Original research
Long-Distance Moving Cost Benchmarks by Distance
These non-binding benchmarks show the estimated cost range for a typical 2-bedroom long-distance move at common distances, along with the approximate cost per mile. As distance grows, the per-mile figure falls — long-haul moves spread fixed costs (loading, valuation, minimums) over more miles. Figures come from the OLYRON cost model (moving-estimate-v2); your actual price depends on weight, access, dates, and services.
| Distance | Low | High | Midpoint | Approx. cost/mile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250 mi | $771 | $1,043 | $907 | $3.63/mi |
| 500 mi | $1,474 | $1,994 | $1,734 | $3.47/mi |
| 1,000 mi | $2,879 | $3,896 | $3,388 | $3.39/mi |
| 1,500 mi | $4,285 | $5,797 | $5,041 | $3.36/mi |
| 2,000 mi | $5,691 | $7,699 | $6,695 | $3.35/mi |
| 2,500 mi | $7,096 | $9,601 | $8,349 | $3.34/mi |
| 3,000 mi | $8,502 | $11,503 | $10,003 | $3.33/mi |
Methodology
The cost model estimates weight from home size (about 7 lbs per cubic foot for a 2-bedroom household), then applies a weight-and-distance rate typical of interstate van lines, plus released-value coverage and a per-shipment minimum. The range spans off-peak vs peak conditions; the midpoint is the single best point estimate. It is a planning figure, not a quote.
Why cost per mile drops with distance
Every move carries fixed costs — labor to load and unload, valuation coverage, and a minimum charge — that don’t scale with distance. Spread over 250 miles those fixed costs dominate the per-mile number; spread over 2,500 miles they’re a small share, so the per-mile cost is much lower even though the total is higher.
Frequently asked questions
- Is cost per mile a good way to price a move?
- Only as a rough benchmark. Long-distance moves are priced mainly on weight and distance together, not a flat per-mile rate, so use per-mile figures for comparison, not as a quote.
- Are these prices binding?
- This is a free, non-binding estimate range based on the details you provided — it is not a binding or "not-to-exceed" quote under FMCSA rules. Your final price is confirmed by a licensed moving consultant after a full inventory review.
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Sources
- OLYRON moving cost model (moving-estimate-v2) — non-binding estimate methodology
- FMCSA — Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move — retrieved 2026-07-30