re also excited to offer a special 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025.
How Do I Find Trusted Local Movers for an Out-of-State Move?
Finding reputable local movers that move out of state requires some detective work, but the peace of mind is worth the effort.
Start by asking people you trust. Friends, family members, and real estate professionals who have recently moved can provide invaluable first-hand recommendations. Their experiences—both positive and negative—offer insights you won’t find in marketing materials.
Once you have some companies in mind, verify their credentials carefully. Legitimate interstate movers must have a valid USDOT number, an MC (Motor Carrier) number, and proper insurance coverage. You can verify these credentials through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website.
Don’t stop at official credentials—check what real customers are saying. Review multiple sources including the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, Yelp, and moving-specific review sites. Look for patterns in the feedback rather than focusing on isolated complaints.
Always get multiple in-home estimates. Reputable local movers that move out of state will want to see your belongings before providing a quote. Be wary of companies willing to give firm prices over the phone or online without seeing your items.
During these estimate appointments, ask detailed questions about their experience with interstate moves, their claims process, and how they handle delays or issues. Their answers will reveal much about their expertise and transparency.
If possible, visit their local office. A legitimate moving company should have a physical presence with branded trucks and professional staff. This visit can tell you volumes about how they operate.
Finally, trust your instincts. As one moving expert aptly puts it: “The cheapest quote is rarely the best choice. Look for value, reliability, and transparency rather than just the lowest price.”
What Services Do Local Movers Offer for Interstate Moves?
Local movers that move out of state typically provide a spectrum of services to meet varying needs and budgets. Understanding these options helps you choose the right level of assistance for your situation.
The basic interstate moving package generally includes loading your pre-packed boxes and furniture onto the truck, transportation to your new home, unloading everything, and basic reassembly of furniture that was disassembled for the move. This package also includes standard valuation coverage to protect your belongings during transit.
For a more comprehensive experience, most companies offer full-service options. These typically include professional packing of all your belongings with quality materials, custom crating for valuable or fragile items, transportation, unpacking, and debris removal. Many of our customers find this option particularly valuable when moving long distances, as it eliminates much of the stress associated with relocation.
If you have specialty items like pianos, artwork, or antiques, look for movers with specific experience handling these treasures. At Bernard Movers, we have dedicated teams trained in moving these delicate items safely across state lines.
Many local movers that move out of state also offer vehicle shipping services, which can be particularly convenient if you’re relocating to a distant state and don’t want to drive multiple vehicles yourself.
Storage solutions are another common offering. Whether you need short-term storage while closing on your new home or long-term solutions for items that won’t fit in your new space, reputable movers can accommodate these needs.
At Bernard Movers, we pride ourselves on creating customizable service packages custom to each client’s specific requirements. Our Chicago long distance movers team works closely with you to determine exactly what services will make your move as smooth as possible.
How Far in Advance Should I Book Local Movers for an Out-of-State Move?
Timing is everything when planning an interstate move. Booking your local movers that move out of state well in advance ensures you get your preferred dates and the best possible service.
During peak moving season (May through September), when roughly 70% of all moves occur, you should book your movers 2-3 months ahead. This timeframe is particularly important if you’re moving at the end or beginning of a month, which are traditionally the busiest times.
For moves during the off-peak season (October through April), you might have a bit more flexibility, but we still recommend booking at least 4-6 weeks in advance. This gives your moving company adequate time to plan logistics for your interstate relocation.
If your move involves special circumstances—such as piano transportation, valuable art collections, or other items requiring specialized handling—add an extra week or two to these timeframes. These services often require specific equipment and specially trained staff that need to be scheduled well in advance.
As one of our moving coordinators often tells clients: “The best moving companies book up quickly, especially for long-distance moves. The earlier you can secure your date, the more options you’ll have.” This is particularly true for highly rated companies with strong reputations for interstate relocations.
What Items Cannot Be Transported by Interstate Movers?
Safety regulations and practical considerations mean that some items simply cannot be included in your interstate move. Understanding these restrictions helps avoid complications on moving day.
Hazardous materials top the list of prohibited items. This category includes everyday products you might not immediately recognize as dangerous: aerosol cans, ammunition, car batteries, cleaning supplies containing bleach or ammonia, fertilizers, fireworks, gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid, matches, nail polish and remover, paints, pesticides, and propane tanks. These items pose safety risks during transportation and are prohibited by federal regulations.
Perishable items are generally not accepted either. Food items, especially those requiring refrigeration, can spoil during transit and potentially damage your other belongings. Many states also have restrictions on transporting plants to prevent the spread of invasive species or agricultural pests.
While not technically prohibited, high-value items should typically be transported personally rather than included in your moving shipment. These include cash, important documents, jewelry, medications, and irreplaceable items of sentimental value. Most local movers that move out of state have limited liability for these valuables, making personal transport the safer option.
At Bernard Movers, we provide all clients with a detailed list of non-allowable items during our initial consultation. This helps ensure compliance with regulations and prevents last-minute surprises on moving day. If you’re unsure about specific items, just ask—we’re happy to provide guidance based on current regulations and best practices.
Planning ahead for these restrictions will make your interstate move much smoother. Items that can’t be transported by movers should either be used up before your move, given away, properly disposed of, or transported separately in your personal vehicle if appropriate.
Conclusion
Moving across state lines marks one of life’s big transitions. The boxes, the planning, the anticipation of a new beginning – it’s exciting and nerve-wracking all at once. But here’s the good news: with the right moving partner, your interstate relocation can be an trip rather than an ordeal.
Throughout this guide, we’ve seen how local movers that move out of state offer something truly special – that perfect balance between hometown service and long-distance expertise. Think of it as having a knowledgeable friend who knows both where you’re coming from and where you’re headed.
When you choose a local moving company like Bernard Movers for your interstate journey, you’re not just hiring a service – you’re partnering with people who understand your community and care about your transition. As one of our customers recently shared after their Chicago to Nashville move: “It felt like friends were helping us move, not a faceless corporation.”
The benefits we’ve explored are substantial. You get the warm, personalized service of a neighborhood business combined with sophisticated interstate capabilities. You’ll often find more competitive pricing than national chains offer, without sacrificing quality or reliability. The local expertise means your current home is handled with insider knowledge, while their interstate experience ensures your belongings make the journey safely.
From basic transportation to comprehensive services including packing, storage solutions, and specialty item handling – local movers that move out of state can tailor their offerings to your specific needs and budget. This flexibility is something our customers consistently mention in their feedback.
Remember the guidance we’ve shared about protecting yourself from moving scams. Take time to verify credentials, get multiple in-home estimates, and trust your instincts. A reputable local mover will welcome your questions and provide transparent answers.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve been helping families and businesses relocate across state lines since 1972. Our approach is simple: treat every customer like a neighbor, handle their belongings with care, and make their transition as smooth as possible.
We’re particularly excited to offer a special 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. Whether you’re headed to Atlanta’s vibrant neighborhoods or Florida’s sunny shores, our team is ready to help make your move a positive experience.
Ready to take the next step? We’d love to provide a free, no-obligation estimate custom to your specific needs. Our team will sit down with you, understand your timeline and requirements, and create a moving plan that fits your life – not the other way around.
After all, as we like to tell our customers: “Make Your Next Move Your Best Move.” With the right local movers that move out of state, you can focus less on logistics and more on the exciting new chapter ahead.
For more information about long-distance moving services, check out our detailed guide to Chicago Long Distance Movers or learn about our Out of State Moving services.