10 Best Cheap Moving Companies of 2025

After hundreds of hours of research, we found that Safeway Moving provides cheaper and competitive pricing for hybrid moves with full-service options. However, if you want to go as cheap as possible, we found that U-Haul is your best option as long as you’re willing to do a lot of the work.

Moving costs aren’t the only thing you should consider when choosing a cheap mover. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best moving companies in the industry for cheap moves of several different types so you can make the right pick for your next move.

Key takeaways:

  • Safeway Moving is the best full-service mover to get consistent, cheaper pricing for a more robust move with all the services that make moving go smoothly, such as packing and loading.
  • U-Haul is the best moving company to get as cheap a price as possible, but you’ll have to handle all the work yourself, such as packing, loading, driving, and unloading.
  • We found that the average cost of a local move is $800–$2,500, while long-distance moves (within the same state) range from $2,200–$7,500+ and cross-country moves can cost $4,000–$10,000+.

Best cheap moving companies

What makes a cheaper moving company better for you than another doesn’t always come down to the lowest price tag. You have to balance your moving needs, additional benefits, customer service quality, and cost to find the best mover for you. We learned this from our ongoing research into the best moving companies. This guide uses moveBuddha’s monthly cost dataset, which has over 1,000 live price points from movers. These figures come from live quote requests, user-submitted quotes via our moving cost calculator, and five other cost sources.

By using our database of more than 25 sources, including government databases, verified online reviews, industry surveys, and our own Better Moves Project, we analyze more than 4,500 moving companies and over a million verified reviews to determine the most budget-friendly movers. We found Safeway Moving to be the best overall cheap mover, but below are moveBuddha’s rankings for the best cheap moving companies for various types of moves:

Comparing the most budget-friendly moving companies

Here’s a quick overview of the best cheap moving companies and what they can offer for your move:

Company Name Best for Price Range Deposit Type of Service Distances Our Rating
Safeway Moving Hybrid moves $$ Up to 40% Full-service movers Local and long-distance 4.5/5
U-Haul Cheapest DIY moves $ None Truck rental Local and long-distance 4.15/5
HireAHelper Cheapest packers and movers $ None Moving labor Local and long-distance N/A
U-Pack Cheapest moving containers $$ None Moving container Long-distance only 5/5
American Van Lines Customer service $$ Up to 50% Full-service movers Local and long-distance 4.5/5
Mayzlin Relocation Cheapest interstate moves $$ 25% Full-service movers Local and long-distance 4.45/5
Zippy Shell Cheapest city-to-city moves $$ 50% Moving container Local and long-distance 4.2/5
Allied Van Lines Add-on services $$$ None Full-service movers Local, long-distance, and international 4.45/5
North American Van Lines Cheapest long-distance moves $$$ None Full-service movers Local, national, and international 4.25/5
JK Moving Services Cheapest white-glove service $$$$ $250 Full-service movers Local, national, and international 4.25/5

Cheapest for hybrid moves: Safeway Moving

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5

89% of users select this mover

Safeway Moving offers budget-friendly rates without compromising accountability and quality. As a carrier (not a broker), they take direct responsibility for moves, using in-house crews where possible and vetted partners for nationwide coverage. This hybrid approach keeps costs down while maintaining oversight.

They offer transparent, flexible pricing with upfront phone estimates and price-matching against competitors like Mayflower. The tradeoff: no instant online quotes, and complex moves need detailed inventory. For long-distance relocations, customizable service options let you control costs, but confirm whether partners will be used and the exact price-match terms.

