Best Antique Moving Companies (Updated Review)
Here’s the quick answer: During our extensive research process, we found Safeway Moving, American Van Lines, Mayzlin Relocation, JK Moving Services, and U-Pack to be the top companies for moving antiques.
We chose these companies based on their specialized training, custom packing options, and experience handling fragile, valuable items. When choosing a moving company, make sure they’re licensed, insured, offer written estimates, provide specialized packing, and have an excellent reputation for handling antiques.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
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We help thousands of people move each month — and many have irreplaceable treasures in tow. Here’s what you need to know for a safe, stress-free move with your antiques, from finding expert movers to packing tips and must-have insurance.
Our ratings of the best antique moving companies
Here are our top-rated antique moving companies:
- Best for HOAs and condos: Safeway Moving
- Best overall for antiques: American Van Lines
- Best long-distance antique movers: Mayzlin Relocation
- Best antique furniture movers: JK Moving Services
- Best DIY option: U-Pack
These companies are leaders in specialized handling, expert packing, and overall peace of mind. For broader options, compare our best moving companies guide as well.
Compare the best antique movers
Take a look at how our picks for best antique movers stack up in terms of services.
| Moving company | Specialty services for antiques | Certified antique moving crews | Customized crates | Insurance options | State availability | BBB rating |
| Safeway Moving | ✓ | x | ✓ | Basic, full value | 50 | B |
| American Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Basic, full value | 48 (not in AK or HI) | A |
| Mayzlin Relocation | x | x | ✓ | Basic (double the industry average), full value | 48 (not in AK or HI) | A- |
| JK Moving Services | ✓ | x | x | Basic, full value | 50 | A+ |
| U-Pack | x | x | x | Catastrophic liability, carrier negligence liability | 50 | A+ |
Our reviews of the best movers for antiques
Best for HOAs and condos: Safeway Moving
rating
4.85 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
One of Safeway Moving’s specialties is its knowledgeable approach to HOA and condo association moves. Safeway made our list of antique movers because it requires each of its partners to carry a $1 million liability insurance policy, which is higher than several competitors. This provides more extensive moving insurance coverage for antiques and valuables, and it’s compliant with HOA and condo association requirements.
Services
Safeway is both a carrier and a partner with other moving companies in certain locations. It offers full-service long-distance moves and includes services like packing and unpacking, custom crating, and climate-controlled storage. If you’re moving to a new state, Safeway is the best choice. We rated it #1 on our best interstate moving companies guide.
Safeway Moving pros and cons
- Meets HOA/condo association insurance and license requirements
- Includes 30 days of free storage
- Provides binding estimates, so you know what you’ll pay
- Requires a 40% deposit to secure your moving date
- Has limited information online
Best overall for antiques: American Van Lines
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
With its highly trained staff and specialty offerings, American Van Lines (AVL) is our top pick for professional antique movers and one of our recommendations for best moving van lines. AVL’s moving crew members have an average of 10 years of experience. Crews are required to complete annual courses in the company’s training facility as well.
AVL’s movers are certified specifically in moving antiques and pianos, so you can rest assured your fragile household pieces are properly packed and safely moved to your new home.
Services
AVL can handle full-service moves with white-glove antique moving services—such as custom crates for large, fragile, or oddly shaped pieces in every US state except for Alaska and Hawaii.
Like most moving companies, AVL offers two types of contents coverage plans. Federal law requires moving companies to carry basic carrier liability coverage, at $0.60 per pound. AVL’s optional full-value protection offers more comprehensive coverage of at least $6 per pound.
American Van Lines pros and cons
- Has certified antique moving crews
- Will match lower prices from competitors
- Offers climate-controlled storage units
- Charges a hefty deposit (up to 50%)
- Does not serve Alaska or Hawaii
Best long-distance antique movers: Mayzlin Relocation
rating
4.9 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
We like Mayzlin Relocation for its attention to detail and customer-centric approach, which are well-suited to transporting antiques. Although it’s smaller than many of the movers on our list and a newer company, Mayzlin’s quality service and personal touch make it one of the best moving companies in the industry.
Services
Mayzlin provides full-service long-distance moves throughout the contiguous U.S., regardless of size. Since many companies have a size minimum, Mayzlin might be a great fit if you’re downsizing or are only shipping a few antiques.
As a carrier, Mayzlin handles each of its moves directly using its highly trained and fully vetted moving crews. The company will also assign you a relocation consultant to help you personalize your antiques move, and the company is available around the clock to provide support. Mayzlin Relocation also makes our list of the best long distance moving companies.
