5 Best Interstate Movers Of 2022
We researched over 500 interstate moving companies, cross-referencing verified customer reviews, license data, insurance data, and federal complaint records to find you the best long distance moving companies in the industry.
| Best Overall Value | Best industry reputation | Best customer service | Best for complex moves | Best for high-end moves |
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| (866) 936-7682 | (866) 939-4509 | (866) 533-2573 | (866) 792-1917 | (866) 941-2752 |
Safeway Moving
- 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
- Veteran owned
- Handle small and large cross country moves
- A portion of every move is donated to charity
American Van Lines
- Over 20 years in business
- Excellent customer service score
- Best pricing we've seen
- Can handle last minute moves
International Van Lines
- Competitive pricing
- Over the phone quotes
- Deep international experience
- Multiple shipping options
Air Van northAmerican Van Lines
- Over 74 years in business
- More than 1,800 trucks in the fleet
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Top major moving company in the U.S.
- Highest rated agent van line among moveBuddha customers
JK Moving Services
- Guaranteed pick up and delivery dates
- Low deposit requirement of $250 for interstate moves
- Easy and fast AI-powered in-home estimate tool
- Over 40k moves in the past 3 years
- Available Financing as low as 0% Interest for low monthly payments
- Extremely responsive customer service
The top 5 long distance moving companies in 2022 are...
- Best Overall Value — Safeway Moving
- Best industry reputation — American Van Lines
- Best customer service — International Van Lines
- Best for complex moves — Air Van northAmerican Van Lines
- Best for high-end moves — JK Moving Services
Safeway Moving
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
- Handle small and large cross country moves
- A portion of every move is donated to charity
- Verification process to guarantee pricing and quality of service
- High level of customer service and support
- Veteran owned company
The Bad
- Require a deposit at booking
- No local moving services offered
moveBuddha Review
Safeway Moving (not to be confused with Safeway Moving and Storage) was founded by US Army Veteran Rad Freeman. Taking many of the key principles from his time in the military, Rad brings discipline, reliability, leadership, attention to detail, and a strong moral compass to an industry with a less than perfect reputation.
Safeway has built a network of carriers across the country allowing the company to offer affordably priced full service moves throughout the year. Even in the peak summer months when every mover is booked solid. Safeway can tap the capacity of their carrier network to get just about any move serviced. This is a huge benefit. The company also offers international moving services.
If you’ve done any research on the moving industry you’ll know moves rarely go perfect. There is always some kind of issue; some worse than others. And problems typically stem from some kind of miscommunication. What’s unique about Safeway is they’ve built a system of follow-up and quality assurance throughout the moving process. This greatly reduces the frequency of problems. The company’s focus on quality is a big reason why they made our best interstate moving companies list.
We also really like that Safeway offers up to 30 days of free storage services on all interstate moves. Many companies charge hundreds of dollars per month for storage, so this is a huge perk if you book with them.
Their quoting and booking process is fast and easily done over the phone. Or Safeway also offers video or in-home surveys if needed.
Like many other movers on this list, Safeway does charge a deposit to book a move with them. They also can take longer on delivery for certain cross-country moves. Please be sure to ask your rep about expected delivery times.
Regardless, Safeway is certainly a company worth getting a free quote from.
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (USDOT# 614506) started in 1995 with only two trucks and a single location. The company has grown to become a nationwide mover with over 70 trucks servicing all 48 states. Despite their rapid growth, AVL still feels like a family-owned business.
This year, Newsweek Magazine commissioned an independent survey and found American Van Lines ranks as one of America’s Best Customer Service in the Moving Services category. Wow!
Their focus on customer service and affordable pricing put them at the top of our list!
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- Excellent customer service scores
- Best pricing we've seen
- Can handle last minute moves
- Various options to get a quote (video, app, phone)
- Private storage options available
- Can handle antiques, pianos, fine art, etc.
- Member of top industry organizations
The Bad
- May require a deposit at booking
- Automated calls may be overwhelming
moveBuddha Review
As number one on our list, it goes without saying we really like American Van Lines (AVL). Unlike other large van lines, AVL has kept their operation lean. This allows them to offer high quality services at very affordable prices.
We can’t focus enough on American’s customer service. Every moving company is going to have some bad reviews. Mistakes happen, especially in the moving industry. But rarely do you see the owner of a large van line stepping in to make sure customers leave happy. Their focus on customer satisfaction is rare in the moving industry.
Other than great service and pricing, AVL is also able to accommodate last minute long distance moves. By using AI technology, they’re able to give customers accurate and binding estimates in minutes. Their focus on efficiency allows them to service last minute moves other companies can’t.
