Best Interstate Movers of 2025
We researched over 50 out of state movers, analyzed each company’s contract terms, collected multiple sample quotes, and got insights into real customers’ experience to determine that Safeway Moving is our top choice for interstate moves. The company brings a balance of affordability and quality customer service.
We also recommend Mayzlin Relocation for their personalized service and American Van Lines for their expert handling, while MiniMoves is our top choice for small interstate moves. If you prefer a moving container or truck, we recommend PODS or Budget Truck Rental.
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 rating
4.75 / 5
Licensed
 Insured
Price
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Best full-service mover: Safeway Moving
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Best moving truck: Budget Truck Rental
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Best small-load mover: MiniMoves
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Best labor-only mover: HireAHelper
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Best international mover: International Van Lines
Our track record
Best full-service interstate movers
Here are our top five picks for the best interstate moving companies. We collected our cost data and made our scoring decisions through our Better Moves project, where moving customers share the price and experience of their moves with us.
Safeway Moving: For the best quality at the best price
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4.85 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
Safeway Moving (USDOT#3756000) is a veteran-owned company that excels at affordable interstate relocations, making them our top pick for overall value. We are impressed with the company’s comprehensive service offerings, including 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves. This benefit is crucial when your new home isn’t ready or you need time to settle in.
It’s one of the best moving companies available in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. Based on customer reviews, Safeway is praised for providing professional service with fair pricing and friendly customer support, giving you peace of mind that you won’t sacrifice quality to save money during an already stressful life transition.
Read our full Safeway Moving review
More about Safeway Moving
Our rating
American Van Lines: For the most experienced interstate movers
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4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
If you’re worried about how your household items will be treated during an interstate move, American Van Lines (USDOT#614506) might be the best fit for you. It’s one of the top moving van lines and has been in business since 1995. The company handles out-of-state relocations with a team of skilled movers with an average experience level of 10 years.
American Van Lines’ (AVL’s) staff are required to undergo ongoing training on best packing and loading practices, as well as how to properly handle art, antiques, and bulky pieces like pianos and fitness equipment. That added layer of expertise gives you peace of mind knowing your valuables are being expertly handled.
Read our full American Van Lines review
More about American Van Lines
Our rating
Allied Van Lines: For customers looking for white-glove treatment
rating
4.75 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it:
Allied Van Lines (USDOT#076235) is a long-distance mover that stands out for going beyond the bare minimum to give customers a premium moving experience. As one of the oldest moving companies around (it opened in 1928), Allied has built a strong reputation for offering an extensive lineup of customizable moving services that adapt to your specific needs and budget.
A big part of Allied’s appeal comes from its white-glove moving services, including custom crating and specialized training for handling large, high-value, and antique pieces. This is essential protection for your most treasured possessions during a cross-country move. Their protective wrapping comes standard with all moves, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are safeguarded, while their ability to handle last-minute moves provides flexibility when life doesn’t go according to plan during your relocation timeline.
Read our full Allied Van Lines review
More about Allied Van Lines
Our rating
Mayzlin Relocation: For a personalized approach to moving
rating
4.9 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
Mayzlin Relocation (USDOT#3182355) is a family-owned moving company that provides tailored hands-on customer service with features that reduce the stress and financial risk of interstate moving. Mayzlin has a national reach and offers most of the same bells and whistles as big-name competitors with a personalized touch, plus customer-friendly policies like price matching to ensure you get competitive rates and a full refund if you cancel within seven days, which provides extra flexibility when plans change unexpectedly.
Given their excellent track record for customer service and 24/7 support availability, we think Mayzlin is great for first-time movers who might want a little extra help navigating their interstate move and need reassurance that someone will be available whenever questions or concerns arise during this major life transition.
