Interstate vs Intrastate Moving: The Key Differences You Need to Know

There are three basic types of moving, and to the layman, they may seem almost the same, but from the point of view of a professional Moving company, it is not so. These are local, interstate, and intrastate moving. Each has its own specificities and requires a special approach.

We will discuss the similarities and differences between interstate and intrastate travel. Maybe someone thinks that this topic is only for professionals, not the client. However, due to the necessary documentation and permits, as well as other items, it is necessary to be involved in the issue.

The intrastate definition implies relocation within the state without crossing the border. Regardless of the distance, everything that happens on the territory of the same state falls under intrastate moving.

Interstate moving implies different logistics because the state line is crossed. Different countries may have different laws regarding transportation, documentation, and many other essential details.

What is Intrastate Moving?

If we wanted to define intrastate moving, the most concise explanation would be that it is moving within the state border. All moves closer than 40-50 miles, up to 100 miles at most, are considered local moving. Intrastate means a longer distance but within the same state.

Although simpler, intrastate moving also requires logistics. Hiring our experienced Moving Company will completely free you from thinking about it.

If we take moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco as an example, or even moving from NYC to San Diego , it goes without saying that our company is already aware that the distance is 348 miles, which route it will take, what frequency on that route it will take, how long it takes, and what the price of such transport is. The price is based on distance, volume of work, transport costs, and additional services, such as packing. Prices are not uniform but vary depending on the state.

The fact is that it is much easier to make such a move. Also, the intrastate definition means that the move is subject to the laws of the state you are in, not the federal ones.

Understanding Interstate Moving

Interstate relocation is more demanding in every way. Primarily, more documentation and the possession of other types of transport permits are required.

To be an interstate shipper, you must have a permit from the US Department of Transportation . Intrastate and interstate companies must also have a dot number as a personal identification number. An MC number (Motor Carrier) is required for all interstate shippers.

If you were moving from California to Nevada, you would first make a plan. Estimate how many things you have to transport and which transport vehicle you will use. Then, analyze the shortest route that your truck can take. Calculate the amount and price of fuel in both directions, the number of people who will work on that move, the time required for the trip, and the time required for unloading at the destination.

Interstate moving can also involve relocation to other countries, not only within the USA. In this case, you need permits that are valid in those countries' territories.

Interstate vs. Intrastate: Key Differences

We have established a general difference between interstate and intrastate moving. However, there is much in common in both cases: assessment of the weight of the cargo, route plan, fuel consumption, number of workers and costs related to them, safety, and formation of the final price.

The difference between interstate and intrastate is primarily in permits. Interstate companies must have a license from the United States Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and Intrastate companies from the United States Department of Transportation.

Interstate moving requires greater logistics, is more expensive, and takes more time to organize and complete completely.

Choosing the Right Type of Moving Company

In the modern age, finding precisely what you need is not difficult. Without a lot of wandering and wrong information, the Internet and social networks are of great help. There, you will find each of the many intrastate moving companies and read reviews about them.

It is almost impossible to deceive clients nowadays, and that's why moving companies compete in quality and efficiency. Each interstate shipper and intrastate movers has its site, advertising, and visible references.

How to choose the right moving company. The internet is always a good source of addresses, sites, and advertisements, but the most important is reviews. Many clients recommend cooperation with a specific company; if there is much praise, these are the right people for you.

It is up to you to decide according to your needs. What type of moving are you interested in? Are you moving locally, across the country, or long distance?

Some companies have permits, authorizations, and adequate transportation for all types of moving. You can always ask neighbors, friends, and relatives about their experience with one of the moving companies. If you are in California , it is logical that you will look for intrastate moving companies in California and not some from other states.

There are licenses for each company in the official registers. You should check them and make sure they are valid. Sometimes, fake licenses exist; you don't need experience with such. Always check twice and be careful. The wrong choice can cost you money, nerves, and material damage.

Cost Considerations: Interstate vs. Intrastate Moves

Interstate relocation must be a more expensive option. First, the distance is longer, more fuel is needed, and tolls are more expensive. We need more workers, who will also be drivers, on a shift basis, and sometimes it is necessary to rent storage for an indefinite period. The documentation itself is more extensive and costs more.

An intrastate moving company will not have to provide such extensive logistics. Shorter distances, lower fuel consumption, faster arrival at the destination, and earlier unloading will lower the final price.