Mayzlin Relocation pros and cons
- Offers double the industry average on its standard protection coverage
- Provides 30 days of free storage on long-distance moves
- Honors lower quotes from competitors
- You must pay a deposit to book your move
- Doesn’t give online quotes
Best antique furniture movers: JK Moving Services
rating
4.6 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
If your moving needs include antique furniture, JK Moving Services might be your best choice. As part of the company’s full-service moving package, trained crews will take apart your furniture and reassemble it at your new home.
This service eliminates the logistical headache of moving large pieces and ensures your furniture is transported safely. It also makes relocating your heirlooms and collector’s items a stress-free experience since JK Moving specializes in handling high-value and fragile items.
Services
JK Moving Services offers local moves in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., as well as long-distance and international moves. It also provides storage solutions and allows you to track your belongings with a GPS tracking system. A personal moving coordinator will also be there to answer questions or address concerns during the process.
JK Moving Services pros and cons
- Offers full-valuation coverage at no cost on full-service moves
- Provides GPS tracking and updates on delivery status
- Has personal moving coordinators
- Has limited local moving services
- Does not honor price matching
Best DIY option: U-Pack
rating
5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
U-Pack is our pick for those who prefer to handle the bulk of the moving process on their own, and want to save some money in the process. The company’s ReloCubes and trailers allow DIY movers to pack and load their antiques on their own without having to pay for bells and whistles they don’t want or need. For that reason, U-Pack is the most affordable antique mover on our list.
Services
U-Pack’s container size offerings include six-foot ReloCubes and a 28-foot trailer. We like that U-Pack only charges you for the space you use, not the entire trailer. That makes U-Pack a good option for smaller antique moves.
U-Pack’s drivers will move your ReloCube or trailer once it’s loaded, pick it up for you, and transport it to your new home or storage facility. Keep in mind, though, that U-Pack requires a quick turnaround—three days—when it comes to loading and unloading, so if you want a little more time to move, it might not be the best fit.
U-Pack pros and cons
- Provides a cheaper alternative to full-service movers
- Allows you to pay only for the space you use (on trailers)
- Offers multiple sizes of containers and trailers
- Doesn’t handle local moves (50 miles or less)
- Only gives you three days each to load and unload your container
Summary of the best antique moving companies
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- White-glove handling of fragile & high-end items
- Guaranteed pickup & delivery
- $250 deposit for interstate moves
- Mobile app with 24/7 customer service
- Financing available
- Long distance moves only
- Only pay for the space you use
- No deposit or initial fees
- Fast delivery time frames
Why antiques require specialized moving
Antiques, fine art, and collectibles aren’t just heavy or awkward — they’re irreplaceable. Most general movers lack the training, equipment, and care needed to move these items safely. One slip, and a 19th-century mirror or hand-carved armoire could be lost forever.
- Delicate finishes and materials: Easily scratched, cracked, or warped by temperature and humidity. Veneers, gilt frames, and inlays need controlled handling and protective wraps.
- Complex shapes and fragility: Odd dimensions, fragile joints, and glass components mean standard packing isn’t enough, so you may need custom padding and crating.
- High sentimental and monetary value: Moving insurance can’t truly replace unique or family items, so preventing damage is the top priority.
That’s why choosing a mover with proven antique expertise is essential.
How to choose the right antique moving company
Specialized handling and expertise
Look for moving companies with dedicated experience and training in moving antiques and fine art. The right movers will offer:
- Dedicated antique/fine art teams: Specialized crews who know how to protect fragile, valuable pieces with the right pads, wraps, and techniques.
- Professional certifications: Credentials from AMSA/IAM or similar organizations showing commitment to best practices and ongoing training.
- Proven packing and handling protocols: Custom crating, climate control, and white-glove service so pieces are protected end to end.
Damage risk drops dramatically when you hire specialized experts to move antiques instead of generic movers.
Company credentials and experience
Before booking, verify each company’s background. Here’s how:
- Check licensing: Use the USDOT online database to confirm their USDOT number and legal status.
- Ask about experience: How long have they been in business? Do they background-check and train their crews for high-value moves?
- Request documentation: Look for proof of insurance, training, and references for previous antique or fine-art moves.
Customer reviews and reputation
Reputation matters. Check reviews on trusted sources like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and the moveBuddha Better Moves Project. Focus on:
- Consistent praise for careful handling: Look for detailed feedback about communication, punctuality, and protection methods.
- How the company handles claims: The best movers resolve issues quickly and fairly with clear documentation.
- Real customer stories: Evidence of successful antique or specialty moves is a big plus when you’re comparing quotes.
Packing and protection techniques for antiques
Step-by-step packing guide
Proper packing is essential for antiques. Use these steps to protect your valuables:
- Clean and inspect: Dust with a soft cloth, take photos from multiple angles, and document any existing scratches or marks for insurance.
- Disassemble if possible: Remove legs, glass, shelves, or loose parts. Place hardware in labeled bags and tape them to the main piece.