The only drawback we could find is sometimes AVL requires a deposit to book. We haven’t seen complaints about this policy so it’s safe to say AVL handles deposits fairly. We’ve also seen some complaints about the company’s automated phone system calling too frequently and dropping calls.
American Van Lines is an impressive company. The moving industry is changing. Costs are rising and a lot of moving companies struggle to offer competitive rates while maintaining service. AVL seems to have this formula figured out.
International Van Lines
International Van Lines (USDOT# 2247789), is the solution we’ve desperately been looking for in the moving industry. They make booking a move as easy and transparent as booking a flight. The company has a huge network of company-owned trucks and partners that allow IVL to perform local, long-distance, and international moves to just about anywhere. All while maintaining a high level of customer service.
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- 10% discount for veterans and seniors
- Very competitive rates due to their national coverage
- Services local, long-distance, and international moves
- Can service most domestic moves within 48 hours
- Storage, junk removal, home cleaning services also available
- 24/7 customer service
The Bad
- Require a deposit at booking on most moves
- Some moves are brokered so quality can vary
moveBuddha Review
As a 20-year moving industry veteran, International Van Lines founder Josh Morales understands the challenges of running a moving company. Moving companies require a patient and compassionate business owner. Two qualities Josh brings plenty of to his company.
IVL has built a huge network of both company-owned trucks and moving company partners which enables them to offer some really compelling moving services. IVL can do moves anywhere in the US as well as internationally. The company also offers extremely competitive moving rates because its network includes so much truck capacity.
Another thing we love about IVL is its 24/7 customer service line. Moving is far from a perfect science and sometimes moves can get delayed and stretch into after hours. That’s why having a 24/7 customer service agent to rely on is a nice perk. You’ll always have a live contact back at headquarters if there’s an issue at the move location.
We also like IVL’s straightforward pricing and simple booking process. Getting a binding quote for an interstate or international move can be done efficiently over the phone but they also offer video or in-home surveys if needed.
There are 2 drawbacks to the way IVL operates. First, they do require a deposit when booking a move. The deposit is usually around 25% of the total move cost. Second, on some moves, the company will broker the move to their moving partner network. When a move is brokered quality can vary. Although IVL does seem to have a good bit of experience making sure brokered moves go well.
We here at moveBuddha think International Van Lines is certainly a company worth getting a quote from.
Air Van northAmerican Van Lines
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- Highest rated by moveBuddha users
- Handle both local & long distance moves
- Offer "Binding not-to-exceed" estimates
- Storage locations available in all 50 states
- 1,500+ locations covering all 50 states
- Online shipment tracking
- 74+ years in business
The Bad
- Need to book well in advance
- Pricing is on the high end
moveBuddha Review
The results are in and moveBuddha customers love Air Van northAmerican Van Lines. We consistently see Air Van northAmerican earning top marks across the board, especially in the areas of customer service and honest pricing.
One thing we really like about AirVan northAmerican is the company offers “Binding Not-To-Exceed” estimates. These estimates give you the peace of mind that you won’t be charged more than the estimate but also allow your price to be reduced later on if your move ends up being smaller they adjust the price. That’s an honest estimate!
The company also has a huge array of services they offer including storage, fragile item crating, piano/hot tub moving, full packing/unpacking, and more. With 74 years of experience, there’s nothing AirVan northAmerican hasn’t moved at this point.
Something we found frustrating about North American is they book up quickly, especially during the summer. If you don’t call well in advance (2 months or so) don’t be surprised if they don’t have any availability.
JK Moving Services
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- Guaranteed pick up and delivery dates
- Low deposit requirement of $250 for interstate moves
- 3rd Party financing options available to help pay for the move
- Phone app that let's you message your movers, track your move and pay
- Easy and fast AI-powered in-home estimate tool
- Extremely responsive customer service
The Bad
- Premium service and guarantees come with higher pricing
- Not a good option for tight budget movers
moveBuddha Review
JK Moving Services is known in the corporate world as a goto mover for Fortune 500 companies. So if some of the largest companies in the world prefer JK, you know they must be doing something right. And with over 40 years in business, the company has an incredible track record of delivering high-quality moving experiences nationwide.
To prove our point, JK completed roughly 40,000 moves over the past 3 years while maintaining an incredibly low complaint ratio. That’s incredible. Most moving companies operating at that volume receive hundreds of complaints per year.
Another thing we really like about JK is they make getting an accurate quote easy. With their AI powered in-home estimate tool, you simply scan the rooms you’re moving. Then artificial intelligence builds an inventory list of all your items. Very cool!
Most moving companies will make loose promises around pick-up and delivery times. But not JK. The company offers guaranteed pick-up and delivery dates and they’re willing to bet money on them arriving on time. Definitely a huge bonus for anyone concerned with the timing of their move.
