What Are The 3 Different Types Of Moves?
If you’re planning a move, understanding the type of move you’re making is key to getting accurate pricing and hiring the right movers. Not all moves are the same — and depending on distance and state lines, you may be dealing with a local, intrastate, or interstate move. Let’s break down the differences.
Local Moves: Short Distance, Same Area
A local move usually refers to a move that occurs within the same city or metro area, typically under 50–100 miles. These moves stay within the same state and are generally completed in one day.
Common traits of local moves:
Charged by the hour, based on crew size and time
Ideal for moving across town or between neighborhoods
No need for weigh-ins or federal regulations
At Patton’s Moving & Storage, we handle dozens of local moves weekly in Winchester, VA and surrounding areas like Stephens City and Front Royal. These jobs are fast, efficient, and cost-effective when scheduled right.
Intrastate Moves: Longer Distance, Same State
An intrastate move takes place within the same state, but covers longer distances, usually over 100 miles. For example, moving from Winchester, VA to Virginia Beach, VA would be considered an intrastate move.
What to expect:
May be charged by weight and distance instead of hourly
Requires more planning and time than local moves
May still need state-level licensing or regulation
Even though it’s all within one state, an intrastate move can feel like a mini interstate move — especially if you’re crossing hundreds of miles. Be sure to choose a mover with experience in long-haul, in-state moves.
Interstate Moves: Crossing State Lines
An interstate move involves moving from one state to another, regardless of distance. Even if you’re only going 10 miles across the border (like from Winchester, VA to Martinsburg, WV), it’s still considered interstate.
Key characteristics:
Governed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
Movers must be federally licensed and insured
Costs are based on weight, distance, and additional services
These moves require detailed planning, DOT-compliant paperwork, and sometimes multi-day delivery windows. For peace of mind, always ask for the mover’s USDOT number and confirm they’re authorized for interstate transport.