Every move can have its hidden costs. Knowing what you can avoid will contribute to the balance and preservation of the budget. Our experience as a renowned Moving Company advises you on the following:

• Engage the Moving Company on Time: The end and beginning of the month are always overbooked. Moving in bad weather costs more. Plan if you can choose a season with good weather. Emergency or last minute, no one likes it, and they will always charge you more. We highly recommend comparing moving companies in order to reduce the costs to the maximum
• Certificate of Insurance: Insure your belongings; although they are treated with maximum care, damages are always possible. In that case, you will receive compensation from the insurance company.
• Agree on the Price Beforehand: Don't leave anything to chance. Ask yourself what type of categorization affects the formation of the price. Is it hourly rate, weight-based, or volume-based?
• Packing Supplies: If the moving company does the packing and brings its boxes and other materials, define how much it will cost you.

Regulatory and Requirements Paperwork

In the process of moving, the paperwork creates an even bigger crowd. Along with your documentation, such as ID, passport, driving license, bill card, and various certificates of purchase and sale of property, you must be interested in whether your Moving Company has the following:

• Safety Regulations: Ensure the moving company follows all relevant safety regulations to protect your belongings and their staff during the move.
• Price and Service Regulation: Verify that the moving company adheres to price and service regulations to avoid unexpected charges and ensure transparency.
• Company and Vehicle Insurance Regulation: Confirm that the company and their vehicles are properly insured to cover any potential damage or issues during the move.
• Moving Insurance Regulation: Check the moving insurance policies and regulations to ensure you are adequately covered for any damage or loss of your belongings.

Every moving company in California must have USDOT otherwise they cannot start the MTR license process. USDOT/MTR is the key to getting a moving license in California.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Each of us has limitations, which can sometimes be blocking. You should fight against such conditions and strengthen your psyche and resilience.

Moving, especially if it is the first time, can be stressful and challenging. Even though we are looking forward to the new house, we want to move, and everything seems ideal, we sometimes feel anxious.

Some of the most common dilemmas and doubts are:

• How Will We Adapt to the New Environment: Consider how you and your family will adjust to the new surroundings and any changes in your daily routine.
• How Will Our Family, Especially the Children, Cope with the Change of Environment and School: Think about how the move will affect your children and their adjustment to a new school and community.
• What If We Made a Mistake in Our Decision to Move: Reflect on the potential consequences if the move does not turn out as planned and how you might address any regrets.
• Will We Have Enough Money for All Our Life Plans: Assess whether your budget and financial plans will accommodate your goals and needs in the new location.

Although it seems disturbing, a few tips are guaranteed to help:

• Establish a Routine That Suits You: Create a new routine that may be similar to your previous one and stick to it.
• Do Not Deal with the Distant Future: Focus on planning one day at a time instead of worrying about the distant future.
• Spend Time with Your Family: Discuss how everyone is adjusting and how they are feeling in the new environment.
• Meet New Colleagues, Neighbors, and Friends: Socialize with new people and build connections in your new community.
• Explore the Surroundings: Engage in outdoor activities and familiarize yourself with your new area.
• Stick to the Planned Budget: Adhere to your budget to manage your finances effectively in the new setting.

Finding the Best Intrastate Companies in California

In California, people constantly immigrate from other States and often move from city to city. Therefore, the offer of moving companies is large.

All of them work on constantly improving their services, trying to have a good reputation, and being competitive.

If you need intrastate moving companies in California, search the Internet site for some of them. Then, find out about the potential company's legal registration. Licensing and insurance should also be the main indicators of one's professionalism and seriousness in business, such ones Cali Moving and Storage San Diego have. Customer service, good reputation, reviews, prices, availability, and possible verbal recommendations from friends or relatives can also be useful and decisive.

You can find the list of the top 10 or 100 best moving companies in 2024, research their backgrounds, and decide on one of them.

Conclusion

Now that we have completed the differences between interstate and intrastate moving, we know the apartment that awaits us and what we need to do if we decide to move. If you are around and you need local San Diego movers, you can count on us.

It is necessary to know that choosing the right moving company, depending on our needs, is the key to a completed moving. Starting a new life without previously accumulated stress is important, and our moving company will help you with that. Contact our out-of-town/long-distance movers and find out even more about your next move.