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($1,257) Cost to Move From Portland, ME to Durham, NC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 801 miles from Portland to Durham has an average cost ranging from $630 to $6,466. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–seven 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 Durham

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 Durham

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Portland to Durham. 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 Durham.

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 Durham

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 801-mile move from Portland to Durham 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 $1,892 – $4,884
  • Moving Container $1,118 – $1,903
  • Rental Truck $578 – $996
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,650 – $6,466
  • Moving Container $1,355 – $2,641
  • Rental Truck $630 – $1,184
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,246 – $9,258
  • Moving Container $1,818 – $3,447
  • Rental Truck $752 – $1,465
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.
Mayzlin Relocation
Standish, ME Yanceyville, NC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 21, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Kennebunk, ME Staley, NC
Studio apartment
Sep 15, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Lewiston, ME Gibsonville, NC
Studio apartment
Sep 09, 2025
Roadway Moving
South Portland, ME Green Level, NC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Bath, ME Garner, NC
Studio apartment
Aug 24, 2025
United Van Lines
Wells, ME Cary, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 21, 2025
North American Van Lines
Scarborough, ME Sanford, NC
3 Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
Safeway Moving
Gorham, ME Durham, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 16, 2025
American Van Lines
Sanford, ME Siler City, NC
Studio apartment
Aug 12, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Biddeford, ME Kittrell, NC
2 Bedrooms
Jul 31, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Portland to Durham moves

Organizing a move from Portland to Durham 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 Durham.

  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 Durham?

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 $1,257 – $4,831 $792 – $1,772 $534 – $1,101
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,650 – $6,466 $1,355 – $2,641 $630 – $1,184
4+ bedrooms $4,246 – $9,258 $1,818 – $3,447 $752 – $1,465
*Estimated cost ranges for a 801-mile move from Portland to Durham 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 Durham

When planning a move to Durham from Portland, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,257 and $4,831. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,650 and $6,466 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,246 to $9,258.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to Durham

When you’re heading from Portland to Durham, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $792 and $1,772. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,355 and $2,641. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,818 to $3,447. 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 Durham

A moving rental truck from Portland to Durham 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 $534 to $1,101. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $630 to $1,184, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Portland to Durham costs around $752 to $1,465.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Portland to Durham

The cost of Portland movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Portland to Durham may only cost $2,275, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $7,569.
  • 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 ($534–$1,440), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Portland to Durham

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Durham runs about 13% higher for singles and -2% higher for families than Portland.

Singles spend around $2,803 in Portland versus $2,491 in Portland; families pay $5,945 compared with $6,060.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Portland Durham
Average 1 BR rent $1,925 $1,875
Average 3 BR rent $3,500 $2,573
Average home value $542,001 $391,719
Average income (per capita) $64,171 $69,117
Cost of living (single) $2,491 $2,803
Cost of living (family of four) $6,060 $5,945
Unemployment rate 5.2% 4.1%
Sales tax 5.5% 7.5%
State income tax 5.8% 4.5%
  • Rent is about 15% less expensive in Durham 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 28% cheaper in Durham than in Portland.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 8% greater in Durham than in Portland, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Durham, with the cost of living for a single person being 13% more than in Portland. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family between Durham and Portland remains comparable, differing by roughly 5%, so your overall expenses won’t dramatically change.
  • Durham has a lower unemployment rate than Portland by about 21%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes in Durham surpass those in Portland by 36%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 22% less in North Carolina compared to Maine, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

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

Living Expense Portland Durham
Basic utilities $203.15 $148.21
Cell phone plan $54.88 $51.67
Dozen eggs $4.26 $4.53
Loaf of bread $3.62 $3.66
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $120.00 $70.00
Gym membership $65.00 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Portland than in Durham.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Portland than in Durham.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Portland than in Durham.
  • Bread costs less in Portland than in Durham.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Portland than in Durham.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in Durham.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Portland than in Durham.

How life is different in Portland vs. Durham

Portland Durham
Population 68,408 283,506
Transportation score 6 4
Walkability score 62 30
Bike friendliness score 68 38
Crime index 32.16 54.72
Safety index 67.84 45.28
Air quality Good Good
  • Durham’s population is about 314% greater than Portland.
  • Durham’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Portland’s score of 6.
  • Durham is less walkable than Portland with a score of 30 out of 100 vs Portland’s 62 out of 100.
  • Durham has a bike-friendliness score of 38 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68.
  • Durham’s crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 54.72 compared to Portland’s 32.16. This means that Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
  • Durham is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 45.28 vs Portland’s 67.84.
  • Air quality in Durham is Good, and in Portland it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Portland to Durham move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Portland and Durham 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in North Carolina, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in North Carolina, 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 Durham. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Durham

With your sights set on City of The Viper, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Durham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Golden Belt
  • Warehouse District
  • City Center
  • Research Triangle Park
  • Central Park
  • Chapel Hill
  • Northgate Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Treyburn
  • American Village/Arrowhead
  • Willowhaven
  • Fieldstone by the Eno
  • Hope Valley Farms

Things to do in Durham

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

  • Arts and culture: Durham is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, and V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic 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 Duke University (ACC)Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.

FAQ

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

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Portland to Durham. 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 Durham?

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

The 801-mile move from Portland, ME, to Durham, , takes two to seven 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 Durham.

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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