Interstate Moving Cost Calculator
Calculate state-to-state moving tariffs under federal FMCSA regulations, including 400-N baseline tariff discounts, mandatory valuation, and regulatory fees.
Calculated Moving Expenses
FMCSA Interstate Tariff Discount Formula
Interstate Cost = [Published Tariff Linehaul × (1 - Discount %)] + Fuel Surcharge + FMCSA Valuation + Regulatory Fees- Published 400-N Tariff: The industry benchmark tariff table approved for registered interstate motor carriers.
- Carrier Discount: Van lines routinely apply 55% to 65% competitive discounts off the published tariff base.
- Mandatory Federal Protection: Federal law requires carriers to offer both 60¢/lb Released Value and Full Value Protection (FVP).
- Regulatory Surcharges: State permit surcharges, origin parking permits, and highway weight certifications.
- Delivery Windows: Interstate delivery times vary from 2 to 14 business days depending on mileage and lane volume.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
- Published Tariff Linehaul (70 CWT × [$70 + (950 × $0.15)]) = $14,875.00
- Discount Savings (60% × $14,875.00) = -$8,925.00
- Discounted Linehaul Net = $5,950.00
- Fuel Surcharge (12% × $5,950) = $714.00
- Valuation & Surcharges = $85.00 + $120.00 = $205.00
- Total Interstate Moving Cost = $6,869.00 (Effective Rate: $7.23/mile)
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Select your origin and destination state and enter driving miles.
- 2Input the shipment weight in pounds (average ~1,000–1,500 lbs per room).
- 3Verify the carrier tariff discount percentage (standard national average: 55%–65%).
- 4Review your net linehaul tariff and per-mile relocation metrics.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Carrier holds active USDOT and FMCSA operating authority for interstate household goods transport.
- Estimate reflects non-peak season booking (October through April).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do interstate moving companies offer such huge discounts like 60% off?
The major van lines (United, Allied, North American, Atlas) base their rate cards on the historic 400-N federal tariff table, which has high base rates. In the competitive free market, carriers routinely discount the linehaul rate by 55% to 65% depending on lane balance, season, and volume.
Related Cost Calculators
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Budget coast-to-coast relocation expenses including linehaul van line freight, transit lodging, personal vehicle fuel, and storage-in-transit.
Moving Insurance Cost Calculator
Compare Released Value protection ($0.60/lb) with Full Value Protection (FVP) and third-party moving transit insurance.