The Best Long-Distance Movers in South Milwaukee, WI
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The best long-distance mover in South Milwaukee, WI is Dreiske Moving & Storage (4.5/5 stars) for in-state moves and Safeway Moving (4.9/5 stars) for moves out of Wisconsin, per moveBuddha's analysis of 39 Wisconsin movers and 2,556 verified customer reviews. Interstate costs across Wisconsin range from $813 for a 1-bedroom to $2,804 for a 4-bedroom home.
Planning a long-distance move from South Milwaukee right now: Peak summer moving season. The 4th of July is one of the busiest interstate moving weekends of the year; rates spike and carrier capacity tightens sharply. If your move is scheduled around the holiday, you should already have a binding estimate locked in. If not, act quickly and be prepared to be flexible on exact dates.
Who are the best interstate movers serving South Milwaukee, WI?
National carriers operate dedicated long-haul networks, carry active FMCSA authority, and price moves by weight and mileage, the standard model for cross-state relocations. moveBuddha reviewed 24 full-service interstate movers serving South Milwaukee, drawing on 2,556 verified customer reviews across South Milwaukee.
Safeway Moving was named the top-rated interstate mover for South Milwaukee based on moveBuddha's independent analysis.
Who are the best long-distance movers in South Milwaukee, WI for in-state moves?
moveBuddha reviewed 15 local movers serving South Milwaukee licensed for long-distance moves within Wisconsin, drawing on 2,556 verified customer reviews across South Milwaukee. Dreiske Moving & Storage (4.5/5) was named the top-rated South Milwaukee-based mover based on moveBuddha's independent analysis. 14 of the 15 movers offer full packing services, which can reduce the physical load of a longer in-state move.
Full rankings for local long-distance movers serving South Milwaukee are listed below.
Below are moveBuddha's top picks for long-distance movers that serve South Milwaukee but stay within Wisconsin:
- Dreiske Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Shur-Way Moving and Cartage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Federal Companies: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage Co: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Efficient service
Helpful movers
Quick moving process
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Dreiske Moving & Storage has been in business for many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Dreiske Moving & Storage has about 84% positive reviews across roughly 263 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.8.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Dreiske Moving & Storage.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Dreiske Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Excellent, professional service! The gentlemen from Dreiske Moving took special care with our treasured belongings. The whole crew rocked it! We are extremely thankful and pleased!"
"The move team was very thoughtful and experienced with fragile, antiques and everyday goods. The office team is equally enjoyable to work with – helpful, practical and attentive. Highly recommend!"
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Efficient service
Quick moving process
Highly recommended
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Shur-Way Moving and Cartage has been in business for 71 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and international moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Shur-Way Moving and Cartage has about 79% positive reviews across roughly 274 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Shur-Way Moving and Cartage.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Shur-Way Moving and Cartage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The crew was super efficient and handled my items with care. They were friendly and professional, making our move stress-free. Would definitely recommend them to anyone needing reliable movers!"
"Shur-Way made our cross-country move easy. Prompt, careful packing, excellent communication, and everything arrived intact. No hidden fees, and they finished under estimate. Highly recommended!"
Professional and polite staff
Efficient service
Good communication
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Federal Companies has been in business for 113 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Federal Companies has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 197 total reviews.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Federal Companies.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Federal Companies emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
From start to finish, everyone was professional, helpful, and exceeded expectations. Excellent service and communication—highly recommend Federal Companies!
Our move was stress-free. The movers arrived on time, were very efficient, and handled our belongings carefully. Would highly recommend!
Professional and polite staff
Efficient service
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Transparent pricing
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Eagle Moving & Storage Co has been in business for 96 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Eagle Moving & Storage Co has about 76% positive reviews across roughly 156 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Eagle Moving & Storage Co.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Eagle Moving & Storage Co emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"My experience with the staff at Eagle Movers was top rated. The men were pleasant, friendly and extremely hard workers. They took pride in their work and handled all of my belongings with care."
"Highly recommend! This was my 4th time hiring Eagle Movers. They moved my piano and treadmill when others would not. Very polite and respectful too."
