7 Best Interstate Moving Companies (2023 Reviews)
I got my start in the moving industry when I was just a high school student. I always valued the experience of working as a grunt on a local moving crew, but when I graduated college, I got a job working in sales for a pretty large moving broker. There, I saw just how crazy the long-distance moving industry is compared to local moving.
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This industry is fast-paced and confusing, and just getting a moving quote is challenging. If you’re planning an interstate move, the right mover makes all the difference.
I created moveBuddha in 2015 to help folks sift through the noise and find the best moving companies. I’ve learned a lot of hard lessons running this business, the hardest of which is how to spot a good moving company.
This guide shares the best interstate moving companies — complete with their pros and cons and real customer stories — to help you find the absolute best option.
There’s no such thing as a perfect move, but I’ll also share plenty of insider tips from my decades of experience in moving to help you plan the most hassle-free move possible.
The bottom line: After cross-referencing over 500 interstate moving companies with verified customer reviews, license data, insurance data, and federal complaint records, I recommend Safeway Moving as the best interstate moving company.
Our Ratings of the Best Interstate Moving Companies
Here are our ratings for the best interstate movers:
- Best overall value: Safeway Moving
- Best industry reputation: American Van Lines
- Best for complex moves: AirVan North American Van Lines
- Best for high-end moves: JK Moving Services
- Best for DIY moves: U-PACK
- Best customer service: International Van Lines
- Best for white-glove service: Allied Van Lines
Safeway Moving: Best overall value
Safeway Moving (USDOT# 3756000) is a veteran-owned interstate moving company that offers military-precision relocations. Given that level of precision, it’s no surprise the company also tops our list of the best military movers. Safeway offers very competitive pricing because they have access to a huge network of truck capacity across the country. Actually, Safeway is the cheapest overall of the options on my list, while still offering service that’s well in line with other companies.
Safeway’s 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 my list.
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Pros & Cons of Safeway Moving
- 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
- A portion of every move is donated to charity
- High level of customer service and support
- Handles small and large interstate moves
- Verification process to guarantee pricing and quality of service
- Veteran-owned company
- Requires a deposit at booking
- No online pricing informationavailable
My review of Safeway Moving
There’s a reason why I’ve recommended Safeway Moving as one of the best interstate movers to moveBuddha readers for years. Safeway leverages its extensive network of moving trucks to offer full-service packing and moving nationwide. Employment and housing gaps aren’t uncommon during interstate moves, so Safeway also provides 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves.
moveBuddha readers regularly praise Safeway’s easy quoting and booking process. When Christian moved from New York to California for a new job, he quickly got a quote from Safeway with just one phone call. And despite some unavoidable complications with his move, the final price was within a few hundred dollars off Safeway’s original estimate. Christian was super happy with Safeway and would use them again.
Here’s what Christian had to say about his move with Safeway:
“Safeway had top-notch drivers and moving teams. I didn’t realize I needed a parking permit for delivery, which caused some issues, but Safeway worked with me every step of the way. Their team was so professional that I would definitely use them again.”
Isabel’s move was a similar story. After receiving a fast and competitive quote for her move from San Francisco to NYC, she chose to book with Safeway. Isabel’s items arrived at her new home in NYC before she’d even arrived in the city. Most companies would charge hefty storage fees in this situation, but Safeway offered to store her items for free.
Of course, not every move is perfect. Ryan’s move with Safeway went significantly over the original estimate. Since Ryan’s move, Safeway has added several additional quality checks to prevent that type of situation from happening in the future. No moving company gets it right every time, but I love that Safeway learns from its mistakes.
While Safeway Moving is a stand-out provider for long-distance moving services, it isn’t the best option for small or local moves. Check out our picks for the best small load moving companies if you aren’t moving a large household.
Like any interstate moving company, Safeway has its pros and cons. Still, I can attest that the company always strives to offer high-quality service that minimizes the stress of moving. I recommend Safeway Moving to anyone planning a long-distance relocation.
- 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
93% of users select this mover
Our full review: Safeway Moving
American Van Lines: Best industry reputation
American Van Lines (USDOT# 614506) started in 1995 with only two trucks and a single location. Today, American Van Lines (AVL) is a nationwide full-service moving company with more than 70 moving trucks servicing 48 states (not available in Alaska or Hawaii). Despite their rapid growth, AVL still feels like a family-owned business.
Newsweek Magazine commissioned an independent survey and found American Van Lines ranks as one of the winners in the “America’s Best Customer Service in the Moving Services” category. Wow!
