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Interstate vs. Intrastate Move
Knowing your rights and being fully educated on your move is just another plus that will make your move successful. Most movers today are unfamiliar with proper moving terminology and processes that could possibly cost them much more money and stress than they could even imagine. Understanding what type of move you will be performing is a great start in the moving process.
In the process of searching for a moving company, movers are often asked if they are moving interstate or intrastate and not everyone knows how to respond. The benefit of being educated when it comes to your move is avoiding possible scams and more importantly knowing your rights during your move. Knowing what type of move you are performing accompanied with the laws and regulations can save you so much time, energy, and money. If you are not sure between the two types of moves, we’ve broken down both moves.
What is an Interstate Move? – When you are performing an interstate move, you are essentially moving or transporting goods in and out of state lines not excluding international moves.
Interstate moves are governed by FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) rules and regulations. It is considered an interstate move if it involves a long distance moving company crossing a state line at any point during the move. Although the actual moving truck or van doesn’t cross state lines, it is still considered an interstate move because your goods have.
What is an Intrastate Move? – Intrastate moves consist of movers completing a move without crossing the border of another state.
Intrastate or local movers are not regulated by the FMCSA. Rules that apply to interstate moves are completely different from intrastate. Moving within a state means that you will have to understand the terms and conditions of moving as they change based on the state you reside in. Rules and regulations are outlined by the individual states and should be researched properly. Some states have more stringent licensing and monitoring guidelines than others.
Although you may be completing an intrastate move, your moving company can charge a long distance fee. Before choosing a licensed mover, make sure you aren’t hit with fees you weren’t made aware of. Understand your rights and verify licensing with each moving company before choosing. For more information on state guidelines, contact your state agency.