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Good communication
Efficient service
Highly recommended
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. has been in business for 79 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. has about 75% positive reviews across roughly 92 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.6.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Schroeder Moving Systems Inc..
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
From start to finish, I've had an excellent experience with schroeder. I never had to worry or think about anything, they took care of everything without a hitch. Moving staff were experienced and friendly. Everything was absolutely perfect.
Schroeder Moving delivered our household goods for a relocation. They were prompt, courteous, professional and very responsive to our needs. This was a coast to coast relocation so there were a lot of moving parts. We would highly recommend!
How moveBuddha rates movers: Every company on this page is scored against 5 criteria: USDOT/FMCSA licensing status, review quality (weighted by recency and volume), quote accuracy verified through submitted moves, pricing transparency (binding vs. non-binding estimates), and customer service responsiveness. No mover pays to appear in these rankings. This reflects moveBuddha's independent analysis of 39 Wisconsin moving companies.
moveBuddha tracks pricing and mover performance across thousands of routes out of Wisconsin. Find your exact moving route →
What add-on services do South Milwaukee, WI movers offer?
Not every mover in South Milwaukee offers specialty services. Based on moveBuddha's review of 15 South Milwaukee movers, here is what is available and how often:
- Art handling: offered by 33% of South Milwaukee movers, compared to 33% statewide and 46% nationally. Top pick: Dreiske Moving & Storage.
- Junk removal: offered by 60% of South Milwaukee movers, compared to 56% statewide and 36% nationally. Top pick: Schroeder Moving Systems Inc..
- Fragile-only packing: offered by 20% of South Milwaukee movers, compared to 23% statewide and 24% nationally. Top pick: Federal Companies.
- Storage: offered by 100% of South Milwaukee movers, compared to 72% statewide and 85% nationally. Top pick: Dreiske Moving & Storage.
- Hot tub relocation: offered by 7% of South Milwaukee movers, compared to 15% statewide and 22% nationally. Top pick: Shur-Way Moving and Cartage.
- Piano moving: offered by 60% of South Milwaukee movers, compared to 64% statewide and 73% nationally. Top pick: Dreiske Moving & Storage.
Does South Milwaukee have movers that offer art handling?
Art handling is available from 5 of 15 South Milwaukee movers (33.33%), compared to 33.33% statewide and 45.9% nationally. Dreiske Moving & Storage (4.5/5) and Shur-Way Moving and Cartage (4.48/5) rate highest for art handling in South Milwaukee.
| Art handling in South Milwaukee | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated South Milwaukee providers |
Dreiske Moving & Storage
Shur-Way Moving and Cartage |
| Per-piece handling fee | $44 to $440 |
| Custom crating per item | $132 to $176 |
| What to ask | Confirm experience with your specific medium (oil, sculpture, photography, etc.); general fine art credentials vary widely |
Standard blankets do not protect framed artwork or sculpture against UV exposure, humidity fluctuation, or impact fractures. Custom crates and archival packing are the baseline, not an upgrade. Ask any art mover for references specific to the media you are moving before signing.
Does South Milwaukee have movers that offer junk removal?
Junk removal is available from 9 of 15 South Milwaukee movers (60.0%). Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. (4.38/5) and TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.36/5) rate highest in South Milwaukee.
| Junk removal in South Milwaukee | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated South Milwaukee providers | Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK |
| Typical cost per load | $132 to $440 |
| Single large item | $66 to $132 |
| What to ask | Confirm the service covers electronics and appliances; some movers exclude them from standard junk removal pricing |
Items removed before a weight-based quote is locked in lower the base moving rate. Movers offering bundled junk removal can clear furniture and appliances on load day. Confirm they cover electronics and appliances before booking.
Does South Milwaukee have movers that offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 3 of 15 South Milwaukee movers (20.0%). Federal Companies (4.48/5) and Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. (4.38/5) rate highest in South Milwaukee.
| Fragile-only packing in South Milwaukee | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated South Milwaukee providers | Federal Companies Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. |
| Full professional packing rate | $0.15 to $0.21 per pound |
| What to ask | Confirm the mover's valuation policy covers fragile-only packed items; some companies exclude liability for items their crew did not pack |
Fragile-only packing applies professional packing only to dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps (the items that account for most in-transit breakage claims) without the cost of a full-service contract. moveBuddha's how to pack breakables guide is useful if you're handling any items yourself.
