Cost to Move Out of State: A Simple Budget

Byhasunny

Your moving bill is only one part of the cost. You also need money for travel and getting into your new home. Use these four steps to make a clear budget.

Start here: Get a written price for your move. There is no one price that fits every household.

1. Add costs · 2. Check prices · 3. Try an example · 4. Check your cash

1. Add all your moving costs

  • Moving service: a mover, truck or container.
  • Packing: boxes, supplies and any paid help.
  • Travel: gas or charging, meals and hotels.
  • Storage: space for belongings that cannot go straight to your home.
  • Extra home costs: overlapping rent, setup fees and other costs caused by the move.

Write “unknown” beside any cost you still need to check. Do not treat a missing price as zero.

2. Check what each price includes

Give each mover the same list of items and the same addresses. Ask these questions:

  • Is packing or loading included?
  • Are there extra fees for stairs, storage or a long walk to the truck?
  • When can you expect pickup and delivery?
  • What could change the price?
  • When do you pay, and what happens if you cancel?

Use our mover hiring guide to check the company before booking.

3. Try this simple example

Made-up example—not a price quote:

  • Move your belongings: $3,000.
  • Packing and extra help: $300.
  • Travel: $450.
  • Storage: $200.
  • Extra housing: $800.
  • Setup and other costs: $450.
  • Total expenses: $5,200.

If you choose to set aside 10% extra, add $520. That gives you $5,720. The 10% is just an example; choose an amount that fits your plan.

Now add $1,500 for deposits you may get back later. You need $7,220 in cash. If you have $5,000 ready, you still need $2,220.

4. Check how much cash you need

A refundable deposit is money you may get back. You still need it on the day you pay. List it separately from costs you will not get back.

  • Write the due date beside each payment.
  • Count only money you can use now. Keep future refunds separate.
  • Do not count a mover’s booking deposit twice if it is already part of the total price.
  • Keep a separate budget for normal rent, food and monthly bills after the move.

Your next step

Calculate your moving budget to add expenses, deposits and the cash you still need. Compare your moving options, then follow the moving checklist.

Official sources

FMCSA: your moving rights

Sources checked September 18, 2026. Check the official pages again before your move.