Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,166) Cost to Move From Boston, MA to Detroit, MI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 705 mile move from Boston to Detroit, costs typically range from $542 to $5,472. Plan for the travel time to be around one–six days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Boston to Detroit

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Boston to Detroit

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Boston to Detroit, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 86 interstate moving companies located in Boston, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Detroit seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Boston to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 705-mile move from Boston to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,538 – $4,212
  • Moving Container $1,042 – $1,781
  • Rental Truck $517 – $942
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,254 – $5,472
  • Moving Container $1,312 – $2,699
  • Rental Truck $542 – $1,187
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,691 – $7,962
  • Moving Container $1,704 – $3,239
  • Rental Truck $678 – $1,301
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
North American Van Lines
Braintree, MA Lake Angelus, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Groton, MA South Rockwood, MI
3 Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
The Pinehills, MA Highland Park, MI
Studio apartment
Oct 15, 2025
Safeway Moving
Ashland, MA Taylor, MI
4 Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
American Van Lines
Lunenburg, MA Keego Harbor, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 26, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Needham, MA Rochester, MI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 21, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Acton, MA Estral Beach, MI
Studio apartment
Aug 30, 2025
Roadway Moving
Brockton, MA St. Clair Shores, MI
Studio apartment
Aug 17, 2025
BLVD Moving
Littleton, MA South Lyon, MI
3 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
United Van Lines
Stoneham, MA Beverly Hills, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 07, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Detroit, MI to Boston, MA guide.

The best local movers for Boston to Detroit moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Boston that also handles long-distance moves to Detroit. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 96 local movers in Boston who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Boston to Detroit.

  1. Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Michael’s Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Poseidon Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Esquire Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  5. Flash Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.0% of all reviews were positive
3.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Boston Best Rate Movers earns applause for its swift, careful, and professional moving teams. Out of 248 pieces of customer feedback, 96% praised factors like efficiency, attention to detail, professionalism, timely arrivals, and budget-friendly rates. Customers often highlight careful wrapping, fast-paced teams, courteous staff, and straightforward pricing that rarely incurs surprises. Users also welcome the ease of the booking process and the respectful treatment of property—qualities that place BBRM ahead of many local competitors. Only a handful of reviewers express frustration with unexpected costs, item damage, or unsatisfactory complaint resolution, noting higher-than-expected bills, difficult claims processes, or unresolved breakage issues. Even so, Boston Best Rate Movers consistently delivers an experience that exceeds expectations for reliability and service quality compared to other movers in the Boston area.
Get a Quote (617) 787-3528

Company Info

State license #: 31391

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1718049

Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate 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
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.1% of all reviews were positive
7.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Unmatched speed and care highlight Michael’s Moving & Storage, according to 392 pieces of customer feedback. With 91% positive reviews, most clients praise their efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, speedy moves, and strong communication. Many compare the experience favorably to larger moving companies, mentioning that Michael’s often charges less while delivering above-average quality. Movers regularly impress with polite, friendly attitudes and attention to detail, which takes much of the stress out of moving days. Several customers highlight a fast, smooth booking process, and many note moves were completed ahead of schedule or within estimated timeframes. Pricing is viewed as fair and transparent by the majority, though a handful report discrepancies. Negative feedback, about 8% of reviews, centers on property damage, late deliveries, and unexpected charges. A small number struggled with compensation for damaged or lost items or felt poorly informed about costs. Only a tiny fraction describe communication lapses or claim mishandling. Compared to most moving services, Michael’s stands out for repeated praise and customer loyalty, though long-distance or complex moves carry higher risk for delays or complications.
Get a Quote (617) 782-9811

Company Info

State license #: 30293

Pricing: $199/hr

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 782104

Alternate Names: Michael’s Moving & Storage, Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
55.1% of all reviews were positive
42.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers are divided on Poseidon Moving, with 49 reviews yielding 55% positive input. Many highlight the professionalism of the movers, efficient service, careful handling, competitive pricing, and responsive communication. Staff are repeatedly described as friendly, hardworking, and capable of handling challenging moves with care. On the other hand, nearly 43% of client feedback details concerns about damaged items, difficulty reaching the company, or late arrivals and deliveries. Damage to belongings is a recurring theme, with some reports of claims or customer service issues going unresolved. Compared to other moving services, Poseidon stands out for affordability and staff quality but faces criticism for service reliability and post-move support. These patterns suggest Poseidon is an option for those focused on budget and friendly movers, but customers who prioritize reliability and damage-free delivery may want to evaluate alternatives or take extra precautions.
Get a Quote (617) 470-9950

Company Info

State license #: 31816

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2522855

Alternate Names: Poseidon Moving, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.8% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn’t have to be stressful, as shown by Esquire Moving & Storage’s customer feedback. Of 16 reviews analyzed, 93.8% praised fast and careful service, courteous movers, efficient scheduling, and clear communication. Clients noted excellent care with breakables, friendly crews, and easy booking every step of the way. Many appreciated timely arrivals and efficient work, reflecting well-planned moves and attentive staff. Some even mentioned repeat positive experiences and highly recommend the company for both local and interstate moves. One customer noted higher costs due to slow progress and perceived inefficiency, expressing dissatisfaction specific to a single event. Compared to other companies, Esquire stands out for consistently professional movers and careful attention to clients’ property, but those seeking the lowest rates should confirm pricing transparency beforehand.
Get a Quote (617) 952-1505