Read our full Mayzlin Relocation review
More about Mayzlin Relocation
Our rating
North American Van Lines: If you want to customize your plan & pricing
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
We included North American Van Lines (USDOT#2632086) as one of the best interstate movers because of its a la carte approach to moving that puts you in complete control of your budget and services. Rather than signing up for a moving package that includes some services you need and some you don’t, North American Van Lines (NAVL) allows you to pick and choose from their extensive menu of add-on options to create a custom plan. This is a great option if you’re trying to stay within a budget, since you can adjust your package to get within your desired price range without sacrificing essential services.
The company’s no-deposit booking policy means you won’t tie up your cash upfront when you’re already managing multiple moving expenses, while state-of-the-art satellite shipment tracking gives you real-time peace of mind about where your belongings are during the cross-country journey.
Read our full North American Van Lines review
More about NAVL
Our rating
Other full-service movers we considered
The next few movers appear on some other “best interstate moving companies” lists. We put them through our thorough evaluation process, dug into thousands of customer reviews, gathered quotes, and spoke to readers who’ve used their services.
While they didn’t quite make our top-tier rankings, they’re still reputable options with strengths that might make them the right fit for some moves.
JK Moving Services
JK Moving Services is a premium full-service mover known for their highly trained crews and white-glove services that cover every step of the move, from custom crating to secure storage. We like that JK Moving assigns a personal move coordinator to help manage your move from start to finish.
Why they didn’t make the list:
JK Moving scored high for their services, but their high prices might not be the best fit for budget-conscious moves. If you want a stress-free move and are willing to pay for a polished experience, they’re worth a quote.
- Best for: White-glove services and complex moves
- What to watch for: Steeper pricing than competitors
- Read the full review: JK Moving Services review
Atlas Van Lines
Atlas Van Lines is one of the largest and most established moving van lines, with a huge network of local agents and nationwide coverage. Their long-distance services include packing and unpacking, storage, and international relocation support. Their long history and large fleet make them a reliable option for cross-country moves.
Why they didn’t make the list:
While Atlas’s availability and name recognition are top tier, customer satisfaction varies by location, and their estimates aren’t always guaranteed. They’re still a good option for large or complex moves, just keep in mind that your experience can vary depending on where you live.
- Best for: Full-service moves through a local agent with national reach
- What to watch for: Mixed service quality and pricing transparency
- Read the full review: Atlas Van Lines review
Mayflower
Mayflower is among the oldest, most recognized names in the moving industry, with over 90 years of experience. They offer full-service moving, packing, and storage options, with a convenient mobile app and personalized planning tools. Their affiliation with UniGroup (which also owns United Van Lines) lends to their credibility, too.
Why they didn’t make the list:
While Mayflower has strong brand recognition, we found that their service quality can vary by agent, and some customers reported higher pricing than competitors. They’re still worth a look if you want a major van line with widespread availability and digital planning tools.
- Best for: Established full-service movers with a national presence
- What to watch for: Mixed customer reviews and potentially higher costs
- Read the full review: Mayflower moving review
United Van Lines
United Van Lines (UVL) is a popular national mover with a large fleet, extensive agent network, and a strong reputation for handling long-distance and corporate relocations. They offer full-service packing, storage, and specialty moving services, and stand out for their digital tools like shipment tracking and a personalized move portal.
Why they didn’t make the list:
Despite their national reach and range of services, pricing can vary significantly from move to move, and some customers reported inconsistent communication. UVL can still be worth considering if you prefer working with an established brand with deep industry experience.
- Best for: Nationwide full-service moves with tracking and resources
- What to watch for: Inconsistent pricing and service quality in some areas
- Read the full review: United Van Lines review
Other interstate moving services
Although full-service movers offer the most convenience and ease when it comes to interstate moves, there are other moving services you can use to complete your relocation. Some of these options require more work on your part, but you might be able to save more money.
