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($1,190) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to Birmingham, AL

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 725 miles from Detroit to Birmingham has an average cost ranging from $550 to $5,724. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–six days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Detroit to Birmingham

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 Detroit to Birmingham

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Detroit to Birmingham. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 27 interstate moving companies in Detroit. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Birmingham.

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 Birmingham

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 725-mile move from Detroit to Birmingham using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,644 – $4,344
  • Moving Container $1,074 – $1,914
  • Rental Truck $494 – $966
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,391 – $5,724
  • Moving Container $1,313 – $2,705
  • Rental Truck $550 – $1,193
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,134 – $7,874
  • Moving Container $1,777 – $3,417
  • Rental Truck $680 – $1,404
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.
American Van Lines
Royal Oak, MI Fultondale, AL
4 Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
North American Van Lines
Rochester, MI Midfield, AL
2 Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Farmington Hills, MI Morris, AL
Studio apartment
Oct 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Leonard, MI Jemison, AL
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lincoln Park, MI North Bibb, AL
4 Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Wolverine Lake, MI Helena, AL
Studio apartment
Sep 23, 2025
BLVD Moving
Village of Clarkston, MI Coaling, AL
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Grosse Pointe Park, MI Locust Fork, AL
2 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Farmington, MI McCalla, AL
Studio apartment
Aug 24, 2025
United Van Lines
Saline, MI Kimberly, AL
Studio apartment
Aug 21, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Detroit to Birmingham moves

Organizing a move from Detroit to Birmingham can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 36 local movers in Detroit known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Detroit to Birmingham.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.0% of all reviews were positive
7.0% 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
81.2% of all reviews were positive
15.2% 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
89.0% of all reviews were positive
10.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful. Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.3% of all reviews were positive
25.7% 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
73.1% of all reviews were positive
24.1% 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

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

On average, moving companies in Michigan charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,190 – $3,982 $699 – $1,802 $530 – $1,015
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,391 – $5,724 $1,313 – $2,705 $550 – $1,193
4+ bedrooms $4,134 – $7,874 $1,777 – $3,417 $680 – $1,404
*Estimated cost ranges for a 725-mile move from Detroit to Birmingham are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Birmingham

When planning a move to Birmingham from Detroit, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,190 and $3,982. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,391 and $5,724 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,134 to $7,874.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Birmingham

When you’re heading from Detroit to Birmingham, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $699 and $1,802. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,313 and $2,705. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,777 to $3,417. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Michigan easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Birmingham

A moving rental truck from Detroit to Birmingham is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $530 to $1,015. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $550 to $1,193, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Detroit to Birmingham costs around $680 to $1,404.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Detroit to Birmingham

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Detroit to Birmingham may only cost $1,921, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,685.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Detroit.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($530–$1,275), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Birmingham

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Birmingham runs about 8% higher for singles and 1% higher for families than Detroit.

Singles spend around $2,697 in Detroit versus $2,500 in Detroit; families pay $6,727 compared with $6,687.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Detroit Birmingham
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,542
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $2,612
Average home value $73,156 $125,988
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $39,403
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $2,697
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $6,727
Unemployment rate 9.06% 5.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.0%
State income tax 4.25% 5.0%
  • Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to Birmingham from Detroit with rent being about the same in each state.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 72% steeper in Birmingham compared to Detroit.
  • There’s good news: the average income differences between Birmingham and Detroit are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Birmingham, with the cost of living for a single person being 8% more than in Detroit. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family between Birmingham and Detroit remains comparable, differing by roughly 5%, so your overall expenses won’t dramatically change.
  • Birmingham has a lower unemployment rate than Detroit by about 38%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes in Birmingham surpass those in Detroit by 67%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 18% more in Alabama than in Michigan. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Detroit versus Birmingham:

Living Expense Detroit Birmingham
Basic utilities $251.12 $211.40
Cell phone plan $55.77 $49.55
Dozen eggs $3.52 $4.20
Loaf of bread $2.94 $3.52
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $60.00
Gym membership $43.00 $47.50
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Birmingham.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Detroit than in Birmingham.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Birmingham.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in Birmingham.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Detroit than in Birmingham.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Detroit than in Birmingham.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Birmingham

Detroit Birmingham
Population 639,111 196,644
Transportation score 7 0
Walkability score 51 33
Bike friendliness score 52 31
Crime index 72.92 61.64
Safety index 27.08 38.36
Air quality Good Good
  • Birmingham’s population is about 69% less than Detroit.
  • Birmingham has no measurable public transportation (score of 0), while Detroit scores 7 out of 10, showing a clear advantage for Detroit.
  • Birmingham is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
  • Birmingham has a bike-friendliness score of 31 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Detroit, which has a score of 52.
  • Birmingham’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 61.64 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Birmingham neighborhoods are safer than 61.64% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Birmingham is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 38.36 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Birmingham is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Birmingham move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Detroit and Birmingham are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Alabama, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Alabama, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Birmingham. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Birmingham

With your sights set on B’ham, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Birmingham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central City
  • Five Points South
  • Highland Park
  • Fountain Heights
  • Southside

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Oxmoor
  • Crestwood South
  • Redmont Park

Things to do in Birmingham

With your move to Alabama complete, you can dive right into experiencing Birmingham. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Birmingham is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park and Museum, and McWane Science Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham’s Railroad Park, Kelly Ingram Park, and Red Mountain Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Birmingham BaronsUAB BlazersSamford University teamsBirmingham Legion FCAlabama Youth Sports Alliance basketball leagueTragic City RollersBirmingham Bulls (SPHL)Birmingham StallionsBirmingham Squadron (NBA G League) game.

FAQ

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

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Detroit to Birmingham. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Detroit.

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

Want to save on your move from Detroit to Birmingham? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Detroit to Birmingham take?

The 725-mile move from Detroit, MI, to Birmingham, , takes one to six days. Some Detroit movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Birmingham.

What kinds of discounts do Detroit movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 2 movers offer special pricing for military members. 2 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Detroit?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 22 movers in Detroit provide piano moving services. 8 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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