Top Moving Companies of 2024
Here are the best moving companies you can book your move with today:
- International Van Lines: Our pick for insurance plans
- American Van Lines: Our pick for long-distance moves
- Safeway Moving Inc: Our top pick for seniors
- Interstate Moving & Relocation Group: Our pick for informational resources
- Moving APT: Our pick for flexible payment options
- JK Moving Services: Our pick for financing
- North American Van Lines: Our pick for easy claims process
- Allied Van Lines: Our pick for convenience
International Van Lines
Our Pick for Insurance Plans
American Van Lines
Our Pick for Long-Distance Moves
Safeway Moving Inc.
Our Pick for Seniors
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Our pick for Efficiency
Moving APT
Most Flexible Payment Options
JK Moving
Our Pick for Financing
North American Van Lines
Our Pick for Easy Claims Process
Allied Van Lines
Our Pick for Convenience
How To Choose a Moving Company
Dozens of moving companies are operating throughout the U.S. When comparing movers, we recommend looking at companies based on the following characteristics:
Before thinking about the specific company you want to work with, it is important to decide which type of move you will need. You can determine this based on the distance you’re traveling and any specific moving needs. While most moving companies offer long-distance moving services for moves that cross state lines, you may need to work with a more localized provider if you are only moving a few miles. Some companies also offer specific options for single-item moves, military moves and small apartment moves.
When you book a long-distance move, the price of your service usually includes loading, transportation and unloading. If you’re looking for an easier moving process, you might consider a full-service move, which usually includes packing, furniture wrapping and sometimes specialized transportation (like if you need to move a piano). While a full-service move will be more expensive than a standard partial-service move, it can be worth the expense if you have a complicated move or need to move quickly.
Most interstate moving companies must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). The FMCSA issues moving companies that meet federal licensure requirements a USDOT number, which you can search for on the agency’s website.Before booking a move, we recommend asking for a moving company’s USDOT number and verifying it is current using the link above. Also, ask how much insurance the company carries on behalf of customers — focus on liability coverage and full-value protection options. While moving companies must carry a small amount of liability insurance, you may prefer a moving company offering full-valuation coverage if you’re transporting expensive items.
While every company has to start somewhere, you may have added peace of mind by choosing movers with experience. Moving can be stressful, and it’s important to pick a moving partner that knows how to manage customer expectations and plan routes efficiently.While word-of-mouth reviews are one of the most reliable ways to learn about local moving companies, third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can also be invaluable tools in your search. Review multiple moving companies online and note any trends in customer complaints you notice. You can also call a few local companies to test the customer service process by asking a few questions about their services.
Compare the Best Moving Companies
| Company | Star Rating | Estimate Info | BBB Rating | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,500–$4,300 | B | |||
| $3,200–$3,500 | A+ | |||
| $2,800–$4,000 | B | |||
| $4,000–$7,500 | B | |||
| $7,550 | A+ | |||
| $4,730–$5,380 | A+ | |||
| $4,700–$5,350 | A+ | |||
| $2,968–$5,668 | B |
| Company | BBB Rating | Estimate Info | Star Rating | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B | $2,500–$4,300 | |||
| A+ | $3,200–$3,500 | |||
| B | $2,800–$4,000 | |||
| B | $4,000–$7,500 | |||
| A+ | $7,550 | |||
| A+ | $4,730–$5,380 | |||
| A+ | $4,700–$5,350 | |||
| B | $2,968–$5,668 |
Which Is The Best Moving Company For You?
Each moving company fulfills a different kind of moving need. International Van Lines is our top pick for the best insurance plans, ensuring that you can have peace of mind during your move by protecting you from the financial burden of damaged or lost items.
Allied Van Lines is our top pick for its flexible payment options, wide availability and reputable full-service moving options. However, if you want to pay for your move via financing, JK Moving may be a better choice.
Take some time to determine if a full-service move or self-service move better suits your needs. Once you understand your moving needs, discuss them with each mover you are considering and gather a quote from at least three different providers to accurately compare costs and service offerings.
