Best Last-Minute Moving Companies (Updated Review)
Here’s the quick answer: For last-minute moves, we recommend full-service movers like Mayzlin and American Van Lines, a moving container like U-Pack, or a platform like Bellhop that matches you with moving and labor services.
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Whether you got an unexpected job transfer, your lease is ending, or there’s a family emergency, finding dependable last-minute moving companies can be stressful.
We’ve evaluated 3,500 moving companies and determined which movers are the best for last-minute, same-day, and emergency moves. These companies come with transparent pricing, fast booking, and real reviews from people who’ve been there.
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
What are last-minute, same-day, and emergency moves?
Understanding the differences between these types of moves will help you know what service to ask for and avoid unnecessary fees.
- Last-minute moves: Booked within a few days (typically under a week). Great when plans change or deadlines sneak up.
- Same-day moves: Crew arrives the day you call. Best for true emergencies or when your original mover no-shows.
- Emergency moves: Highest urgency (eviction, disaster, immediate new job). Often requires after-hours or weekend service.
Here are a few common reasons people need to hire last-minute movers:
- Lease/landlord: Early termination, eviction notice, or unexpected access deadlines
- Job changes: Sudden transfer or immediate start date
- Life events: Relationship changes, family emergencies, health issues
- Mover problems: Cancellations, no-shows, hostage-style upcharges
- Real estate shifts: Closing date changes, last-minute sales
Best last-minute moving companies
Here are our top moving companies for last-minute moves:
Best for transparent pricing: American Van Lines
Looking for clear pricing on last-minute moving services? American Van Lines offers clear, transparent pricing, and they don’t charge extra fees for last-minute moves.
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
American Van Lines is on our list of the best moving van lines for their ability to handle all kinds of moves, including complicated ones. They offer complete packing services, and are equipped to handle specialty items like pianos and hot tubs. Their workers are background-checked and drug-tested, contributing to an excellent customer service score.
- Price-match guarantee
- Excellent customer service reputation
- No extra fees for last-minute moves
- Experienced, background-checked movers
- Doesn’t service Alaska or Hawaii
- Can’t get an online quote
- Requires a large upfront deposit (up to 50% of your total move cost)
Read our full American Van Lines review
Best customer service: Mayzlin Relocation
As a family-owned business, Mayzlin Relocation stands out for its personalized approach to handling moves. Even with a last-minute request, Mayzlin will assign you a moving consultant and offers 24/7 live customer support.
rating
4.9 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Mayzlin can handle local and long-distance moves, no matter how large or small, and provides full-service offerings, including 30 days of free storage. While Mayzlin is on our list of the best interstate moving companies, its service area is limited primarily to the East Coast and southern states.
- Available around the clock with live customer support
- 30 days of free storage with every move
- Full refund for cancellations within seven days of your move
- Moving process might be longer than with larger movers
- No instant online quotes
Read our full Mayzlin Relocation review.
Best for local moves: North American Van Lines
Established in 1933, North American Van Lines has more than 500 agents located across the country to help facilitate your move.
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
So no matter where you live, you’re likely to book a local move at the last minute. However, it’s important to note that North American contracts out some of its services to local movers, so quality can vary.
North American’s virtual in-home quotes make it easy to get a quick estimate by showing your belongings and home layout to an agent over FaceTime or video chat. And North American’s not-to-exceed pricing option will give you a maximum limit for how much you’ll pay for your move.
- Fast virtual in-home quotes
- A+ BBB rating
- Wide range of discounts available
- Quality of movers can vary from agent to agent
- Storage services not available in all locations
Read our full North American Van Lines review
Best for long-distance moves: U-Pack
If you need to book long-distance or interstate moving fast but don’t have the budget for full-service long-distance movers, U-Pack offers an excellent middle ground as a moving trailer and storage container company.
rating
5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
You order U-Pack’s ReloCube storage containers or a freight trailer and load it yourself, after which U-Pack will transport it to your destination. Temporary storage is also available with the company’s ReloCube containers.