But high-quality services and guarantees come with a drawback; cost. JK is typically more expensive than other, more budget-focused moving companies. JK is not a good option for anyone on a tight budget or looking for a deal.
JK Moving Services is definitely a company to consider for anyone who wants that extra level of assurance that their move will be handled properly.
What is the average cost of long distance move?
Larger, 4-5 bedroom homes on average can cost $2,000 to $5,000 going less than 100 miles and $8,500 - $15,000 going cross country.
The type of moving company, time of year, and any specialty items or service requests can also affect pricing. To get a ballpark estimate of moving costs check out our moving cost calculator.
How early should I book a mover?
What services do professional moving companies provide?
- Loading and unloading of all items
- Breakdown and reassembly of basic furniture
- Moving blankets, pads, straps
- All moving equipment (dolly, rollers)
- Fuel, tolls, taxes
- Parking permits
- Basic valuation coverage (not insurance)
The following services typically cost extra:
- Packing supplies like boxes, paper wrap, etc.
- Full pack service of boxes & loose items
- Short or long term storage (sometimes free)
- Additional insurance coverage
- Breakdown & reassembly of complicated furniture (IKEA)
- Packing of fragile or bulky items
- Full unpacking of boxes and loose items
How do I choose an interstate mover?
- Active Department of Transportation (DOT) license and insurance
- Positive FMCSA complaint history
- Check online review sites
- How long has the company been in business?
- Is the owner or employees listed on LinkedIn?
- Are they active on social media?
- Can you google their address? Are there trucks or a warehouse?
How can I move interstate cheaply?
- Consider “Do-it-yourself moving options
- Move during off-peak times
- Find free moving boxes and supplies
- Downsize as much as possible
Check out our article on cheap ways to move out of state for more ideas and tips.
Do interstate movers have a minimum size requirement?
During the peak summer moving season (May-August), some moving companies increase their minimum size to 2,000 or even 3,500lbs. This is about the average weight of a one-bedroom apartment.
Do moving companies offer storage?
If you’re relocating over 1,000 miles or cross country, you’ll want to consult your mover about delivery timeframes to make sure storage services are necessary. It’s not uncommon for deliveries to take over 2 weeks.
Can you hire movers just to load a rental truck?
Do moving companies charge extra fees?
Good moving companies will try to estimate the cost of your move as accurately as possible. Be sure to work closely with your mover and take the time to provide them with all the necessary details about your move.
Our article on legitimate ways a mover can increase your final cost is a good way to make sure you’re fully prepared.
How much does a moving company cost?
For moves within 50 miles companies typically charge $50 to $200 per hour depending on how many movers are needed.
For interstate moves, pricing is based on the distance and size of the move. Costs can vary greatly depending on the requirements of the move.
Be sure to check out our moving cost calculator to get a more accurate idea on what your move may cost.
| 1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4-5 Bedroom | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| <50 miles | $300 – $700 | $500 – $1,100 | $1,000 – $2,900 | |||
| 250 miles | $700 – $1,900 | $1,600 – $2,900 | $2,100 – $3,950 | |||
| 1,000 miles | $1,100 – $2,700 | $1,900 – $4,500 | $4,100 – $7,800 | |||
| 2,500 miles | $1,500 – $3,500 | $2,900 – $6,500 | $7,900 – $13,700 |
How can I save money when I'm moving?
We went deep undercover with industry insiders and got them to spill the beans on how you can save money when you use a professional mover.
Get multiple quotes
Long distance moving is a game of logistics. Different schedules, availability and more allow some moving companies to offer better prices than others.
Getting several quotes increases the odds you find a mover in a position to offer a discounted rate. Just make sure you find reputable movers!
Book early
Ideally, you should book your mover 30-60 days in advance. Moving companies will increase prices for moves booked last minute or worst case they may not have any availability at all.
Flexible pickup & delivery
Moving is a tough business and movers often face unexpected delays like weather or traffic issues. Customers with flexible move dates enable moving companies to build some cushion into their schedule. Often times resulting in a better price for you.
Sell, donate, trash items
Roughly 70% of your total cost is determined by how much you’re moving. Downsizing can help you save money, but be aware most movers have minimum size requirements so don’t get rid of too much.
Move mid-month
Rental leases typically turnover at the end of the month causing spikes in demand on those last few days. Avoiding the rush by moving in the middle of the month can often result in better pricing.
Move mid-week
Weekends are always a more popular time to move. If you move mid-week availability and pricing will typically be better.
Prep your move properly
Avoid getting charged for expensive packing materials on moving day by properly preparing your move. Mattresses should have covers, glass table tops need to be protected, all loose items need to go in boxes.