Calculate Moving Costs
How Much Does Using a Moving Company Cost?
Moving across the country can be expensive. After talking to dozens of movers operating across the U.S., we found that the average homeowner pays about $1,000 to $7,500 when moving a long distance. The specific price you’ll pay will depend on the specifics of your move and the resources required.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Moving
Knowing the factors that affect moving costs can help you manage expenses when hiring a team. The following are a few of the most common factors influencing the price you’ll pay to move.
Distance Traveled
The total distance of your move will play a significant role in your pricing and is the most important factor when it comes to cost. If you’re moving across the country, your mover must register with the FMCSA, which comes with training and insurance requirements that add to the company’s expenses. Long-distance moves also require more personnel to complete and more money for fuel and tolls. The more miles between your current home and your new property, the higher your move price.
Home Size
The size of your property and the total weight of your moving load also play a role in the moving price. The larger your home, the more likely you will have multiple pieces of heavy furniture or more things to load. Heavier items require the moving company to schedule more movers to assist in loading and can add time to your move.
If you own a larger home, you could pay more for your moving services because you’re more likely to have a more intensive move. However, you can try downsizing before your move by getting rid of possessions you no longer need to lower the final cost of moving services.
Moving Services
The type and extent of moving services you require will affect the cost. If you opt for a full-service move, you are likely to pay thousands of dollars more for your move due to increased planning and personnel requirements. You can save money by packing and wrapping your furniture before your moving team arrives.
Time of Year
The time of year when you move also affects the price. If you’re moving on the weekend or during the summer, expect to pay more for your moving services since the demand is higher. You will also pay more if you book your moving services on the weekend — another time when movers tend to be busier.
Insurance Coverage
Moving companies operating between state lines must carry released value insurance coverage. This basic liability insurance entitles homeowners purchasing services with a moving company to $0.30 to $0.60 reimbursement per pound of possessions if damaged.
The weight-based calculation is disadvantageous for homeowners because it doesn’t consider a damaged item’s value. For example, no matter if your 50-pound Ikea dresser or your 50-pound custom personal computer is damaged, you will receive $15 to $30 to cover a replacement. While this coverage is the most cost-effective option, it may not protect valuable or high-end items adequately.
Full-value protection is a more comprehensive and premium insurance option that provides better coverage for your belongings. Under this coverage, the moving company is responsible for repairing, replacing or reimbursing you for lost or damaged items at the current market value. If you’re planning to transport several expensive items, choosing full-value protection could be worth the cost.
How To Save Money on Movers
Depending on the company you work with, you could end up paying $3,000 or more for your move. However, there are some steps you can take to lower the cost of your move.
- Downsize: While you can’t control the distance of your move, you can control what you take with you. By downsizing your belongings, you may be able to opt for a cheaper moving service. In the weeks before your move, it can help to walk through your home and eliminate items that you don’t need. Local donation centers and thrift stores can help you unload some of your old things — and may even help you claim a tax deduction.
- Move during the off-season: If you can be flexible with your moving dates, consider moving during the off-season, which is the fall through early spring. Movers receive fewer requests for quotes during these months, which helps you access the best rates. If you need to move in the summer, it can help to schedule your move on a weekday rather than a weekend.
- Consider a moving container service: If a full-service moving company seems out of your budget, you can consider a moving container service like PODS or U-Haul U-Pack. These companies deliver a weatherproof storage container to your door, which you can load with your things on your own time. The container service will then deliver the loaded container to your new home for unloading. These services are more affordable than moving companies and help you avoid the hassle of driving a rented moving truck.
- Ask about employer assistance: If you’re moving for a job, check if your employer offers relocation assistance or reimbursements for moving expenses. Some companies offer a stipend to reduce the cost of the moving process, which can significantly reduce the cost of your move.
Every moving company uses a specific underwriting formula to determine how much to charge for your move. As a result, it is possible to find the exact same moving services from 10 companies and receive 10 different prices. We recommend getting a quote from multiple providers before booking your moving date.
