Best Movers Near Hickory, NC (2026 Reviews)

In & Out Moving & Delivery is our preferred moving company in Hickory. Rankings are based on 9,415 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Hickory, NC, covering 25 local Hickory movers.

Local movers in Hickory on average charge $114/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.38 / 5
  • Years in Business: 10
  • Yelp: 3.1 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.36 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 4.2 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.34 / 5
  • Years in Business: 11
  • Yelp: 3.1 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Why use moveBuddha for your Hickory, NC move

  • moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Hickory mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
  • Book a moveBuddha Certified Hickory mover and get an extra $1,000 in move coverage plus dedicated support throughout your move.
  • If something goes wrong, moveBuddha steps in with direct dispute mediation between you and your Certified mover.

 Moving in Hickory, NC right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Hickory. The one exception is the Thanksgiving window. The week of and after Thanksgiving sees an end-of-year demand spike. Aim for early to mid-November for the best combination of price and availability.

What are the top-rated moving companies in Hickory, NC?

In & Out Moving & Delivery is our preferred moving company in Hickory .

moveBuddha scored 25 Hickory movers drawing on 9,415 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.73/5. Rankings include movers based in Hickory and those serving the area from nearby locations.

  1. In & Out Moving & Delivery: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Preferred Moving Company, LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  4. Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Hilldrup: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  6. Make A Move: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  7. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  8. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  9. You Move Me: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  10. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
1
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
86%
Years active
16
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moveBuddha logo
4.4
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Google logo
4.6
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Yelp logo
4.2
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BBB logo
Grade A+
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Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Antiques moving
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.4

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. In & Out Moving & Delivery has been in business for 16 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. In & Out Moving & Delivery has about 86% positive reviews across roughly 152 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from In & Out Moving & Delivery. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. In & Out Moving & Delivery emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Available within a day or two, the team arrived on time and carefully moved our sofas without damage to the furniture or doorways. They were professional, pleasant, and reasonably priced.

Taylor and Noah moved all my furniture without damage and finished early. They were communicative, courteous, and professional.

DOT number
1971143
Address
3948 US, Hwy 70 SW, Hickory, NC, 28602
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
2502
2
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
80%
Years active
11
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moveBuddha logo
4.4
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Google logo
4.4
link icon
Yelp logo
3.1
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Piano moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Preferred Moving Company, LLC has been in business for 11 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Preferred Moving Company, LLC has about 80% positive reviews across roughly 108 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.1.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Preferred Moving Company, LLC.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Preferred Moving Company, LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

This was my first experience with a moving company. Very late notice on my part, yet they still made room, were punctual, and personable. They worked hard, carefully wrapped my furniture, and protected my floors.

These guys did an amazing job on my move! They were very professional and careful with my things. They are also extremely reasonable. After calling around and getting quotes they were $300-$600 cheaper than the big names.

DOT number
2779878
Address
1025 19th St SW, Hickory, NC, 28602
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
2598
3
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
94%
Years active
10
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.8
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Yelp logo
3.1
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Senior discount
  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage has been in business for 10 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.

Review quality 3.8

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 305 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.1.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage. Discounts may be available for groups like military, seniors.

Customer service 4.7

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Excellent service with fair pricing and top notch customer service. Always willing to go above and beyond with unplanned changes and last minute changes

They were flexible and understanding with some last minute changes. Jamie gave me different options and alleviated stress by helping me prioritize and organize.

DOT number
2844367
Address
871 Highland Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
2627
4
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
90%
Years active
16
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.2
link icon
Google logo
4.7
link icon
Yelp logo
3.0
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC has been in business for 16 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 3.8

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 144 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Second experience with Barringer within a year & both times superior service. Dawn & Keith super professional with the quoting & scheduling. Pricing is very reasonable. My realtor & closing attorney noted Barringer as a top mover in the area.

Absolutely the best moving experience in my life. Barringer Moving is professional, very responsive, courteous, on time. They maintained email, voice and text contact throughout. Moving estimate was the best among 5 movers I compared.

