It’s time to give up your current zip code and start fresh in a new one. It could be a new job opportunity, a change in scenery, or you’re ready for a new adventure. Whatever the reason, moving across the country is a big decision that comes with even bigger expenses. One of your biggest questions is, “How much money do you need to move across the country with your car?”
The answer is complex, as many factors influence the cost of moving across the country with your vehicle. Some of these factors include the distance of your move, the size of your vehicle, the time of year, and the type of transportation you choose. By exploring these factors and careful planning, you can minimize your expenses and make your cross-country move a reality.
Understanding the Average Cost of Moving Across Country & Factors of Influence
So, you’ve decided to move your car across the country. Congrats! But, before you hit the road or book that auto transporter, you must know the costs involved. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.
On average, the cost of moving across the country is around $2,500 to $5,000 without moving the vehicle. If you add your vehicle to this equation, be prepared to spend $600 to $800 for every 1,000 miles. However, as with moving expenses, it can vary greatly depending on several factors.
| Factors That Influence the Cost to Hire Movers Out of State |
|---|
| The Distance: The farther you’re going, the more expensive it can be. That makes sense, right? |
| The Specificrelocator: Different moving companies have different rates and offers, so it’s essential to research and find the right one for you. Look for movers with experience, good reviews, and competitive rates. |
| The Time of Year: If you’re moving during peak season (summer), prices will likely be higher. If flexible, consider moving during off-peak months to save some cash. |
Another important thing to consider is whether you’ll use a professional mover or drive to the location yourself. In most cases, using a professional mover may cost more upfront but may save you money in the long run due to reduced wear and tear on your vehicle and potential fuel savings.
If you hire a professional mover, get at least three quotes from different movers to compare rates and services. And remember to read reviews and check the company’s reputation before signing on the dotted line.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Moving Your Car
So, you’re moving across the country with your car, huh? Well, buckle up because several factors can influence how much cost to move across country.
Location and Cost of Moving Your Vehicle
The geographical location of your origin and destination plays a substantial role in the cost of moving your car.
For instance, if you’re relocating from New York on the East Coast to California on the West Coast, it will naturally be expensive than, say, moving from Kansas to Colorado.
The reason is simple: the more miles you cover, the higher your expenditure. On average, you’d pay anywhere from $700 to $1200 for a coast-to-coast move.
Choosing the Right Auto Transporter
The company you entrust your vehicle to can also significantly impact the price. A dependable company like Easy Auto Ship, renowned for its stellar service and fair pricing, can help keep your expenses in check.
While some companies may lure you in with seemingly low initial quotes, they often slap on additional charges later. Therefore, it’s crucial to review the terms carefully and opt for a reputable company, such as Easy Auto Ship, to steer clear of unexpected costs.
This is also true when finding a relocator because, in 2018 alone, consumers filed a whopping 5,900 moving fraud complaints with the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Association.
- 57% out of these complaints (3,360 complaints) reported overcharging
- 39% (2,300 complaints) reported property loss or damage
- 7% (410 complaints) reported hostile situations while loading/unloading
Impact of Distance on the Price
The longer the distance of your move, the higher the price. It’s as straightforward as that. The number of miles covered directly influences the price as it affects fuel consumption, labor hours, and other related expenses.
For instance, moving a car 500 miles may cost around $350, while a 1000-mile move could cost you approximately $700. It’s also important to note that these are average costs, and actual prices can vary based on other factors.
Additional Expenses That May Sneak Up
Unforeseen expenses can crop up when you least expect them. For instance, if your vehicle requires storage before or after the move, this can quickly escalate the overall cost. Storage rates can range anywhere from $26 to $648 per month , depending on the storage size of your location, depending on location and the level of security provided.
If you need short-term storage, you may use a vehicle repair shop; they typically charge from $25 per day for outside storage to $50 per day for secure inside storage.
Additionally, updating your vehicle registration in a new state may incur an unexpected expense, usually around $100, depending on state regulations. Hence, it’s wise to factor in these potential additional costs when planning your move.
Comparing Auto transporters for Your Cross-Country Move
So, you’ve decided to go with an auto transporter to move your car across the country. Smart move (pun intended). But now, how do you choose which company to go with? Don’t worry; we have some tips to help you compare different auto transporters and find the right fit for your needs and budget.
Shop Around - A Key Aspect in Decision-Making
When planning a significant cross-country move, the first step is always to shop around. Contacting at least three auto transporters to get a comprehensive idea about the price range and services provided is essential.