Does South Milwaukee have movers that offer storage?
Storage is available from 15 of 15 South Milwaukee movers (100.0%). Dreiske Moving & Storage (4.5/5) and Shur-Way Moving and Cartage (4.48/5) rate highest in South Milwaukee.
| Storage in South Milwaukee | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated South Milwaukee providers | Dreiske Moving & Storage Shur-Way Moving and Cartage |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $226 |
| 2–3 bedroom monthly estimate (~1,000 cu ft) | $440 |
| What to ask | Confirm the billing start date and whether valuation coverage stays active during the storage period |
Storage-in-transit is priced at about $0.50 per cubic foot per month, roughly $226/month for a 1-bedroom load. Verify the billing start date and whether coverage remains active during the storage period before signing.
Does South Milwaukee have movers that offer hot tub relocation?
Hot tub relocation is available from 1 of 15 South Milwaukee movers (6.67%). Shur-Way Moving and Cartage (4.48/5) and Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. (4.38/5) rate highest in South Milwaukee.
| Hot tub relocation in South Milwaukee | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated South Milwaukee providers | Shur-Way Moving and Cartage Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. |
| Bundled with full-service move | $132 to $352 |
| Standalone hot tub move | $264 to $704 |
| What to ask | Confirm full drainage is required before pickup and whether tight backyard access may add a crane or shuttle relay fee |
Hot tubs weigh 500 to 1,000 lbs empty and require full drainage before pickup. Bundling into a full-service move is almost always cheaper than a standalone specialty carrier. See moveBuddha's guide on how to move a hot tub for what to expect.
Does South Milwaukee have movers that offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 9 of 15 South Milwaukee movers (60.0%). Dreiske Moving & Storage (4.5/5) and Shur-Way Moving and Cartage (4.48/5) rate highest in South Milwaukee.
| Piano moving in South Milwaukee | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated South Milwaukee providers | Dreiske Moving & Storage Shur-Way Moving and Cartage |
| Upright piano | $704 to $1,320 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,056 to $2,200 |
| Grand piano | $1,584 to $3,080 |
| What to ask | Confirm the crew carries piano boards and rigging straps, and request full valuation coverage; standard released-value protection covers damage at only $0.60/lb |
Uprights run 400 to 800 lbs and grands top 1,200 lbs, both beyond what standard moving equipment handles safely. Piano boards, padded blankets, and rigging straps are required. moveBuddha's piano mover guide covers what to look for when vetting a crew.
Who are the best movers in South Milwaukee, WI for small long-distance moves?
Federal Companies leads South Milwaukee's small-move providers with a 4.48/5 moveBuddha score, followed by Eagle Moving & Storage Co at 4.48/5. DIY options like moving containers and rental trucks reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving and are worth comparing for loads under 3,000 pounds.
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DIY options for your South Milwaukee, WI long-distance move
Labor-only movers and rental trucks are the 2 most cost-effective alternatives to full-service moving, reducing total cost by roughly 30% for South Milwaukee residents who can handle their own loading or driving.
What are the best labor-only movers in South Milwaukee?
10 of 15 South Milwaukee movers (66.67%) offer labor-only services, compared to 48.72% statewide and 54.51% nationally. Eagle Moving & Storage Co (4.48/5) is moveBuddha's top-rated labor-only mover in South Milwaukee, followed by Brothers Moving & Storage (4.26/5).
Labor-only movers handle loading and unloading without providing a truck, making them the right fit for South Milwaukee residents who plan to drive themselves or who have rented their own vehicle. Combining a labor-only crew with a rental truck or moving container reduces total move cost by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's pricing dataset.
What are the best moving truck rentals for long-distance South Milwaukee moves?
