Lower-Cost Ways to Move Across the Country
Cross-country moves cost the most in transportation. Choosing your own truck or container, then hiring labor near each end, lets you pay for professional lifting without paying a crew to travel with your belongings.
Hire Moving Labor is a marketplace. Independent companies set their own prices and provide labor only — you arrange the truck or container.
Long-distance transportation options
| Option | How it works | Labor |
|---|---|---|
| One-way rental truck | You drive the truck | Hire loading and unloading separately |
| Portable container | Container is shipped for you | Hire labor at both ends |
| Freight trailer | You load, a carrier drives | Hire labor at both ends |
| Full-service mover | Crew and transport together | Included in the mover's price |
Booking labor at two ends
Hire Moving Labor matches by address, so book loading near your old home and unloading near the new one — each with a company that covers that area.
Budget beyond labor
Fuel, lodging, tolls and container fees add up on long moves. Compare full costs, including the time you'll spend driving.
Related guides and services
Questions
- What's the cheapest way to move across the country?
- It depends on how much you have and how you value time. Many people compare a rental truck or container with labor-only help at each end against full-service quotes.
- Can I hire one crew for both ends?
- Usually not for long distance; book a local company at each end.
- Do crews travel with the truck?
- No. Crews on Hire Moving Labor provide labor at an address.
- Is there a guaranteed cheapest option?
- No. Compare complete costs for your move.
Ready to compare prices?
See which independent companies serve your address and what they charge.
Compare Moving Labor Prices