For example, the cost to transport a car 1,000 miles can range from $500 to $1,200 depending on the company and the time of year. This variety of quotes will give you a clearer picture of the average market rate.
However, remember to stay cautious of companies that quote meager prices as they might not be genuine or may impose hidden fees at a later stage.
Reviews and Reputation - The Trust Factor
After shortlisting a few potential auto transporters, the next step is to delve into their reputation. Online review platforms like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau provide valuable insights into customer experiences and company credibility.
It’s vital to ensure that the professional you choose is licensed, insured, and maintains a stellar reputation. For instance, if a service provider has a 4.5-star rating with over 1,000 reviews, it suggests high customer satisfaction and reliability.
Specific Services Offered - Tailored to Your Needs
Every auto transporter provides a unique set of services. Some may offer open transport, while others might specialize in enclosed transport.
Some companies might provide door-to-door shipping, while others offer terminal-to-terminal shipping options.
Some offer expedited delivery at a premium price. Therefore, it’s critical to check whether the company you’re considering provides the exact services you need at a price that fits your budget.
Additional Costs - The Hidden Devil
When you get a quotation from an auto transporter, inquire about any potential additional expenses. These include fees for oversized vehicles, fuel surcharges, or insurance coverage.
For example, you might be charged an extra $100-$200 if you have a larger SUV. Being aware of these potential additional expenses can prevent unpleasant surprises later on.
Negotiation - The Art of Bargaining
Once you’ve gathered multiple quotes, don’t hesitate to negotiate with the auto transporters.
If one serviceprovider costs slightly more but has better reviews or comprehensive services, try negotiating a price match with the cheaper quote. Companies are often willing to accommodate reasonable requests to secure your business.
Equipment and Insurance - Safety First
Before finalizing your decision, ensure the auto transporter has the equipment to transport your vehicle safely. Additionally, they should have enough insurance coverage to protect against damage or accidents during the move.
For example, most reputable companies carry a $50,000-$100,000 insurance policy. Always ask for proof to ensure your car will be covered for its total value in case of mishaps.
| Considerations when choosing a relocator: | Questions to ask when vetting moving companies: |
|---|---|
| Experience: Look for an excellent online reputation and a proven track record of long-distance moves. | “Can you provide references from past customers?” |
| Reliability: Choose a company that has a good reputation for punctuality and dependability. | “How do you ensure timely delivery of my belongings?” |
| Cost: Make sure the relocator offers a reasonable rate for their services. | “What is the estimated cost of my move?” |
| Licensing: Ensure the’re appropriately licensed with authorities and adequately insured to protect your belongings in case of damage or loss. | “Are you licensed and insured? What’s your MC number? Any proof of insurance” |
Budgeting for Total Cost For Your Cross-Country Move
Moving across the country with your vehicle can add up quickly, and it’s essential to budget for additional expenses beyond just shipping your vehicle. Here are some expenses to keep in mind for a 2,500-mile move:
| Expenses | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Packing Supplies | $250-$500 |
| Shipping Your Vehicle | $1,250-1,500 |
| Hiring a relocator for Other Belongings Besides Your Car | $2,500-$5,000 |
| Total Cross-Country Moving Cost for 2,500 miles | $4,000-$7,000 |
Remember that these moving prices can vary based on your circumstances and location. For example, if you’re only moving a few items, renting a smaller truck may be more cost-effective than a larger one. Some moving companies may also offer package deals that include car shipping and moving services for your belongings.
To save money , consider packing efficiently and minimizing the belongings you need to move. Consider comparing the cost of moving truck across country if you rnet it out and hiring a relocator, depending on your specific needs and timeline.
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Distance | The farther you’re moving, the higher the price |
| Size and Weight of Household Goods | The more you’re moving, the more it will cost |
| Type of Car | More significantly, heavier vehicles may require more expensive shipping options. |
| Auto transporter | Higher quality and more reputable companies may be slightly more expensive |
Careful planning, budgeting, and execution can help you avoid unexpected expenses and ensure a smoother cross-country move.