Budget Truck Rental, Penske Truck Rental, and U-Haul Truck Rental are moveBuddha's top-rated rental truck options for a DIY move out of South Milwaukee. A truck rental is the cheapest way to move out of state for those willing to handle both the loading and the driving. For moves over 500 miles, a local mover and a national mover price a rental truck the same, so distance alone does not change which provider to choose.
Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to compare total DIY costs against container and full-service quotes before committing.
What are the best moving containers for long-distance moves from South Milwaukee, WI?
PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and U-Pack (5.0/5) are moveBuddha's top-rated container options for moves out of South Milwaukee. Moving containers reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, making them the most cost-effective option for South Milwaukee residents who can handle their own loading and unloading.
Container pricing varies by distance, container size, and the number of units required, so use the moveBuddha cost calculator to compare quotes for your specific move before committing to a provider.
What to know before booking a long-distance mover in South Milwaukee, WI
- Property access: Hillside properties, high-rise buildings, and gated communities may require a shuttle truck, elevator booking, or a COI from your mover. Flag any access restrictions when requesting quotes so movers can price them accurately.
- Timing: Avoid booking the last week of any month (high demand) and peak summer weekends. Fall and winter moves typically offer better rates and availability.
- USDOT verification: Interstate moves require a USDOT-registered carrier. Verify credentials at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov before signing anything.
How much does it cost to hire long-distance movers in South Milwaukee, WI?
Moving costs across Wisconsin range from $643 for a studio (2 movers, 3 hours at $170/hour) to $4,202 for a 5+ bedroom home (5 movers, 10 hours), according to moveBuddha's analysis of Wisconsin mover quotes. The table below shows Wisconsin statewide averages by home size. For city-specific data, see moving costs in South Milwaukee. Your actual cost will vary based on distance, access conditions, and your mover's pricing model.
Use our free moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate for your move.
| Home size | Estimated interstate cost from Wisconsin* |
|---|---|
| Studio apartment | $643 |
| 1-bedroom home or apartment | $813 |
| 2-bedroom home or apartment | $1,187 |
| 3-bedroom home | $2,471 |
| 4-bedroom home | $2,804 |
| 5+ bedroom home | $4,202 |
*Estimated costs above are based on varying types of moves that cross state lines in Wisconsin. All exceed 150 miles, but might remain below 1,500. Your price depends on inventory, distance, timing, service level, and more.
Data reflects Wisconsin statewide averages based on moveBuddha's analysis of mover quotes collected.
What affects moving costs in South Milwaukee?
Here are some additional cost considerations for your long-distance South Milwaukee move:
- Distance: The farther you move from South Milwaukee, the more you pay. A short intrastate move costs far less than a cross-country relocation. Once you cross state lines, pricing structure changes entirely and costs rise considerably.
- Home size and weight: Movers price local moves by the hour and interstate moves by total shipment weight. Downsizing before your move reduces both your bill and your packing time.
- Move type: Full-service movers handle everything but cost the most. DIY options like rental trucks or moving containers reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service, according to moveBuddha data.
- Add-on services: Professional packing adds an average of $0.15–$0.21 per pound. Shuttle service, if required, adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums often starting around $200.
- Timing: Summer moves (May through September) carry the highest rates. Mid-month and mid-week bookings are consistently cheaper than weekend or month-end dates.
Final Verdict: Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in South Milwaukee, WI
| Mover | MB Score | Best For | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safeway Moving | 4.9/5 | Interstate moves out of Wisconsin | National carrier |
| American Van Lines | 4.9/5 | Interstate, value option | National carrier |
| Dreiske Moving & Storage | 4.5/5 | In-state long-distance moves | Local mover |
| Shur-Way Moving and Cartage | 4.48/5 | In-state alternative | Local mover |
| Federal Companies | 4.48/5 | Small loads under 3,000 lbs | Local mover |
| Units Moving and Portable Storage | 4.3/5 | Self-pack, ~30% savings vs. full-service | Moving container |
| Budget Truck Rental | 4.3/5 | DIY driving, lowest cost option | Rental truck |
How to book a long-distance mover from South Milwaukee, WI
A step-by-step guide to verifying credentials, comparing carriers, and booking a reliable long-distance move from South Milwaukee, WI.
