How to Finance a Long-Distance Move

Moving to a new home—especially across state lines—is an exciting milestone. But it can also come with a financial burden. From hiring professional movers to covering deposits, utility setups and travel expenses, costs add up quickly. For many families and individuals, paying for a move all at once simply isn’t feasible.

That’s where move financing can help. If you’re wondering how to finance a long-distance move, there are several practical solutions available. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, better quality of life, or to be closer to family, understanding your financing options for relocation can make your transition smoother and more affordable.

The True Cost of Moving

According to industry data, the average long-distance move in the U.S. costs between $6,000 and $10,000, depending on distance, home size and services needed. In addition to moving company fees, there are often hidden or overlooked costs, such as:

Fuel and lodging for multi-day travel
Temporary storage
Utility deposits and setup fees
Cleaning services
First and last month’s rent or closing costs
New furniture or appliances

For those making a cross-country move, these expenses can climb into the five-figure range. Exploring the best way to pay for a cross-country move can help ease the financial burden, making financing a smart solution for bridging the gap.

Learn more about moving costs.

Move Financing Options

There are several ways to finance a move, each with its own pros and cons:

1. Personal Loans

Many banks, credit unions and online lenders offer personal loans specifically for major life events, including relocation. If you’re asking ‘can I get a loan to move?’, the answer is often yes—depending on your credit and income. These typically have fixed interest rates and repayment terms ranging from 1 to 7 years. Approval is based on credit score and income.

Pros: Fast funding, fixed payments
Cons: May require strong credit, higher interest rates for some borrowers

2. Credit Cards

Some people moving use a credit card to cover costs and pay it off over time. Introductory 0% APR offers can make this option appealing—if you can pay it off before the interest kicks in.

Pros: Convenient, may earn points or cash back
Cons: High interest if not paid off quickly

3. Employer Relocation Assistance

If you’re moving for a job, check to see if your employer offers relocation reimbursement or assistance. Some companies cover partial or full costs for packing, transport, and even temporary housing.

Pros: No out-of-pocket expense
Cons: Not available to all employees, often requires approval and documentation

4. Moving Company Financing Programs

Some professional moving companies now offer their own financing options, making them a moving company with payment plans that suit different budgets. These programs allow customers to spread the cost of their move over time with competitive interest rates and low fees, making them ideal for moving without paying upfront.

Move Financing Made Easy with Suddath

One standout option to explore is Suddath’s move financing program. This program is designed specifically for people relocating and in need of budget-friendly payment options.

Key Benefits:

Low origination fee – Helps keep upfront costs minimal
Fast approval – Streamlined application process
No hidden fees – Transparent terms and fixed payments

Whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, Suddath helps remove the financial stress so you can focus on settling into your new home.

Learn more about Suddath’s financing options here >>

*Loans are available through Suddath’s third-party licensed lending partner, HouseAmp. All loans are subject to approval based on each lender’s underwriting criteria. Finance charges and interest rates are subject to the terms set by each lender and may vary. For approved borrowers, settlement-related fees are deducted from the line of credit. Borrowers should review their loan agreement for specific details.