Their focus on customer service and affordable pricing make the moving process a little less stressful and put AVL at the top of my list.
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Pros & Cons of American Van Lines
- Excellent customer service scores
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Private storage options available
- Member of top industry organizations
- Some of the best pricing we’ve seen
- Various quote process options (video, app, phone)
- Handles specialty items like antiques, pianos, fine art, etc.
- May require a deposit at booking
- Automated calls may be overwhelming
My review of American Van Lines
I think American Van Lines (AVL) is one of the best moving van lines in the business. Unlike other large van lines, AVL operates lean to keep things simple. This setup means they can offer high-quality services at very affordable prices.
I can’t brag enough about AVL’s customer service. Every interstate moving company is going to have some bad reviews because mistakes happen during the moving process. But rarely do you see the owner of a large van line personally stepping in to make sure customers leave happy. Their focus on customer satisfaction is exemplary.
moveBuddha readers overwhelmingly say that American Van Lines offers incredibly professional, high-quality service. Jen said American stayed in touch regularly via call and text. She did have some issues with her quote costing more than the original moving estimate, but that was because she added more boxes after requesting an estimate.
The final cost for Phoenix’s move with American, on the other hand, was within $150 of her estimate, which is awesome. She also loved American Van Lines’ professionalism and how polite the movers were. moveBuddha reader Kathy also appreciated having a single point of contact for her move from Washington, D.C., to St. Louis.
Here’s what Kathy had to say about her move with American Van Lines:
“I mistakenly thought my stuff would arrive in two days, but that wasn’t realistic. AVL communicated with me to resolve the confusion, and everything arrived on time and damage-free.”
Other than great service and pricing, AVL’s focus on efficiency allows them to accommodate last-minute long-distance moves. By using AI technology, they can give customers accurate and binding estimates in minutes.
The only drawback I could find is sometimes AVL requires a deposit for booking. I haven’t seen complaints about this policy, though, 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 full-service moving company. Moving costs are rising, and many companies struggle to offer competitive rates while maintaining service. AVL has this formula figured out.
- Over 20 years in business
- Excellent customer service score
- Best pricing we've seen
- Can handle last minute moves
93% of users select this mover
Our full review: American Van Lines
North American Van Lines: Best for complex moves
North American Van Lines (USDOT# 70851) is an excellent choice if you need a long-distance moving company. With more than 74 years in business and a network of 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states, North American Van Lines (NAVL) is one of the largest moving companies in the U.S. Speaking from personal experience, they’re one of the most established brands in the industry. They’re also the highest-rated nationwide moving company among moveBuddha customers.
rating
4.25 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Pros & Cons of Air Van northAmerican
- Highest-rated by moveBuddha users
- Offers binding “not-to-exceed” estimates
- 1,500+ locations covering all 50 states
- 74+ years in business
- Handles both local and interstate moves
- Storage locations available in all 50 states
- Online shipment tracking
- Need to book well in advance
- Pricing is higher than many competitors
My review of AirVan North American Van Lines
The results are in, and moveBuddha customers love North American Van Lines. I consistently see the company earning top marks across the board, especially for customer service and honest pricing.
moveBuddha reader Michele had this to say about her move with North American:
“Communication was spotty at times, but my move actually ended up costing less than expected. AirVan’s drivers, movers, and customer service team really impressed me. Everything arrived on time and in good condition, so I would definitely use them again.”
One thing I really like about NAVL is their binding “Not-To-Exceed” estimates. These estimates give you the peace of mind that you won’t pay more than the quoted amount. If your move is smaller than what they quoted you, you’ll actually pay less than the quote. How’s that for an honest estimate?
The company also has plenty of full-service packing and moving options, including storage, fragile item crating, piano and hot tub moving, and full packing at your current home and unpacking at your new home. With 74 years of experience, there’s nothing North American hasn’t moved at this point.
However, I found it frustrating that NAVL books up quickly, especially during the summer. They might be unavailable if you don’t call well in advance (two months or so).
- 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
93% of users select this mover
Our full review: North American Van Lines
JK Moving Services: Best for high-end moves
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 high quality and professionalism that many moving companies lack.
As with any elite service, JK Moving’s pricing often exceeds the competition. In my experience, you’ll pay as much as 30% more for this premium service.
