5 Best Interstate Movers Of 2024
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 for personalized service
|
Best for Quick Quotes
|
Best Nationwide Coverage
|
Most Experienced Mover
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (855) 650-0657 | (980) 217-6841 | (844) 794-6004 | (866) 835-2392 |
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
93% of users select this mover
- 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
93% of users select this mover
- Family owned & operated
- Affordable pricing
- Binding estimates
93% of users select this mover
- 30 days storage included
- Local and long distance moving options
- Unlimited loading/unloading time
- Store on property or at a facility
93% of users select this mover
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
93% of users select this mover
The top 5 long distance moving companies in 2023 are...
- Best Overall Value — Safeway Moving
- Best for personalized service — Mayzlin Relocation
- Best for Quick Quotes — BLVD Moving
- Best Nationwide Coverage — PODS
- Most Experienced Mover — American Van Lines
Best Overall ValueSafeway Moving
rating
4.85 / 5
Safeway Moving, (USDOT# 3756000), is a veteran-owned moving company with the mission to offer military precision relocation. Safeway offers very competitive pricing because they have access to a huge network of truck capacity across the country. Their multi-stage quality assurance process also ensures moves go smoothly from pickup to delivery. This focus on quality and accurate pricing is a huge reason why Safeway made our list.
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
- Long distance and cross country moves only
- 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.
read the full review
Best for personalized serviceMayzlin Relocation
rating
4.9 / 5
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
- 24/7 customer support
- Residential, corporate & military moves
The Bad
- Only service moves originating on the east coast
- Deposit required at booking
Best for Quick QuotesBLVD Moving
rating
4.25 / 5
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- Full-time professional crews
- Flexible rescheduling
- Last-minute services
The Bad
- Limited insurance options
- Limited pricing on website
moveBuddha Review
BLVD Moving is a respected local and long-distance moving company based in California.
We like that BLVD is efficient and flexible when it comes to moving. They provide same-day quotes by text, not just phone and email, and make rescheduling your moving day easy if you give them at least 48 hours’ notice.
Since BLVD Moving gives customers binding estimates, they will need to do a more thorough inventory of your belongings on the phone before they give you an exact quote.
The company offers basic full-service packages for local moves in California and long-distance moves nationwide. Packages include packing, unpacking, loading, unloading, and furniture disassembly and reassembly. BLVD can also coordinate storage services if you need them.
read the full review
Best Nationwide CoveragePODS
rating
4.8 / 5
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- 30 days storage included
- Local and long distance moving options
- Unlimited loading/unloading time
- Store on property or at a facility
- Various levels of insurance coverage available
- Nationwide locations
- Online shipment tracking
- Online quoting and booking
- Military discounts
The Bad
- No online quotes for long distance moves
- Need space to park container
- Pricing can be higher than competition
- Reservations need to be made in advance during summer peak moving season
moveBuddha Review
Coming in at number three, the inventor of the moving container; PODS Moving and Storage. There’s a lot to love about PODS especially their 3 container sizes, flexible storage options, and local and long distance moving and storage services.
Let’s start with local moves. If you’re moving within 50 miles you can use a 12ft or 16ft container. For moves over 50 miles, the 7ft or 16ft sizes are available.
All containers allow for open-ended, monthly storage. And you can store on your property or at a nearby PODS storage facility. PODS is a particularly good option if you’re staging a home or need a lot of time for loading or unloading.
PODS also offers the ability to purchase additional insurance options and hire moving labor to help load your container all on their website.
PODS household name in moving and storage can sometimes mean their pricing is higher than competitors. Especially if a PODS location is over 50 miles away from your location. They can also book up fast due to their popularity. Learn more about PODS costs.
Regardless, PODS is an excellent option and we recommend to always check their price.
read the full review
Most Experienced MoverAmerican Van Lines
rating
4.5 / 5
Services
- Professional Drivers
- Packing & Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
- Moving Supplies
- Moving Insurance
- Storage
The Good
- Excellent customer service
- Last-minute moves
- Private storage options
- Handles antiques, pianos & fine art
- Flat-rate pricing
The Bad
- May require a deposit at booking
- Automated calls may be overwhelming
moveBuddha Review
We really like American Van Lines (AVL). Unlike other large van lines, AVL has kept its operation lean. This allows them to offer high quality services at very affordable prices.
We can’t focus enough on AVL’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.
read the full review
What is the average cost of long distance move?
Depending on the size and distance of the move, interstate moving costs can range anywhere from $900 for studio apartment going less than 100 miles to $3,500 to move a studio apartment cross country.
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?
Generally, we recommend booking a moving company 2 months before your expected move date. If you're moving during the busy summer months (May-August) you may want to consider booking as early as possible. If you wait too long many companies will book up and your options will be limited. Check out our article on the best time to move for more info.
What services do professional moving companies provide?
A full-service moving company's basic package usually includes:
- 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?
When moving long distance it's important you choose a moving company with a strong reputation and solid track record of performing interstate moves. Moves across state lines require special licensing and expertise.
Things to look for:
- 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?
Relocating long distance is expensive but there are some ways you can reduce your overall cost.
A few ideas:
- 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?
Most moving companies have a minimum size requirement of 1,000 pounds which is equivalent to roughly 40 medium-sized moving boxes or a small studio worth of household goods.
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?
Most professional movers offer long and short term storage options. Many companies will offer 30 days of free storage (aka “Storage-in-transit”). Keep in mind the moving company will most likely store your goods in their warehouse so you will not have access to the items while stored.
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?
Some moving companies offer labor only services, it just depends on the company. The best way to find labor-only moving services is on a website like HireAHelper.
Do moving companies charge extra fees?
The moving industry is notorious for low ball estimates and extra fees. If you hire a bad moving company they will often play games with their estimates and end up charging you more when the actual bill arrives.
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
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