DOT number
2062164
Address
2860 Nathan St, Newton, NC, 28658
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
2509
5
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Helpful movers
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
87%
Years active
123
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.7
link icon
Yelp logo
2.1
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Hilldrup has been in business for 123 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.3

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Hilldrup has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 262 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.1.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Hilldrup.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Hilldrup emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

They communicated every step, finished the move in one day, and treated everything like it was priceless. Respectful, committed, and one of the best moves I’ve had.

The crew were professional, polite, efficient, and hardworking. They took great care to prevent damage and ensured I had full accountability of my items.

DOT number
22302
Address
1325 Carrier Drive, Charlotte, NC, 28216
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card • Money Order
6
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
checkmark Helpful movers
checkmark Efficient service
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
99%
Years active
16
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.3
link icon
Yelp logo
3.5
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Storage available
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Make A Move has been in business for 16 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Make A Move has about 99% positive reviews across roughly 485 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.5.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Make A Move. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Make A Move emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Very well managed from start to finish. Extremely responsive and friendly to get the move set up and a quote. The crew was on time, moved every thing with efficiency and great care.

Vlad, Ricky, Arnold, Mauricio were excellent movers. They did a thorough job packing, wrapping and unpacking. Very reliable people and company. Staying in touch and responding quickly to inquiries.

DOT number
2452878
Address
6100 Harris Technology Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28269
Payment methods
Credit Card
7
checkmark Helpful movers
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Respectful of property
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
85%
Years active
27
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.5
link icon
Yelp logo
1.7
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Estate moves
  • Piano moves
  • Junk removal
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. All My Sons Moving & Storage has been in business for 27 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. All My Sons Moving & Storage has about 85% positive reviews across roughly 4797 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.7.

Quote accuracy 4.0

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from All My Sons Moving & Storage. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All My Sons Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

Within 15 minutes of reaching out, Mike personally called, rearranged the schedule, and got the job done that day. The crew arrived on time, worked efficiently, and handled my belongings with care.

Robert and Gregory helped me move my furniture quickly, efficiently, and with no hassle. They worked hard to finish on time and placed everything exactly where I wanted it.

DOT number
806764
Address
6901 Northpark Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28216
Payment methods
Credit Card
8
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Professional and polite staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
98%
Years active
46
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
5.0
link icon
Yelp logo
4.3
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Crane/hoisting vans
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Gentle Giant Moving Company has been in business for 46 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Gentle Giant Moving Company has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 721 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.3.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Gentle Giant Moving Company.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Gentle Giant Moving Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

The team was efficient, friendly, and treated our belongings like they were their own. Their upbeat attitudes made what is usually a stressful day into an easy breezy move.

Rachael did a great job coordinating the move dates, and when I did not receive a certificate of occupancy and had to postpone the move, she got it rescheduled quickly.

DOT number
373544
Address
3827 Barringer Drive, Charlotte, NC, 28217
Payment methods
Credit Card
9
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Flexibility
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
93%
Years active
12
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.2
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. You Move Me has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. You Move Me has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 309 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.

Quote accuracy 4.0

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from You Move Me. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. You Move Me emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

The estimate I received when I first called was accurate, with no hidden fees or surprises. It’s refreshing to work with a company that is honest and delivers exactly what they promise.

Between my inquiry and moving day, Curtis called me 3 or 4 times to see how I was doing and to make sure my move was still on track.

DOT number
2518689
Address
4300 Revolution Park Drive, Charlotte, NC, 28217
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
NCUC: C-2572
10
checkmark Skilled drivers
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Professional and polite staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
94%
Years active
145
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.8
link icon
Yelp logo
4.0
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage has been in business for 145 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 140 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.

Quote accuracy 4.0

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from E.E. Ward Moving & Storage.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Communication was swift and transparent and all expectations were met. I highly recommend EE Ward

Mark Wilburn was incredibly professional, thorough, detail oriented, and caring as if my belongings were his own. He was on time for loading and dropping off.