But the added cost might be worth the extra assurance, because JK will handle your move professionally. You’ll even have the option for full-service packing and white-glove service. They also offer financing options to help with the cost of your move.
rating
4.25 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Pros & Cons of JK Moving Services
- Guaranteed pickup and delivery dates
- Third-party financing options available to help pay for the move
- Easy and fast AI-powered in-home estimate tool
- Low deposit requirement of $250 for interstate moves
- Phone app that let’s you message your movers, track your move and pay
- Extremely responsive customer service
- Premium service and guarantees come with higher pricing
- Not a good option for tight-budget movers
My review of JK Moving Services
JK Moving is the go-to mover for Fortune 500 companies. If some of the largest companies in the world prefer JK, you know they must be doing something right. With more than 40 years of experience, the company has an incredible track record of delivering high-quality moving experiences nationwide.
To prove my point, JK completed roughly 40,000 moves over the past three years while maintaining an incredibly low complaint ratio. That’s incredible. Most moving companies operating at that volume receive hundreds of complaints per year.
moveBuddha reader Jose had this to say about his move with JK:
“JK actually quoted me less than I expected for such a big move, which was a nice surprise. They were incredibly communicative and let me know of any changes. They handled my belongings with care, and I would happily work with them again.”
Another thing I like about JK is they make it easy to get an accurate quote. 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 pickup and delivery times, but not JK. The company offers guaranteed pickup and delivery dates — and they’re willing to bet money that their crew will arrive 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 more budget-focused moving companies. JK is not a good option for anyone on a tight budget or looking for a deal.
Even so, JK Moving is definitely a strong contender if you want an extra level of assurance.
- 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
93% of users select this mover
Our full review: JK Moving Services
U-Pack: Best for DIY moves
It’s easier to hire a full-service mover, but I know that not everybody can afford that luxury. If a full-service mover isn’t an option, do a hybrid move where you rent a container and either load it yourself or hire a crew to load and unload.
In my opinion, U-Pack is the best do-it-yourself option for long-distance moves. U-Pack (USDOT# 2632086) is a portable storage container solution for individuals and families who would rather pack and unload independently but still leave the driving up to a professional.
Many U-Pack customers become repeat clients due to their outstanding experiences, affordable prices, and overall value for those on a budget. It’s no surprise why U-Pack ranks highly on my list of the best moving container companies. They have solid pricing, service, and availability, which makes U-Pack a great DIY choice.
rating
5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Pros and cons of U-Pack
- Affordably priced for moves between 100 and 250 miles
- Several container sizes
- Only pay for the space you use on freight trailers
- Professional driving services
- Offers storage and moving options
- Doesn’t service moves less than 100 miles
- Time limits for loading and unloading
My review of U-Pack Moving
U-Pack’s range of container sizes — including Relocubes and freight trailers — accommodate moves of any size, but it’s important to note that the company doesn’t service local moves under 100 miles.
Freddy used U-Pack for his 800-mile move from Athens, Georgia, to Chicago. He had some bumps along the way, including a broken-down truck and some damaged items, but his move went smoothly overall. He paid $1,438, which was exactly what U-Pack quoted him.
He had this to say about his move with U-Pack:
“My quote from U-Pack was dead-on. There was a miscommunication about door-to-door delivery that came down to my city’s regulations, not U-Pack. U-Pack was friendly, helpful, and efficient.”
Shiri also used U-Pack, and her move went even better. She used the Relocube, a weatherproof metal storage container with a secure lock. While Freddy wished U-Pack had been more communicative throughout his move, Shiri was very impressed with her customer service experience. She, too, didn’t pay a cent more than her original estimate.
I would recommend U-Pack to any customer looking for a reliably priced DIY moving solution.
Our full review: U-Pack
International Van Lines: Best customer service
International Van Lines (USDOT# 2247789) tops my list of best moving companies overall. They make booking a move as easy and transparent as booking a flight.
This interstate moving company has a huge network of company-owned trucks and third-party carriers that allow International Van Lines (IVL) to perform local and long-distance moves to just about anywhere, all while maintaining great customer service. IVL also provides moving services to more than 180 countries, making it one of our picks for best international moving companies, as well.
rating
4.45 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Pros & Cons of International Van Lines
- 10% discount for veterans and seniors
- Storage, junk removal, and home cleaning services also available
- Very competitive rates due to their national coverage
- Can service most domestic moves within 48 hours
- 24/7 customer service
- Full-service packing options
- Requires a deposit at booking on most moves
- The quality of brokered moves can vary
my review of International Van Lines
International Van Lines founder Josh Morales understands the challenges of running a moving company. Full-service moving companies require a patient and compassionate business owner, and those are two qualities Josh brings to his interstate moving company.