Services:

  • Long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Custom crating
  • Loading and unloading
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Insurance
  • Storage options
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Price-matching
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Senior moves

Pros/Cons

  • Price matching for top competitors
  • 30 days of free storage included for interstate moves
  • Multistep verification system ensures accurate quotes
  • 24/7 customer service available
  • Deposit required at booking
  • No local moves
  • No online quotes
  • No online shipment tracking
  • Bare-bones website means you’ll need to contact a representative for more information
mover
moveBuddha icon
Kaley's Move with Safeway
Kaley loved how her move turned out. She used a lot of Safeway Moving’s full-service options, but you might be able to lower your cost by negotiating what services you’d handle yourself and what Safeway will handle. Despite a few very minor issues along the way, Safeway Moving was as advertised, ensuring Kaley had as stress-free a move as possible. She especially appreciated that Safeway handled a lot of communications via text.
From
CA
To
IL
Cost
$5,950
Size
1 bdrm
Read The Full Story

Check out our full Safeway Moving review here.


Cheapest for DIY moves: U-Haul

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5

89% of users select this mover

For many budget-conscious movers, the common conundrum is moving company vs. truck rental. A lot of times, people opt to rent a moving truck and do the work themselves — and few names are more well-known for this option than U-Haul.

U-Haul rental trucks are an excellent option for local DIY moves. Their rental trucks typically come with a flat daily rate of $19.95-$39.95 per day, with an additional per-mile charge. With several truck sizes available at most locations, it’s easy to find one that works well for your move.

By renting a truck and doing the rest of the work yourself, you can expect moving costs to be a fraction of what you’d pay for full-service movers. However, while you can also buy and rent moving supplies from U-Haul, those tend to be more expensive than buying them elsewhere.

Services:

  • Pickup truck rentals
  • Cargo van rentals
  • Moving truck rentals
  • U-Haul truck share
  • One-way truck rentals
  • Trailer rentals
  • Moving help

Pros/Cons

  • 20,000+ locations nationwide
  • Rental options ranging from pickup trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension protects your items during transit
  • U-Box moving container rentals also available if you don’t want to drive
  • Some locations have limited truck availability and less-than-stellar customer service
  • Environmental fees and other add-on charges can be an issue
  • Packing materials and equipment tend to be on the expensive side
mover
moveBuddha icon
Janelle's Move with U-Haul
“We went with the cheapest option and got what we paid for. I wish UHaul had better communication and system in place to track boxes. In the end, our items arrived, but there was a lot of hassle involved since we wanted to do some of the work ourselves instead of hiring professional movers” – Janelle
From
CA
To
TN
Cost
$4,523
Size
2 bdrms
Read The Full Story

Check out our full U-Haul review here.


Cheapest packers and movers: HireAHelper

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5

89% of users select this mover

If you need help with packing and unpacking, you don’t necessarily have to pay an arm and a leg! HireAHelper is a unique service that connects you with local movers and packers to load and unload your moving truck or storage container.

They also offer a tool to help you the cheapest rental truck companies. With instant quotes and online booking, this tends to be easier and cheaper than using a full-service moving company. According to their website, the average cost for hiring movers through HireAHelper is $452.

Services:

  • Packing
  • Loading and unloading
  • Furniture moving
  • Day labor
  • Specialty movers
  • Rental trucks
  • Semi-trailer rental
  • Corporate relocation
  • Moving containers
  • Military relocation

Pros/Cons

  • Can book help with packing, loading, unloading, assembling, disassembling, and day labor
  • Easy-to-use tool for comparing moving truck rentals in your area
  • Money-back service guarantee
  • Instant quotes and online booking
  • No cancellation fees with less than 24-hour’s notice
  • Need to hire two sets of movers for long-distance moves
  • Helpers can’t drive your rental truck or personal vehicle
  • Must provide your own packing supplies

Check out our full HireAHelper review here.


Cheapest moving containers: U-Pack

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5

89% of users select this mover

If you want a true DIY move without driving a rental truck, moving containers are a perfect budget hack. U-Pack is our pick for the cheapest container solution that still keeps things tidy and predictable. U-Pack drops ReloCube containers (or a larger trailer) at your home, you load on your schedule (you get three business days to load), they haul the unit to your destination, and you get another three business days to unload. The key money-saving advantage: you only pay for the space you actually use in the trailer or for the ReloCubes you fill, so you’re not paying for empty cubic feet.