DOT number
1222904
Address
3035 Horseshoe Lane Suite N, Charlotte, NC, 28208
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
2774

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How do Hickory, NC moving companies compare?

Company Our rating City rank Positive reviews BBB Quote
In & Out Moving & Delivery
16 years in business
star star star star star
4.48
#2 of 25 86% A+
Preferred Moving Company, LLC
11 years in business
star star star star star
4.44
#3 of 25 80% A+
star star star star star
4.36
#5 of 25 94% A+
star star star star star
4.28
#8 of 25 90% A+
Hilldrup
123 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
—
Top 10 in North Carolina
87% A+
Make A Move
16 years in business
star star star star star
4.52
#1 of 25 99% A+
All My Sons Moving & Storage
27 years in business
star star star star star
4.52
— 85% A+
Gentle Giant Moving Company
46 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
—
Top 10 in North Carolina
98% A+
You Move Me
12 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
—
Top 10 in North Carolina
93% A+
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage
145 years in business
star star star star star
4.52
— 94% A+

Proximity to Hickory is a ranking factor, so a mover appearing higher on the list may have a lower score than one listed below it. A nearby company can outrank a higher-scored mover based further out. Each company's positive review rate and BBB rating are included so you can compare quality and reputation side by side.

Top-rated movers in nearby North Carolina cities

  North Carolina is one of the top 5 most popular moving destinations in the country, drawing 16.2% of all net inbound moving searches in the U.S. in 2026. Wilmington is one of the most in-demand destination cities in the country for people planning a move. See moveBuddha's full 2026 Moving Trends Report →

Popular moving routes from Hickory, NC

Local movers in Hickory are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-26, I-40, I-85, and I-95. For longer moves, you need a full-service interstate carrier with USDOT authority, binding estimate practices, and the logistics to handle cross-country delivery. See our guide to the best long-distance movers from Hickory, NC for route-specific recommendations and pricing.

Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

How much do movers cost in Hickory, NC?

Local movers in Hickory charge $114/hour on average for a 2-person crew, compared to the North Carolina average of $105/hour. The actual cost depends on home size, hours on the clock, and any add-on services.

Home size Estimated local move cost in Hickory
Studio $267 – $445
1 bedroom $356 – $623
2 bedrooms $534 – $890
3 bedrooms $801 – $1,335
4+ bedrooms $1,068 – $1,958

Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Hickory's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.

Ready to compare Hickory mover prices? See our full guide on Hickory, NC mover costs →

Which Hickory, NC movers offer specialty services?

Hickory has 25 reviewed moving companies, but not all offer the same services. moveBuddha tracked specialty service availability across the market. Here is what is offered, how common each service is, and which companies rank highest in each category:

  • Piano moving: 6 of 25 Hickory movers (24.0%) offer it. Preferred Moving Company, LLC (4.44/5) is Hickory's top-rated piano mover.
  • Antique handling: 3 of 25 Hickory movers (12.0%) offer it. In & Out Moving & Delivery (4.48/5) also handles antique care.
  • Art packing: 3 of 25 Hickory movers (12.0%) offer it. All My Sons Moving & Storage (4.52/5) also offers art packing.
  • Climate-controlled storage: 2 of 25 Hickory movers (8.0%) offer it. Hilldrup (4.58/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
  • Fragile-only packing: 5 of 25 Hickory movers (20.0%) offer it. Preferred Moving Company, LLC (4.44/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

What movers in Hickory offer piano moving?

Piano moving is available from 6 of 25 Hickory movers (24.0%). Preferred Moving Company, LLC (4.44/5) is Hickory's top-rated piano mover.

Piano moving in Hickory Details
Hickory movers offering this 6 of 25 (24.0%)
Top-rated Hickory piano movers Preferred Moving Company, LLC, All My Sons Moving & Storage
Upright piano $712 to $1,335
Baby grand piano $1,068 to $2,225
Grand piano $1,602 to $3,115

Piano weight (300 to 800 lbs for uprights, 500 to 1,200 lbs for baby grands, over 1,200 lbs for concert grands) is the primary cost driver, as heavier instruments require more crew and specialized equipment. Bundling a piano into a full household move is usually cheaper than booking a piano-only carrier. See moveBuddha's guide to the best piano movers for vetted options and how to pack and move a piano for prep tips.