Best moving container for interstate moves
Container moving strikes a smart balance between full-service movers and DIY truck rental. You load at your own pace, the company drives, and storage can be built in before, during, or after the move. It’s ideal for:
- Closing gaps between move-out and move-in
- Renovations or delayed closings
- Avoiding long-haul driving and liability
Top container movers for interstate moves:
- PODS: Our top pick. Multiple container sizes, 30 days of storage included, and options for on-site or facility storage. Cost-effective for long distances. Just note that availability can vary, and long-haul bookings may require a call.
- U-Pack: Pay only for the space you use (trailer or ReloCube), fast transit, and excellent long-distance reach. No on-site storage, so best if your dates are locked in.
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: All-steel containers, frequent promotions, and a solid facility network. Limited metro availability—book early during peak season.
- MovingYourself: Great DIY budget option with flexible container sizes. Be sure to confirm service areas, storage terms, and base costs.
Best interstate moving truck rental
Renting a truck is your cheapest option if you’re up for driving and want total control. You pick the size, pack on your own time, and drive your own route—often saving thousands.
Top moving truck rental companies for interstate moves:
- Budget Truck Rental: Low base rates, frequent discounts, and ~2,800 U.S. locations. Some long-distance routes include unlimited mileage. Keep an eye on accessory fees and truck conditions.
- Penske Truck Rental: Newer trucks, reliable service, and unlimited mileage on most one-ways. Upfront cost may be higher, but roadside support is a plus for long hauls.
- Enterprise Truck Rental: Great for local or regional moves. Broad vehicle selection, but one-way options are limited. Always confirm return logistics first.
- Home Depot Truck Rental: Perfect for quick, local moves or partial loads. Not ideal for cross-country—limited one-way availability.
Best small-load interstate mover
Small-load, full-service movers are ideal when you’re moving a studio/one-bedroom or just a few bulky items and don’t want to lift a finger. Unlike containers or rental trucks, these specialists include the crew: they pack (optionally), load, drive, and unload—so you get professional handling without paying for empty space on a big rig.
Top small-load interstate movers:
- MiniMoves: No weight minimums, labor included, and great for 1-bedrooms or furniture-only moves. Operates in 47 states (excludes Alaska, Hawaii, and North Dakota). Sample pricing: ~$2,176 for CO→TX (~915 miles), ~$3,665 for FL→NC (~625 miles).
- Transit Systems Inc. (TSI): A broker that arranges small shipments with packing and delivery options. Great for single rooms or oversized items. Compare service tiers (threshold vs. white glove) and timing.
- ShipSmart: Best for small, high-value shipments (art, electronics, fragile items). Offers packing/crating and door-to-door service.
Best labor-only mover
Want to skip the heavy lifting but keep control? Labor-only movers pair well with your own truck or container. You supply the vehicle, they provide the muscle.This option is perfect if you want to save on transportation costs but avoid the risk of DIY heavy lifting, stair carries, or packing art/TVs.
Best option:
- HireAHelper: Nationwide reach, verified reviews, and easy online booking—even last minute. Ideal for pairing with PODS, U-Pack, Budget, or Penske.
Best interstate movers near me
Compare the top interstate movers
Let’s see how the top full-service movers stack up in terms of their discounts, cost, and reputation.
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| Minimum Shipping Size | 1+ bedrooms | 1+ bedrooms | 1+ bedrooms | 2+ bedrooms | 1+ bedrooms |
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| Cancellation Policy | varies | 7 days prior to pickup | varies | N/A | 7 days |
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| Quote | Price | Rating | Minimum Shipping Size | Storage | Booking Deposit | Cancellation Policy | |
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1+ bedrooms |
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varies | |
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1+ bedrooms |
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7 days prior to pickup | |
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1+ bedrooms |
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varies | |
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2+ bedrooms |
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N/A | |
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1+ bedrooms |
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7 days |
Compare by discounts
Many of the best long-distance movers—including Safeway Moving, International Van Lines, and U-Pack—regularly provide these kinds of deals. And others, like PODS, have special promotions throughout the year. Even if a company doesn’t publicly offer a discount, it never hurts to ask.