U-Pack is best for long-distance DIYers who want to control labor costs (you do the loading/unloading) while avoiding the hassle of driving. It’s also flexible: use one large trailer, several ReloCubes, or a mix, and you won’t be billed for an unused cube if you don’t fill it. To make the most of it, be deliberate about packing, know the loading rules, and confirm any access or timing fees up front so the headline “pay for what you use” translates into real savings.

Services:

  • Portable storage container (ReloCube)
  • 28-foot freight trailers
  • Moving supplies

Pros/Cons

  • Less expensive than full-service moves
  • Fast delivery times
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • Instant online quotes for all moves
  • Professionals take care of the driving
  • Just three days to load and unload containers
  • Freight trailers can be tricky to load and can’t be used for storage
  • No local moves
  • Limited availability for storage
mover
moveBuddha icon
Shiri's Move with U-Pack
“I chose U-Pack since they were the most budget-friendly option and had consistently good reviews for customer service. I liked how U-Pack handled the majority of the process. Every time I called the local dispatchers, they answered promptly and assisted. They were quick to deliver the containers and there was no damage.” – Shiri W.
From
CA
To
OR
Cost
$2,540
Size
3 bdrms
Read The Full Story

Check out our full U-Pack review here.


Best customer service: American Van Lines

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5

89% of users select this mover

MoveBuddha readers consistently rate American Van Lines (AVL) highly. They’ve built more than 20 years of experience to become one of the best interstate movers across the Lower 48, and they’ll also handle international and local moves and vehicle shipping when a big relocation requires it. For budget-conscious movers, AVL’s profile matters because they combine full-service capability with pricing and customer service features that help you control cost without losing accountability.

What makes AVL a smart pick for bargain hunters is how they price and manage moves. Readers tell us AVL offers upfront, flat-rate quotes. This is a big advantage if you want predictable costs, and they’re able to accommodate last-minute moves, which can save you a premium that other carriers charge for short-notice work. Customers also rate their responsiveness: you can call and talk to a real person, and AVL assigns a dedicated move coordinator to be your single point of contact.

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long-distance moves
  • International moving
  • Military moves
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate relocation
  • Storage options
  • Special item transport
  • Moving boxes and supplies
  • Variety of truck sizes available

Pros/Cons

  • Highly rated customer service
  • Local and cross-country moves
  • Full-service packing services
  • Competitive and affordable pricing
  • Storage service available
  • Free zero-obligation quotes
  • Binding estimates
  • Insured moving solutions
  • Military and senior discounts
  • Stringent employee background checks
  • Only available in the contiguous United States
  • Requires a 50% deposit for booking
  • No shipment tracking
mover
moveBuddha icon
Allison's Move with AVL
“I got quotes from PODS, U-Pack, and Safeway, but chose American Van Lines because of their amazing reviews and affordability. While my items arrived past the delivery date, the company was communicative and offered me a partial refund due to the delay, and I would recommend AVL to family and friends. Plus, all of my belongings arrive in pristine condition.”
From
NJ
To
TX
Cost
$4,050
Size
2 bdrms
Read The Full Story

Check out our full American Van Lines review here.


Cheapest interstate movers: Mayzlin Relocation

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5

89% of users select this mover

Founded in 2016, Mayzlin is a budget-friendly interstate carrier with a few features that punch above its price point: a formal price-match promise, white-glove add-ons (including a personal moving coordinator and 30 days of free storage), 24/7 customer support, and a standard contents-protection plan that the company says pays out at roughly double the typical baseline most movers offer. For a cost-conscious mover who still wants predictability and a single point of contact, that mix can be a real win.

That said, the budget advantage only holds if you treat Mayzlin like any other mover: verify what’s actually included, lock down the estimated type, and use their services where they move the needle on risk and convenience. Confirm the price-match rules (which competitors count, what proof they require, any blackout dates), read the fine print on the contents protection (per-item caps, exclusions for owner-packed items, whether payouts are replacement vs. depreciated value), and get the details of the 30-day free storage.

