($1,428) Cost of Moving From Michigan to Tennessee

Quick answer: The average cost to move from Michigan to Tennessee ranges from $651 to $7,555 and takes one–six days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.

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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Tennessee to Michigan guide.

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The best Michigan to Tennessee full-service movers

Heading from Michigan to Tennessee? With so many moving companies out there, finding the perfect interstate mover can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you, narrowing down the top picks based on positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and standout services.

Kick off your move to Tennessee with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve Michigan.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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The best local moving companies in Michigan

Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in Michigan, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Handle With Care Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Palmer Moving Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 14

832 W Eleven Mile Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Madison Heights, MI. Known for their excellent customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 74 reviews and an even higher 4.9 average rating on Google from 866 reviews, making them one of the top-rated moving companies in the area. Unlike some competitors, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, all without requiring a deposit. For those prioritizing convenience and reliability, this company stands out in the local market.

Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • JCAL Holdings, LLC
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Handle With Care Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 808976

Years in Business: 31

4260 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 US

Handle With Care Moving has been a trusted name in Ann Arbor, MI, since 1994, specializing in local residential moving services. With stellar consumer feedback, boasting a 4.8 average rating from 271 Google reviews and a 4.0 average from 26 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and even fragile-only packing, ensuring all moving needs are met with utmost care. With the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no upfront deposit, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a dependable choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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Kingsley Moving Systems LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 1890987

Years in Business: 15

610 Detroit Street, Lansing, MI 48912 US

Kingsley Moving Systems LLC stands out among local moving companies in Lansing, MI, offering exceptional service for residential moves. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, customer satisfaction is evidently a top priority. Unlike some competitors, Kingsley Moving Systems also provides packing and unpacking services, making them a convenient one-stop solution for your moving needs. Their flexible payment options, including credit card acceptance and no required deposit, further enhance their appeal.

Get a Quote (517) 372-7200

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Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage

Additional Information

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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 16

1115 Taylor Avenue North, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 US

Two Men and a Truck offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Grand Rapids, MI, having served the community since 2009. Unlike many competitors, they provide a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, with the expertise to move specialty items like pianos and safes. Consumer reviews highlight their strong reputation, with a 4.7 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company stands out for its no-deposit policy, making them a convenient and trustworthy choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (616) 221-4896

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Phase Six Moving, LLC
  • Two Men and A Truck/Grand Rapids North
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Palmer Moving Services

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 511993

Years in Business: 114

24660 Dequindre Road, Warren, MI 48091 US

Palmer Moving Services has been a trusted name in local residential moving in and around Warren, MI since 1911. With over a century of experience, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, crating, and piano moving, setting them apart from many nearby competitors. While their Yelp profile shows mixed feedback with an average rating of 2.5 from 28 reviews, their Google My Business profile tells a different story, boasting an impressive 4.5 average rating from 178 reviews. Additionally, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau further solidifies their reputation. Customers can also take advantage of convenient features like credit card payments and no required deposit.

Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

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The best Michigan to Tennessee moving container companies

Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in Michigan and delivering it to your new place in Tennessee.

Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Michigan to Tennessee moving truck rentals

Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Michigan to Tennessee, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.

We like these rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best Michigan to Tennessee labor-only movers

If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.

For a smooth move from Michigan to Tennessee, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.86 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 4 / 5
  • BBB: B+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 31
  • Yelp: 3.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.72 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 3.5 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to TN movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 46 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Tennessee?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Michigan to Tennessee. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,428 - $4,931 $913 - $2,211 $642 - $1,193
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,878 - $7,555 $1,578 - $3,189 $651 - $1,487
4+ bedrooms $4,753 - $10,270 $2,202 - $4,100 $867 - $1,716

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 715 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Tennessee

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Tennessee, you can expect to spend between $1,428 and $4,931. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,878 to $7,555 on the same route (MI to TN). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Michigan to Tennessee typically runs between $4,753 and $10,270.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Tennessee

If you're moving from Michigan to Tennessee, expect to pay between $913 and $2,211 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,578 up to $3,189. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,202 and $4,100. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Tennessee

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $642 to $1,193. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $651 to $1,487, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Michigan to Tennessee costs around $867 to $1,716.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to TN

Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Tennessee. Here’s what can impact your final bill:

  • Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
  • Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in Michigan.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.