U-Pack storage containers are often available for last-minute moves with just a few days’ notice, though you may not be able to get as many storage containers as you normally could, depending on availability. However, you’ll only pay for the space you use, which can result in significant cost savings.
- Only pay for the space you use
- Less expensive than full-service movers
- Instant online quotes (but we recommend a phone call for last-minute moves)
- Professional drivers
- Limited trailers for last-minute moves
- Can only store items using ReloCube containers
- Long-distance moves only
Read our full U-Pack review.
Best for flexible moves: Bellhop
For flexible last-minute moves, you can’t go wrong with Bellhop. Thanks to their Uber-like technology, you can book last-minute moving assistance in a hurry. You can book moving trucks or opt for their labor-only package to help with loading and unloading.
rating
4.3 / 5
89% of users select this mover
You can book your reservation online through an easy-to-use menu, or chat with a representative to book help. Just keep in mind that their teams generally don’t have the specialty know-how needed to help with complex items like pianos or fine art. Their service area is also relatively limited compared to other movers.
- Business model makes it easy to get last-minute moving help
- Get a quote in minutes with no hidden fees
- Claims to rigorously assess moving crews for punctuality and professionalism
- Not always able to handle specialty items
- Only available in 24 states and Washington, D.C.
Read our full Bellhop review.
Last-minute movers near me: Find fast help in your city or state
If you need to move today or tomorrow, coverage and crew capacity matter. A lot of last-minute movers handle both local and long-distance routes. Whether or not they have same-day availability depends on your location and timing.
| City/State | Top Last-Minute Movers | Service Type | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY | Mayzlin Relocation, North American Van Lines |
Local, long-distance, apartment | Same-day, 24/7, weekend |
| Philadelphia, PA | American Van Lines, North American Van Lines |
Local, long-distance, office | Next-day, 24/7 |
| Newark, NJ | American Van Lines, U-Pack, Mayzlin Relocation |
Local, apartment, long-distance | Same-day, weekend |
| Los Angeles, CA | North American Van Lines, U-Pack |
Local, long-distance, specialty | Next-day, after-hours |
| Houston, TX | Mayzlin Relocation, U-Pack |
Local, long-distance, apartment | Same-day, 24/7 |
| Chicago, IL | North American Van Lines, American Van Lines, Bellhop |
Local, long-distance, office | Same-day, weekend |
Want to compare last-minute moving companies in your city? Find local movers by location or get quick pricing with our moving cost calculator.
Types of moves handled by last-minute moving companies
Most reputable last-minute movers cover a wide range of job types:
- Residential: Houses, condos, apartments (including walk-ups/high-rises)
- Small/apartment: Studios and 1-bedrooms with fast turnarounds
- Office/commercial: After-hours moves to minimize downtime
- Specialty items: Pianos, artwork, antiques, gyms
- Single-item: One heavy/valuable piece; often flat-rate or hourly
How last-minute move costs work
Last-minute moves might cost more, but you can avoid surprises by asking the right questions:
- Hourly rates (local): ~$120–$200/hr for 2 movers + truck; add ~$40–$60/hr per extra mover
- Minimums: 2–4 hour minimums or a flat base for same-day jobs
- Rush fees: Some companies add premiums for late-night/holiday moves; confirm it in writing
- Long-distance: Based on weight, distance, and timing; next-day windows cost more
- Line-items: Stairs, long-carry, shuttles, heavy items, packing materials, fuel/travel time
Get a fast estimate: Use our calculator for ballpark pricing, then call to confirm the best moving companies’ real-time availability and any rush fees.
Step-by-step guide: How to book a last-minute move
Lock in a crew quickly and protect your wallet with this process:
- Gather details: Addresses, dates, rough inventory, access (elevators/parking), special items.
- Get multiple quotes: Use instant tools for ranges, then call individual movers for urgent availability.
- Confirm timing: Ask directly: “Can you move me today or tomorrow? What arrival windows are open?”
