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($1,126) Movers from Detroit, MI to Chattanooga, TN

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Image of a moving truck going from Detroit to Chattanooga
Estimated cost & time: For a 620 mile move from Detroit to Chattanooga, costs typically range from $467 to $5,165. 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.
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ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I’m Ryan.
Let’s get moving.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.

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Best professional movers from Detroit to Chattanooga

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Detroit to Chattanooga, 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 28 interstate moving companies located in Detroit, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Chattanooga 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 Detroit to Chattanooga

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 620-mile move from Detroit to Chattanooga using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 22, 2026. 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 $1,337 – $3,853
  • Moving Container $907 – $1,652
  • Rental Truck $459 – $808
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,141 – $5,165
  • Moving Container $1,223 – $2,262
  • Rental Truck $467 – $950
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,767 – $7,577
  • Moving Container $1,633 – $3,015
  • Rental Truck $595 – $1,159
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
Romeo, MI Flat Top Mountain, TN
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 16, 2025
Safeway Moving
Algonac, MI East Ridge, TN
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 15, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Hazel Park, MI Calhoun, TN
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 15, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Plymouth, MI Gruetli-Laager, TN
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
Melvindale, MI Kimball, TN
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 08, 2025
United Van Lines
Troy, MI Powells Crossroads, TN
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 29, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Oxford, MI Dunlap, TN
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Oct 28, 2025
American Van Lines
South Rockwood, MI Jasper, TN
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Oct 21, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Saline, MI Charleston, TN
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 19, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Lake Angelus, MI Signal Mountain, TN
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 16, 2025

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

The best local movers for Detroit to Chattanooga moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Detroit that also handles long-distance moves to Chattanooga. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 37 local movers in Detroit 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 Detroit to Chattanooga.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Handy Relocations: 4.28 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors. Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, polite and professional staff, and speedy moving process. Movers consistently handle belongings with care while maintaining clear communication, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Most clients say workers are reliable, prompt, and attentive. People also mention transparent pricing and easy scheduling as standout features. On the flip side, a small number of clients report damages to furniture or property and say that the company is slow to address such issues. A few mention challenges reaching customer service or experiencing rude behavior. With 298 customer reviews analyzed—93% positive—College Hunks stands out as a top performer compared to many moving services, excelling in speed, professionalism, and efficiency, but occasional mishandling and follow-up hassles mean attention to claims can be improved.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive. Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
73% of all reviews were positive
24% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with O’Sullivan means fast work and respectful treatment of your belongings. Out of 320 pieces of feedback, 73% rated the company positively, reflecting efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and reasonable rates as standout features. Customers frequently compliment the team’s ability to move quickly while keeping items safe, and many say the pricing is budget-friendly compared to other movers in the area. The booking process is usually described as easy, with frequent recommendations citing trustworthy, hardworking crews. Some negative input highlights recurring problems: several clients reported damage to their items or property and faced slow responses or unreturned calls when seeking compensation. Unexpected or higher-than-expected charges also appear regularly in the negative feedback. In contrast to other movers, O’Sullivan receives high levels of repeat and referral business, pointing to a generally higher satisfaction rate but is also flagged for inconsistent resolution of claims. If customer communication and claims response matched their crews’ care and speed, customer satisfaction would likely be among the best in the region.
Get a Quote (800) 430-7881

Company Info

State license #: 20587

Years in Business: 42

DOT #: 1660642

Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Handy Relocations receives strong praise from most customers, with 85.9% providing positive feedback from 71 reviews analyzed. Shoppers appreciate professional staff, helpful movers, and clear communication throughout the process. Efficient service and upfront, transparent pricing stand out when compared to other companies, along with a reputation for going the extra mile to help customers find what they need. Negative feedback, though limited, points to issues like unexpected charges, challenges with the store’s availability, and marketing that some felt was misleading. Handy Relocations sets a high standard for customer service in the moving industry, though attention to billing accuracy and schedule consistency can further enhance the customer experience.
Get a Quote (313) 649-4917

