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Thinking about moving? Guess what?
You're not alone.
Last year over 25 million Americans moved and the majority of them faced the same problem. Do I go with local movers or long-distance moving companies?
The Issue:
Most people don't know the difference between local and long-distance moving services. As a result, they overpay for services they don't need, end up with the wrong type of moving company, or worse… Damage their possessions because of selecting the wrong type of mover for their move.
What You're Going To Learn:
The Types of Moving Services
How Cost Differs
The Differences in Operations
Picking the Right Service for your Move
So What's The Difference?
Local and long-distance moving companies may look the same but are actually entirely different.
Local movers are just that, moving companies in your local area. The average local move covers less than 50-100 miles. These are the- moving companies near me - that you see when you look online for moving help to or from your current home. Local moving companies usually charge hourly and can complete your move in a single day.
Long-distance movers are for interstate moves. Long-distance moving companies have different licensing and use different pricing models. These companies have to be able to deal with all the logistical nightmares that come with long-distance moving.
Think About It:
Moving 20 miles from one side of your city to another is a lot easier than moving 2000 miles from one coast to another. There's a massive difference in the planning, equipment, and knowledge required for these two types of moves.
Breaking Down Moving Costs:
Wondering what factors actually affect the cost of your move?
According to recent data, the average local moving cost is $1,489, and long-distance moving averages $3,129. That's over 2X the cost.
The truth is most people don't realize this…
Local and long-distance moving companies have completely different cost breakdowns.
The Local Moving Cost
Local movers charge hourly. Simple math really, number of movers x hourly rate x total hours = your total cost. Hourly rates average $50 to $200 per hour and move times vary depending on the size of your home. Average local moves take 4-8 hours.
Total cost is based on how many boxes you have, floors you're moving between, stairs or elevators, time of year, and day of the week. Moves take longer and cost more in the summer and on the weekend.
One advantage of local moves is that you can control the costs by doing some work yourself. If you box up your own items, you will pay less. Pack and get rid of some unwanted items beforehand? You'll save even more.
The Long-Distance Moving Cost
Long-distance moving companies have an entirely different pricing method. They quote you based on the total weight of your household goods (usually $0.50-$0.80 per pound), distance to travel, and additional services such as packing or storage.
Here's an example…
Packing, transporting, and unpacking a 2-bedroom household from one coast to another? Expect to pay anywhere from $2,700 to $10,000 or more.
Unlike local moves, where you pay for the hours of time, long-distance movers give you a binding estimate upfront. Unless you add items or services, the price shouldn't change after the estimate is agreed upon.
How Do These Moving Services Actually Work?
The differences between local and long-distance moving companies also extend to how the companies actually operate.
Local Movers = Same-Day Service
Local moving companies are on a tight schedule. They arrive at your place with a truck, load up your goods, drive to your new place, and unload – all on the same day.
Simple right?
Local movers know their home turf. They know the fastest routes to avoid traffic, the more difficult buildings with loading docks, local parking and permits, and what seasonal factors to consider.
Local moving companies are usually small operations of 3-10 employees and a few trucks. Don't think this is a bad thing. It often results in more personalized service and better attention to your specific move needs.
Long-Distance Movers = Multi-Day Operations
Long-distance moving companies are a completely different animal.
They require federal licensing, interstate operating authority, big trucks and equipment, warehousing facilities, and experience with cross-country logistics. Your possessions could be in transit for several days, sometimes weeks.
The kicker here:
Long-distance moves require a lot more planning. You'll need to book several weeks in advance, be flexible with your delivery dates, understand weight limits and regulations, and even consider storage if there's a gap between your move-out and move-in dates.
So Which Service Do I Need?
This is where most people get tripped up.
It depends on more than just distance. Let me explain…
Use local movers for same city or metropolitan area moves. Even if it's 40-50 miles away, if it's the same region, local movers are your best bet. Your move is under 100 miles, can be completed in one day, you want to save money with hourly rates, or you need flexible scheduling.
Choose long-distance movers for moving across state lines or to a different region. Your move is over 100 miles, going to another state, requiring multiple days, you have a large household, or you want full-service packing and unpacking.
A quick tip:
Some moving companies offer both local and long-distance services. Hybrid movers can handle both local AND long-distance moves. This flexibility can work in your favour, especially if you're moving right at that 100-mile cutoff.
The Hidden Factors No One Talks About
It's not just distance and cost either. Other less obvious differences come into play too.
Long-distance movers are required to offer different levels of valuation coverage by federal law. Local movers typically provide basic coverage, but the specific regulations vary from state to state.
Local moves can often be scheduled just a few days before. Long-distance moves? Get at least 4-8 weeks notice, especially if it's the peak of moving season.
Local movers typically expect payment upon job completion. Long-distance movers? You'll have to pay a deposit upfront and then the balance due when your items are delivered.
Interstate moving companies must comply with strict federal regulations. Local moving companies are governed by state and local laws, which might not be as extensive or protective.
Making The Informed Decision
Here's the bottom line:
The difference between local and long-distance moving services isn't just about distance. It's about knowing which type of service fits your specific situation.
Take into account how far you're actually moving, your budget and timeline, size of household, whether you need additional services, and how flexible you are with scheduling.
Choosing the right moving company makes all the difference. Get at least 3-5 quotes from different companies, verify their licensing and insurance, read reviews from previous customers, ask about hidden fees, and be clear on exactly what's included in your estimate.
Wrapping Things Up
Local and long-distance moving companies are there to meet very different needs, have different pricing models, and require vastly different levels of planning and organization.
Local movers charge hourly and complete moves in a single day. They're great for moves under 100 miles, within the same region. Long-distance movers price by weight and distance, require advance booking, and handle all the complicated logistics of interstate moving.
The right choice isn't always clear cut. A 90 mile move might be doable with either service depending on circumstances. The key is understanding what each type of moving service offers and matching it to your specific moving requirements.
Don't rush this decision. The moving company you hire will be responsible for all you own during one of the most stressful times of your life. Research, compare quotes, and select the service that gives you the best value, reliability, and peace of mind.
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