Full-Service vs. Self-Service Movers
Other than moving truck rentals, there are two major types of moving companies in the current home movers market. To get a better understanding of what each type of move entails, read over the descriptions below.
Full-Service Movers
This type of mover is a good option for anyone who wants a moving company to handle practically all parts of their move. A full-service mover offers services such as furniture disassembly, packing, crating, loading, transportation, unloading, unpacking and furniture reassembly.
Often these companies can provide specialty services for difficult and fragile items, such as pianos and antiques. Customers can typically mix and match these services to create partial-service moving packages, which saves some money.
International Van Lines and American Van Lines are examples of full-service movers.
Self-Service Movers
A self-service mover is a better option for those looking to save money and those who enjoy taking the DIY approach. Self-service movers are also referred to as portable storage container movers.
This service model has the company deliver a portable storage container to your home, and you then load your belongings into that container in a certain time frame. Once your belongings are loaded, you notify the company when to pick up and deliver your belongings to your new home. You then unload the container at your own pace. This option tends to be significantly cheaper than full-service movers.
How To Prepare for a Move
Saving money on your move starts with early planning. By planning your move in advance, you can leave yourself with plenty of time to compare moving companies and options, helping you lock in the lowest rate. You can use the following checklist to make your way through the moving process.
- Create a moving timeline: Create a timeline that outlines tasks to complete each week leading up to your move.
- Declutter and downsize: Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell or discard. Getting rid of unnecessary items can help you save on your move.
- Set a budget: Determine your moving budget, including costs for hiring movers, packing supplies, transportation and any other related expenses.
- Get multiple quotes: If you’re working with a professional moving team, collect and compare quotes from at least three competing providers in your area.
- Choose a provider: After comparing quotes, choose a company to work with. Reconnect with a representative and finalize the details of your move. If you rent a moving truck, lock in your moving date and pay your deposit, if required.
- Pack an essentials bag: Prepare a box of items you’ll need during the first few days at your new home, including toiletries, clothes, important documents and basic kitchen supplies. The box will save you the hassle of fully unpacking after completing a big move.
- Pack and separate valuables: Start packing up your home as early as possible — ideally about two weeks before you need to get on the road. Separate important documents, jewelry and valuables to ensure their safety. It can also help to pack a box with items you’ll need on your first night in your new home, like bedding or toiletries.
- Prepare your utility services: Schedule the disconnection of utilities at your current home and arrange for connection at your new home on your moving day. Do the same with subscription services, magazines and other billables.
- Be present on moving day: When moving day arrives, your professional team will handle most of the heavy lifting. It helps to be present and active in the moving process, but you can leave most of the work to the movers.
- Unpack and explore your new home: Once your move is complete, you can begin the unpacking process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Companies
The most common factors moving companies use to determine cost include your moving dates, the total weight of your shipment, the overall distance of your move, truck parking access, the services you purchase and moving insurance plans. The average cost you should expect to pay for a full-service moving company is between $4,200 and $12,000 and between $1,000 and $7,500 for a self-service mover.
Though it depends on what you are looking for in a long-distance moving company, we find that Allied Van Lines is the most comprehensive mover on the market in terms of services, contents protection plans, availability and other extra perks.
Similar to other services, you are not required to tip your movers. You are already paying for their services. However, if you are particularly impressed with how your movers handled your move, then you may provide them a tip to show gratitude. We recommend between 5% and 15% of the total cost for a tip.
A contents protection plan acts as insurance for your belongings while they are in transit. Every moving company is required by law to provide at least two moving insurance options. A popular option is to receive 60¢ per pound for your belongings. This means if any damages occur, you receive 60¢ in reimbursement for each pound your belongings weighed.
This can be problematic for expensive yet lightweight items such as computers and other electronics. This is why many companies offer a full-value coverage plan. This plan allows you to receive reimbursement based on the declared value of your items. This option makes the process of filing a claim and getting proper reimbursement easier.
We recommend setting aside roughly three to five days, depending on the number of belongings you own, to properly pack everything in your home.
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