Interstate movers use two main ways to figure out how much your move will cost: weight and volume. For regulated interstate moves in the U.S., the final bill is based on actual weight. But volume often shows up in estimates and can affect what you're quoted. Here's how both work and why it matters.

Weight-Based Pricing: The Standard for Interstate Moves

Federal regulations require interstate movers to charge by weight for household goods. Your shipment is weighed on a certified scale before and after loading. You pay for the actual weight transported, multiplied by the rate per pound for the distance. This keeps pricing consistent and transparent.

How the Weight Is Measured

The mover drives an empty truck over a certified scale to get the tare weight. After loading your belongings, they weigh the truck again. The difference is your shipment weight. Both weighings are done at certified scales, and you have the right to be present or send someone. The weight is recorded on your bill of lading. Learn more about this document in our guide on the bill of lading for your move.

Typical Weight Ranges by Home Size

Estimates often use average weights. These vary based on how much furniture and belongings you have. Decluttering before the move directly lowers your weight and your cost.

Home Size	Typical Weight Range	Factors That Increase Weight
Studio	1,500–2,500 lbs	Heavy furniture, books, appliances
1 Bedroom	2,000–3,500 lbs	Extra storage, workout equipment
2 Bedrooms	4,000–6,000 lbs	Dining set, office furniture
3 Bedrooms	6,500–9,500 lbs	Multiple beds, large sofa, garage items
4+ Bedrooms	9,000–15,000+ lbs	Full house, basement, attic

Volume-Based Pricing: How It Fits In

Some movers give preliminary estimates using cubic feet (volume) instead of weight. They measure the space your items take up in the truck. Volume-based quotes are useful for ballpark estimates, but they are not the legal basis for your final interstate bill. The final charge must be based on weight.

When Volume Is Used

Movers may use volume when they can't do an in-home survey. Online or phone estimates often start with cubic feet. The mover converts volume to an estimated weight using a density factor—usually 7 pounds per cubic foot for household goods. That conversion is only an estimate. Actual weight can be higher or lower.

Why Volume Can Be Misleading

Light, bulky items (pillows, empty boxes, foam furniture) take a lot of space but weigh little. Dense items (books, tools, appliances) weigh a lot but don't take much space. If your home has many dense items, a volume-based estimate may be too low. If you have lots of light, bulky stuff, it may be too high. Always push for a weight-based estimate when possible.

Comparing Weight and Volume Quotes

When you get quotes from different movers, make sure you're comparing the same thing. Ask whether the quote is weight-based or volume-based. For interstate moves, the binding or non-binding estimate should state the assumed weight. If the actual weight differs, your final bill can change with a non-binding estimate. See our guide on binding vs non-binding estimates for details.

How to Lower Your Interstate Move Cost

Because weight drives the price, reducing weight saves money. Sell or donate items you don't need. Give away books, old electronics, and heavy furniture you're replacing. Pack efficiently so you're not shipping empty space. Use our moving cost calculator to see how weight affects your estimate. Also check our long-distance moving guide for more tips.

Red Flags With Weight and Volume

Be wary if a mover won't explain how they calculated the estimate, refuses an in-home or video survey, or gives a quote that seems too low. Scammers often use lowball volume estimates that spike after loading. Read our article on avoiding long-distance moving scams to protect yourself.

Summary

Interstate moves are priced by weight. Volume is sometimes used for estimates, but the final bill must be based on actual weight. Get weight-based quotes when you can, and declutter to reduce cost. Use our moving cost calculator and get multiple quotes before you commit.