What Is the Difference Between Interstate and Intrastate Moving?

When planning a move, one of the first questions to answer is whether your relocation is interstate or intrastate. While the two terms sound similar, they refer to very different types of moves, each with its own rules, costs, and requirements. Understanding the difference between interstate and intrastate moves is crucial for hiring the right moving company and ensuring your relocation follows all necessary regulations.

For homeowners and businesses in Savannah, GA, trusted moving company in Savannah, GA BC Brothers explains these distinctions clearly to help you prepare for a stress-free move.

Defining Interstate and Intrastate Moving

What Is an Interstate Move?

An interstate move crosses state lines. Any relocation from Georgia to another state, even if the distance is short, is considered interstate. This type of move is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which enforces national safety and transport laws.

Examples include:

• Moving from Savannah, GA to Jacksonville, FL
• Moving from Savannah, GA to Hilton Head, SC

Interstate movers must have a U.S. DOT number and appropriate federal licensing to operate legally across states.

What Is an Intrastate Move?

An intrastate move takes place entirely within one state’s borders. If you are moving from Savannah to Atlanta or within Chatham County, it qualifies as intrastate.

In Georgia, these movers are regulated by the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS), which oversees state guidelines for rates, insurance, and consumer protection.

Key Differences Between Interstate and Intrastate Moving

1. Distance and Geography

• Interstate: Crosses state boundaries.
• Intrastate: Stays within the same state.

A move can be only 20 miles yet still considered interstate if it crosses into South Carolina.

2. Regulations and Licensing

• Interstate: Movers must be registered with the FMCSA and display a U.S. DOT number.
• Intrastate: Movers follow Georgia-specific licensing and insurance rules.

3. Pricing Structure

• Interstate: Pricing is based on total weight and mileage.
• Intrastate: Pricing depends on hourly labor, truck size, and travel distance in-state.

Federal oversight for interstate moves can increase paperwork and insurance requirements, slightly affecting costs.

4. Insurance and Liability

Federal law for interstate moves requires:

• Released Value Protection
• Full Value Protection

Intrastate moves follow Georgia’s coverage standards. Always verify what your mover offers.

5. Permits and Documentation

Interstate moves require detailed FMCSA documents and a Bill of Lading.
Intrastate moves involve service agreements, inventory lists, and standard receipts.

Choosing Between Interstate and Intrastate Movers

For Interstate Moves

• Check the company’s U.S. DOT number
• Confirm federal insurance compliance
• Ask about long-distance packing, tracking, and delivery windows

For Intrastate Moves

• Verify licensing with the Georgia Department of Public Safety
• Ask about local experience in Savannah, Pooler, or Macon
• Ensure written estimates and transparent hourly rates

BC Brothers is licensed for both move types, offering flexible solutions depending on your needs.

Understanding Moving Costs in Savannah

Intrastate Moves

Local moves within Savannah are typically charged hourly. Extra fees may apply for stairs, packing, or oversized items.

Interstate Moves

Out-of-state moves typically factor in mileage, fuel costs, highway permits, federal insurance, and shipment weight.

To save money, reduce belongings before packing and consider off-season moving dates.

Preparing for an Interstate or Intrastate Move

• Start early (at least four weeks before moving day)
• Get multiple quotes
• Label boxes and separate fragile items
• Compare inventory lists during loading and unloading
• Review all contracts carefully

Legal Protections for Customers

FMCSA Regulations (Interstate)

Provide written estimates, require DOT licensing, and enforce liability coverage.

Georgia Regulations (Intrastate)

Ensure movers maintain state registration, insurance, and complaint-handling procedures.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Moving Company

Hiring professionals reduces stress and improves safety. Movers offer:

• Experience handling heavy or fragile belongings — including specialty moving services for fragile or heavy items
• Proper equipment like dollies and professional trucks
• Insurance for protection
• Efficient loading and unloading
• Accountability through licensing

How BC Brothers Handles Interstate and Intrastate Moves

BC Brothers offers:

• Detailed assessments to plan routes and inventory
• Packing services using durable materials
• Licensed, trained drivers
• Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate both commercial and professional residential movers in Savannah needs

With years of regional experience, BC Brothers stays compliant with all Georgia and federal regulations.

When to Call a Professional Mover

You should consider professional assistance if:

• Moving out of state or across long distances
• Moving heavy furniture or fragile valuables
• You lack time or manpower
• You want guaranteed insurance protection

Final Thoughts

The main difference between interstate and intrastate moving comes down to distance and regulations. Interstate moves cross state lines and follow federal laws, while intrastate moves stay within Georgia and follow state guidelines.

If you’re planning a move within or outside Georgia, BC Brothers is ready to help. Contact them at (912) 658-5700 or info@bcbrothersmoving.com for a free quote.

‍

Knowing these distinctions helps you choose the right mover and ensures your relocation stays organized and legal.

If you’re planning a move within or outside Georgia, BC Brothers is ready to help. Their licensed team provides reliable packing, transport, and storage services throughout Savannah and beyond.

Need help planning your next move?

 Contact BC Brothers today at (912) 658-5700 or email info@bcbrothersmoving.com to request a free quote. Let Savannah’s trusted movers make your relocation easy and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main difference between interstate and intrastate moving?

 Interstate moving crosses state lines and is regulated by federal law, while intrastate moving takes place within one state and follows state-specific regulations. Each requires different licenses, permits, and pricing methods.

2. Does an interstate move require a special license?

 Yes. Interstate movers must have a U.S. DOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This ensures they meet federal safety and insurance standards when transporting goods across state lines.

3. How are intrastate moving costs calculated in Georgia?

 Intrastate moving costs are generally based on hourly labor, truck size, and travel distance within Georgia. Some movers also charge extra for packing, large furniture, or stairs. Always request a written estimate.

4. Can one company handle both interstate and intrastate moves?

 Yes. Many professional movers, including BC Brothers, are licensed for both. This allows them to manage local relocations within Georgia and long-distance moves across state lines safely and legally.

5. Why is it important to know the difference between move types?

 Knowing the difference ensures you hire the right mover, understand costs, and follow proper regulations. It protects you from illegal movers and guarantees your belongings are covered by the correct insurance.

‍