Company Info

Pricing: $115/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2820253

Alternate Names: Esquire Moving Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
98.8% of all reviews were positive
1.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Flash Moving leaves customers impressed by their speed, professionalism, and careful attention to belongings. From the 83 feedback submissions, 98.8% expressed satisfaction, while just one review highlighted dissatisfaction. Most clients praise efficient service, friendly staff, and a truly seamless process—all at transparent prices. Highly recommended status appears repeatedly. Customers often mention reliable, skilled team members who handle challenging moves and heavy items with ease. The standout complaint focuses on unexpected extra charges and slow resolution of billing issues, suggesting improvements in pricing clarity and customer follow-up could further distinguish Flash Moving. Compared to many moving companies, customer input shows Flash Moving consistently outperforms in efficiency and professionalism, but must maintain vigilance in their billing practices to ensure trust.
Get a Quote (857) 241-8778

Company Info

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3025065

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Boston to Detroit?

The average hourly rate for movers in Massachusetts is $126. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,166 – $3,527 $692 – $1,853 $502 – $914
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,254 – $5,472 $1,312 – $2,699 $542 – $1,187
4+ bedrooms $3,691 – $7,962 $1,704 – $3,239 $678 – $1,301
*Approximate cost ranges for a 705-mile move from Boston to Detroit are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Boston to Detroit

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Boston to Detroit will cost between $1,166 and $3,527. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Boston to Boston will range from $2,254 to $5,472, and a large move from Boston to Detroit will cost from $3,691 to $7,962.

Cost of moving containers from Boston to Detroit

If you’re moving from Boston to Detroit, expect to pay between $692 and $1,853 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,312 up to $2,699. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,704 and $3,239. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Massachusetts.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Boston to Detroit

Renting a moving truck from Boston to Detroit is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $502 and $914. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $542 and $1,187. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $678 up to $1,301 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Boston to Detroit

The cost of Boston movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,849, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,431.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Boston, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($502–$1,194) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Boston to Detroit

Many movers find Detroit easier on the wallet than Boston – roughly 48% less for singles and 41% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,500 for one person in Detroit versus $4,820 in Boston. For a family of four, it’s $6,687 compared with $11,304.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Boston Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $3,361 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $5,973 $2,542
Average home value $739,121 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $89,212 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $4,820 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $11,304 $6,687
Unemployment rate 6.2% 9.06%
Sales tax 6.25% 6.0%
State income tax 9.0% 4.25%
  • If you’re heading to Detroit from Boston, you’ll find that rent is roughly 63% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 90% less in Detroit than in Boston.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 58% lower in Detroit compared to Boston.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Detroit. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 48% lower than in Boston.
  • Choosing to move to Detroit can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 41% less than in Boston.
  • In Detroit, the unemployment rate is approximately 46% higher than in Boston, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes show little difference between Detroit and Boston (around 5%), making it one less financial concern for your move.
  • Income taxes are 53% less in Michigan than in Massachusetts. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Boston and Detroit:

Living Expense Boston Detroit
Basic utilities $203.15 $251.12
Cell phone plan $57.53 $55.77
Dozen eggs $4.71 $3.52
Loaf of bread $4.07 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $135.00 $68.50
Gym membership $77.50 $43.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Boston than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Boston than in Detroit.
  • Eggs cost more in Boston than in Detroit.
  • Bread is more expensive in Boston than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Boston than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Boston than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Boston than in Detroit.

How life is different in Boston vs. Detroit

Boston Detroit
Population 675,647 639,111
Transportation score 9 7
Walkability score 98 51
Bike friendliness score 86 52
Crime index 39.88 72.92
Safety index 60.12 27.08
Air quality Good Good
  • Detroit’s population is within about 5% of Boston, so they’re very similar in size.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Boston’s score of 9.
  • Detroit is less walkable than Boston with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Boston’s 98 out of 100.
  • Detroit has a bike-friendliness score of 52 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Boston, which has a score of 86.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Boston with a score of 72.92 compared to Boston’s 39.88. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Boston neighborhoods are safer than 39.88%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Boston with a score of 27.08 vs Boston’s 60.12.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Boston it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Boston to Detroit move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Michigan doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Detroit. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Detroit

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to America’s Comeback City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Detroit.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Corktown
  • Brush Park
  • Woodbridge
  • Downtown
  • Lafayette Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Sherwood Forest
  • Palmer Woods
  • University District
  • Corktown
  • Lafayette Park

Things to do in Detroit

Once you’re settled into your new home in Michigan, it’s time to get out and discover what Detroit has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Detroit, such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Boston to Detroit?

The best time to move from Boston to Detroit is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Boston.

When is the cheapest time to move from Boston to Detroit?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Boston to Detroit, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Boston to Detroit take?

Moving from Boston, MA to Detroit, covers 705 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Boston movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Detroit.

Which movers in Boston give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 2 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Boston?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 86 movers in Boston advertise piano moving expertise. 57 movers in Boston provide antique moving services. State totals show 93 piano movers and 65 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle