Best Movers Near Raleigh, NC (2026 Reviews)

Little Guys Movers is our preferred moving company in Raleigh. Little Guys Movers also ranks #7 out of 255 movers statewide in North Carolina. Rankings are based on 31,318 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Raleigh, NC, covering 71 local Raleigh movers.

Local movers in Raleigh on average charge $93/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 20
  • Yelp: 2.3 / 5
  • BBB: B
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 27
  • Yelp: 1.6 / 5
  • BBB: A
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 33
  • Yelp: 4.5 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Why use moveBuddha for your Raleigh, NC move

  • moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Raleigh mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
  • Book a moveBuddha Certified Raleigh mover and get an extra $1,000 in move coverage plus dedicated support throughout your move.
  • If something goes wrong, moveBuddha steps in with direct dispute mediation between you and your Certified mover.

 Moving in Raleigh, NC right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Raleigh. The one exception is the Thanksgiving window. The week of and after Thanksgiving sees an end-of-year demand spike. Aim for early to mid-November for the best combination of price and availability.

What are the top-rated moving companies in Raleigh, NC?

Little Guys Movers is our preferred moving company in Raleigh . Little Guys Movers also ranks #7 out of 255 movers statewide in North Carolina.

moveBuddha scored 71 Raleigh movers drawing on 31,318 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.76/5. Rankings include movers based in Raleigh and those serving the area from nearby locations.

  1. Little Guys Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Athens Moving Experts: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  3. Miracle Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Next Stop Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Crabtree Family Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  6. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  7. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  8. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  9. Bellhop Moving: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  10. Sawyer All Carolina Professional Moving & Packing: 4.3 out of 5 stars
1
checkmark Transparent pricing
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
96%
Years active
33
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
4.9
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Yelp logo
4.5
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BBB logo
Grade A+
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Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Junk removal
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Little Guys Movers has been in business for 33 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and labor-only moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Little Guys Movers has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 1013 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Little Guys Movers.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Little Guys Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

They followed up the same day, gave a fair upfront price, and responded faster than other movers.

Their pricing was fair and transparent, and the office promptly updated our quote and answered questions. The crew communicated throughout and treated our furniture carefully.

DOT number
1931566
Address
1301 Capital Blvd, Raleigh, NC, 27603
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
2548
2
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
97%
Years active
9
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
4.9
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Yelp logo
3.9
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Shipment tracking
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Athens Moving Experts has been in business for 9 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Athens Moving Experts has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 1494 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.9.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Athens Moving Experts.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Athens Moving Experts emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

They moved everything in with care, asked me where everything should go, placed all of my items where I asked them to, and made quick work of it. I'd recommend!

Zack, Pharoh, and JC were efficient and professional moving our upright piano up a flight of stairs. They were considerate and friendly as well.

DOT number
3205320
Address
6601 Hillsborough St, Suite 111, Raleigh, NC, 27606
Payment methods
Credit Card
3
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
89%
Years active
20
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4.5
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Google logo
4.7
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Yelp logo
2.3
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BBB logo
Grade B
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Miracle Movers has been in business for 20 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Miracle Movers has about 89% positive reviews across roughly 925 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.3.

Quote accuracy 3.7

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Miracle Movers.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Miracle Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

I was most impressed with the care they took on wrapping my items to make sure no damage was done in transportation. I almost forget they were also the low cost provider that I had quoted.

The company was flexible and very communicative in all aspects of our move out of a storage facility into our new home in NC!

DOT number
3139734
Address
2828 Industrial Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27609
Payment methods
Credit Card
4
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
96%
Years active
5
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
4.9
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Yelp logo
5.0
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.4

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Next Stop Movers has been in business for 5 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Next Stop Movers has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 724 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 5.0.

Quote accuracy 4.2

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Next Stop Movers. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Next Stop Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

They protected our walls with cardboard around the stairs to ensure our walls would not get damaged. I've never seen a moving company take that much care to protect our walls.

Used Next Stop Movers for a last minute move. They were extremely flexible and efficient. They were wonderful to work with.

DOT number
3619230
Address
5215 Capital Blvd, Ste 201, Raleigh, NC, 27616
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
1267633
5
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
90%
Years active
14
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4.4
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Google logo
4.8
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Yelp logo
2.8
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BBB logo
Grade F
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Crabtree Family Moving has been in business for 14 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Crabtree Family Moving has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 398 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Crabtree Family Moving. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Crabtree Family Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

I've used Crabtree for almost 10 moves over the last few years. Every crew member has been courteous, patient, and timely. Crabtree individually wraps and pads each piece. Couldn't recommend their team enough.

They put blankets and coverings in place to protect our home. They were efficient and cautious and even worked when it started to rain.

DOT number
2507399
Address
1228 United Dr, Unit #115, Raleigh, NC, 27603
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
2533
6
checkmark Helpful movers
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
88%
Years active
27
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
4.5
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Yelp logo
1.6
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BBB logo
Grade A
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Junk removal
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. All My Sons Moving & Storage has been in business for 27 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. All My Sons Moving & Storage has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 4785 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.6.

Quote accuracy 3.8

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from All My Sons Moving & Storage, and All My Sons Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All My Sons Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Everett, Casimir, and Nigel were quick and efficient and placed everything where I needed it. The price paid was accurate for the time they spent. Would definitely use them again.

Needed movers at the last minute and they came through. I called at 8am and they were here at noon on a Saturday. They did a fabulous job and came in under quote.

DOT number
906054
Address
7417 ACC Blvd, Raleigh, NC, 27617
Payment methods
Credit Card
7
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
92%
Years active
13
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.6
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Yelp logo
3.0
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Debris removal
  • Junk removal
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for 13 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and small-scale moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 1295 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, and TWO MEN AND A TRUCK makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 4.7

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

Easy to schedule. Guys arrived on time-very friendly and accommodating. Quiet and respectful during the move. Definitely recommend!

The team from Two Men and a Truck were wonderful loading and unloading our many boxes and items of furniture. They took great care wrapping the furniture and packed the trucks so well.

DOT number
916912
Address
2728 Capital Blvd, #168, Raleigh, NC, 27604
Payment methods
Credit Card
8
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Professional and polite staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
83%
Years active
28
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.5
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Yelp logo
3.2
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Estate moves
  • Grandfather clock moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Safe moving
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full valuation coverage
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Excel Moving & Storage has been in business for 28 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like international moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Excel Moving & Storage has about 83% positive reviews across roughly 369 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.2.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Excel Moving & Storage.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Excel Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

Wilson was excellent in communication and professionalism. I very much appreciate it!

Frederick and Daquan went above and beyond, treated my furniture and boxes with great care, and communicated beforehand about their arrival.

DOT number
076235
Address
2612 Discovery Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27616
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
NCUC#C-731 (Raleigh); NCUC#C-2311 (Greensboro)
9
checkmark Easy booking process
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
checkmark Quick response times
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
62%
Years active
15
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.7
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Yelp logo
3.2
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BBB logo
Grade F
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Junk removal
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Bellhop Moving has been in business for 15 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Bellhop Moving has about 62% positive reviews across roughly 92 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.2.

Quote accuracy 4.0

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Bellhop Moving, and Bellhop Moving makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 4.7

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Bellhop Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

The booking was easy. The team was professional, courteous, respectful of my things, and on time. They helped me move into a third-floor apartment with no elevator.

I was able to get help the next day on short notice. Very friendly movers and pricing was affordable.

DOT number
US DOT #2878240; Texas DOT #3296538
Address
8024 Glenwood Ave, Suite 305, Raleigh, NC, 27612
Payment methods
Credit Card
10
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Helpful movers
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
98%
Years active
30
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.7
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Yelp logo
4.3
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Sawyer All Carolina Professional Moving & Packing has been in business for 30 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Sawyer All Carolina Professional Moving & Packing has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 160 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.3.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Sawyer All Carolina Professional Moving & Packing. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.1

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Sawyer All Carolina Professional Moving & Packing emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Tyler and his crew did an amazing job. They were extremely professional and handled my belongings with the upmost care. Everything was delivered in perfect condition.

The entire team was incredibly friendly and helpful when builder delays forced us to change our scheduled move date. The crew was careful and ensured we were satisfied with how everything was moved and placed.

Address
3434 Edwards Mill Rd STE 112, Raleigh, NC, 27612
Payment methods
Credit Card

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How do Raleigh, NC moving companies compare?

Company Our rating City rank Positive reviews BBB Quote
Little Guys Movers
33 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
#2 of 71
Top 10 in North Carolina
96% A+
Athens Moving Experts
9 years in business
star star star star star
4.64
#1 of 71
Top 10 in North Carolina
97% A+
Miracle Movers
20 years in business
star star star star star
4.5
#5 of 71 89% B
Next Stop Movers
5 years in business
star star star star star
4.52
#3 of 71 96% A+
Crabtree Family Moving
14 years in business
star star star star star
4.44
#7 of 71 90% F
All My Sons Moving & Storage
27 years in business
star star star star star
4.5
#4 of 71 88% A
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
13 years in business
star star star star star
4.36
#13 of 71 92% A+
Excel Moving & Storage
28 years in business
star star star star star
4.38
#10 of 71 83% A+
Bellhop Moving
15 years in business
star star star star star
4.34
#17 of 71 62% F
star star star star star
4.3
#20 of 71 98% A+

Proximity to Raleigh is a ranking factor, so a mover appearing higher on the list may have a lower score than one listed below it. A nearby company can outrank a higher-scored mover based further out. Each company's positive review rate and BBB rating are included so you can compare quality and reputation side by side.

Top-rated movers in nearby North Carolina cities

  North Carolina is one of the top 5 most popular moving destinations in the country, drawing 16.2% of all net inbound moving searches in the U.S. in 2026. Wilmington is one of the most in-demand destination cities in the country for people planning a move. See moveBuddha's full 2026 Moving Trends Report →

Popular moving routes from Raleigh, NC

Local movers in Raleigh are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-26, I-40, I-85, and I-95. For longer moves, you need a full-service interstate carrier with USDOT authority, binding estimate practices, and the logistics to handle cross-country delivery. See our guide to the best long-distance movers from Raleigh, NC for route-specific recommendations and pricing.

Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

How much do movers cost in Raleigh, NC?

Local movers in Raleigh charge $93/hour on average for a 2-person crew, compared to the North Carolina average of $105/hour. The actual cost depends on home size, hours on the clock, and any add-on services.

Home size Estimated local move cost in Raleigh
Studio $318 – $530
1 bedroom $424 – $742
2 bedrooms $636 – $1,060
3 bedrooms $954 – $1,590
4+ bedrooms $1,272 – $2,332

Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Raleigh's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.

Ready to compare Raleigh mover prices? See our full guide on Raleigh, NC mover costs →

Which Raleigh, NC movers offer specialty services?

Raleigh has 71 reviewed moving companies, but not all offer the same services. moveBuddha tracked specialty service availability across the market. Here is what is offered, how common each service is, and which companies rank highest in each category:

  • Piano moving: 35 of 71 Raleigh movers (49.3%) offer it. Little Guys Movers (4.58/5) also offers piano moving.
  • Antique handling: 23 of 71 Raleigh movers (32.39%) offer it. Little Guys Movers (4.58/5) also handles antique care.
  • Art packing: 16 of 71 Raleigh movers (22.54%) offer it. Excel Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers art packing.
  • Climate-controlled storage: 19 of 71 Raleigh movers (26.76%) offer it. Miracle Movers (4.5/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
  • Fragile-only packing: 9 of 71 Raleigh movers (12.68%) offer it. Excel Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

What movers in Raleigh offer piano moving?

Piano moving is available from 35 of 71 Raleigh movers (49.3%). Little Guys Movers (4.58/5) also offers piano moving.

Piano moving in Raleigh Details
Raleigh movers offering this 35 of 71 (49.3%)
Top-rated Raleigh piano movers Little Guys Movers, Athens Moving Experts
Upright piano $848 to $1,590
Baby grand piano $1,272 to $2,650
Grand piano $1,908 to $3,710

Piano weight (300 to 800 lbs for uprights, 500 to 1,200 lbs for baby grands, over 1,200 lbs for concert grands) is the primary cost driver, as heavier instruments require more crew and specialized equipment. Bundling a piano into a full household move is usually cheaper than booking a piano-only carrier. See moveBuddha's guide to the best piano movers for vetted options and how to pack and move a piano for prep tips.

What movers in Raleigh offer antique handling?

Antique handling is available from 23 of 71 Raleigh movers (32.39%). Little Guys Movers (4.58/5) also handles antique care.

Antique handling in Raleigh Details
Raleigh movers offering this 23 of 71 (32.39%)
Top-rated Raleigh antique movers Little Guys Movers, Athens Moving Experts
Added cost to a household move $1,060 to $2,650
Per-piece handling fee $53 to $530
Custom crating per item $159 to $212

Custom crating and per-piece handling fees are the main cost factors. Standard released-value coverage ($0.60/lb) is inadequate for high-value antiques, so full-value protection adds to the total. The more pieces requiring individual crating, the higher the cost. See moveBuddha's guide to best antique moving companies for specialists in this market.

What movers in Raleigh offer art packing?

Art packing is available from 16 of 71 Raleigh movers (22.54%). Excel Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers art packing.

Art packing in Raleigh Details
Raleigh movers offering this 16 of 71 (22.54%)
Top-rated Raleigh art movers Excel Moving & Storage, Sawyer All Carolina Professional Moving & Packing
Per-piece handling fee $53 to $530
Custom crating per item $159 to $212

Cost scales with piece count and crating complexity. Framed canvases and sculptures require custom-built crates at $150 to $200 each. Confirm the mover has handled similar media before booking. See how to pack and move art for what to verify before signing.

What movers in Raleigh offer climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled storage is available from 19 of 71 Raleigh movers (26.76%). Miracle Movers (4.5/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.

Climate-controlled storage in Raleigh Details
Raleigh movers offering this 19 of 71 (26.76%)
Top-rated Raleigh providers Miracle Movers, Excel Moving & Storage
Storage-in-transit rate About $0.50 per cubic foot per month
1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) $272

Cost is driven by unit size and duration. Longer storage gaps and larger loads raise the monthly total. Climate control is most relevant for wood furniture, electronics, and vinyl; standard units can handle hardier items at lower cost. See moveBuddha's climate-controlled storage guide for a full cost and provider breakdown.

What movers in Raleigh offer fragile-only packing?

Fragile-only packing is available from 9 of 71 Raleigh movers (12.68%). Excel Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

Fragile-only packing in Raleigh Details
Raleigh movers offering this 9 of 71 (12.68%)
Top-rated Raleigh providers Excel Moving & Storage,
Full professional packing rate $0.15 to $0.21 per pound

Fragile-only packing costs less than full-service packing because it covers only breakables: dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps. It's the most cost-effective way to add professional packing without paying to have the whole home packed. See how to pack breakables for what movers look for and how to prepare.

Apartment and high-rise moving in Raleigh

Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Raleigh adds logistical steps that ground-floor moves don't require. Before booking, confirm the following with your mover:

  • Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Raleigh apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
  • Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
  • Labor-only movers: 41% of Raleigh movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Little Guys Movers also offers labor-only service.

If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Raleigh apartment moves before committing.

DIY moving options in Raleigh, NC

Not every Raleigh move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:

Rental trucks

The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Raleigh, NC are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes. Use moveBuddha's moving truck size guide to match the right truck to your home size before booking.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Moving containers

The best moving container companies available in Raleigh, NC are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size, or the moving container sizes guide to find the right unit for your load.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
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  • Flexible timelines
  • Local franchise support
  • Fits tight spaces
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Labor-only movers + rented truck

The best labor-only movers in Raleigh, NC start with Little Guys Movers (4.58/5) and Athens Moving Experts (4.64/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.58 / 5
  • Years in Business: 33
  • 96% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.64 / 5
  • Years in Business: 9
  • 97% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 20
  • 89% positive reviews
  • BBB: B

Moving in Raleigh, NC: what you need to know

A Raleigh move involves logistics that go beyond booking a crew and loading a truck. The checklist below covers the practical steps specific to moving in this market.

Before move day

  • Update your address: file a change of address with the USPS before your move date. Raleigh residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with North Carolina DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
  • Parking and permits: Raleigh's website doesn't specifically say that you need a parking permit but they do have rules on loading zones. Be sure to check directly with the City of Raleigh to ensure that you have what you need for your move. It's also a good idea to check directly with any neighborhood, HOA, or building regulations that may affect your move.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Raleigh buildings require a COI from your moving company before granting loading dock or elevator access. Request this from your mover as soon as you book. It's a standard document and any licensed mover should provide it free of charge.
  • Reserve your elevator: if you're in a building with a service elevator, reserve a time window as early as possible. Weekend and month-end slots fill fast.
  • Get a binding estimate: a binding estimate locks your final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. Always confirm in writing before signing.

Timing your move

  • Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. Raleigh's summer highs reach 90°F, which pushes prices up and crew availability down. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead during this window.
  • Off-peak savings: moves booked in October–April, on weekdays, or mid-month typically cost 10%–20% less. If your schedule is flexible, ask movers about off-peak pricing. See moveBuddha's best time to move guide for a month-by-month breakdown.

North Carolina moving regulations and your rights

  • Verify your mover is licensed: all North Carolina movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at North Carolina's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
  • For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT).
  • Released-value coverage: movers are required to offer basic protection at $0.60 per pound per item at no extra cost. This covers almost nothing on high-value items. Ask about full valuation coverage before signing.
  • Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Your rights as a shipper: for interstate moves, the FMCSA requires movers to provide "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before your move. Read it. It covers estimates, liability, dispute resolution, and the 110% rule. Download it at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
  • Industry oversight: North Carolina Movers Association sets professional standards for North Carolina movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.

Frequently asked questions: moving in Raleigh, NC

How much do movers cost in Raleigh, NC?

Local movers in Raleigh, NC charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 10 Raleigh movers, hourly rates range from $60/hour to $180/hour, with a median of $134/hour. Our preferred Raleigh mover is Flex Moving & Storage.

Key cost factors for a Raleigh move, based on moveBuddha's review data:

  • Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
  • Deposit requirement: 21% of Raleigh movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: 21% of Raleigh movers (15 companies) offer it. The default released-value protection covers only $0.60 per pound. Full valuation coverage costs extra and covers replacement value.
  • Hours on-site: local moves bill by the clock. Home size, floor access, elevator waits, and how much packing work the crew handles are the primary time drivers.
  • Long-distance pricing: moves leaving Raleigh across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 76% of Raleigh movers (54 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: 75% of Raleigh movers (53 companies) offer full packing, and 61% supply packing materials. Professional packing adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound on average.

DIY options like a rental truck or moving container reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's analysis. Use the moving cost calculator to get a market-specific baseline before collecting quotes.

What do full-service movers in Raleigh include, and what costs extra?

A standard full-service move in Raleigh, NC includes loading, transport, and unloading. Basic furniture padding and simple disassembly/reassembly for bed frames and standard furniture pieces are included in the base rate. Packing, valuation upgrades, storage, crating, and specialty-item handling are add-ons billed separately. The table below shows what Raleigh movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.

Add-on service % of Raleigh movers Typical cost impact
Full packing 75% (53 companies) +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average
Packing materials 61% Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking
Storage 61% ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$272/month
Full valuation coverage 21% (15 companies) 1%–2% of declared shipment value (~$300–$600 on a $30,000 shipment); default released-value protection pays only $0.60/lb
Crating (fragile/high-value items) 21% (15 companies) $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances)
Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) 41% (29 companies) Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge
Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) Situational $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200

Every add-on above requires written confirmation before booking. A binding estimate locks the final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. See the hidden and unexpected moving costs guide for a full breakdown of what to request in writing.

Do movers in Raleigh offer senior, military, or other discounts?

Raleigh movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 93,068 verified customer reviews across North Carolina. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 Raleigh mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Raleigh movers are excluded. NC state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.

Discount type % of Raleigh movers # of movers Raleigh movers offering it Data source
Senior 1% 1 -- Raleigh
Military 14% 10 Next Stop Movers, Crabtree Family Moving, Sawyer All Carolina Professional Moving & Packing Raleigh
Student 3% 2 -- Raleigh
Teacher 1% 1 -- Raleigh

Ask each mover whether the discount applies to your specific move date, what proof of eligibility is required, and whether it stacks with seasonal pricing or off-peak rates. Discounts are not automatically applied. Request them at the quote stage, before signing.

