Local moving companies in Portland
Out of 9 Portland movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to South Dakota.
- Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1846942
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TMT Portland, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Bisson Moving & Storage Company , Bisson I & R Commercial Services , Bisson I & R Document Security , Bisson Transportation
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 38
DOT #: 070851
Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines , Allen & Coles Moving System
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 626233
Alternate Names: Tiny Tims Moving & Trucking, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Portland, ME
Here’s how many movers in Portland include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Portland, ME to South Dakota
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Portland to South Dakota with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,392 – $5,732 | $1,056 – $2,825 | $1,057 – $2,078 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,797 – $7,577 | $2,038 – $4,175 | $1,168 – $2,375 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,394 – $12,033 | $2,654 – $5,508 | $1,371 – $2,906 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,828-mile move from Portland, ME, to South Dakota using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Portland to South Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Portland to South Dakota, you can expect prices to land between $1,392 and $5,732. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,797 to $7,577 for the trip from Portland to SD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,394 and $12,033.
Cost of moving containers from Portland to South Dakota
Moving containers from Portland to South Dakota will cost you $1,056 to $2,825 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,038 to $4,175. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,654 to $5,508. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Portland.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,057 and $2,078 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Portland to South Dakota with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,168 to $2,375. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,371 to $2,906.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Portland to SD
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Portland:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Portland fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Portland to SD
Making the switch from Portland to South Dakota might mean adjusting to a new lifestyle while possibly saving money. Since Portland is known for its higher expenses, this switch could lead to a more affordable living situation.
Take a look at the cost of living breakdown below to see exactly how Portland and South Dakota stack up so you’ll be ready for what’s ahead.
Compare cost of living: Portland vs. South Dakota
| Portland, ME | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,991 | $878 |
| Average home cost | $542,001 | $306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,171 | $69,457 |
| Cost of living index | 112 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 1.9% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 0.0% |
South Dakota sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In South Dakota, rent is about 56% lower than in Portland, making housing easier on your budget.
- Homes in South Dakota are about 43% less expensive than in Portland, leaving you with a lighter mortgage.
- On average, incomes in South Dakota run 8% above Portland, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- Expect the cost of living in South Dakota to be about 11% below Portland, giving you more financial flexibility.
- South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than Portland by about 63%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- South Dakota has no income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Maine.
How life is different in Portland, ME from South Dakota
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in South Dakota stacks up against what you’re used to in Portland.
| Portland, ME | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 68,408 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Republican 50-48 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 11ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 49″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 61″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 32.16 | 21.14 |
South Dakota Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Portland and South Dakota voted Republican.
- Summertime peak temperatures in South Dakota can reach as high as 85ºF, making the heat noticeably more intense than in Portland, where summer highs usually hit 79ºF. Prepare for extra sun, lively activities outdoors, and possibly elevated cooling bills as you adapt to the warmer setting.
- Winter lows are nearly identical, averaging 7ºF in South Dakota and 11ºF in Portland. With so little difference, your move shouldn’t disrupt your cold-weather lifestyle.
- In South Dakota, you’ll get only about 23 inches of rain per year, versus 49 inches in Portland. Less rain means more sunshine, more time outdoors, and fewer weather-related concerns.
- In South Dakota, you’ll get about 39 inches of snow each year, far less than Portland. That means moving to South Dakota will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
- South Dakota records a lower crime rate (21.14) than Portland (32.16), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Other considerations when moving to South Dakota
When you’re moving from Portland to South Dakota, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in South Dakota, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to South Dakota. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, South Dakota has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University
FAQ
How long does a move from Portland to South Dakota take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Portland, ME, to South Dakota? Most moves on this route usually take five to 16 days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are seven movers in Portland that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Portland moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Portland to South Dakota?
Need to get your car from Portland to South Dakota? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Portland to South Dakota car shippers.
Why are people moving from Portland to South Dakota?
Many people are moving to South Dakota because of its outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to South Dakota.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Portland?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Portland.
Can I pay for my move from Portland, ME, with cash?
There are three movers in Portland that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
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