Animated image of a moving truck on top of a map

Do you have a move coming up? If so, you will need to understand the differences between local and long-distance moves. From costs and planning to logistics, there are many key ways that local moves differ from long-distance ones, and having a thorough understanding of these differences will help ensure that your relocation is successful.

Distance Differences Between Local and Long-Distance Moves

Wondering what distance is considered a local move? The mileage involved in a relocation is one of the most important differences when it comes to local versus long-distance relocations. If you are moving within 50-100 miles, your relocation will probably fall into the local moving category. Anything above 100 miles, on the other hand, will probably be considered a long-distance relocation. Interstate moves (moving from one state to another) are also usually considered long-distance relocations, regardless of mileage.

Cost Differences Between Local and Long-Distance Moves

Now that you understand what mileage is considered a local move versus a long-distance one, we can move onto budgeting for your relocation. The way that the price of local moves and long-distance moves are calculated differs. With the additional resources required, long-distance moves end up being more costly than local ones. Here are some key differences to understand about cost differences between local and long-distance relocations:

  • Local Moves: Local relocations cost less because they utilize fewer resources and less labor. You will probably be charged by the hour for your local move, and you can expect the entire process to take about 3-5 hours. Your final cost will be calculated based on the time the movers spent packing, hauling, loading, and transporting your items. You may also be charged travel fees for vehicles and trucks involved in transporting your things. The average cost of a local move is about $1,400.
  • Long-Distance Moves: With the additional distance, resources, vehicles, and movers involved in a long-distance move, it is probably not surprising that moving further away will cost more. Generally, long-distance relocations are priced by the distance traveled and the weight of items being transported. A long-distance relocation costs, on average, $3,500.

Planning and Packing for Local Moves v. Long-Distance Moves

The planning stage of moving is sure to keep you busy, regardless of whether you are moving locally or long-distance. However, local moves tend to be more flexible and require less in general from both you and your moving company. Long-distance moves, on the other hand require more advance notice. You should aim to firm up a moving date with your professional movers at least 6-12 weeks prior to your long-distance relocation to avoid issues like scheduling conflicts. This will give them plenty of time to line up vehicles and coordinate moving crews. For a long-distance move, we also recommend that you begin packing and coordinating travel arrangements earlier than you might for a local move.

Let Us Help with Your Local or Long-Distance Relocation

Once you understand the differences between local and long-distance moves, planning your relocation will be much easier. As a leading Atlanta moving and storage company, ALS Van Lines has the resources and experience to ensure that every detail of your local move or long-distance move is expertly planned and skillfully executed. From experienced professional moving crews and custom moving packages to unbeatable service, we offer everything you need for a hassle-free move. Let our BBB accredited company assist with your relocation. Reach out today for a free quote.