Services:

  • Local and long-distance moves
  • Corporate relocation
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Short- and long-term storage
  • Government and military moves
  • Professional moving consultant
  • 24/7 customer service

Pros/Cons

  • 30 days of free storage
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Higher-than-average insurance coverage
  • Price-matching guarantee
  • Deposit required for most moves
  • No instant online quotes
mover
moveBuddha icon
Jana's Move with Mayzlin
“Mayzlin made my interstate move easy and stress-free. From day one, they were communicative, transparent, and careful with all my belongings, including my fragile painting. Despite a small fee increase for extra supplies I needed, their professionalism and quick, safe delivery were worth every penny. I’d highly recommend Mayzlin!”
From
CT
To
OH
Cost
$2,900
Size
1 bdrm
Read The Full Story

Check out our full Mayzlin Relocation review here.


Cheapest for city-to-city moves: Zippy Shell

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.2 / 5

89% of users select this mover

Zippy Shell is an excellent pick for city-to-city moves, offering moving container sizes that work well for local moves. Similar to U-Pack, Zippy Shell delivers a moving container to your property, and give you three days to load it. Their drivers will then pick up the container and transport it to your new home or to one of their secure warehouses for short- or long-term storage.

What sets Zippy Shell apart is the unique design of their containers, which look and function more like trailers than container boxes. These street-legal containers are especially helpful for cities, where parking could potentially become an issue with other providers.

In our analysis, we found that local moves with Zippy Shell typically cost $190-$750, depending on the size of your home and other factors.

Services:

  • Door-to-door service
  • Terminal-to-terminal service

Pros/Cons

  • Street-legal containers work well for cities
  • Professionals take care of the driving
  • Metal cage containers promote airflow during transportation
  • Storage available
  • Loading and unloading services can be added
  • Just three days for loading and unloading
  • No online quotes
  • Only available in 29 states
mover
moveBuddha icon
Danielle's Move with Zippy Shell
“I would recommend Zippy Shell because they were reasonably priced and had great customer service. The prices out there currently are outrageous. We got what we could afford and our stuff arrived unharmed and within the quoted timeframe.” – Danielle
From
VA
To
FL
Cost
$2,730
Size
3 bdrms
Read The Full Story

Check out our full Zippy Shell review here.


Best add-ons: Allied Van Lines

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5

89% of users select this mover

Allied Van Lines is a heavyweight in the moving world with more than 85 years of experience and broad nationwide and international coverage. For budget-minded movers, Allied’s scale can work in your favor: big carriers often have more routing options, frequent departures on long-haul lanes, and more flexible scheduling, all of which can translate into lower baseline prices than a small local-only operator.

That said, Allied’s strengths are the same things that can raise your bill: robust add-ons (full-service packing, temporary storage, added insurance, vehicle transport) and a full-service approach that’s designed for convenience and peace of mind. For the cheapest move with Allied, be intentional about which premium services you pay for. Use their expertise where it matters (fragile, high-value, or very heavy items) and DIY everything else.

Services:

  • Household moving
  • International moving
  • Cross-country moving
  • Packing and loading
  • Corporate relocation
  • Storage
  • Vehicle transportation
  • Moving containers
  • Packing and supplies
  • Insurance coverage

Pros/Cons

  • Services local and cross-country moves
  • Options for international moves
  • Short- and long-term storage solutions
  • 24/7 move-tracking tool
  • Donates unwanted items to Salvation Army
  • Offers portable storage containers
  • You have to speak to a representative to get a quote
  • Many customers complain about damaged items
  • Customers say there are technical issues with filing insurance claims
  • More expensive than competitors
mover
moveBuddha icon
Stefanie's Move with Allied
My move was mostly antiques, and Berger Allied was the only moving company that could do an in-person estimate. They were very organized and professional. Great communication! They were always available to answer my many questions.
From
TX
To
CA
Cost
$4,000
Size
1 bdrm equivalent of antiques
Read The Full Story

Check out our full Allied Van Lines review here.


