Best Movers Near Yankton, SD (2026 Reviews)

Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc is Yankton's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.58/5 stars. Rankings are based on 0 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Yankton, SD, drawing on 14 South Dakota movers serving the area.

Local movers in Yankton are priced hourly. The South Dakota average is $182/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.

Why use moveBuddha for your Yankton, SD move

  • moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Yankton mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
  • Book a moveBuddha Certified Yankton 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 Yankton, SD right now: Peak summer moving season is here. The 4th of July is one of the busiest moving weekends of the year. Prices spike and availability drops sharply around the holiday. If your Yankton move is scheduled near that window, you should already have a mover locked in. If not, move quickly.

What are the top-rated moving companies in Yankton, SD?

moveBuddha has not yet tracked local movers in Yankton. Rankings draw on moveBuddha's reviews of 14 South Dakota movers and 1,734 verified South Dakota customer reviews to surface the closest and highest-rated companies serving Yankton from nearby locations.

  1. Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. Movin' On Out Inc: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Advanced Moving: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  6. Brouwer Relocation Inc: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  7. Mini Movers Inc: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  8. Affordable Moving LLC: 4.22 out of 5 stars
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Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
78%
Years active
70
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4.5
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Google logo
4.2
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BBB logo
Grade A+
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Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Junk removal
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • 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. Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc has been in business for 70 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.6

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc has about 78% positive reviews across roughly 27 total reviews.

Quote accuracy 4.2

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc.

Customer service 4.4

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

Recent reviews

"Hands down THE ABSOLUTE BEST moving experience EVER! They are serious pros...super friendly and super professional...ridiculously fast. Didn’t damage one single thing. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!"

"The crew tore down and reassembled one office at a time...knowledgeable, professional, courteous and very patient. Could not have completed this overwhelming project without Claeys Bros...HIGHLY recommend their services."

DOT number
70719
Address
5600 Harbor Dr, Sioux City, IA, 51111
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
2
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Efficient service
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checkmark Helpful movers
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
92%
Years active
11
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
4.8
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Yelp logo
3.4
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BBB logo
Grade A+
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Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Debris removal
  • Junk removal
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for 11 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 244 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.4.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"The movers wrapped everything to protect it and handled our items with extreme care. If you need to move a bunch of furniture, even just across town, I highly recommend this company."

"The 3 person crew was prompt, highly skilled, and very professional. We recommend them without reservation."

DOT number
2527384
Address
222 N Marion Rd Suite B, Sioux Falls, SD, 57107
Payment methods
Credit Card
3
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
90%
Years active
42
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moveBuddha logo
4.4
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Google logo
4.7
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Yelp logo
5.0
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage available
  • 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. Action Moving & Storage, Inc. has been in business for 42 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. Action Moving & Storage, Inc. has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 178 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 5.0.

Quote accuracy 4.2

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Action Moving & Storage, Inc..

Customer service 4.7

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

Recent reviews

"Austin, Mikey, and Raul just cleared our basement out. They were efficient, professional, and covered everything so nothing got scratched or scrapped. And everything was clean when they left. I highly recommend them."

"Great service. Great communication! Everyone was very friendly and made quick work of our move to Onawa! Will use them again if and when needed. VERY PROFESSIONAL!"

DOT number
299154
Address
514 Clark St, Sioux City, IA, 51101
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
4
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Helpful movers
checkmark Quick moving process
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
84%
Years active
22
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moveBuddha logo
4.4
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Google logo
4.4
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Yelp logo
4.0
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Safe moving
  • Crane/hoisting vans
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • 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. Movin' On Out Inc has been in business for 22 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Movin' On Out Inc has about 84% positive reviews across roughly 70 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Movin' On Out Inc, and Movin' On Out Inc makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Movin' On Out Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Movin’ On Out did an absolutely fantastic job! They moved my stuff quickly and thoroughly, making the entire process smooth and stress-free. The team was professional, efficient, and handled everything with care. Highly recommend!"