- Lock the scope: What’s included—labor, truck, pads/wrap, assembly, materials? What triggers extra fees?
- Book + get it in writing: Reservation, arrival window, type of quote (binding vs. non-binding), deposit, cancellation policy.
- Prep a go-bag: Pack an essentials bag with meds, documents, chargers, a change of clothes, basic tools, snacks/water.
Packing, loading, and storage services for urgent moves
When you’re not in a rush, you can tackle a lot of the ins and outs of your move on your own. But if you’re short on time, these add-ons can save the day:
- Full-service packing: Boxes, pads, disassembly, and room-by-room labeling
- Labor-only help: Great if you’ve secured a moving truck or container
- Short-term storage: Overnight truck holds or warehouse storage to bridge gaps
- Specialty packing: Custom crating for art, antiques, and electronics
How to find a reputable last-minute mover
Sometimes scammers prey on customers who need to make last-minute moves. Here are a few steps you can take to safeguard your move.
- Verify licenses: For interstate moves, look up the company’s USDOT numbers in the FMCSA database.
- Confirm insurance: Basic released value provides minimal protection. Ask about full-value protection for high-value items.
- Read recent reviews: See what other people’s experiences were via the Better Moves Project and online third-party reviews on Google, the BBB, and Trustpilot. Focus on last-minute experiences and claims handling.
- Get everything in writing: The terms of your estimate, services, fees, delivery windows, and the company’s cancellation policy should all be documented.
Compare the best last-minute moving companies: Our top picks (2025)
Based on real customer feedback and our Better Moves interviews, these companies stand out for fast, reliable service on last-minute moves:
| Company | Best For | Our Rating | 24/7 Availability | Services | Booking Options | Service Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Van Lines | Transparent pricing, specialty items | 4.5/5 | Extended hours | Full-service (local/long-distance), specialty | Phone | 48 states |
| Mayzlin Relocation | Personalized service, 24/7 support | 4.9/5 | Yes | Full-service, storage | Online, Phone | East/South US |
| North American Van Lines | Local agent network, virtual quotes | 4.5/5 | Agent-dependent | Full-service, office | Phone, Video | US + international |
| U-Pack | Long-distance containers, pay-for-what-you-use | 5/5 | Flexible | Containers, storage | Online, Phone | US, Canada, PR |
| Bellhop | Small/apartment moves, flexible booking | 4.3/5 | Chat + some same-day | Labor-only or full-service | Online, Phone | 24 states + D.C. |
Customer reviews & real experiences
Mayzlin Relocation moved me from Houston to Denver. Delivery was longer than quoted (but within the 30-day window). The move and car shipping went smoothly. – Kelly, Houston, TX to Denver, CO
Learn MoreNorth American Van Lines has hundreds of agents nationwide. My move went smoothly, with only a few minor communication issues. I appreciated the virtual in-home quote and not-to-exceed pricing. – Marcie, Los Angeles, CA to Colorado Springs, CO
Learn MoreI used Bellhop for a last-minute apartment move. They were punctual and professional. I wish I had let them handle everything—they made the process so much easier than I expected. – Sam, Atlanta, GA to Charlotte, NC
Learn MoreTips for last-minute moves
- Start with the essentials: Make sure all your IDs, meds, chargers, some daily clothes, documents, and valuables stay with you.
- Pack for access: Be sure to pack a “First-night” box with clear labels. Don’t aim for perfect—aim for done.
- Phone a friend (or two): Extra hands beat extra hours on the invoice. Call in some reinforcements if you can.
- Beware lowball quotes: If the offer is far below the other ones you receive, dig into why and make sure the company is legitimate.
- Be flexible: Midweek and off-peak windows give you access to more crews and better rates.
- Use storage as a bridge: Overnight holds or short-term storage can buy you time.
See our last-minute packing tips and top moving labor companies for more ways to simplify a late-notice move.
FAQs
Can I get movers today?
You can often book same-day movers, especially in large cities. Call early, have your details ready, and be flexible on arrival windows.