Cheapest long-distance movers: North American Van Lines

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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5

89% of users select this mover

North American Van Lines (NAVL) is a smart pick for people who need a low-cost option for long-distance or cross-country moves without sacrificing the protections of a big carrier. NAVL’s “not-to-exceed” quote option gives you predictable pricing (so long as your inventory is accurate and you don’t add services). Their full-service offering is exactly what you want for risky or heavy items, while their flexibility lets you pick and choose services to control costs. Our data shows average long-distance moves with NAVL run around $3,500.

For the cheapest NAVL move, be specific about what you buy and confirm every line item. Not-to-exceed quotes protect you from surprise upsells, but you still need to verify what’s included (are packing supplies and crating built into that price?), how vehicle shipping is priced, and whether any subcontracted agents will handle legs of your move. To cut costs, self-pack nonfragile boxes, let NAVL handle only the delicate/valuable pieces that justify professional packing or crating, be flexible on pickup/delivery windows (midweek/off-peak saves money), and purge before you get a quote.

Services:

  • Household moving
  • International moving
  • Cross-country moving
  • Packing and loading
  • Corporate relocation
  • Storage
  • Vehicle transportation
  • Packing and supplies

Pros/Cons

  • More than 90 years of experience
  • More than 500 agents located across the country
  • More than 1,500 locations in all 50 states
  • Not-to-exceed quotes help you set a firm budget
  • Online tool for estimating your packing supply needs
  • No way to complete the quote process online — you’ll have to speak with a representative
  • Mover quality can vary from agent to agent
  • Tend to get booked quickly
mover
moveBuddha icon
Alexander's Move with North American Van Lines
I felt that overall the moving staff handled my items with care and more delicate items weren’t just tossed around and placed conscientiously in the truck. There were a few items that I think could’ve been packed a bit more securely, but most furniture was wrapped and taped well in moving blankets with extra protection. Despite offering additional services, NAVL stayed true to the initial bound quote they gave me. Besides this, the move was pretty standard compared to other local moves I have done .”
From
KY
To
MA
Cost
$5,789
Size
1 bdrm
Read The Full Story

Check out our full North American Van Lines review here.


Cheapest white-glove mover: JK Moving Services

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.6 / 5

89% of users select this mover

If your move is inside the D.C.–Virginia–Maryland area and you’re hunting for the cheapest full-service option, JK Moving Services should be on your list. They pair a personal move coordinator with a 100% background-checked crew, which is rare at lower price points and gives you accountability without extra stress. Their small-move program is especially useful for studio or one-room moves. It’s built to keep costs down by matching crew and truck size to the job instead of forcing you into a full-service price tag.

JK also gives budget-conscious movers another tool: financing (advertised with rates as low as 0%). That can convert one big, painful payment into manageable monthly installments. This is handy if you want professional help but can’t pay everything up front. Two cautions: always read the financing terms (promo 0% deals often require on-time payments) and compare the financed total to the cash price.

Services:

  • Local moving
  • Interstate moving
  • International moving
  • Third-party furniture assembly and disassembly
  • Storage services
  • Full-service packing services
  • Financing
  • Employee relocations
  • Vehicle transport
  • Commercial moving, storage, and relocation services
  • Valuation coverage

Pros/Cons

  • Reputation for quality service
  • Personal move coordinator available 24/7
  • Background-checked movers tested in a training home to ensure they treat your property with respect
  • Financing available
  • Extremely low complaint rate
  • Guaranteed pickup and delivery dates
  • AI-powered in-home estimate tool
  • Very limited service area for local moves (only available in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.)
  • A bit pricier than the other best cheap moving companies on this list
mover
moveBuddha icon
Lori's Move with JK Moving
“JK Moving communicated clearly and gave me a five-star experience. My move actually cost less than my original quote, which was a pleasant surprise. Everyone was friendly, helpful, and professional and accommodated my busy schedule, delivering my items in perfect condition.”
From
ME
To
GA
Cost
$7,700
Size
4 bdrms
Read The Full Story

Check out our full JK Moving Services review here.