- Wrap securely:
- Protect corners and protrusions: Use foam, edge guards, or corner protectors to distribute impact.
- Crate fragile or oversized pieces: Request custom-fit wood crates for marble, mirrors, and large framed art.
- Small items: Wrap in acid-free tissue, then bubble wrap. Avoid newspaper ink on delicate finishes.
- Box and crate:
- Use double-walled boxes: Ideal for smaller antiques; fill gaps with foam or peanuts to prevent movement.
- Order professional crates: For top-value items, crating prevents crushing and vibration damage in transit.
- Label everything: Mark boxes “FRAGILE” and “This Side Up.” List contents on each box and note any special handling.
For materials, see our complete guide to packing materials, and don’t forget our tips for finding free moving boxes.
How to prepare your antiques for movers
Comprehensive preparation checklist
Take the following steps before moving day to keep your antiques secure and properly documented:
- Clean carefully: Use a soft, dry cloth; avoid harsh chemicals that can strip finishes.
- Photograph from multiple angles: Capture pre-existing wear and serial or maker’s marks for records.
- Document serial numbers and appraisals: Keep copies for insurance and customs (if applicable).
- Label and inventory each piece: Use unique IDs to match items to crates and boxes.
- Discuss special needs: Tell your mover about any special requests for your antiques.
- Request a pre-move inspection: A video walk-through helps identify risks and your needs for custom crates early.
Tip: Save our moving checklist for a printable prep guide.
Insurance and liability when moving antiques
Coverage options
Moving insurance can be critical for antiques. Here are the main choices you’ll have with the best moving companies:
- Basic carrier liability: Free but minimal — typically $0.60 per pound per item, which won’t cover antiques’ true value.
- Full-value protection: Covers repair, replacement, or cash value (often based on a per-pound valuation). High-value items may require appraisals or itemized schedules.
- Third-party insurance: Third-party policies based on appraised value for fine art and antiques; often required for international moves.
What happens if there’s damage?
If your antiques arrive damaged, act immediately and follow a clear paper trail:
- Inspect at delivery: Note damage on the inventory/bill of lading and take photos before the movers leave.
- File a claim quickly: Include photos, inventory IDs, appraisals, and repair estimates.
- Resolution: Depending on coverage, the mover or insurer will arrange repair, replacement, or compensation.
Personalized and concierge moving services for antiques
Some moving companies offer dedicated coordinators or moving concierges for antiques. These experts can:
- Create custom moving plans: Tailored to your collection, access points, and delivery preferences.
- Arrange appraisals, packing, and storage: Handling logistics from crate design to storage reservations.
- Manage building requirements and scheduling: Including permits, elevator windows, and insurance certificates.
- Keep you updated: Regular communication and shipment tracking for peace of mind.
“Mayzlin assigned me a relocation consultant who helped personalize my antiques move and coordinated every detail, from packing to delivery. The process was smoother than any of my past moves.”
– Read Jana’s full story
Companies known for personalized service include Mayzlin Relocation, JK Moving, and Safeway Moving.
Small moves and local antique movers
Not all antique moves are cross-country. For smaller or local moves, look for specialists like Sterling Van Lines (for nationwide small moves) or regional experts in your area. Benefits include:
- Faster scheduling and personal attention: Smaller companies can be more flexible with dates and scope.
- Local expertise: Knowledge of building rules, permits, and parking in your city.
- Lower minimums: Move a handful of antiques without paying for a full truckload.
Tip: Hybrid approaches (where you pack yourself and hire pros for loading) or container options like U-Pack can work for small moves — but be extra careful with packing and insurance.
International and long-distance antique moves
Special considerations
International moves add complexity. Make sure your mover can handle:
- Customs paperwork and regulations: Certain antiques and art require export/import documentation and provenance proof.
- Appraisals and certificates of authenticity: Often necessary for customs clearance and insurance.
- Experienced international movers: Choose companies with proven ocean/air logistics and fine-art experience.
- Climate-controlled containers: Maintain stable conditions for sensitive materials during long transits.
Tip: Start weeks earlier than you would for a domestic move, since customs and third-party insurance approvals can take longer.
Cost factors for antique moves
What affects the price?
Several factors influence the cost of moving antiques. Here’s what moving companies will consider to determine your rates:
- Distance and weight/volume: Longer moves and heavier or bulkier pieces cost more.
- Item value: Higher values may require special handling, higher coverage, or appraisals.
- Packing needs: Custom crating, white-glove service, and climate control add to the total.
- Storage duration: Short- or long-term climate-controlled storage incurs monthly fees.
- Access issues: Stairs, elevators, long carries, or city permits can increase labor time and cost.
How to get an accurate quote
Follow these steps for the most reliable estimate:
- Request in-person or virtual walk-throughs: Let movers assess your pieces, access points, and crate needs.
