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($632) Movers from Detroit, MI to Cleveland, OH

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 169 miles from Detroit to Cleveland, expect to pay between $182 and $3,602. The journey should take about one–two days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Hi, I’m Ryan.
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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 Cleveland

For a stress-free interstate move from Detroit to Cleveland, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 28 interstate moving companies in Detroit, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Cleveland.

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 Cleveland

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 169-mile move from Detroit to Cleveland using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 22, 2026. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $740 – $3,129
  • Moving Container $673 – $1,194
  • Rental Truck $169 – $285
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,291 – $3,602
  • Moving Container $902 – $1,647
  • Rental Truck $182 – $352
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,683 – $4,569
  • Moving Container $1,140 – $2,160
  • Rental Truck $216 – $383
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.
PODS
Rochester Hills, MI Madison, OH
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 27, 2025
BLVD Moving
Carleton, MI North Royalton, OH
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 09, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Bloomfield Hills, MI Doylestown, OH
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 05, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Taylor, MI Macedonia, OH
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 30, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Rochester, MI Medina, OH
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Nov 18, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Milan, MI Willowick, OH
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Huntington Woods, MI LaGrange, OH
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 27, 2025
Joyce Van Lines
Village of Grosse Pointe Shores, MI Boston Heights, OH
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Oct 21, 2025
United Van Lines
Farmington Hills, MI Chagrin Falls, OH
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 14, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Inkster, MI Brunswick, OH
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 06, 2025

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

Top-rated local movers that handle Detroit to Cleveland moves

When planning a move from Detroit to Cleveland, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 37 local movers in Detroit who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Detroit to Cleveland.

  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 Cleveland?

Movers in Michigan charge per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $632 – $2,580 $484 – $1,153 $176 – $290
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,291 – $3,602 $902 – $1,647 $182 – $352
4+ bedrooms $1,683 – $4,569 $1,140 – $2,160 $216 – $383
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 169-mile relocation from Detroit to Cleveland, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Jan 22, 2026. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Cleveland

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Cleveland, you can expect to spend between $632 and $2,580. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,291 to $3,602 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Detroit to Cleveland typically runs between $1,683 and $4,569.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Cleveland

When moving from Detroit to Cleveland, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $484 and $1,153. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $902 to $1,647. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,140 up to $2,160. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Cleveland

Renting a moving truck in Detroit is usually your cheapest option to get to Cleveland. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $176 and $290. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $182 and $352. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $216 and $383.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Detroit to Cleveland

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $907, but larger homes can run up to $3,969.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Detroit.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($176–$347) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Cleveland

Overall, Detroit and Cleveland land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.

Singles average $2,490 in Cleveland and $2,500 in Detroit, while families in Cleveland see $6,729 versus $6,687 in Cleveland.

Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:

Detroit Cleveland
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,338
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $2,733
Average home value $73,156 $108,509
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $64,965
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $2,490
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $6,729
Unemployment rate 9.06% 6.8%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.0%
State income tax 4.25% 3.5%
  • Your monthly budgeting won’t require significant modification when moving from Detroit to Cleveland, as rent prices are comparably stable.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 48% higher in Cleveland than in Detroit.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 72% higher in Cleveland compared to Detroit, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Since the cost of living for a single person is within 5% of the same in both Cleveland and Detroit, you shouldn’t see much difference.
  • You’ll find the cost of living for a family to be nearly equivalent in Cleveland and Detroit, with only a minor variance of about 5%, so you’ll likely see minimal difference in daily expenses.
  • Cleveland experiences an unemployment rate that is about 25% lower than that of Detroit. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
  • Sales taxes are 33% higher in Cleveland than in Detroit. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 18% lower in Ohio compared to Michigan. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Detroit with Cleveland:

Living Expense Detroit Cleveland
Basic utilities $251.12 $310.82
Cell phone plan $55.77 $48.93
Dozen eggs $3.52 $4.11
Loaf of bread $2.94 $3.06
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $19.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $55.00
Gym membership $43.00 $35.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Detroit than in Cleveland, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Detroit than in Cleveland.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Cleveland.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in Cleveland.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Detroit than in Cleveland.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Detroit than in Cleveland.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Cleveland.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Cleveland

Detroit Cleveland
Population 639,111 372,624
Transportation score 7 8
Walkability score 51 57
Bike friendliness score 52 52
Crime index 72.92 63.41
Safety index 27.08 36.59
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Cleveland’s population is about 42% less than Detroit.
  • Cleveland’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • Cleveland is more walkable than Detroit with a score of 57 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
  • Both Cleveland and Detroit have similar bike-friendliness scores (52 vs 52), meaning Cleveland is about as safe for cyclists as Detroit. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Cleveland’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 63.41 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Cleveland neighborhoods are safer than 63.41% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Cleveland is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 36.59 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Cleveland is Moderate, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Cleveland move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Ohio moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Ohio doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Cleveland smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Cleveland

Now that you’ve chosen America’s North Coast as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Cleveland to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Tremont
  • Ohio City
  • Detroit-Shoreway
  • Clark-Fulton
  • Waterloo

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Edgewater
  • Jefferson
  • Kamm’s Corner
  • Ohio City
  • Old Brooklyn

Things to do in Cleveland

After getting comfortable in your new Ohio home, it’s time to see what Cleveland is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Cleveland offers cultural landmarks like the A Christmas Story House, African American Museum, ARTneo, and Artists Archives of the Western Reserve.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Edgewater Park, Cleveland Metroparks, Cleveland Botanical Garden, and Rocky River Reservation — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Cleveland Browns (NFL)Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)Cleveland Charge NBA G-League)Cleveland Crunch (MASL2)Cleveland Guardians (MLB)Cleveland Monsters (AHL) game.

FAQ

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

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Detroit to Cleveland are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Detroit are lower.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Detroit to Cleveland are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Detroit to Cleveland take?

A move of 169 miles from Detroit, MI to Cleveland, generally takes one to two days. Movers in Detroit sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Cleveland is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Detroit?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 3 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 3 extend savings to senior citizens.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Which movers in Detroit offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 22 movers in Detroit have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 8 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,299 and 1,464.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

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