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.

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4.5 overall rating
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4.45 overall rating
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4.5 overall rating
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4.25 overall rating
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4.25 overall rating
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(855) 650-0657 (980) 217-6841 (866) 835-2392 (844) 950-2963 (703) 972-1772
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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(855) 650-0657

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
  • Veteran owned
  • Long distance and cross country moves only
  • A portion of every move is donated to charity
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(855) 650-0657

93% of users select this mover

Best Upfront Pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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(980) 217-6841

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Family owned with locations covering the east coast
  • Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
  • Packing and unpacking services available
  • Handle residential, corporate, and military moves
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(980) 217-6841

93% of users select this mover

Best industry reputation
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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(866) 835-2392

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Over 20 years in business
  • Excellent customer service score
  • Best pricing we've seen
  • Can handle last minute moves
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Get A Quote
(866) 835-2392

93% of users select this mover

Best for complex moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
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(844) 950-2963

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • 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
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(844) 950-2963

93% of users select this mover

Best for high-end moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
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(703) 972-1772

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • 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
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(703) 972-1772

93% of users select this mover

The top 5 long distance moving companies in 2023 are...

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Safeway Moving
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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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.

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(855) 650-0657
Safeway Moving
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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
Safeway Moving Logo
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4.5 overall rating
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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.

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4.5 moveBuddha rating
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Mayzlin Relocation
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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Mayzlin Relocation, (USDOT# 3182355), was founded 7 years ago by Semen Mayzlin. Semen began his career as a moving company driver but got frustrated with the existing companies in the industry and decided to start his own premier long distance moving company. The company has grown over the past 7 years and now has 10 tractor trailers servicing moves all over the country.
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(980) 217-6841
Mayzlin Relocation
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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
  • Packing and unpacking services available
  • Handle residential, corporate, and military moves

The Bad

  • Only service moves originating on the east coast
  • Deposit required at booking
Mayzlin Relocation Logo
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4.45 overall rating
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(866) 835-2392
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American Van Lines
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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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!

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(866) 835-2392
American Van Lines
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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
American Van Lines Logo
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4.5 overall rating
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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.

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4.5 moveBuddha rating
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(844) 950-2963
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North American Van Lines
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
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North American, (USDOT# 70851), is an excellent choice for long distance moves. With over 74 years in business and a network of 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states, North American is one of the largest moving companies in the US. They are also the highest rated nationwide moving company among moveBuddha customers.

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(844) 950-2963
North American Van Lines
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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
North American Van Lines Logo
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4.25 overall rating
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moveBuddha Review

The results are in and moveBuddha customers love North American Van Lines. We consistently see North American earning top marks across the board, especially in the areas of customer service and honest pricing.

One thing we really like about North American Van Lines 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 North American Van Lines 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.

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North American Van Lines Logo
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4.25 moveBuddha rating
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(703) 972-1772
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JK Moving Services
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
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JK Moving Services, (USDOT# 1065394), is a premium moving company and the preferred mover for U.S. Presidents and many Fortune 500 companies. JK has a reputation for a level of quality and professionalism that many moving companies lack. As with any elite service, JK Moving's pricing can often come in above the competition. But the added cost is worth the extra assurance your move will be handled professionally. They also offer financing options for customers who may not immediately have the cash to pay.

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(703) 972-1772
JK Moving Services
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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
JK Moving Services Logo
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4.25 overall rating
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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.

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4.25 moveBuddha rating
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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.

Weighing the costs

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.

Sample Pricing Table
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 you get

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.

Included
  • 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)
Not included
  • 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.

90 days out

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 out

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.

The big day

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.

Up to 30 days later

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.

Welcome home

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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