- Compare at least three quotes: Evaluate both price and scope. Don’t sacrifice crating or coverage to save a few dollars.
- Ask for binding or not-to-exceed quotes: This limits surprise charges and clarifies what’s included.
Want a fast estimate? Use our tool below for instant, personalized quotes from trusted movers.
Step-by-step appraisal guidance before moving antiques
Appraisals help protect your valuables and are often needed for insurance. Here’s how to get started:
- Identify high-value items — typically anything worth $1,000+ or rare collectibles with provenance.
- Find certified appraisers via the ASA or AAA directories.
- Schedule an in-person or virtual appraisal and request a written report with photos.
- Share appraisals with your mover/insurer to ensure adequate coverage.
- Keep copies with your inventory and claims paperwork.
Don’t skip this step if your collection is significant. It’s often required for full-value coverage and international customs.
Local regulations and building requirements
Every building and city has its own rules for moving. Plan ahead to avoid headaches:
- Check HOA or condo policies: Some require extra insurance certificates, floor protection, or specific move windows.
- Reserve elevators and loading docks: Book in advance and confirm dimensions for large crates.
- Secure city parking permits: Many municipalities require permits for moving trucks — arrange these early.
- Communicate restrictions early: Share all building requirements with your movers before moving day.
Also compare the best interstate moving companies if you’re crossing state lines.
FAQs
Do I need to appraise all my antiques before moving?
You don’t need to appraise everything, but high-value or unique pieces should be appraised so they’re properly covered under full-value protection. Appraisals establish documentation and value, streamline claims, and are often required for international moves. Prioritize items that would be difficult or impossible to replace.
Can movers disassemble and reassemble antique furniture?
Yes — full-service movers commonly handle disassembly and reassembly for antiques. Confirm whether this is included or an add-on and ask about the hardware process (bagging, labeling). For complex items like grandfather clocks or canopy beds, request a specialist and photos of reassembly points.
What if my antiques are damaged during the move?
Inspect everything at delivery and note issues on the bill of lading. Take photos, reference your inventory, and submit a claim promptly with appraisals or estimates. With full-value protection, you can expect repair, replacement, or compensation; basic liability offers minimal reimbursement, so choose coverage carefully.
Can I move antiques internationally?
Yes, but work with an international mover experienced in fine-art and customs logistics. You’ll need documentation (invoices, provenance, appraisals) and may face export/import rules for some items. Build extra time into your schedule for paperwork and consider climate-controlled shipping containers.
What about last-minute or emergency moves?
Some specialty movers offer expedited services, but availability is limited. Be clear about timelines, expect rush fees, and avoid cutting corners on crating or coverage. When possible, prioritize the highest-value items with white-glove packing and ship less critical pieces later.
Next steps
Moving antiques doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, specialist movers, and solid insurance, your cherished pieces will be in safe hands. Whether you’re relocating rare art, vintage furniture, or family heirlooms, choose a mover with a proven track record and the right white-glove services.
Ready to get started? Use our tool below to compare quotes from vetted antique movers and map out a damage-free move.
The moveBuddha team has spent nearly 10 years evaluating moving companies using a rigorous review system to identify the best moving companies. Our thorough methodology evaluates each moving company's services, cost, customer service, and reputation: Moving services (35%): Customer feedback (28%): Online reviews (7%): State availability (12%): Additional services (12%): Quotes/Payment options (6%):How we chose the best moving companies
We verify operating authority, insurance, and service scope against FMCSA/SAFER and state databases. We confirm availability via standardized mystery-shopping calls (packing tiers, storage type, specialty handling, delivery windows, valuation), and then review contracts alongside complaint and claims patterns over time.
We run structured post-move surveys through our Better Moves Project with verifiable documentation. We emphasize on-time performance, care of goods, and estimates’ accuracy, and we investigate outliers before they influence scores.
We aggregate ratings across multiple third-party sites to reduce platform bias, analyze overall trends and company response behavior, and discount obvious spam/fake signals such as sudden bursts, duplicate language, and low-history profiles.
We confirm USDOT numbers, broker vs. carrier status, and any required state permits, then score a state-by-state service matrix that accounts for coverage gaps, seasonal limits, and lane strength. We award additional credit for documented cross-border or specialty lanes.
We verify whether add-ons are performed in-house or subcontracted, look for crew training/certifications for high-value or oversized items, count only documented offerings (tariffs, photos, written service descriptions) confirmed via mystery shopping, and reward robust pre-move planning (virtual surveys, itemized crating).
We test standardized move profiles to assess estimate type (binding, not-to-exceed, non-binding), line-item transparency, and disclosed surcharges, require clear written policies for deposits, refunds, and cancellations, and award points for secure, flexible payment methods and customer portals.
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