When you’re planning for a major relocation, you’ll likely come across terms like “long-distance moving” and “interstate moving.” At first glance, they might seem interchangeable, as they both seem to refer to moving across a long distance. However, although these services often overlap, they aren’t exactly the same. Understanding the difference between long-distance and interstate moving can help you choose the right services, stay compliant with regulations, and plan your relocation more effectively in tandem with your movers.

In this article, we’ll break down what sets these two types of moves apart, how each process works, and what you can expect when booking your move through a professional moving company. 

What is Long-Distance Moving?

Long-distance moving refers to any move that covers a significant distance, typically over 100 miles. This term can be used regardless of whether the relocation crosses state lines. These moves can occur within the same state, also known as intrastate long-distance moves, or between different states, which would also make them interstate moves.

Key Aspects of Long-Distance Moving:

• Distance-Based Definition: Generally applies to moves over 100 miles.
  
• Can Be Intrastate or Interstate: A move can be long-distance without crossing state lines.
  
• Logistical Complexity: Typically requires more detailed planning, longer travel time, and more resources than local moves.
  
• Pricing Factors: Costs are often calculated based on total weight or volume, distance traveled, and additional services, such as packing or storage.

Long-distance moves often involve more comprehensive planning, especially if you’re moving a large household or business. These moves typically require coordination with transportation teams and careful packing to keep your belongings safe in transit.

What is Interstate Moving?

Interstate moving involves moving household or business items across state lines. Even if you’re relocating just a few miles away, if your new home is in another state, it’s considered an interstate move. This means these moves are defined by geography, rather than distance.

Key Aspects of Interstate Moving:

• Crosses State Lines: The move originates in one state and ends in another.
  
• Subject to Federal Regulations: Governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which sets rules for licensing, insurance, and documentation.
  
• Requires Specific Credentials: Movers must have a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number and comply with federal guidelines.
  
• Documentation & Legal Requirements: Often involves additional paperwork, such as inventory lists, rights and responsibilities documentation, and a Bill of Lading.

Because these moves cross state borders, they are subject to federal regulations that ensure safety, fair pricing, and accountability from movers. Any moving company offering interstate services must be registered with the FMCSA and carry proper insurance coverage.

How are Long-Distance and Interstate Moves Different?

While many interstate moves are also long-distance, not all long-distance moves are interstate. The distinction lies in the geographical boundaries crossed and the regulations involved. Let’s explore the major differences between the two in more detail.

1. Regulations and Licensing

• Long-Distance Moves: If the move stays within state lines, it is governed by state-level transportation laws. The moving company needs to be licensed by the state authority, typically the Department of Transportation in that state.
  
• Interstate Moves: These moves are governed by federal law. The FMCSA mandates licensing and insurance requirements. Moving companies must provide a U.S. DOT number and comply with specific rules, such as providing customers with the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” brochure.

2. Documentation Requirements

• Long-Distance: Generally requires standard paperwork such as estimates, contracts, and inventory lists, depending on the company and state.
  
• Interstate: Involves federally mandated documents, including a detailed inventory, written estimate, Bill of Lading, and documentation of consumer rights.

3. Pricing Structure

• Long-Distance: May vary by company, but typically calculated by distance and weight or volume. State regulations may dictate pricing models.
  
• Interstate: Pricing is more standardized due to federal oversight. Movers must provide a binding or non-binding estimate based on weight, mileage, and services requested.

4. Insurance Coverage

• Long-Distance: Coverage levels may vary based on state regulations and mover policies. Customers should verify what’s included by their movers before booking.
  
• Interstate: FMCSA requires movers to offer two types of liability: released value protection (basic) and full value protection (comprehensive).

5. Permits and Special Considerations

• Long-Distance: Local permits may be needed for parking, loading, or certain types of property access.
  
• Interstate: These permits may still apply, but interstate moves might also require coordination with multiple jurisdictions, toll considerations, and extra planning for route logistics.

Common Interstate vs. Long Distance Moving Scenarios

Let’s look at a few real-world examples that highlight the differences between these move categories:

• Moving from Dallas to Austin, TX: This is a long-distance intrastate move. It spans several hundred miles but stays within Texas, so it’s governed by state laws.
  
• Moving from Chicago, IL, to Milwaukee, WI: Though only about 90 miles apart, this is an interstate move because it crosses state lines. It must follow federal moving regulations.
  
• Moving from Los Angeles to San Diego, CA: Even though this is a long-distance move at about 120 miles, it remains within California, making it an intrastate long-distance move.

Choosing the Right Moving Company

Whether you’re moving across the state or across the country, it’s important to work with a licensed and reputable moving company that understands the specific needs of your relocation.

When choosing a mover, you should always consider the following aspects:

• Are they properly licensed? For interstate moves, ask for their U.S. DOT number.
  
• Do they specialize in your type of move? Some companies focus on local relocations, while others are equipped for long-haul moves across state lines.
  
• Do they offer transparent pricing and binding estimates? Ensure there are no hidden fees or vague cost breakdowns.
  
• Are they experienced in both long-distance and interstate logistics? The right mover will have clear processes for either type of move.

Embarking on an Interstate or Long-Distance Move?

Understanding the distinction between interstate and long-distance moves helps ensure you get the right type of service, proper coverage, and experienced movers who can handle the requirements of your specific relocation. By partnering with a professional moving company, you can take the guesswork out of your move, whether you’re heading 500 miles away or just five miles across state lines. 

Searching for a trusted moving company in Nassau County or Suffolk County? Count on Austin Moving & Storage, Long Island’s trusted movers. As a family-owned and operated moving company, we offer care and attention to detail for moves of all sizes and distances, whether it’s local, long-distance, or interstate. Our team provides top-rated moving, packing, and storage solutions to customers in Long Island, New York City, and beyond. Request a free quote online or call us today to learn more about our interstate and long-distance moving services!