What to know before moving from MI to TN

If you’re moving to Tennessee from Michigan, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: Michigan vs. Tennessee

Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Michigan and Tennessee. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:

Michigan Tennessee
Average rent cost $1,037 $1,047
Average home cost $245,716 $319,208
Average income (per capita) $68,505 $64,035
Cost of Living Index 92 90
Unemployment rate 4.7% 3.3%
Average Sales Tax 6.0% 9.55%
State Income Tax 4.25% 0.0%
  • No need to worry about your budget, rental rates stay pretty consistent whether you’re moving from Michigan to Tennessee.
  • Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Tennessee are typically about 30% higher than in Michigan.
  • Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Tennessee are about 7% lower than in Michigan.
  • Moving to Tennessee costs about 2% less than living in Michigan. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
  • With an unemployment rate about 30% lower than Michigan, Tennessee boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
  • Sales taxes are 59% higher in Tennessee than in Michigan, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
  • One big perk of moving to Tennessee is there’s no state income tax. That means you get to keep more of your money, whether you’re earning a salary, freelancing, or living off retirement income.

How life is different in Tennessee vs. Michigan

Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel. From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience. Here’s how life in Tennessee and Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:

Tennessee Michigan
Population 7,126,489 10,037,261
Political leaning Republican 64-36 Republican 49.7-48.3
Summer high 88ºF 81ºF
Winter low 27ºF 14ºF
Annual rain 53" 34"
Annual snow 5" 64"
Crime index 29.24 19.98
  • The population of Tennessee is approximately 29% lower than the population of Michigan. Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
  • In the last presidential election, Tennessee voted Republican and Michigan voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in Tennessee is 88ºF and in Michigan, it’s 81ºF. A hotter summer climate can offer more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but it may take some getting used to and cost more to stay cool, especially if you’re used to milder weather.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Tennessee reaches the temperature of 27ºF while Michigan gets down to 14ºF. A move to Tennessee with milder winters offers greater day-to-day convenience, lower costs, and more freedom to explore outdoors. It’s a great fit for those who prefer sun over snow and fewer weather-related interruptions.
  • You can expect about 53 inches of annual rainfall in Tennessee versus only 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan. More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
  • In Tennessee, it only snows about 5 inches annually while Michigan gets 64 inches of snow. Moving to Tennessee, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles, making it a great fit for those seeking a milder winter climate.
  • Tennessee has a higher crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 29.24 vs. 19.98. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.

Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Tennessee

Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Tennessee to Michigan.

Pros of living in Michigan Pros of living in Tennessee
Scenic beauty Abundant recreational opportunities
Good higher education No income taxes
Bountiful recreational opportunities Legendary music scene
Low cost of living Natural beauty and parks galore
Beautiful lakes Delicious southern comfort food

Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Tennessee

No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Michigan to Tennessee.

Cons of living in Michigan Cons of living in Tennessee
Cold snowy winters Tendency for severe weather
Spotty economic opportunity Oppressive summer heat and humidity
Poor transportation infrastructure Abundant presence of nuclear power plants
Expensive education Traffic congestion
Thick accents High urban crime rates

Other things to consider for your Michigan to Tennessee move

  • Weather: Most of Tennessee has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters, with the exception of some of the higher elevations in the Appalachians, which has mild summers and cool winters. The state averages about 15 tornadoes a year.
  • HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
  • Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
  • State regulator: You can quickly check a Tennessee moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Tennessee, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Tennessee right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.

Things to do in Tennessee

Get excited to explore Tennessee. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:

Museums in Tennessee

  • Titanic Museum Attraction
  • Graceland
  • Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
  • Lotz House Museum
  • National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel

Parks in Tennessee

  • Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
  • Bicentennial Greenbelt Park
  • Chimneys Picnic Area
  • Winged Deer Park
  • Steele Creek Park

Sports Teams in Tennessee

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball (NBA)
  • Nashville Predators Hockey (NHL)
  • Nashville SC (MLS)
  • Tennessee TItans (NFL)

Universities in Tennessee

  • Vanderbilt University
  • The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
  • The University of Tennessee at Martin
  • The University of Memphis
  • Middle Tennessee State University

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Tennessee? toggle

If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Michigan moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Tennessee? toggle

Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from Michigan to Tennessee using a top-rated auto transport company.

What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Tennessee? toggle

An increasing number of people are relocating from Michigan to Tennessee to enjoy all the great benefits Tennessee provides, such as: abundant recreational opportunities and no income taxes.

Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Tennessee? toggle

Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Tennessee. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is much more affordable in Michigan, with average rent about 1% less and home prices 23% lower than in Tennessee. Tennessee has no income tax.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Tennessee? toggle

Thinking of moving to Tennessee on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,555 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living on your own, expect to spend about $2,475 per month, or around $6,425 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Nashville and Memphis tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.

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