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How Much Does It Cost to Move 1,000 Miles?
A 1,000-mile move is typically a 2-day drive and falls in the middle ground where both truck rentals and freight trailers are competitive. Here are the real numbers.
Quick Answer
A 1,000-mile move typically costs $1,500 to $5,500 depending on home size and method. A studio or 1BR via rental truck runs $1,200-$2,800 all-in including fuel. A 2BR via freight trailer (U-Pack) costs $1,800-$3,000. Full-service movers for a 2BR are typically $3,500-$6,500.
Cost by Method and Home Size (1,000 Miles, Off-Peak)
| Method | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Truck (all-in) | $900-$1,800 | $1,200-$2,200 | $1,500-$3,000 | $2,000-$4,200 |
| U-Pack Freight Trailer | $1,200-$2,000 | $1,500-$2,500 | $1,800-$3,000 | $2,500-$4,000 |
| PODS Container | $1,400-$2,500 | $1,700-$3,000 | $2,200-$4,000 | $3,000-$5,500 |
| Full-Service Movers | $1,500-$3,500 | $2,000-$4,500 | $3,000-$6,500 | $4,500-$9,000 |
Truck estimates include fuel ($525 for a 26ft truck at 8 MPG and $4.20/gal). Off-peak season. Add 30-40% for summer.
Real Routes That Approximate 1,000 Miles
Chicago, IL to Atlanta, GA
716 mi
Flat interstate route. Easy truck drive.
Dallas, TX to Phoenix, AZ
887 mi
Desert heat in summer. Winter move recommended.
Boston, MA to Charlotte, NC
847 mi
I-95 corridor. Heavy traffic near NYC.
Denver, CO to Los Angeles, CA
1,015 mi
Mountain passes. U-Haul prohibits some passes for large trucks; check before booking.
NYC, NY to Atlanta, GA
873 mi
Major urban pickup. Parking permit may be needed in NYC.
Driving a Rental Truck 1,000 Miles: What to Expect
Drive time: 1,000 miles at 60 MPH average is 16-18 hours including rest stops. Realistic plan: 2 days with one overnight stop.
Hotel cost: $100-$150 for one night. Budget $125 in your estimate.
Fuel: A 26ft truck gets 8-10 MPG. At 1,000 miles and $4.20/gallon: $420-$525 in fuel.
Meals: 2 days on the road adds $100-$200 in food costs.
Tolls: Varies significantly by route. $20-$80 for most 1,000-mile corridors.
Total hidden extras: $640-$975 on top of the truck rental base rate.