IVL has a huge network of company-owned trucks and moving company partners, enabling them to offer compelling moving services. IVL can do moves anywhere in the U.S., as well as internationally. The company also offers extremely competitive moving rates because its network includes so much truck capacity.
moveBuddha Better Moves Project participant Fabiana had this to say about her move with International Van Lines:
“I would have preferred to have a single point of contact throughout my move, but everything arrived on time and on budget. The customer service and quote accuracy were outstanding.”
Another thing I love about IVL is their 24/7 customer service line. Moving is far from a perfect science, and sometimes delays happen. 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.
I also like IVL’s straightforward pricing and simple booking process. You can easily get a quote for an interstate or international move over the phone, but they also offer video or in-home surveys for more accurate pricing.
However, there are two minor drawbacks to IVL. They require a deposit, usually around 25% of the total moving cost to reserve your spot. And like many large full-service movers, they broker some moves through their moving partner network. Brokered moves vary in quality, although IVL has a lot of experience making sure brokered moves go well.
- 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
- 24/7 customer service
93% of users select this mover
Our full review: International Van Lines
Allied Van Lines: Best for white-glove service
Allied Van Lines (USDOT# 76235) is a full-service moving company, but its offerings go far beyond the typical mover. Allied Van Lines offers white-glove moving services, which include thorough cleaning once your place is empty, setting up electronics in your new home, staging furniture, hanging art, and handling specialty items with precision.
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Pros and cons of Allied Van Lines
- Offers portable storage containers through Allied Express
- Donates unclaimed items to the Salvation Army
- Provides short- and long-term storage options
- Tracking tool while belongings are in transit
- Doesn’t offer online quotes
- Can be expensive compared to competitors
My review of Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines has a presence in more than 130 countries and every U.S. state, making it a great option for local, long-distance, and international moves. It has a strong reputation after more than 95 years of service, including an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
The company holds a 3–4 star rating on most review sites, and reviews call out superior customer service and efficient professional movers. Some negative reviews note that the company costs more than its competitors, and some movers aren’t as careful as others. The good news is that Allied Van Lines offers a lot of insurance options that give customers the ability to file claims when it’s necessary.
I love that Allied Van Lines offers white-glove moving services, including custom crating, packing supplies, and storage solutions.
- Specialty fragile item packing available
- Short and long term storage available
- Over 85 years in business
- Disconnect/reconnect appliances
- Full-packing options (they box everything)
93% of users select this mover
Our full review: Allied Van Lines
The worst interstate movers (watch out for these scams!)
While the interstate moving companies I recommend are reputable, there are a few bad apples out there. In my nine years with moveBuddha, I’ve seen tons of scams. In fact, moveBuddha lost $250,000 to shady movers over the years, and we’ve had just about everything that could go wrong, go wrong.
I’ve worked with most of the companies out there. It’s really not a big industry when it comes down to it, and there are a lot of the same characters around, so you get to know who is good and who is … not so good.
If you choose not to go with the interstate moving companies on this list, learn how to spot a quality moving company on your own. It’s important to watch out for these common moving scams to avoid being taken advantage of during your relocation:
- They’re suspiciously cheap or make big promises. If you try to look for a super cheap full-service mover, you’re putting yourself at risk of a scam. Scammers give you low-ball estimates to reel you in. Some might even promise exact turnaround times or pricing. Logistics is such a tricky industry that it’s really hard to pull these things off — especially at a bottom-of-the-barrel price. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Always request at least three quotes from reputable movers to get an idea of fair pricing for your move. If one quote sticks out at suspiciously low, go with a different provider.
- Their name is similar to a well-known national van line. Major national brands like American, International, and Allied Van Lines are well-known interstate movers, though some companies try to mislead customers by using suspiciously similar names. For example, United Nation Van Lines isn’t the reputable United Van Lines, so watch out for subtle name differences, which can signal less trustworthy companies.
- They have over-the-top reviews. Moves are complicated. Even reputable moving companies get negative reviews, so be wary of movers with overly glowing feedback — it’s usually fake. To find real insights on movers, check social media and sites with firsthand reviews instead of potentially biased directories where poor companies can pay for phony praise. This is why I collect my own first-hand reviews through the Better Moves Project.