Company Info

State license #: 39343

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3345697

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pay by credit card

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

The average hourly rate for movers in Michigan is . 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 $1,126 – $3,632 $698 – $1,669 $437 – $808
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,141 – $5,165 $1,223 – $2,262 $467 – $950
4+ bedrooms $3,767 – $7,577 $1,633 – $3,015 $595 – $1,159
*Approximate cost ranges for a 620-mile move from Detroit to Chattanooga are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 22, 2026. 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 Detroit to Chattanooga

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Chattanooga will cost between $1,126 and $3,632. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Detroit to Detroit will range from $2,141 to $5,165, and a large move from Detroit to Chattanooga will cost from $3,767 to $7,577.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Chattanooga

If you’re moving from Detroit to Chattanooga, expect to pay between $698 and $1,669 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,223 up to $2,262. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,633 and $3,015. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Chattanooga

Renting a moving truck from Detroit to Chattanooga 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 $437 and $808. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $467 and $950. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $595 up to $1,159 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Detroit to Chattanooga

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,772, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,485.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Detroit, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($437–$1,086) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Chattanooga

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chattanooga runs about 32% higher for singles and -35% higher for families than Detroit.

Singles spend around $3,300 in Detroit versus $2,500 in Detroit; families pay $4,350 compared with $6,687.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Detroit Chattanooga
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,517
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $3,138
Average home value $73,156 $302,565
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $60,164
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $3,300
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $4,350
Unemployment rate 9.06% 5.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.25%
State income tax 4.25% 0.0%
  • Rent is estimated to be 18% higher in Chattanooga compared to Detroit; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 314% greater in Chattanooga than in Detroit.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 59% higher in Chattanooga than in Detroit, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Chattanooga, since the cost of living for a single person in Chattanooga is 32% higher than in Detroit. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • Choosing to move to Chattanooga can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 35% less than in Detroit.
  • Chattanooga enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 38% lower compared to Detroit, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes rise by 54% in Chattanooga over Detroit, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • 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.

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

Living Expense Detroit Chattanooga
Basic utilities $251.12 $160.78
Cell phone plan $55.77 $56.00
Dozen eggs $3.52 $3.92
Loaf of bread $2.94 $3.58
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $16.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $80.00
Gym membership $43.00 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Chattanooga.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Detroit than in Chattanooga.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Chattanooga.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in Chattanooga.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Detroit than in Chattanooga.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Chattanooga.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Chattanooga.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Chattanooga

Detroit Chattanooga
Population 639,111 181,099
Transportation score 7 3
Walkability score 51 29
Bike friendliness score 52 35
Crime index 72.92 53.89
Safety index 27.08 46.11
Air quality Good Good
  • Chattanooga’s population is about 72% less than Detroit.
  • Chattanooga’s public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • Chattanooga is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
  • Chattanooga has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Detroit, which has a score of 52.
  • Chattanooga’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 53.89 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Chattanooga neighborhoods are safer than 53.89% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Chattanooga is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 46.11 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Chattanooga is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Chattanooga 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: 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Tennessee 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 Chattanooga. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Chattanooga

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Scenic City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chattanooga.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Southside
  • Martin Luther King
  • Fort Wood
  • Lookout Mountain
  • West Village

Best neighborhoods for families

  • North Shore
  • St. Elmo
  • Lookout Mountain
  • Highland Park
  • Orchard Knob

Things to do in Chattanooga

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chattanooga, such as the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Creative Discovery Museum, Coker Museum – Honest Charley, and Hunter Museum of American Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Coolidge Park Tennessee, Riverpark Ross’s Landing Park, Enterprise South Nature Park, and Chickamauga Dam — 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 Chattanooga Lookouts (Southern League)Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (USL League One) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Detroit to Chattanooga, 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 Detroit to Chattanooga take?

Moving from Detroit, MI to Chattanooga, covers 620 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Detroit movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Chattanooga.

Which movers in Detroit give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 3 movers give special rates to military members. 3 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 Detroit?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 22 movers in Detroit advertise piano moving expertise. 8 movers in Detroit provide antique moving services. State totals show 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,299 and 1,464.

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

Helpful moving resources

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