Transportation Options for Your Belongings
So, you’re packing up the car and hitting the road for your cross-country move. But what about all your other stuff? You might wonder if you should rent a moving truck, hire an auto transport service, or go with a full-service relocator. Let’s take a look at your options:
Moving Truck
If you plan on driving your vehicle, you might want to rent a moving truck across country to transport your belongings. This can be an affordable option, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Just be prepared for the long hours behind the wheel and the added responsibility of driving a large vehicle.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You’re in control of your belongings and the timeline | Driving a large truck can be stressful and tiring |
| Generally, the most affordable option | You’ll need to load and unload the truck yourself |
| You can take the scenic route and see more of the country | You’ll need to purchase or rent packing supplies |
Auto Transport
If you don’t want to drive a moving truck, hiring an auto transport service might be your best bet. These companies specialize in transporting vehicles and can often transport your belongings along with your car.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Your car and belongings are transported together | It can be more expensive than renting a moving truck |
| You don’t have to worry about driving a large vehicle | You may need to wait longer for your belongings to arrive |
| Less stressful than driving a moving truck yourself | You’ll still need to pack your belongings yourself |
Full-Service relocator
If you have the budget, hiring a full-service relocator can be convenient and stress-free. These companies will handle everything from packing your belongings to unloading them at your new home.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The least amount of work and stress for you | Moving company cross country cost can be high |
| Professional movers will carefully handle your belongings | You’ll have less control over the timeline |
| You can focus on different aspects of your move | You’ll still need to be present to oversee the move |
Your transportation options will ultimately depend on your budget, timeline, and personal preferences. Do your research and compare your options, and different cost to hire movers out of state to determine the best fit for you and your cross-country move.
Considerations for Moving Your Car and Household Goods Together
So, you’re moving across the country and want to take your vehicle and household goods with you? It’s a big task, but you can make it work with some planning and strategizing. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Distance | The farther you’re moving, the higher the price |
| Size and Weight of Household Goods | The more you’re moving, the more it will cost |
| Type of Car | Larger, heavier cars may require more expensive shipping options |
| Auto transporter | Higher quality and more reputable companies may be more expensive |
Hidden Costs to Watch Out for When Moving Your Car Across Country
Moving your vehicle across the country can be a real pain in the bumper. Not only do you have to worry about the usual costs of moving, but some sneaky hidden expenses can catch you off guard and make your wallet cry. Here are some of the ones you should watch out for:
| Hidden Cost | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Fees | If your car arrives at your destination before you do, you may need to pay storage fees to keep it safe until you can pick it up. |
| Vehicle Registration in a New State | Once you move to a new state, you’ll need to register your car there, which can come with fees and expenses. |
| Unexpected Vehicle Maintenance | Long-distance moves can be challenging on your car, and you want to avoid getting stranded on the roadside with a massive repair bill. |
Don’t let these sneaky costs get the best of you. Make sure you budget for them ahead of time to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Trust us, your wallet will thank you.
11 Cost-Saving Strategies for Long-Distance Car Shipping
So, you have a shipment that needs to go from one coast to another coast, but you don’t want to break the bank? Fear not, dear reader! We’ve compiled a list of cost-saving tips to make your shipping experience much more affordable.
- Use Flat Rate Shipping: Flat rate shipping options can be a great way to save money if you have a few items to ship, as they offer a fixed price regardless of weight or size.
- Shop around for the best deals: Don’t settle for the first shipping company you come across. Take some time to research and compare prices from different carriers to find the most efficient way to move across country.
- Pack Light: The weight and size of your shipment can significantly impact the price. So, pack light and use smaller boxes to keep the quote down.
- Use space efficiently when packing. Make sure to fill boxes completely and eliminate empty space. This will allow you to ship fewer boxes.
- Consider shipping by sea rather than air. Sea shipping takes longer but costs significantly less.
- Buy used boxes or reuse old boxes you have instead of purchasing new ones.
- Weigh your boxes and calculate different shipping options. Sometimes, splitting items into smaller boxes can reduce expenses.
- Time your shipment to avoid peak season rates. It’s cheaper to ship between September and December.
- Consolidate multiple shipments into one larger shipment if possible. You only pay one base fee this way.
- Remove excess packaging from items before packing. Less material means lower weight and price.
- Consider selling larger items and buying new ones when you arrive. Shipping furniture and vehicles can be very expensive.
With these cost-saving tips in mind, you’ll be able to ship your items long distances without having to sacrifice your savings account. Happy shipping, savvy shipper!
Parting Words:
Well done, you’ve made it to the end of our guide on moving your car across the country! We hope you’re feeling confident and empowered to tackle this exciting (yet daunting) task.
Remember, careful planning and budgeting are key to a successful cross-country car move. Understanding the expenses involved, comparing auto transporters, and implementing cost-saving strategies can make your move less stressful and more affordable.
So, roll up your sleeves, put your creative thinking hat on, and work on maximizing your budget for a successful cross-country vehicle move. And if all else fails, just remember: there’s always the option to sell your car and buy a new one on the other side!