Full-service vs. DIY movers

When choosing a moving company, you’ll need to decide between full-service movers and a DIY move.

Full-service movers are the most comprehensive moving solution. They handle virtually every aspect of the move, including:

  • Packing
  • Loading
  • Transportation
  • Unloading
  • Unpacking

Some companies even offer add-on services like storage or furniture assembly.

Customers opt for full-service movers for the added convenience and peace of mind. Full-service movers cost more than DIY moves, but some customers say the saved time and effort are worth the higher cost.

DIY moving, on the other hand, is budget-friendly. The downside is that you’re not paying for convenience, so you handle all of the planning and execution. This option usually requires renting a moving truck, packing everything yourself, driving to your new home, and unloading and unpacking everything. Since you can’t move a couch solo, you’ll also need to persuade friends and family to help you.

DIY moves are popular because they usually cost less than full-service movers and give you more control over the process. But DIY requires a lot of time and labor, so it isn’t right for everyone.

What to look for in a cheap moving company

Price is important, but the smartest budget moves are predictable ones. You want a low total cost, not surprises. Focus on credibility, a clear scope of work, and evidence the crew can actually handle your home (stairs, elevators, specialty items). A good company will give a walkthrough-based estimate, answer specific questions, and put important details in writing.

Quick vetting checklist
Vet a mover quickly using these points:

  • Ask for an itemized written estimate, crew/truck size, and whether they subcontract.
    Prefer in-person or live-video walkthroughs over instant quotes for anything beyond a studio.
    Verify license/registration (DOT number for interstate or local mover registration), a real address, and a reachable phone/contact.

Red flags to avoid
Here are some warning signs when vetting a mover:

  • No written estimate or pressure to sign immediately.
    Refusal to provide insurance/claims details or licensing info.
    Very low estimate that spikes for “stair,” “long carry,” or “fuel” fees.

What to expect from a moving quote

A useful quote explains how the price was calculated and what can change it. Know whether the quote is binding (flat total), non-binding (final cost can vary), or binding not-to-exceed (you pay the lower of estimate or actual). A well-built quote is inventory-based, accounts for labor/crew size, and lists extras so you aren’t surprised at delivery.

Here are the various estimates that you will encounter when finding a cheap mover:

  • Binding: Guaranteed total (assuming inventory is accurate).
  • Non-binding: Final cost may be higher or lower.
  • Binding not-to-exceed: Gives predictability while returning unused value if work is less.

Once you know what type of quote you are dealing with, look for the following signs for a quality, cheap quote:

  • Itemized inventory or room list, crew size and labor hours, pickup/delivery windows.
  • Line items for packing, specialty items (piano, safe), stairs/long carry, shuttle/fuel, storage, and payment/cancellation terms.
  • Written contract or emailed estimate that matches the walkthrough — don’t sign vague paperwork.

How to evaluate insurance options

Cheap movers sometimes skimp on moving insurance, so look past the headline rate and compare what you’d actually recover if something breaks or is lost. There are three broad approaches — released value (minimal), full value protection (replacement/repair), and third-party transit insurance — and the right choice depends on what you’re moving and how much risk you’ll accept.

Coverage types
Get an idea of what coverage options you have below:

  • Released value: Low cost, very limited reimbursement (often per-pound). Good only for low-value goods.
  • Full value protection: Mover repairs/replaces or pays current value. Costlier but far more protective.
  • Third-party insurance: Buy separately for antiques, jewelry, or expensive electronics if mover options are insufficient.

Smart evaluation steps
Go beyond just knowing what coverage you can get, and make the most out of your moving insurance with the following steps:

  • Confirm claim handling. Check who you call, timeline, required documentation, and whether subcontractors are covered.
  • Consider the cost tradeoff. For a modest premium, full value protection on a few high-ticket pieces often beats self-insuring.
  • Get policy names/excerpts, limits, exclusions, and deductibles in writing — especially rules about owner-packed items.
  • Photodocument preexisting condition and high-value items; keep receipts. For irreplaceable items, consider moving them yourself or buying specialized insurance.