- Their DOT and MC numbers don’t check out. All interstate movers must have a DOT number, which you can enter into the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s SAFER system to access key details like their address, truck count, household goods authorization, accident history, and insurance status. Check the SAFER data against what a mover tells you. Any discrepancies could indicate an unreliable or risky hire.
While these tips will help you avoid the worst of the worst, always ask yourself a simple question, “Is this a good company?” There’s always a chance that your move will go poorly regardless of who you work with, but the best way to plan a great move is to book with a good company and go from there.
Check out our full guide on the worst moving companies for even more things to watch for.
Here’s an in-depth video to help you choose the best interstate moving company for your situation:
Average cost of an interstate move
Depending on the size and distance of the move, interstate moving costs can range anywhere from $900 for a studio apartment going less than 100 miles to $3,500 to move a studio apartment across the country.
Larger, 4–5 bedroom homes can cost $2,000–$5,000 going less than 100 miles and $8,500–$15,000 going across the country.
Generally speaking, a $4,000 to $5,000 range is a standard average for a cross-country move.
The type of interstate moving company, time of year, and any specialty items, white-glove packing services, or service requests can also affect pricing. Keep in mind that higher prices don’t always indicate quality. A lot of it comes down to logistics. Some companies just don’t have as much volume and can’t offer competitive pricing.
Check out our moving cost calculator to get a ballpark estimate of moving costs.
Average cost of an interstate move by state
| State | Interstate move ~500 miles |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $4,118 |
| Arizona | $3,963 |
| Arkansas | $4,040 |
| California | $3,963 |
| Colorado | $4,040 |
| Connecticut | $3,691 |
| Delaware | $3,807 |
| Florida | $3,497 |
| Georgia | $4,040 |
| Idaho | $4,662 |
| Illinois | $3,807 |
| Indiana | $3,963 |
| Iowa | $4,002 |
| Kansas | $4,118 |
| Kentucky | $4,079 |
| Louisiana | $3,963 |
| Maine | $4,662 |
| Maryland | $3,691 |
| Massachusetts | $3,885 |
| Michigan | $3,963 |
| Minnesota | $4,040 |
| Mississippi | $4,196 |
| Missouri | $3,924 |
| Montana | $4,662 |
| Nebraska | $4,002 |
| Nevada | $3,846 |
| New Hampshire | $4,468 |
| New Jersey | $3,691 |
| New Mexico | $4,312 |
| New York | $3,497 |
| North Carolina | $3,730 |
| North Dakota | $4,740 |
| Ohio | $4,079 |
| Oklahoma | $4,040 |
| Oregon | $4,468 |
| Pennsylvania | $3,807 |
| Rhode Island | $3,691 |
| South Carolina | $3,730 |
| South Dakota | $4,662 |
| Tennessee | $4,079 |
| Texas | $3,963 |
| Utah | $4,002 |
| Vermont | $4,468 |
| Virginia | $3,730 |
| Washington | $4,468 |
| West Virginia | $4,079 |
| Wisconsin | $4,040 |
| Wyoming | $4,662 |
Factors that affect the cost of an interstate moves
- Distance
- Amount of belongings
- Specialty items
- Accessibility of pickup and delivery sites
- Driver expenses (gas, tolls, accommodation)
- Additional fees for add-on services, like full-service packing
How can I save money when I’m moving?
I’ve been in the moving industry for decades. Every move has to cost something, but there are a few tricks you can use to save money when you hire a professional interstate mover.
Get multiple quotes
Long-distance moving is a game of logistics. Different schedules and availability allow some moving companies to offer better prices than others.
Getting several moving quotes increases the odds of finding 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 at the last minute. Or, worst case scenario, they may not have any availability at all.
Flexible pickup and delivery
Moving is a tough business. Movers often face unexpected delays like weather or traffic. Being flexible with your move dates gives the moving company more of a cushion in their schedule. Movers are much more likely to offer lower prices in exchange for flexibility.
Sell, donate, or trash items
70% of your moving estimate comes down to how much stuff you’re moving. A good first step in the moving process is to go through your belongings and get rid of items that you no longer use or want. 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 or mid-week
Rental leases typically turn over at the end of the month, causing spikes in demand on the last few days of the month. You can snag better pricing and avoid the rush by moving in the middle of the month.
Weekends are always a more popular time to move. Availability and pricing is typically better if you move mid-week.
Prep your move properly
Properly prepare for your move so you don’t have to pay extra for expensive packing materials on moving day. Mattresses should have covers, glass table tops need protection, and all loose items need to go in boxes.