What movers in Hickory offer antique handling?

Antique handling is available from 3 of 25 Hickory movers (12.0%). In & Out Moving & Delivery (4.48/5) also handles antique care.

Antique handling in Hickory Details
Hickory movers offering this 3 of 25 (12.0%)
Top-rated Hickory antique movers In & Out Moving & Delivery, Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage
Added cost to a household move $890 to $2,225
Per-piece handling fee $45 to $445
Custom crating per item $134 to $178

Custom crating and per-piece handling fees are the main cost factors. Standard released-value coverage ($0.60/lb) is inadequate for high-value antiques, so full-value protection adds to the total. The more pieces requiring individual crating, the higher the cost. See moveBuddha's guide to best antique moving companies for specialists in this market.

What movers in Hickory offer art packing?

Art packing is available from 3 of 25 Hickory movers (12.0%). All My Sons Moving & Storage (4.52/5) also offers art packing.

Art packing in Hickory Details
Hickory movers offering this 3 of 25 (12.0%)
Top-rated Hickory art movers All My Sons Moving & Storage, Gentle Giant Moving Company
Per-piece handling fee $45 to $445
Custom crating per item $134 to $178

Cost scales with piece count and crating complexity. Framed canvases and sculptures require custom-built crates at $150 to $200 each. Confirm the mover has handled similar media before booking. See how to pack and move art for what to verify before signing.

What movers in Hickory offer climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled storage is available from 2 of 25 Hickory movers (8.0%). Hilldrup (4.58/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.

Climate-controlled storage in Hickory Details
Hickory movers offering this 2 of 25 (8.0%)
Top-rated Hickory providers Hilldrup, All My Sons Moving & Storage
Storage-in-transit rate About $0.50 per cubic foot per month
1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) $229

Cost is driven by unit size and duration. Longer storage gaps and larger loads raise the monthly total. Climate control is most relevant for wood furniture, electronics, and vinyl; standard units can handle hardier items at lower cost. See moveBuddha's climate-controlled storage guide for a full cost and provider breakdown.

What movers in Hickory offer fragile-only packing?

Fragile-only packing is available from 5 of 25 Hickory movers (20.0%). Preferred Moving Company, LLC (4.44/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

Fragile-only packing in Hickory Details
Hickory movers offering this 5 of 25 (20.0%)
Top-rated Hickory providers Preferred Moving Company, LLC, All My Sons Moving & Storage
Full professional packing rate $0.15 to $0.21 per pound

Fragile-only packing costs less than full-service packing because it covers only breakables: dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps. It's the most cost-effective way to add professional packing without paying to have the whole home packed. See how to pack breakables for what movers look for and how to prepare.

Apartment and high-rise moving in Hickory

Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Hickory adds logistical steps that ground-floor moves don't require. Before booking, confirm the following with your mover:

  • Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Hickory apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
  • Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
  • Labor-only movers: 24% of Hickory movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. also offers labor-only service.

If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Hickory apartment moves before committing.

DIY moving options in Hickory, NC

Not every Hickory move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:

Rental trucks

The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Hickory, NC are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes. Use moveBuddha's moving truck size guide to match the right truck to your home size before booking.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
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moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Moving containers

The best moving container companies available in Hickory, NC are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size, or the moving container sizes guide to find the right unit for your load.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
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  • Flexible timelines
  • Local franchise support
  • Fits tight spaces
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Labor-only movers + rented truck

The best labor-only movers in Hickory, NC start with College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.52/5) and Hornet Moving (4.36/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.52 / 5
  • 88% positive reviews
  • BBB:
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.36 / 5
  • Years in Business: 10
  • 91% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.48 / 5
  • Years in Business: 10
  • 90% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+

Moving in Hickory, NC: what you need to know

A Hickory move involves logistics that go beyond booking a crew and loading a truck. The checklist below covers the practical steps specific to moving in this market.