Tips for making your move more affordable

Why pay more than you need to? Follow moveBuddha’s expert tips to trim your moving costs:

  • Check for discounts. You never know unless you ask! Most companies offer moving discounts for AAA members, military service members,veterans, seniors, and students. They often run seasonal or limited-time discounts, so always ask if there are promotions available.
  • Declutter first. Decluttering for a move is a good first step to lowering your overall moving costs. Try to donate or recycle your stuff to avoid sending junk to the landfill.
  • Move during the slow season. You might not have control over your move date, but if you’re flexible, try to move during the fall or spring. The summer is the busiest time of year, and the increased demand drives up prices.
  • Pack yourself. If you’re using a moving service, save money by packing your belongings yourself. Gather free boxes from local stores or friends. Use affordable moving materials, like linens and towels, for padding.
  • Request multiple quotes. Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Shop around and compare quotes so you get the best deal.

FAQs about cheap moving companies

Is it cheaper to buy new furniture or move it?

It’s usually cheaper to move your furniture rather than getting rid of it and buying new stuff when you arrive at your new place. That being said, the cost of moving furniture goes up when moving long-distance or when you need to keep furniture in a storage unit.

Depending on its age and value (and the quotes you get from movers), you may find paring down helps you get a cheaper estimate or a smaller moving truck.

What is the cheapest moving company overall?

For DIY moves, U-Haul is the cheapest option, while for full-service moves Safeway offers the best cheap rates.

What’s the cheapest way to move?

Generally speaking, going the DIY route of renting a moving truck and packing everything yourself will be the cheapest way to move. Yes, you’ll have to do a lot of heavy lifting — but all the extra help offered by a full-service moving company can really add up!

It may feel like more of a hassle to do the work yourself, but the more you do on your own, the cheaper your move will be. Remember this when choosing the best cheap moving companies for your move.

Where can I find cheap or free moving boxes?

Cheap moving boxes are a must for budget-friendly moves. You’re free to buy boxes from moving companies like U-Haul, but these can be expensive. You can find cheap or free moving boxes by:

  • Asking neighbors on Nextdoor
  • Looking on Craigslist
  • Consulting your local Freecycle group
  • Checking local businesses, like big box stores
  • Asking friends and family for boxes

When is the cheapest time to hire movers?

Even when hiring movers for a full-service move, you can still save money by hiring them at the right time. Generally speaking, it’s cheaper to hire movers during the week rather than on the weekend.

You can also save by scheduling your move during the fall or winter rather than the peak moving seasons of spring and summer. Lower demand means lower prices for your move.

What’s the cheapest way to ship a car?

Depending on the type of move you’re making, your cheapest options are usually either to drive your car yourself or tow it behind your moving truck as part of a DIY move.

However, there are also car shipping companies that can ship your vehicle to your new home. When using a professional car shipping company, open auto transport is usually the cheapest option.

How moveBuddha gets its pricing information

We base our scoring on moveBuddha’s monthly cost dataset, which has over 1,000 live price points collected each month across full-service movers, self-service/container companies, and truck rental providers. These figures come from a mix of live quote requests, automated API feeds, and user-submitted quotes via our moving cost calculator.

To provide accuracy and real-time relevance, we include rate signals from our calculator. That way, policies like binding or not-to-exceed estimates, deposit requirements, payment methods, portals, discounts, financing, and price-matching reflect what customers are actually experiencing. All of this works to make our cost data not outdated.

To keep everything fair and representative, we use median-based lane summaries, stratified sampling (by service type, region, and move size), monthly data refreshes, and outlier/provider verification.

How we chose the best moving companies

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%):
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.

Customer feedback (28%):
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.

Online reviews (7%):
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.

State availability (12%):
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.

Additional services (12%):
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).

Quotes/Payment options (6%):
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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