Work with your moving coordinator to understand who is responsible for packing which items. If you’re packing yourself, make sure you understand the mover’s packing standards or they will need to repack those items at your expense.
Need more money-saving ideas? Here are the cheapest moving companies that balance quality with savings.
Do moving companies charge extra fees?
If you hire a bad interstate moving company, they’re going to play games with their estimates and charge you much more when the final bill arrives.
Good moving companies will try to estimate the cost of your move as accurately as possible. Work closely with your mover and take the time to provide them with all the necessary details about your move. It can take about an hour to source one quote between phone calls, video chats, and in-person estimates, but it’s worth the extra legwork to secure accurate pricing.
Of course, there’s no avoiding certain fees. Check out this guide on legitimate reasons movers increase final costs.
Understanding moving estimates and contracts for interstate moves
When booking an interstate move, you’ll receive either a binding or non-binding estimate from the moving company.
Here’s the key difference:
- Binding estimates lock in the price you’ll pay for the move, as long as your belongings and move details stay the same. If extra services or costs come up, you must approve them.
- Non-binding estimates provide an estimated price, but the final bill may be higher or lower. The company can charge you more if unforeseen changes happen.
Binding estimates come with price protection, while non-binding gives more flexibility. Understand which option your interstate mover offers. Non-binding estimates are much more common because they favor the mover, so manage your expectations with this type of estimate.
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 which extra charges could come up during the move.
You’ll see extra fees if you book additional services for a more stress-free move, like packing services. There are also additional charges for unforeseen problems, like access issues.
Here are some of the most common fees movers charge:
- Long-carry: Most movers will charge an additional fee if the distance to your front door from the truck is more than 75 feet. If you live in an apartment building, they measure this distance from the front door of your actual apartment, not the building.
- Stair-carry: If there are more than one or two 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 move requires a lengthy elevator ride or if your building has a narrow elevator that requires 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: Movers will typically charge handling fees for items like heavy safes, riding lawn mowers, pianos, hot tubs, and large tool chests. These items typically require additional equipment and labor to ensure safe transport.
- Appliance connection: Some companies may charge an additional fee to disconnect and reconnect appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers.
- Storage-in-Transit (SIT): Many full-services movers offer 30 days of free storage on long-distance relocations. They’ll typically charge a fee for more than 30 days of storage. If you need six months or more of storage, consider delivery to a local storage unit or use a moving container company for your move.
- Additional valuation coverage: While every long-distance mover includes $.60 per pound of valuation coverage in their base price, I recommended increasing this amount. It can really come in handy in the event of loss or irreparable damage.
- Expedited delivery: For an additional cost, movers agree to expedite your delivery and deliver your items on or before a specific date.
- Shuttle services: Most movers do long-distance moves with a 53-foot tractor-trailer. The moving company might need a smaller shuttle truck if a full-size tractor-trailer can’t access your home. This is pretty common with urban moves. The downside is that adding a shuttle can increase moving costs significantly.
- Guaranteed delivery: The movers will guarantee a specific delivery date with this option. Depending on the distance and location, guaranteed delivery can be very expensive. Opt for flexible delivery dates for the best pricing.
- Full-service packing: Most movers offer full-service packing, which means crews will pack all loose items into boxes for you. Having professionals pack everything will also extend your valuation coverage to all boxed items. If a box isn’t packed properly, the movers are on the hook for it, not you.
- Specialty packing and crating: Fragile items like mirrors, glass table tops, grandfather clocks, flat-screen TVs, and chandeliers require specialty packing or crating to prevent damage. Work with your mover 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’ll repack the items at your expense.
What services do professional moving companies provide?
A full-service moving company’s basic package usually includes:
- Loading and unloading of all items
- Disassembly and reassembly of basic furniture
- Moving blankets, pads, and straps
- Moving equipment like dollies and rollers
- Fuel, tolls, and taxes
- Parking permits
- Basic valuation coverage (not insurance)
These add-ons usually cost extra:
- Packing supplies like boxes, paper wrap, etc.
- Full-packing and/or unpacking of boxes and loose items
- Short- or long-term storage (sometimes free)
- Additional insurance coverage (full-value protection)
- Breakdown and reassembly of complicated furniture
- Packing of fragile or bulky items
How to choose the best interstate moving company
You’re moving a long distance, so it’s crucial to choose a moving company with a strong reputation. Go with a company with a solid track record of performing interstate moves. Not only do these moves require special licensing, but they’re pretty complicated, so industry expertise is a must.
