The cost of trading one ocean view for another 

Planning a long-distance move from the east coast to the west coast or vice versa? One of the key considerations when choosing a moving company is likely the cost of relocating across the country. So how much can you expect to pay? Is it possible to make the move for an affordable price? It depends on the service you select.  

Finding an affordable way to move coast to coast 

If you’re looking to save money, you’ll want to consider DIY moving solutions since full-service movers come with a premium price — typically two or three times as much as other options. Let’s look at an example move from east to west coast to help you compare costs between truck rental and a DIY solution without the driving. 

Rental truck 

Driving a moving truck might seem like the cheapest way to go, but that’s often not the case once you figure in fuel costs (gas mileage for fully loaded trucks isn’t the best!). Plus, if operating the rental will leave you with more cars than drivers, there can be added costs for towing a vehicle to your new home. 

We requested online quotes from two national rental truck companies, U-Haul® and Penske®. The quotes are based on a 2-bedroom home moving from Charlotte, NC, to Portland, OR, in May 2023 using each company’s recommended equipment. We also included the costs for towing a 2017 Toyota Corolla. These prices were accurate at time of posting. Actual moving costs will vary based on locations, equipment availability and the date of your move. 

Here’s U-Haul’s breakdown: 

*Based on estimated 10 MPG per U-Haul’s website with gas prices averaging $3.44 per gallon according to AAA’s average gas prices at time of posting. 

Don’t need to tow a car? Just deduct $303 from U-Haul’s quote for the tow dolly and damage coverage. 

Here’s Penske’s breakdown: 

**Based on estimated 13 MPG per Penske’s website with gas prices averaging $3.44 per gallon according to AAA’s average gas prices at time of posting. 

Not towing a vehicle? You can deduct $86 from Penske’s quote for the tow dolly and towing insurance. 

A cheaper DIY solution without the driving 

Want an easier and more budget-friendly DIY move? U-Pack® can help! As a self-moving service where you pack and load and we drive the equipment, we provide the convenience and savings you want without the hassle of driving a moving truck or the high costs of a full-service mover. 

For the same move from Charlotte to Portland, U-Pack recommended 2 ReloCube moving containers for $4,119. The price included equipment, transportation and standard liability coverage. This price was accurate at the time of posting. Actual moving costs will vary based on locations, equipment availability and the date of your move. 

Need moving labor? Don’t worry! U-Pack can refer you to local moving crews to get as much — or as little — help as you need at a price you can afford. 

Ready for your east-to-west coast moving quote? 

Get your free, no-obligation online quote today or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. Have more questions about moving coast to coast or U-Pack services? Let us know in the comments. We’re always happy to help! 

U-Haul® is a registered trademark of U-Haul International, Inc. Penske® is a registered trademark of Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P. Use of third-party trademarks or registered trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third-party.