Top-rated local movers that handle Cleveland to Knoxville moves
When planning a move from Cleveland to Knoxville, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 28 local movers in Cleveland who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.
Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Cleveland to Knoxville.
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Bright Eyed Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Weleski Transfer of Cleveland, Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Berger Allied Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 136562
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Alternate Names: Leaders Moving And Storage Company , L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 653905
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 157491
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 1657726
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00136482
Years in Business: 116
DOT #: 2508132
Alternate Names: Weleski – Fridrich Moving & Storage Cleveland Ohio , Weleski Transfer of Cleveland, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 144651-HG
Years in Business: 115
DOT #: 125665
Alternate Names: Berger Transfer & Storage International, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Cleveland to Knoxville?
Movers in Ohio charge $153 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,099 – $3,065 | $644 – $1,516 | $409 – $757 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,988 – $5,233 | $1,174 – $2,265 | $445 – $863 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,546 – $7,418 | $1,530 – $2,996 | $522 – $1,102 |
Cost to hire movers from Cleveland to Knoxville
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Cleveland to Knoxville, you can expect to spend between $1,099 and $3,065. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,988 to $5,233 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Cleveland to Knoxville typically runs between $3,546 and $7,418.
Cost of moving containers from Cleveland to Knoxville
When moving from Cleveland to Knoxville, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $644 and $1,516. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,174 to $2,265. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,530 up to $2,996. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Cleveland to Knoxville
Renting a moving truck in Cleveland is usually your cheapest option to get to Knoxville. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $409 and $757. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $445 and $863. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $522 and $1,102.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors that impact moving costs from Cleveland to Knoxville
The cost of Cleveland movers will depend on:
- The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,480, but larger homes can run up to $6,477.
- Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Cleveland.
- Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($409–$965) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.
What to know before moving from Cleveland to Knoxville
Many movers find Knoxville easier on the wallet than Cleveland – roughly 12% less for singles and 23% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,184 for one person in Knoxville versus $2,490 in Cleveland. For a family of four, it’s $5,200 compared with $6,729.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Cleveland | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,338 | $1,667 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,733 | $3,210 |
| Average home value | $108,509 | $350,035 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,965 | $61,050 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,490 | $2,184 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,729 | $5,200 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.8% | 4.7% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 9.25% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 0.0% |
- As you consider relocating to Knoxville, note that rent can be roughly 39% more expensive than it is in Cleveland; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 223% higher in Knoxville than in Cleveland.
- It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 6% less in Knoxville than in Cleveland.
- Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Knoxville, where the cost of living for a single person is 12% less than in Cleveland.
- Moving to Knoxville could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 23% less than in Cleveland.
- Knoxville experiences an unemployment rate that is about 31% lower than that of Cleveland. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
- Sales taxes are 16% higher in Knoxville than in Cleveland. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Cleveland with Knoxville:
| Living Expense | Cleveland | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $310.82 | $215.94 |
| Cell phone plan | $48.93 | $54.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.11 | $4.06 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.06 | $3.64 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $55.00 | $85.00 |
| Gym membership | $35.00 | $34.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Cleveland than in Knoxville.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Cleveland than in Knoxville.
- Eggs cost more in Cleveland than in Knoxville.
- Bread costs less in Cleveland than in Knoxville.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Cleveland than in Knoxville.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Cleveland than in Knoxville.
- Gym memberships cost more in Cleveland than in Knoxville.
How life is different in Cleveland vs. Knoxville
| Cleveland | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 372,624 | 190,740 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 57 | 31 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 30 |
| Crime index | 63.41 | 42.54 |
| Safety index | 36.59 | 57.46 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Knoxville’s population is about 49% less than Cleveland.
- Knoxville’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Cleveland’s score of 8.
- Knoxville is less walkable than Cleveland with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Cleveland’s 57 out of 100.
- Knoxville has a bike-friendliness score of 30 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Cleveland, which has a score of 52.
- Knoxville’s crime rate is lower than Cleveland with a score of 42.54 compared to Cleveland’s 63.41. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Cleveland neighborhoods are safer than 63.41%.
- Knoxville is considered to be safer than Cleveland with a safety index of 57.46 vs Cleveland’s 36.59.
- Air quality in Knoxville is Good, and in Cleveland it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Cleveland to Knoxville move
- HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
- 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 Tennessee, 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: While Tennessee doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Knoxville smoothly. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Knoxville
Now that you’ve chosen Marble City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Knoxville to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Farragut
- Oak Ridge
- Alcoa
- Maryville
- Seymour
- Lenoir City
- Louisville
- Eagleton Village
- Loudon
Best neighborhoods for families
- Farragut
- Oak Ridge
- Maryville
- Alcoa
- Louisville
- Loudon
- Clinton
Things to do in Knoxville
After getting comfortable in your new Tennessee home, it’s time to see what Knoxville is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Knoxville offers cultural landmarks like the Knoxville Museum of Art, East Tennesse Historical Society, Muse Knoxville, and Old Smoky Railway Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Lakeshore Park, World’s Fair Park, Krutch Park, and Fort Dickerson Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Tennessee Volunteers (SEC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Cleveland to Knoxville?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Cleveland to Knoxville are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Cleveland are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Cleveland to Knoxville?
Because spring and fall moves from Cleveland to Knoxville are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Cleveland to Knoxville take?
A move of 499 miles from Cleveland, OH to Knoxville, generally takes one to four days. Movers in Cleveland sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Knoxville is a good fallback if you need extra time.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Cleveland?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In Cleveland, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 1 extend savings to senior citizens.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Which movers in Cleveland offer piano or antique moving?
Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 17 movers in Cleveland have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 11 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across OH, there are 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.
Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Cleveland moving services
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