| Company | Military | Senior | Teacher | Student | Early Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safeway Moving | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| American Van Lines | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Allied Van Lines | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Mayzlin Relocation | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✔ |
| NAVL | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| PODS | ✔ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✔ |
| Budget Truck Rental | ✔ | ✔ | ✕ | ✔ | ✕ |
| MiniMoves | ✔ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
Compare by cost
Here’s an overview of what you’ll pay with some of our best interstate moving companies to move a three-bedroom home approximately 1,500 miles, based on our Better Moves project data:
| Company | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Safeway Moving | $5,290 |
| American Van Lines | $5,400 |
| Allied Van Lines | $4,500–$7,100 |
| Mayzlin Relocation | $4,700–$6,000 |
| NAVL | $10,500+ |
| PODS | $2,836–$5,000 |
| Budget Truck Rental | $1,100–$3,300 |
| MiniMoves | $2,100–$3,700 |
Compare by reputation
Customer feedback is an important factor in picking the right interstate mover. Here’s how our top picks stack up:
| Company | Our Rating | BBB Rating | Trustpilot Rating | Google Rating |
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| Safeway Moving | 4.85/5 | B- (4.34/5) | 4.2/5 | 4.3/5 |
| American Van Lines | 4.5/5 | A (4.19/5) | 4.4/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Allied Van Lines | 4.75/5 | A+ (3.97/5) | 1.09/5 | 3.9/5 |
| Mayzlin Relocation | 4.9/5 | A (4.4/5) | No profile | 3.9/5 |
| NAVL | 4.75/5 | A+ (1.25/5) | 2.1/5 | 3.8/5 |
| PODS | 4.8/5 | A+ (4.0/5) | 4.6/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Budget Truck Rental | 4.3/5 | A+ (3.0/5) | 3.5/5 | 3.8/5 |
| MiniMoves | 4.7/5 | A+ (4.8/5) | 3.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
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Compare more moving companies
How much does an interstate move cost?
Your interstate moving cost will vary based on where you’re moving to and from, how much stuff you have, and what company you choose.
- Average cost: The average cost of an interstate move of 2,000–2,500 miles is $4,000–$5,000.
- Small move: Depending on the size and distance of the move, interstate moving costs range from $900–$3,500 for a studio apartment.
- Large move: Interstate moves are more expensive for larger homes, costing an average of $5,000–$15,000 for four- to five-bedroom homes.
To get an approximate idea of what your move will cost, you can use our moving cost calculator. You can also consult our moving cost checklist to budget for all the expenses you might incur on your long-distance move.
Average cost of an interstate move by state
Interstate moving tips
How to save money on your long-distance move
Follow these steps to save money on your interstate move:
- Declutter. Reducing the volume of items you need to move can significantly decrease your moving costs.
- Book in advance. Planning your move well in advance can help you secure better rates, as last-minute bookings are often pricier.
- Consider moving containers. If you’re looking to save money and are willing to do some of the work yourself, renting a moving container can be a cost-effective option.
- Research and compare. Don’t settle for the first moving quote you receive. Take the time to compare different companies and negotiate the best rate.
- Ask about discounts. Moving discounts aren’t as common as you might think—approximately 1%–4% of the 4,400 pro movers we analyzed offer deals for special groups and professions like military members, senior citizens, and students. Always ask about discounts.
Keeping a moving checklist will also help you stay on budget and on schedule throughout the long-distance moving process.
How to avoid interstate moving scams
Interstate moving scams are more common than you might think. Protect yourself by knowing the warning signs and working with a legitimate mover.
- Verify licensing and registration: Reputable interstate moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Use their mover search tool to check a company’s USDOT number and complaint history.
- Watch for unusually low estimates: Scammers often lure customers with pricing that’s too good to be true, then hike up the bill after loading. Get written estimates from different companies to compare costs realistically.
