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($1,316) Cost to Move From Portland, ME to Milwaukee, WI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 1,181 miles from Portland to Milwaukee has an average cost ranging from $831 to $7,358. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–eight 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 Portland to Milwaukee

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 Portland to Milwaukee

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

There are 7 interstate moving companies in Portland. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Milwaukee.

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 Portland to Milwaukee

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,181-mile move from Portland to Milwaukee 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 $2,393 – $5,380
  • Moving Container $1,273 – $2,339
  • Rental Truck $717 – $1,438
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,041 – $7,358
  • Moving Container $1,657 – $3,131
  • Rental Truck $831 – $1,593
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,295 – $9,349
  • Moving Container $2,157 – $4,271
  • Rental Truck $965 – $2,084
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Portland, ME Grafton, WI
Studio apartment
Oct 19, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Auburn, ME Shorewood, WI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
American Van Lines
Standish, ME Thiensville, WI
Studio apartment
Sep 14, 2025
Safeway Moving
Kennebunk, ME Belgium, WI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Windham, ME Sullivan, WI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
United Van Lines
Bath, ME Sussex, WI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Falmouth, ME Whitefish Bay, WI
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 28, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Wells, ME Delafield, WI
Studio apartment
Aug 14, 2025
BLVD Moving
Westbrook, ME Jackson, WI
Studio apartment
Aug 14, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Scarborough, ME Wind Point, WI
Studio apartment
Aug 01, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Milwaukee, WI to Portland, ME guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Portland to Milwaukee moves

Organizing a move from Portland to Milwaukee can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating nine local movers in Portland 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 Portland to Milwaukee.

  1. Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  5. Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
67.7% of all reviews were positive
31.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Speedy, professional, and genuinely careful are the words customers use most in their feedback on Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine. After examining 226 reviews, about 68% share positive experiences—much higher than is typical for movers in the region. People rave about swift, effective service and consistently polite team members who treat belongings with respect. Many mention efficient booking, clear communication, and how movers save clients time and hassle, sometimes accomplishing in hours what others would take all day. Several positive comments highlight movers arriving on time, providing status updates, and making sure each item is placed carefully. Costs are often seen as fair and up-front, which sets the company apart from others that add surprise charges. Negative feedback, making up 31%, commonly centers on items being damaged, some crews arriving hours late or even canceling at the last minute, and a handful of customers describing confrontations with management and unprofessional interactions. These customers report frustrations with complaint handling and say unpleasant experiences weren’t sufficiently resolved. Some mention lost property or property damage, with unsatisfactory follow-through on claims. Neutral comments are rare but generally point to issues with quotes or communication rather than performance. Compared to other moving companies, Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine stands out for its efficiency and consistent professionalism during moves, but recurring complaints about item damage and customer service on difficult days should be weighed carefully when booking.
Get a Quote (207) 890-7475

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Raving fans lead the chorus for Two Men and a Truck, with 244 reviews analyzed and 95.5% offering glowing feedback. Customers most often mention the team’s efficiency, professionalism, and care when handling belongings. Movers consistently show up on time, work fast, remain friendly, and treat items with respect, setting them apart from many companies in the moving industry. The staff’s politeness and strong communication earn repeated praise. A small number of complaints highlight issues such as item damage, rude or unhelpful office staff, and higher final charges than quoted. Even though only 4.5% of the feedback is negative, these reviews describe serious incidents with damaged goods or disappointing customer service—concerns not uncommon in this sector but flagged more harshly by affected customers. Compared to most movers, Two Men and a Truck receive far more high marks for service quality, reliability, and the pleasant attitude of their teams, with only isolated negative experiences amid a sea of positive reports.
Get a Quote (207) 536-3452

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.3% of all reviews were positive
25.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently strong service sets Bisson Moving & Storage apart in the industry. Analyzing 87 reviews, about 71% of feedback highlights careful handling, professional staff, fast moving, and proactive communication. Customers often praise efficiency and care with belongings, noting prompt, polite crews who minimize moving stress. Pricing and timing are usually clear and reliable. Some clients describe issues, with 25% of feedback citing property damage, lack of communication, or unexpected charges—issues other movers face but mentioned less here. Neutral feedback is rare. Bisson rates above average among moving companies for professionalism, communication, and the courtesy of its team, though a few negative experiences involve poor follow-up and damaged goods.
Get a Quote (207) 591-1000

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.1% of all reviews were positive
13.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews set Allen & Coles Moving Systems apart with most feedback praising their professional, efficient, and friendly moving crews. Across 194 reviews, 86% express satisfaction, highlighting the team’s skillful handling, clear communication, and swift process. Movers consistently impress by protecting belongings and maintaining a courteous attitude. Customers frequently mention on-time arrivals, proactive communication, and the careful way staff handle property, which keeps moves stress-free and earns high recommendations. A small number of customers, about 13%, report issues like a lack of communication, damages, or surprise charges—mostly related to scheduling or billing confusion. These concerns also involve delayed responses or trouble resolving claims. While negative feedback does appear, especially regarding responsiveness or unexpected costs, Allen & Coles stands out in the moving industry for reliability and personal service, as shown by the volume of glowing input compared to the limited setbacks described.
Get a Quote (207) 370-6323

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.6% of all reviews were positive
23.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Tiny Tim’s Moving stands out for efficiency, competitive rates, and friendly movers who arrive on time and handle items with care. Many point out quick, stress-free moves and transparent pricing, features that set this company apart from larger competitors. Professional attitudes, affordability, and problem-solving earn high praise. Some feedback points to issues like damaged items, lack of accountability for property damage, slow or delayed crews, and poor responses from management when claims arise. While most experiences are positive, a noticeable portion of negative input focuses on professionalism and responsibility for customer property.
Get a Quote (207) 828-6575

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

How much does it cost to move from Portland to Milwaukee?