Before move day

  • Update your address: file a change of address with the USPS before your move date. Hickory residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with North Carolina DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Hickory buildings require a COI from your moving company before granting loading dock or elevator access. Request this from your mover as soon as you book. It's a standard document and any licensed mover should provide it free of charge.
  • Reserve your elevator: if you're in a building with a service elevator, reserve a time window as early as possible. Weekend and month-end slots fill fast.
  • Get a binding estimate: a binding estimate locks your final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. Always confirm in writing before signing.

Timing your move

  • Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. Hickory's summer highs reach 88°F, which pushes prices up and crew availability down. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead during this window.
  • Off-peak savings: moves booked in October–April, on weekdays, or mid-month typically cost 10%–20% less. If your schedule is flexible, ask movers about off-peak pricing. See moveBuddha's best time to move guide for a month-by-month breakdown.

North Carolina moving regulations and your rights

  • Verify your mover is licensed: all North Carolina movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at North Carolina's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
  • 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).
  • Released-value coverage: movers are required to offer basic protection at $0.60 per pound per item at no extra cost. This covers almost nothing on high-value items. Ask about full valuation coverage before signing.
  • 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.
  • Your rights as a shipper: for interstate moves, the FMCSA requires movers to provide "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before your move. Read it. It covers estimates, liability, dispute resolution, and the 110% rule. Download it at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
  • Industry oversight: North Carolina Movers Association sets professional standards for North Carolina movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.

Frequently asked questions: moving in Hickory, NC

How much do movers cost in Hickory, NC?

Local movers in Hickory, NC charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 3 Hickory movers, hourly rates range from $20/hour to $199/hour, with a median of $180/hour. Our preferred Hickory mover is Flex Moving & Storage.

Key cost factors for a Hickory move, based on moveBuddha's review data:

  • Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
  • Deposit requirement: many Hickory movers require a deposit to secure your booking. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: 8% of Hickory movers (2 companies) offer it. The default released-value protection covers only $0.60 per pound. Full valuation coverage costs extra and covers replacement value.
  • Hours on-site: local moves bill by the clock. Home size, floor access, elevator waits, and how much packing work the crew handles are the primary time drivers.
  • Long-distance pricing: moves leaving Hickory across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 56% of Hickory movers (14 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: 64% of Hickory movers (16 companies) offer full packing, and 44% supply packing materials. Professional packing adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound on average.

DIY options like a rental truck or moving container reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's analysis. Use the moving cost calculator to get a market-specific baseline before collecting quotes.

What do full-service movers in Hickory include, and what costs extra?

A standard full-service move in Hickory, NC includes loading, transport, and unloading. Basic furniture padding and simple disassembly/reassembly for bed frames and standard furniture pieces are included in the base rate. Packing, valuation upgrades, storage, crating, and specialty-item handling are add-ons billed separately. The table below shows what Hickory movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.

Add-on service % of Hickory movers Typical cost impact
Full packing 64% (16 companies) +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average
Packing materials 44% Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking
Storage 52% ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$229/month
Full valuation coverage 8% (2 companies) 1%–2% of declared shipment value (~$300–$600 on a $30,000 shipment); default released-value protection pays only $0.60/lb
Crating (fragile/high-value items) 24% (6 companies) $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances)
Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) 24% (6 companies) Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge
Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) Situational $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200

Every add-on above requires written confirmation before booking. A binding estimate locks the final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. See the hidden and unexpected moving costs guide for a full breakdown of what to request in writing.

Do movers in Hickory offer senior, military, or other discounts?

Hickory movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 93,068 verified customer reviews across North Carolina. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 Hickory mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Hickory movers are excluded. NC state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.

