Perhaps one of the biggest decisions you have to make when preparing for an out-of-state move is whether to hire professional movers or do it yourself. For many people, it can be tempting to handle this process on their own for financial reasons and a feeling of control, but it is more complex than that. There is something to be said for moving yourself across state lines, offering a certain level of independence — but also stress and logistics (and need for ibuprofen). Should you pack and move across the country yourself, then. Let us articulate it — starting off with the actual pros and cons of a DIY long-distance move.
Con: Your Savings Migh Vary
The most common reason people choose to do the move themselves is money. A full-service interstate move, particularly one involving a household's worth of furniture and belongings that will be transported hundreds or thousands of miles can easily run into the thousand. If you move yourself, the costs are usually just a rental truck, gas and perhaps some moving blankets or straps.
If you hire a couple of buddies or some local movers to Loading and Unloading, the whole ordeal still typically pans out at far less than if you had hired someone for the entire process. And for movers on a tight budget, that can be just the game-changer they need with all of the deposits, utilities and other move-in expenses you are most likely to also suffer from at that same time.
Con: You're the Wheel(man)
It is that very cost-saving benefit also makes you responsible for much more. This whole renting and driving a moving truck across state lines isn't exactly a casual Sunday cruise deal. Having to manoeuvre such a large vehicle down highways, through city streets and around tight turns can be extremely nerve-wracking (not to mention exhausting) if you are not used to it. Also, with long drives you are also susceptible to delays or break-downs and then it is all on your head to manage those.
Combine that with the literal heavy lifting of boxes and furniture in, often not so nice weather or tight spaces, and you can see this is not just a weekend job. However, if you are moving alone or only have a few friends to help out, it is absolutely necessary to consider every possible instance of physical tiredness and the time consumed in terms of safety.
Pro: Total Control Over the Process
One big perk of doing it yourself? You call the shots. There’s no need to coordinate schedules with a moving company, wait for a delivery window, or worry about your belongings being loaded onto a shared truck. You get to decide when to pack, when to leave, what route to take, and how your items are handled.
This level of control can be especially comforting if you're moving fragile items, sentimental keepsakes, or anything you’d rather not see jostled around by strangers. You know exactly how everything is packed—and how carefully it was handled.
Con: Hidden Costs Can Sneak Up on You
While DIY moves are often cheaper on the surface, unexpected costs can pile up quickly. Fuel for a loaded truck adds up faster than you might expect, especially if you’re crossing several states. Then there’s the potential for overnight stays, tolls, food, and extra insurance coverage for the rental vehicle. If you underestimate your truck size or timeline, you might end up paying more in late fees or additional rentals.
And let’s not forget potential damage. If something gets broken or scratched during a DIY move, there’s no moving company to reimburse you. Depending on what’s damaged, those savings you were counting on might start to vanish.
Pro: Flexibility and Simplicity for Smaller Moves
For those moving out of a small apartment, studio, or dorm, DIY can be the simplest and most efficient option. You might not even need a big truck—just a cargo van or trailer might do the trick. Packing and loading might only take a day, and there’s a real sense of satisfaction that comes from handling your own move from start to finish.
In some cases, especially when downsizing or moving with minimal belongings, calling in the pros could feel like overkill. If you’re organized, strong, and up for the challenge, a self-move can be empowering and even enjoyable.
Con: Logistics, Time, and Stress Multiply Quickly
Interstate moves aren’t just long drives—they're a series of interconnected decisions that can easily go sideways. What if your rental truck is delayed? What if you hit bad weather? What if you arrive and can’t unload everything before dark—or worse, can’t park your truck near your new place?
From route planning and packing strategy to loading techniques and timing, moving across state lines is a logistical puzzle. And unlike local moves, where you can make multiple trips if something goes wrong, long-distance moves leave much less room for error. The mental and physical stress can take a toll, especially if you’re juggling work or family responsibilities on top of the move.
Know Yourself, Know the Move
In the end, deciding to move yourself across state lines really comes down to your comfort level, budget, and the size of the move. If you’re up for a challenge, have a manageable amount of stuff, and want full control over the process, a DIY move can be incredibly rewarding—and cost-effective. But if you’re short on time, moving a full household, or just not interested in playing truck driver and mover in one, it might be worth investing in professional help. If you are looking for San Diego cross country movers, there are contractors who can help. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but taking the time to evaluate your needs (and limits) will help you make the choice that’s right for you—and ensure that wherever you're headed, you get there with as little stress as possible.