Things to look for:
- Compliance with federal government regulations. This includes an active Department of Transportation (DOT) license and insurance
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) complaint history
- Online customer reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- How long the company has been in business
- If the owner and employees are listed on LinkedIn
- If the company is active on social media
- If you can Google their address and whether there are trucks or a warehouse at that address
Once you narrow down your search to a few moving companies, ask questions about their staff: Does the company conduct background checks on its movers and drivers? Are crews trained in specialized services like piano moving?
Preparing for your interstate move
An interstate move is a big deal, so preparation is key. Start by making a comprehensive plan for every aspect of your move, including:
- Setting a budget
- Determining a timeline
- Choosing interstate moving services
- Getting all necessary supplies
A moving checklist will help you stay organized so you don’t overlook something important. I also recommend following these steps to prep for your big move:
- Research the new area. Ease the transition by familiarizing yourself with the new area. Look into the cost of living, local customs, climate, and amenities like schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational spots. Check local crime rates to spot potential safety risks.
- Declutter your current home. Declutter your home before packing. Get rid of anything you no longer need or want. Decluttering cuts moving costs and reduces your packing workload, so it’s a win-win! You can donate, sell, or recycle items to minimize waste.
- Choose a moving company. Carefully select a moving company to handle your interstate move. Look for reputable movers with positive reviews, a solid track record of interstate moves, and proper licensing and insurance. Remember to get quotes from at least three companies to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
- Set up your new utilities. You don’t want to arrive at a house without AC or water, so set up utilities at your new home before your move. This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, cable, and trash. Contact the appropriate providers to arrange for service setup or transfer.
- Create a moving inventory. Document everything you’re moving, ideally with photos and a detailed description of each item. I know it’s extra work, but this can be extremely helpful for insurance and keeping track of your belongings throughout the move.
- Update personal details. Remember to update personal details like your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and voter registration. It’s also important to notify your bank, insurance company, and other institutions about your move.
Choosing insurance and valuation coverage for interstate moves
Bad things can happen even if you hire a reputable moving company. Choose insurance and valuation coverage if the mover damages or loses your items in transit.
These are the most common options:
- Basic liability: Covers only a small portion of your belongings’ value, so I don’t recommend it
- Full-value protection: Covers the entire value of your items, but at an extra cost. This is the best choice
- Replacement value coverage: Compensates you for the full current cost of replacing lost or damaged goods. It offers more coverage than actual cash value
Discuss these options with your mover to see what they offer and how much it costs. I recommend choosing full-value protection for optimal coverage during an interstate move. This guards against paying out of pocket to replace your valuables.
How to file claims for damages during an interstate move
Damages and losses can happen with big moves. If the movers lose or damage an item during an interstate move, follow these steps:
- Note all damage in detail on the mover’s paperwork before signing anything. Photograph everything.
- File a written claim with the moving company promptly (there are usually deadlines).
- Provide supporting documentation, like photos and receipts. Get estimates for repair costs if the damage is fixable.
- Contact the FMCSA if you can’t reach an agreement with the mover.
Don’t let movers off the hook for damage done to your belongings when you’ve paid for insurance. File claims properly to recoup costs for lost or damaged items.
Interstate moving tips
Moving across state lines is a big deal. This process comes with its own set of challenges, so follow these tips to make your interstate move as smooth as possible.
Manage expectations
Always expect the unexpected with an interstate move. Moving just isn’t a seamless process. Even if you plan carefully and work with the best interstate moving companies, something will probably go wrong.
My advice is to just go with it. Have an alternate option if the move falls apart. Do you know where you’d rent a truck or who you could get help from if you’re in a disaster scenario? What happens if the mover says your stuff will arrive in a week, but it actually takes three weeks?
Prepare for unforeseen problems now. Have backups for your backups so you can move quickly if things fall apart.
Pack carefully
Hiring full-service packing help is nice, but packing yourself is the cheapest way to do an interstate move. The key is to know how to pack your stuff like a mover.
Follow these tips to protect your belongings for a big move:
- Start organizing and packing non-essentials at least two months in advance
- Use sturdy boxes in good condition and appropriate sizes
- Wrap fragile items very carefully with packing paper or bubble wrap
- Label boxes clearly by room and contents for easy unpacking later
- Keep an inventory list of what goes in each box
- Pack a “first-night” box with essentials you’ll need immediately
Understand the moving industry
The moving industry isn’t as straightforward as it seems. I’ll let you in on a little secret —there’s really no such thing as a national moving company. For example, North American Van Lines is actually 1,500 moving companies spread across the United States operating under one umbrella corporation.