Work with your move coordinator directly to understand who is responsible for packing certain items. If you’re packing yourself, make sure you understand the mover’s packing standards or they will have to repack items at your expense.
What types of additional fees do movers charge?
A good moving company will always try to include all charges in their initial estimate. But details can change so it’s important to know any possible extra charges that may arise during the move.
Long carry
Most movers will charge an additional fee if the distance to your front door from the truck is over 75ft. If you live in an apartment building, the distance is measured from the front door of your actual apartment, not the building.
Stair carry
If there are more than 1 or 2 flights of stairs leading up to your residence, movers will typically charge a fee per additional flight of stairs.
Elevator
Some movers will charge an elevator fee if your residence is located on a floor that requires a lengthy elevator ride or if your building has a narrow elevator requiring a lot of trips.
Extra stops
Need to stop by a local storage unit or your in-law’s house? Movers will typically charge a fee for additional stops beyond the primary residence.
Handling fees
Movers will typically charge a fee for items such as heavy safes, riding lawnmowers, pianos, hot tubs, large tool chests, etc. These items typically require additional equipment and labor to ensure safe transport.
Connecting appliances
Some companies may charge an additional fee to disconnect and reconnect appliances such as washers, dryers, and dishwashers.
Storage-in-Transit (SIT)
For long distance moves, most movers offer 30 days of free storage. For storage longer than 30 days, typically a monthly fee applies. If you require 6 months or more of storage you may want to consider delivery to a local storage unit or using a portable storage container for your move.
Additional valuation coverage
While every long distance moving company includes $.60 per pound of valuation coverage in their base price, it’s highly recommended you consider increasing this amount.
Expedited delivery
For an additional cost, movers agree to expedite your delivery and have your items delivered on or before a specific date.
Shuttle services
Most long distance moves will be done with a 53’ tractor-trailer (like you see on the interstate). If a full-size tractor-trailer can’t get to your residence, a smaller, shuttle truck may be necessary. Shuttles are frequently required in urban areas and can increase move costs significantly.
Guaranteed delivery
The movers will guarantee a specific date when your items are delivered. Depending on the distance and locations guaranteed delivery can be very expensive.
Full-packing
Most movers will offer the option to pack all your loose items into boxes for you. Having professionals pack everything will also extend your valuation coverage to all boxed items. So if a box isn’t packed properly the movers will be on the hook for it, not you.
Specialty packing & crating
Fragile items such as mirrors, glass table tops, grandfather clocks, flat screen TVs, chandeliers, etc., require specialty packing or crating to prevent damage. Work with your mover directly to understand who is responsible for packing delicate items. If you’re packing fragile items yourself, make sure you meet the movers packing standards or they will have to repack items at your expense.
What’s included with a professional mover?
Every moving company generally offers the same set of services for a basic full-service move.
Keep in mind, there are different types of moving estimates that can be hard to compare.
When getting quotes, ask every company to verify the exact services they’re offering.
What seems like a cheaper quote may actually just be because certain packing services weren’t included or the quote was done in cubic feet instead of weight.
If you’re working with a moving broker get the name of the actual moving company who will be performing the move.
- All loading and unloading
- Breakdown & reassembly of basic furniture
- Moving blankets, pads, straps
- All necessary moving equipment (dolly, rollers)
- Fuel, tolls, taxes
- Parking permits
- Very limited valuation coverage ($.60/lb)
- Packing supplies such as boxes, bubble wrap, etc.
- Packing of boxes & loose items (additional cost)
- Storage (additional cost)
- Additional insurance (available for purchase)
- Breakdown & reassembly of complicated furniture (IKEA)
- Packing of fragile items (additional cost)
How does a professional mover work?
A professional mover is the most convenient way to move but that doesn’t mean that you are off the hook entirely. Here’s how it works.
The in-home estimate
In order to give you an accurate quote, the movers need to know exactly what you are moving.
To do this, each mover will send an agent to your residence to complete a survey of your move.
One week before the big move
If the mover isn’t the one packing and unpacking all of your belongings you need to make sure that it is already done before the mover arrives.
If it’s not, you may end up paying more.
Moving day
The big day is here, all of your belongings are boxed up and you’re ready to get started.
When the movers show up the first thing they’ll do is disassemble all of the basic furniture that needs it.
Then, they’ll make sure everything is wrapped in pads and blankets before they load it on the truck.
The waiting is the hardest part
You’ve made the trip to your new home and now all you have to do is wait for the movers to show up.
Make sure you know ahead of time when you can expect your movers to arrive.
Delivery
When the movers arrive at your new residence, they’ll do everything they did before but in reverse.
They’ll unload the truck, and reassemble the furniture that needs it. If you paid for unpacking, they’ll do that too.
Other large national moving companies
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