- Avoid large upfront deposits: While some companies require a deposit, excessive upfront payments can be a red flag.
- Get everything in writing: A professional mover will provide a written contract, including a bill of lading that details their services, costs, and a delivery timeline. Never sign blank or vague documents.
- Check online complaints: Research movers on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and ProtectYourMove.gov to see if they have unresolved complaints or a history of scamming customers.
Taking these steps can help ensure you choose a trustworthy interstate mover. If you suspect fraud, report it to the FMCSA’s National Consumer Complaint Database immediately.
Advice from actual moving customers
We’ve talked to dozens of Better Moves Project participants who’ve tackled interstate moves. They’ve shared their biggest lessons to help you avoid common pitfalls.
- Check local moving laws: Janna Graham learned that moving containers weren’t allowed on her NYC street, leading to unexpected costs. Always confirm local regulations before booking.
- Protect your belongings from the elements: Steve Emmet had water leak into his moving container. If you’re using containers, he recommends waterproofing your valuables.
- Read the fine print: Kelsey Warma dealt with billing surprises. Make sure you understand your moving contract—including cancellation fees, delivery windows, and extra charges.
- Downsize before you move: Isabel Petty prioritized downsizing, which made packing easier and reduced costs. If you don’t absolutely need it, she encourages you not to move it.
- Have a backup plan: Movers run late, costs can increase, and things don’t always go according to plan. Whether it’s extra savings, flexible scheduling, or alternative moving options, always be prepared for last-minute changes.
How to choose a long-distance moving company
Choosing the right interstate moving company is crucial for a smooth and stress-free move. Here are some tips to make the choice easier.
- Verify credentials: Use the FMCSA’s mover search tool to check a mover’s licensing, safety record, and complaint history. All the companies we recommend are properly licensed.
- Get at least three quotes: Prices can vary between movers, so you should request written estimates from at least three companies.
- Check online reviews: Look up movers on the BBB, Google Reviews, and the Better Moves project to see what their customers say about their experiences.
- Understand pricing and insurance coverage: Movers should provide a binding estimate (fixed cost) or a non-binding estimate (subject to change). Also, check whether they offer Full Value Protection or basic $0.60 per pound per item liability coverage.
- Look for experience with your type of move: If you’re moving a large household, transporting fragile antiques, or relocating to a remote area, make sure the company has experience in those areas.
FAQ
What is an interstate move?
Do interstate movers have a minimum size requirement?
Do moving companies offer storage?
Do moving companies ship cars?
How early should I book a move?
What is the cheapest way to move out of state?
How long do interstate moves take?
How we chose the best interstate moving companies
The moveBuddha team has spent nearly 10 years evaluating moving companies using a rigorous review system to identify the best interstate moving companies. Our thorough methodology evaluates each moving company’s services, cost, customer service, and reputation:
- Customer satisfaction (30%): We verify if the company consistently delivers services in a timely manner with good communication and within the estimated moving cost.
- Standard services (20%): How does the scope of an interstate moving company’s services compare with its competitors? Is there anything missing, or are there any uncommon services they offer?
- Reputation (15%): We look at how the industry regards the company. This includes evaluating factors like whether the company is properly registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and holds necessary insurance. We also check Better Business Bureau ratings.
- Add-on services (10%): Does the company offer any add-on services that help it stand out against its competitors? White-glove services, custom crating, and cleaning can provide extra value for moving customers.
- Availability (10%): For interstate moving companies, their availability across the U.S. is an important ranking factor. Not all interstate moving companies offer full nationwide coverage.
- Type of mover (5%): Full-service moving companies and self-service moving companies differ significantly in terms of what they provide their customers, which is an essential consideration when planning an interstate move.
- Payment (5%): How easy is it for customers to review their charges and make a payment?
- Scheduling (5%): Ease of scheduling a move can help streamline the moving process and make it less stressful. Online booking, readily available customer service, and guaranteed delivery windows are key factors here.
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