How far in advance should I book movers in Raleigh?

Book Raleigh movers at least 4–6 weeks ahead during peak moving season (May through September) and on month-end dates. For off-peak moves (October through April, mid-month, or on a weekday), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (under 1 week) are possible but limit your options to movers with open capacity, which may not include your preferred company or the best-rated crews.

Once you have a date, request a binding written estimate before paying any deposit. Confirm the mover's cancellation and reschedule policy in writing at booking. Some Raleigh movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.

What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Raleigh movers provide one?

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from your mover's insurance carrier that names your building as an additional insured and confirms the mover carries active liability coverage. Many Raleigh apartment buildings, condos, and commercial properties require a COI before they'll permit a moving crew to use service elevators or loading docks.

Any licensed, insured Raleigh mover should provide a COI at no charge. Request it as soon as you book. Your building management may need it 5–10 business days before your move. If a mover hesitates or charges for a COI, that is a red flag worth taking seriously.

Are movers in Raleigh licensed and insured?

North Carolina requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the North Carolina licensed movers directory. For interstate moves (crossing state lines), movers must also hold a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify any USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov.

Always ask your Raleigh mover for their license number and USDOT number before signing. moveBuddha verifies licensing and insurance status for all movers in its database as part of the review process.

How long does a local move take in Raleigh?

Local Raleigh moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Raleigh-area data:

  • Studio/1 bedroom: 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 2 bedrooms: 4–6 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 3 bedrooms: 6–8 hours with a 3-person crew
  • 4+ bedrooms: 8–12 hours with a 3–4 person crew

These are averages. Actual time increases with stairs, elevator waits, long carries from truck to door, and the amount of packing the crew handles. Pre-packing boxes, reserving an elevator, and ensuring a clear loading path are the most effective ways to keep hourly costs on track.

Do Raleigh movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?

Yes. Most Raleigh movers regularly handle apartment and high-rise moves. When evaluating a mover for this type of move, ask specifically about their experience with:

  • Service elevator scheduling and building move-in procedures in Raleigh
  • Providing a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for building management
  • Shuttle vehicles or alternative loading setups when a truck can't park close to the entrance
  • Stair carries if the service elevator is unavailable or too small for large pieces

A mover with genuine Raleigh apartment experience will ask about your building's move-in process during the quoting stage, not after you've signed. If they don't ask, bring it up yourself before committing.

What is the best time of year to move in Raleigh?

The cheapest time to move in Raleigh is October through April, particularly on weekdays and mid-month dates when mover demand drops. Moving during this window can reduce your total cost by 10%–20% compared to peak summer rates.

Peak season runs May through September. Raleigh's summer highs reach 90°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.

Winter moves are the most affordable but require contingency planning. Raleigh's winter lows reach 30°F. Confirm your mover's weather delay policy before booking a winter move.

Regardless of season, booking 4–6 weeks ahead gives you the best pick of Raleigh's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Raleigh?

moveBuddha scores 71 moving companies in Raleigh on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options.

How moveBuddha selects and reviews Raleigh, NC moving companies

moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 255 North Carolina moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Rankings for Raleigh draw on 93,068 verified customer reviews across North Carolina: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.

That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
  • Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.

Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.

See how Raleigh's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Raleigh's top movers →

How to move in Raleigh: permits, COI, and city logistics

A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Raleigh, NC, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.

  1. Verify your mover's license and insurance. For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Verify a license.
  2. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Raleigh building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
  3. Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Raleigh street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
  4. Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Raleigh movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.

The final verdict: moving in Raleigh, NC

  • Best overall: Little Guys Movers (4.58/5), our preferred Raleigh mover, also ranking in the top 10 movers statewide in North Carolina.
  • Best runner-up: Athens Moving Experts (4.64/5).
  • Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): Little Guys Movers (4.58/5).
  • Best labor-only / DIY assist: Little Guys Movers (4.58/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
  • Going rate: $93/hour for a Raleigh moving crew.

Collect at least 3 binding estimates, confirm your mover's license and insurance, and request a COI if your building requires one. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to set your budget baseline before reaching out to movers.