"The movers were friendly and efficient, careful with our stuff, and very reasonably priced. We were moving between two smaller cities with limited options for moving companies. They made our moving day so much easier and less stressful."

DOT number
1201875
Address
927 E 8th St Suite 122, Sioux Falls, SD, 57103
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
1201875
5
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
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checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Highly recommended
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
92%
Years active
23
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Yelp logo
3.3
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Safe moving
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • 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. Advanced Moving has been in business for 23 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 3.8

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Advanced Moving has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 39 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.3.

Quote accuracy 4.3

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Advanced Moving.

Customer service 4.1

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

Recent reviews

"The movers were punctual, they provided professionalism and courteous service. The movers were also polite, efficient and cared for your possessions. I would highly recommend them for your next move."

"Advanced Moving showed up early, padded and loaded all of my items, and completed the move of my household goods and garage items as promised. Dennis and his crew were respectful, efficient, and patient... I would recommend them again to others."

DOT number
961086
Address
27056 Kerslake Pl, Tea, SD, 57064
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card • Money Order
State license
961086
6
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checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
96%
Years active
57
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.9
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Yelp logo
1.5
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Pool table moving
  • Safe moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • 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. Brouwer Relocation Inc has been in business for 57 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and labor-only moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Brouwer Relocation Inc has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 220 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.5.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Brouwer Relocation Inc.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Brouwer Relocation Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

"They called ahead so I knew when they would be here. They were courteous, and professional. They efficiently put everything where I asked them to. Highly recommend!!!"

"Great communication, nailed the time slot that was set up, and placed the item exactly where I asked, the guys were professional.. 5 Stars!"

DOT number
125550
Address
4800 N. Velocity Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104
Payment methods
Credit Card
7
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
70%
Years active
35
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moveBuddha logo
4.2
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Google logo
4.0
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Yelp logo
2.8
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 3.8

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Mini Movers Inc has been in business for 35 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Mini Movers Inc has about 70% positive reviews across roughly 50 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Mini Movers Inc.

Customer service 3.8

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

Recent reviews

"Zach & Tim facilitated my move yesterday. They got the job done so quickly and with care. Kept me laughing the entire time as they hustled. Everything was transferred with no damage, great care and pride."

"Had a good move thanks to Zach, Tim, Trent, Jordan and Dillon. Full house move with lots of heavy furniture in extreme heat. These guys did a fantastic job and were super friendly and accommodating."

DOT number
1458823
Address
7520 W Legacy St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57106
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
1458823
8
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Careful handling
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
89%
Years active
11
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moveBuddha logo
4.2
link icon
Google logo
4.6
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Yelp logo
4.4
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 3.8

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Affordable Moving LLC has been in business for 11 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and labor-only moving.

Review quality 3.8

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Affordable Moving LLC has about 89% positive reviews across roughly 101 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.4.

Quote accuracy 3.9

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

Customer service 4.7

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

Recent reviews

"Alex, Cruz, and Shaum moved me today. I have a lot of stuff and they were super quick and got it all moved safely! They were nice and professional. Would definitely use Affordable Moving again."

"They moved our stuffs in less time than I thought it would take. Transfer was safe and professional and was still within budget. Guys were friendly. I would highly recommend them."

DOT number
2533619
Address
2121 Tracy Ln, Sioux Falls, SD, 57103
Payment methods
Credit Card

How do Yankton, SD moving companies compare?

Company Our rating Positive reviews BBB Quote
star star star star star
4.58
78% A+
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
11 years in business
star star star star star
4.5
92% A+
Action Moving & Storage, Inc.
42 years in business
star star star star star
4.42
90% A+
Movin' On Out Inc
22 years in business
star star star star star
4.42
84% A+
Advanced Moving
23 years in business
star star star star star
4.3
92% A+
Brouwer Relocation Inc
57 years in business
star star star star star
4.38
96% A+
Mini Movers Inc
35 years in business
star star star star star
4.2
70% A+
Affordable Moving LLC
11 years in business
star star star star star
4.22
89% A+

Proximity to Yankton 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.