On average, moving companies in Maine charge about $225 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 $1,316 – $5,411 $837 – $2,176 $747 – $1,438
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,041 – $7,358 $1,657 – $3,131 $831 – $1,593
4+ bedrooms $5,295 – $9,349 $2,157 – $4,271 $965 – $2,084
*Estimated cost ranges for a 1,181-mile move from Portland to Milwaukee 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 Portland to Milwaukee

When planning a move to Milwaukee from Portland, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,316 and $5,411. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,041 and $7,358 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,295 to $9,349.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to Milwaukee

When you’re heading from Portland to Milwaukee, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $837 and $2,176. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,657 and $3,131. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,157 to $4,271. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to Milwaukee

A moving rental truck from Portland to Milwaukee 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 $747 to $1,438. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $831 to $1,593, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Portland to Milwaukee costs around $965 to $2,084.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Portland to Milwaukee

The cost of Portland movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Portland to Milwaukee may only cost $2,577, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $8,667.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Portland.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($747–$1,851), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Portland to Milwaukee

Many movers find Milwaukee easier on the wallet than Portland – roughly 19% less for singles and 18% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,022 for one person in Milwaukee versus $2,491 in Portland. For a family of four, it’s $4,963 compared with $6,060.

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

Portland Milwaukee
Average 1 BR rent $1,925 $1,612
Average 3 BR rent $3,500 $2,880
Average home value $542,001 $200,685
Average income (per capita) $64,171 $49,733
Cost of living (single) $2,491 $2,022
Cost of living (family of four) $6,060 $4,963
Unemployment rate 5.2% 7.4%
Sales tax 5.5% 4.9%
State income tax 5.8% 7.65%
  • Rent is about 37% less expensive in Milwaukee than in Portland, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 63% cheaper in Milwaukee than in Portland.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 22% less in Milwaukee than in Portland.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Milwaukee. The cost of living for a single person there is 19% below that of Portland.
  • A move to Milwaukee can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 18% lower compared to Portland.
  • Milwaukee has a higher unemployment rate than Portland by about 42%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes are 11% cheaper in Milwaukee compared to Portland. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 32% more in Wisconsin than in Maine. 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 Portland versus Milwaukee:

Living Expense Portland Milwaukee
Basic utilities $203.15 $167.94
Cell phone plan $54.88 $43.50
Dozen eggs $4.26 $4.23
Loaf of bread $3.62 $3.40
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $120.00 $70.00
Gym membership $65.00 $53.38
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Portland than in Milwaukee.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Portland than in Milwaukee.
  • Eggs cost more in Portland than in Milwaukee.
  • Bread is more expensive in Portland than in Milwaukee.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Portland than in Milwaukee.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in Milwaukee.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Portland than in Milwaukee.

How life is different in Portland vs. Milwaukee

Portland Milwaukee
Population 68,408 577,222
Transportation score 6 8
Walkability score 62 62
Bike friendliness score 68 58
Crime index 32.16 66.76
Safety index 67.84 33.24
Air quality Good Good
  • Milwaukee’s population is about 744% greater than Portland.
  • Milwaukee’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Portland’s score of 6.
  • Milwaukee and Portland are similarly walkable.
  • Milwaukee has a bike-friendliness score of 58 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68.
  • Milwaukee’s crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 66.76 compared to Portland’s 32.16. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
  • Milwaukee is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 33.24 vs Portland’s 67.84.
  • Air quality in Milwaukee is Good, and in Portland it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Portland to Milwaukee move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Portland and Milwaukee 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: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Wisconsin, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Wisconsin, 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 Milwaukee. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Milwaukee

With your sights set on Cream City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Milwaukee.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Bay View
  • Brewer’s Hill
  • Historic Third Ward
  • Lower East Side
  • Riverwest

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bay View
  • Historic Third Ward
  • Juneau Town
  • Lower East Side
  • Northpoint

Things to do in Milwaukee

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

  • Arts and culture: Milwaukee is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Discovery World.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Henry Maier Festival Park, Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes), Veteran’s Park, and Lake 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 Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)Marquette Golden Eagles (NCAA)Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Portland to Milwaukee?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Milwaukee?

Want to save on your move from Portland to Milwaukee? 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 Portland to Milwaukee take?

The 1,181-mile move from Portland, ME, to Milwaukee, , takes two to eight days. Some Portland movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Milwaukee.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Portland?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 9 movers in Portland provide piano moving services. 6 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 13 piano movers and 7 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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