Pretty much all interstate moving companies work this way. The trick is how well the company deals with its partner movers. Quality interstate moving companies will have a huge rule book for their agents to follow to reduce miscommunications, although issues can still happen, of course.
If there’s an issue with your move, it’s because the move went wrong somewhere. Your move isn’t “at risk” because it uses several companies; this is an industry standard.
Take customer reviews with a grain of salt
It’s hard to find reviews specifically about interstate moves. Sites like Yelp or Google reviews mix local, long-distance, and interstate moves together. Someone might have had a great local move while another customer might have an awful interstate move or vice versa.
Local and interstate moving are two different industries with totally different quality standards. Local moves are way easier and typically have higher quality. But that’s just not as easy for interstate moves. You’ll see negative reviews for these companies because not every long-distance move will go well. That’s true for all moving companies.
If you’re looking at mover reviews, make sure they’re for interstate moves. Most people just leave reviews to complain, and the complaints aren’t always warranted, so you have to look for less-biased reviews, too.
This is why we started the moveBuddha Better Moves Project. It shares real people’s insights on their moving experiences — both the good and the bad. No move will go 100% perfectly, but reading experiences from other customers will give you a better idea of what it’s actually like working with a mover.
FAQs about interstate moving companies
What is the difference between an interstate move and a long-distance move?
An interstate move and a long-distance move sound interchangeable, but there are slight differences between the two.
An interstate move crosses state lines, even if it circles back to the original state. It’s regulated by federal laws and requires the company to hold a USDOT license. If you move from New York to North Carolina, that’s an example of an interstate move.
However, a long-distance relocation covers a significant distance (usually greater than 100–400 miles) within the same state and follows state-level regulations. Moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco qualifies as a long-distance move because you’re staying in the same state, but traveling more than 100 miles. If this is more of what you want, check out our best long-distance movers guide.
Prepping for both moves is pretty much the same, but the companies you choose for each will differ. There are more regulations for interstate moves, so pick a mover with interstate experience, specifically.
Do interstate movers have a minimum size requirement?
Most moving companies have a minimum size requirement of 1,000 pounds. This is equivalent to roughly 40 medium-sized moving boxes or a small studio apartment worth of household goods.
During the peak summer moving season (May–August), some companies increase their minimum size to 2,000 or even 3,500 pounds. 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 won’t have access to the items while they’re in storage.
If you’re relocating more than 1,000 miles or cross-country, consult your mover about delivery time frames to see if storage services are necessary. It’s not uncommon for deliveries to take more than two weeks.
Do moving companies ship cars?
Some freight companies will transport cars, but it’s typically not the best option because a car takes up a lot of space in a moving truck. Instead, many reputable moving companies partner with professional car shippers.
If you need auto transport for a corporate relocation or a family move, check out our picks for the best car shipping companies.
Can you hire movers just to load a rental truck?
Some moving companies offer labor-only services, but this depends on the company. The best way to find labor-only moving services is through a website like HireAHelper.
How early should I book a move?
I recommend booking a moving company at least two months before your expected move date. Book as soon as possible if you’re moving during the busy summer months (May–August). If you wait too long, many companies will book up, and you won’t have many options.
Timing is complex, so check out moveBuddha’s guide on the best time to move.
How can I move out of state cheaply?
Moving out of state can get pricey, but there are a few of the cheapest ways to move out of state:
- Consider DIY moving options like renting a moving truck
- Try hybrid moves in which you handle packing and unpacking and pay a moving container company or freight company like PODS or U-Pack to do the driving for you
- Move during off-peak times
- Find free moving boxes and supplies
- Downsize as much as possible
How I chose the best interstate moving companies
I’ve spent nearly 10 years evaluating moving companies. I use a rigorous review system to identify the best interstate moving companies, looking at factors such as:
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely manner with good communication and within the estimated moving cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): You can’t avoid mistakes in the moving industry. I look for companies that own their mistakes and genuinely try to fix any issues that come up during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): The industry regards the company well. The company participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (10%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
- Service options (10%): I look for companies with a breadth of services, including full packing services, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
- National availability (5%): The company offers origin and destination services nationwide.
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