- Verify USDOT / FMCSA registration. Confirm every carrier's USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov before signing. Of the 15 movers moveBuddha tracks in South Milwaukee, 11 hold active FMCSA interstate authorization.
- Confirm binding vs non-binding estimate. Ask whether your estimate is binding, non-binding, or not-to-exceed. A binding or not-to-exceed estimate locks your price; non-binding estimates can increase at delivery based on actual weight or services added.
- Request a COI if your building requires it. If your building requires a certificate of insurance (COI), request one from your mover at least 2 weeks before move day. Most licensed interstate carriers provide COIs at no extra charge when given building requirements upfront.
- Compare national carriers vs in-state movers. Compare national carriers serving South Milwaukee against in-state long-distance movers. National carriers suit cross-state routes; local carriers often cost less for moves within Wisconsin.
- Book 4–6 weeks ahead during peak season. Book at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead for peak-season moves (May through September). Summer calendars fill fast and rates run 15% to 25% higher than off-peak months.
- Get a route-specific cost estimate. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a route-specific long-distance estimate for your South Milwaukee, WI move. Interstate costs from Wisconsin range from $643 for a studio to $4,202 for a 5+ bedroom home.
Long-distance moving from South Milwaukee, WI: frequently asked questions
What licenses does a long-distance mover in South Milwaukee need?
11 of the 15 movers moveBuddha has reviewed in South Milwaukee hold a valid FMCSA registration and USDOT number, the 2 federal credentials required before any company can transport household goods across state lines. All movers recommended on this page carry both. Confirm any company's status independently in the FMCSA's carrier database.
The FMCSA's Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move covers what to expect during an interstate move and what protections apply at every stage.
Should I hire locally or go national when moving from South Milwaukee?
Local South Milwaukee movers offer the best value for moves within Wisconsin, across the 15 movers moveBuddha has reviewed in the area. 11 of those hold FMCSA interstate authorization for cross-state routes. The top-rated options on this page cover both.
For moves that cross into another state, national carriers bring purpose-built long-distance logistics, a meaningful advantage when coordinating a move over a long distance.
When is the cheapest time of year to move away from South Milwaukee?
Movers in South Milwaukee run slowest in November and December, when temperatures drop to an average low of 13°F and moving demand falls well below its summer peak. Reduced competition for mover calendars creates a genuine window to push back on the initial estimate. Off-peak moves in South Milwaukee typically come with better availability and shorter booking lead times than any other time of year.
What are the cheapest ways to move out of South Milwaukee?
DIY moving is the most affordable option out of South Milwaukee, especially within 50 miles. moveBuddha's research shows that rental trucks and moving containers reduce costs by roughly 30% versus full-service movers. The cheapest options are renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. For longer moves, our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state covers additional cost-cutting strategies.
Will my South Milwaukee apartment building require a COI from the movers?
Multi-unit buildings, condos, and managed communities in South Milwaukee frequently require a certificate of insurance (COI) from any moving company working on the property. Ask your building management what coverage limits and additional insured language they require, then confirm your mover can match them before booking. Request the COI at least 10 to 14 business days before your move.
Do South Milwaukee movers charge extra for hills, narrow streets, or elevator buildings?
They can. Shuttle fees apply when a full-size truck cannot access your property, common for hillside homes, narrow residential streets, and properties with tight turns. High-rise elevator buildings may also charge a long-carry fee if the elevator is far from truck parking. Disclose all access conditions when getting quotes: a mover who knows about constraints upfront will price them into the original estimate rather than adding a surcharge at delivery.
Your next step for a long-distance move from South Milwaukee, WI
The best starting point is 3 quotes from licensed movers. moveBuddha's top picks are Dreiske Moving & Storage for in-state moves and Safeway Moving for interstate relocations. Confirm USDOT/FMCSA credentials for any company you consider, ask for a binding estimate, and book at least 4 weeks ahead. moveBuddha has reviewed 15 South Milwaukee movers so every recommendation on this page has been independently vetted.