Popular moving routes from Yankton, SD

Local movers in Yankton are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-29 and I-90. 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 Yankton, SD for route-specific recommendations and pricing.

Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • 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
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Insuredcheckmark
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  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

How much do movers cost in Yankton, SD?

Local movers in Yankton are priced hourly. The South Dakota average is $182/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.

Home size Estimated local move cost in Yankton
Studio $249 – $415
1 bedroom $332 – $581
2 bedrooms $498 – $830
3 bedrooms $747 – $1,245
4+ bedrooms $996 – $1,826

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

Ready to compare Yankton mover prices? See our full guide on Yankton, SD mover costs →

Which Yankton, SD movers offer specialty services?

moveBuddha has not yet tracked local movers in Yankton. The specialty service breakdown below draws on ranked movers serving the area and moveBuddha's statewide review of 14 South Dakota companies:

Apartment and high-rise moving in Yankton

Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Yankton 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 Yankton 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: Some Yankton movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which is useful when you're supplying the container or rental truck. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is Yankton's top-rated labor-only provider.

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

DIY moving options in Yankton, SD

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

Rental trucks

The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Yankton, SD 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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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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
  • Unlimited mileage
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 Yankton, SD 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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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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 Yankton, SD start with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.5/5) and Movin' On Out Inc (4.42/5), 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 4.5 / 5
  • 92% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.42 / 5
  • 84% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
  • 92% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+

Moving in Yankton, SD: what you need to know

A Yankton 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. Yankton residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with South Dakota DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Yankton 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. Yankton's summer highs reach 86°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.
  • Winter conditions: Yankton's winter lows reach 9°F. Winter moves are cheaper but require planning for ice, snow delays, and longer loading times. Confirm your mover's weather policy before booking.

South Dakota moving regulations and your rights

  • Verify your mover is licensed: all South Dakota movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at South Dakota's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
  • Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, 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.
  • 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.
  • In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
  • 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: South Dakota Trucking Association sets professional standards for South Dakota movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.

Frequently asked questions: moving in Yankton, SD

How much do movers cost in Yankton, SD?

Local movers in Yankton, SD charge by the hour. The South Dakota average is $182/hour for a 2-person crew.

Key cost factors for a Yankton 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 Yankton movers require a deposit to secure your booking. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: available from select Yankton movers. 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 Yankton across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: packing service and material availability vary by company. 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 Yankton include, and what costs extra?

A standard full-service move in Yankton, SD 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 Yankton movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.

Add-on service % of Yankton movers Typical cost impact
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 Yankton offer senior, military, or other discounts?

moveBuddha found no confirmed senior, military, AAA, student, teacher, or law enforcement discounts among the Yankton movers in its database. That does not mean discounts are unavailable. Ask each mover directly at the quote stage, since some companies offer unpublished rates for eligible groups. Confirm any discount in writing before signing.

How far in advance should I book movers in Yankton?

Book Yankton 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 Yankton movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.

What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Yankton 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 Yankton 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 Yankton 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 Yankton licensed and insured?

South Dakota requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the South Dakota 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 Yankton 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 Yankton?

Local Yankton moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Yankton-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 Yankton movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?

Yes. Most Yankton 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 Yankton
  • 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 Yankton 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 Yankton?

The cheapest time to move in Yankton 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. Yankton's summer highs reach 86°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. Yankton's winter lows reach 9°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 Yankton's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How moveBuddha selects and reviews Yankton, SD moving companies

moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 14 South Dakota 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 Yankton draw on 1,734 verified customer reviews across South Dakota: 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.

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

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

  1. Verify your mover's license and insurance. Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, 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. Verify a license.
  2. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Yankton 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 Yankton 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 Yankton 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 Yankton, SD

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.