For late-night or holiday moves, expect to pay a premium, and confirm any after-hours surcharges in writing. If full-service crews are booked, consider labor-only help plus a rental truck or container as a fast fallback.
How fast can last-minute movers arrive?
In cities, crews can sometimes arrive within a few hours; in suburban or rural areas, a next-day move is more realistic. If timing is critical due to factors like elevator reservations or lease deadlines, share those constraints up front so the company can prioritize your job or offer a split pickup (today) and delivery (tomorrow).
What info do I need to book an emergency move?
Have pickup/drop-off addresses, dates, a rough inventory (photos help), access details (for stairs, elevators, and parking), and any special items that need moving, like a piano, safe, or artwork.
Ask for a written estimate that lists all potential add-ons—stairs, long carry, shuttles, heavy item fees, packing materials—so nothing is a surprise.
Can last-minute movers handle specialty items or small moves?
Yes. Many offer piano/art handling, custom crating, and single-item or studio moves. If your job is small, ask about flat-rates or reduced minimums. If it’s a specialty move, ask about the crew’s training, equipment, and valuation coverage before you book.
Are last-minute movers licensed and insured?
Reputable companies are. For interstate jobs, verify USDOT numbers in the FMCSA database and review their complaint history. Ask for proof of insurance and clarify valuation coverage (basic released value vs. full-value protection) so you understand your risk and options.
What should I do if my original movers canceled?
Document the cancellation, then call alternatives immediately. Explain your deadline, ask for the earliest window, and request a binding estimate or a capped hourly quote. If no crews are free, pivot to a container and labor-only combo to keep your timeline intact.
How can I save money on a last-minute move?
Move midweek/off-peak, get multiple quotes, and ask about price-matching. Do some packing yourself, disassemble beds, and stage boxes near the entrance to reduce billable time. For small loads, compare labor-only and rental truck vs. full-service movers—containers can also be cost-effective on long-distance routes.
Ready to book your last-minute move?
Last-minute moves are tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. We help thousands of people move every month, and a lot of them have no time to spare. The right last-minute moving company can protect your timeline, your budget, and your sanity.
Next step: Use our moving cost calculator to compare personalized quotes from top-rated movers near you. It’s fast, free, and puts you in control.
How Much do Movers Cost?
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How we chose the best moving companies
The moveBuddha team has spent nearly 10 years evaluating moving companies using a rigorous review system to identify the best moving companies. Our thorough methodology evaluates each moving company's services, cost, customer service, and reputation:
Moving services (35%):
We verify operating authority, insurance, and service scope against FMCSA/SAFER and state databases. We confirm availability via standardized mystery-shopping calls (packing tiers, storage type, specialty handling, delivery windows, valuation), and then review contracts alongside complaint and claims patterns over time.
Customer feedback (28%):
We run structured post-move surveys through our Better Moves Project with verifiable documentation. We emphasize on-time performance, care of goods, and estimates’ accuracy, and we investigate outliers before they influence scores.
Online reviews (7%):
We aggregate ratings across multiple third-party sites to reduce platform bias, analyze overall trends and company response behavior, and discount obvious spam/fake signals such as sudden bursts, duplicate language, and low-history profiles.
State availability (12%):
We confirm USDOT numbers, broker vs. carrier status, and any required state permits, then score a state-by-state service matrix that accounts for coverage gaps, seasonal limits, and lane strength. We award additional credit for documented cross-border or specialty lanes.
Additional services (12%):
We verify whether add-ons are performed in-house or subcontracted, look for crew training/certifications for high-value or oversized items, count only documented offerings (tariffs, photos, written service descriptions) confirmed via mystery shopping, and reward robust pre-move planning (virtual surveys, itemized crating).
Quotes/Payment options (6%):
We test standardized move profiles to assess estimate type (binding, not-to-exceed, non-binding), line-item transparency, and disclosed surcharges, require clear written policies for deposits, refunds, and cancellations, and award points for secure, flexible payment methods and customer portals.
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