Discount type % of Hickory movers # of movers Hickory movers offering it Data source
Senior 8% 2 Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage Hickory
Military 24% 6 In & Out Moving & Delivery, Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage, Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC, Make A Move, All My Sons Moving & Storage, You Move Me Hickory

Ask each mover whether the discount applies to your specific move date, what proof of eligibility is required, and whether it stacks with seasonal pricing or off-peak rates. Discounts are not automatically applied. Request them at the quote stage, before signing.

How far in advance should I book movers in Hickory?

Book Hickory movers at least 4–6 weeks ahead during peak moving season (May through September) and on month-end dates. For off-peak moves (October through April, mid-month, or on a weekday), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (under 1 week) are possible but limit your options to movers with open capacity, which may not include your preferred company or the best-rated crews.

Once you have a date, request a binding written estimate before paying any deposit. Confirm the mover's cancellation and reschedule policy in writing at booking. Some Hickory movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.

What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Hickory movers provide one?

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from your mover's insurance carrier that names your building as an additional insured and confirms the mover carries active liability coverage. Many Hickory apartment buildings, condos, and commercial properties require a COI before they'll permit a moving crew to use service elevators or loading docks.

Any licensed, insured Hickory mover should provide a COI at no charge. Request it as soon as you book. Your building management may need it 5–10 business days before your move. If a mover hesitates or charges for a COI, that is a red flag worth taking seriously.

Are movers in Hickory licensed and insured?

North Carolina requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the North Carolina licensed movers directory. For interstate moves (crossing state lines), movers must also hold a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify any USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov.

Always ask your Hickory mover for their license number and USDOT number before signing. moveBuddha verifies licensing and insurance status for all movers in its database as part of the review process.

How long does a local move take in Hickory?

Local Hickory moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Hickory-area data:

  • Studio/1 bedroom: 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 2 bedrooms: 4–6 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 3 bedrooms: 6–8 hours with a 3-person crew
  • 4+ bedrooms: 8–12 hours with a 3–4 person crew

These are averages. Actual time increases with stairs, elevator waits, long carries from truck to door, and the amount of packing the crew handles. Pre-packing boxes, reserving an elevator, and ensuring a clear loading path are the most effective ways to keep hourly costs on track.

Do Hickory movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?

Yes. Most Hickory movers regularly handle apartment and high-rise moves. When evaluating a mover for this type of move, ask specifically about their experience with:

  • Service elevator scheduling and building move-in procedures in Hickory
  • Providing a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for building management
  • Shuttle vehicles or alternative loading setups when a truck can't park close to the entrance
  • Stair carries if the service elevator is unavailable or too small for large pieces

A mover with genuine Hickory apartment experience will ask about your building's move-in process during the quoting stage, not after you've signed. If they don't ask, bring it up yourself before committing.

What is the best time of year to move in Hickory?

The cheapest time to move in Hickory is October through April, particularly on weekdays and mid-month dates when mover demand drops. Moving during this window can reduce your total cost by 10%–20% compared to peak summer rates.

Peak season runs May through September. Hickory's summer highs reach 88°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.

Winter moves are the most affordable but require contingency planning. Hickory's winter lows reach 29°F. Confirm your mover's weather delay policy before booking a winter move.

Regardless of season, booking 4–6 weeks ahead gives you the best pick of Hickory's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Hickory?

moveBuddha scores 25 moving companies in Hickory on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options.

How moveBuddha selects and reviews Hickory, NC moving companies

moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 255 North Carolina moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Rankings for Hickory draw on 93,068 verified customer reviews across North Carolina: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.

That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
  • Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.

Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.

See how Hickory's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Hickory's top movers →

How to move in Hickory: permits, COI, and city logistics

A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Hickory, NC, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.

  1. Verify your mover's license and insurance. 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). Verify a license.
  2. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Hickory building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
  3. Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Hickory street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
  4. Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Hickory movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.

The final verdict: moving in Hickory, NC

Collect at least 3 binding estimates, confirm your mover's license and insurance, and request a COI if your building requires one. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to set your budget baseline before reaching out to movers.