How Much Do Michigan Movers Cost?

Quick answer: The average cost of hiring movers in Michigan is $139 per hour, with an average total move cost between $516 and $4,585. The exact cost of your move will depend on how many belongings you have and how far you’re relocating.

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Average cost to hire an interstate mover in Michigan

The cost of an interstate — also known as “out-of-state” — move from Michigan is naturally more complex. Because of the added logistics, interstate relocations are calculated differently than a simpler move within the same city or from one Michigan town to another.

Interstate move costs are determined based on the total volume and weight of your belongings, instead of hourly rates like with local moves. Moving out-of-state typically means longer drive times than in-state relocations, and that additional mileage comes with higher prices.

Fuel costs, higher insurance premiums, and fluctuations in seasonal demand can all drive up your overall interstate moving expenses.

Below are sample price ranges for some popular moving routes.

Cost to move a two- or three-bedroom home out of Michigan

Now that you have an idea of what your move from Michigan should cost, it’s time to start looking at the best long-distance movers in Michigan.

Best interstate moving companies in Michigan

Affordability and pricing accuracy are two key factors we use to rate interstate movers. But it’s important to balance cost with customer satisfaction and service options, so that you’re getting the best moving package for your budget — and not just a budget-rate relocation.

Compare pricing and standout features for each of the companies on our list of top interstate movers in 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
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
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
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best for Quick Quotes
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(844) 794-6004
At A Glance
  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Binding estimates
read our full review
(844) 794-6004
Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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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
read our full review
(866) 835-2392

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Michigan move. For that, use our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Average cost to hire a local moving company in MI

The cost to hire a local Michigan moving company for an in-state relocation depends primarily on home size and distance.

For moves of 50 miles or less in Michigan, local movers will charge you an hourly rate determined by the truck and moving crew sizes needed.

In-state long-distance moves in Michigan are priced like interstate moves — according to the total volume and weight of belongings, rather than by the hour. Like interstate moves, in-state — or “intrastate” — moves from one city to another are considered long-distance if they are more than 400 miles (although some movers set the minimum at over 100 miles).

Here’s what you could expect to pay a professional mover in Michigan.

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $516 $194 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $710 $194 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $1,137 $272 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $2,606 $381 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $2,987 $381 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $4,585 $533 5 movers 10 hours
  • Studio: A studio apartment move typically requires two movers and can take up to three hours, depending on the amount and types of belongings, at an hourly rate of $194.
  • One bedroom: If you have a one-bedroom apartment or home, expect to pay around $194 per hour for four hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • Two bedrooms: Moving a two-bedroom home in Michigan will cost about $272 an hour. You'll likely need three movers for five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: For a three-bedroom home, expect to pay an hourly rate of $381 for Michigan movers. A three-bedroom home typically takes eight hours to complete using a four-person crew.
  • Four bedrooms: Moving a four-bedroom house in Michigan will take four movers approximately nine hours, at a rate of $381 per hour.
  • Five or more bedrooms: The cost of hiring Michigan movers for a home with five or more bedrooms is $533 an hour. Homes this size usually require five movers and take about 10 hours.

City moving costs in Michigan

Best local moving companies in Michigan

Staying in Michigan and moving just a short distance? You’ll want to find a local moving company that provides services you need without breaking the bank.

Check out our picks for the best Michigan movers to compare cost and services:

Pros
  • Efficient service (38%)
  • Professional and polite staff (33%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (33%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (25%)
  • Lack of communication (19%)
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck has 52 online customer reviews, 75% of which are positive. Customers frequently praised the efficient service, with many highlighting the professional and polite staff. Many also appreciated the careful handling of their belongings. On the downside, several customers reported damage to items during the move and expressed frustration over delayed arrivals. Others noted issues with communication and unexpected charges, making it clear that while the company has many strengths, there are significant areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (616) 371-4019

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Phase Six Moving, LLC, Two Men and A Truck/Grand Rapids North


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.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (28%)
  • Good communication (25%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (22%)
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
  • Lack of communication (18%)
Review Analysis
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has 245 customer reviews, with 87% of them being positive. Customers praised the company's efficiency, professionalism, and friendly staff. Many noted how the movers took great care with their belongings and communicated well throughout the process. However, some feedback highlighted issues with damage to items, unexpected charges, and poor communication during scheduling. Overall, the company is seen as a reliable choice compared to others, but there are areas needing improvement.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 37327

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014914

Alternate Names: Jabco, LLC


College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been a trusted local moving company in Kalamazoo, MI, since 2018. Providing comprehensive services including residential moving, office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, they stand out in the area for their versatility and customer-centric approach. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, adding to their convenience. With stellar reviews such as an average rating of 4.9 on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, clients consistently commend their professionalism and reliability.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (27%)
  • Careful handling (24%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (22%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (19%)
  • Lack of communication (15%)
Review Analysis
Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage has 331 customer reviews, with 80% of them being positive. Many customers praised the company's efficient service, friendly staff, and careful handling of belongings. Reviewers noted that the movers were professional and quick, making the moving process smoother. However, some feedback highlighted issues like damage to items, delays, and lack of communication, indicating areas for improvement. Overall, Campus Concepts offers solid moving services, though customers should remain aware of potential concerns regarding item safety and scheduling.
Get a Quote (734) 545-5617

Company Info

State license #: 36269

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2582190

Alternate Names: Wondermove


Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage have been providing top-notch residential and office moving services in and around Ypsilanti, MI since 2012. With specialties in local and long-distance relocations, they are adept at handling moves of various distances. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and expertise in moving pianos. Unlike many nearby movers, they do not require a deposit, adding ease and reassurance to your move. With 122 positive reviews on Yelp and an equal number of 104 highly satisfied customers on Google My Business, both averaging at an impressive 4.5-star rating, they've demonstrated consistent customer satisfaction throughout the years. Their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau further sets them apart, offering customers assurance of their reliability and superior service standards. Compared to their competition, Campus Concepts' commitment to quality service delivery remains unrivaled.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (42%)
  • Efficient service (39%)
  • Careful handling (36%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Lack of communication (22%)
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
Review Analysis
Handle With Care Moving has 242 customer reviews, with 87% of them being positive. Many customers praise the company for their professional and friendly staff, noting how efficient the moving process was. They appreciated the careful handling of their belongings, ensuring nothing was damaged during the move. However, some customers reported issues with communication and unexpected charges. A few also mentioned that their belongings were damaged or lost during the moving process, leading to dissatisfaction. Overall, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a reliable choice compared to other moving companies in the area.
Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Company Info

State license #: 359936

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 808976


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.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (29%)
  • Professional and polite staff (26%)
  • Good communication (25%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (31%)
  • Lack of communication (22%)
  • Unfriendly or rude staff (19%)
Review Analysis
Palmer Moving Services has 247 customer reviews, with 78% being positive. Many customers praise the efficient service and professionalism of the staff, noting how careful they were with belongings. They also appreciate the clear communication throughout the moving process. On the downside, numerous complaints highlight damage to items and issues with customer service, particularly regarding follow-up and accountability for lost or damaged goods. Overall, while many customers have had great experiences, a significant number have faced serious challenges during their moves, making it important to weigh these factors when considering Palmer for moving services.
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993


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.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Average PODS Costs in MI

The average cost of PODS is anywhere from $220–$7,448, depending on the container size and move distance. For example, a local move in Michigan using an eight-foot PODS container runs from $220 to $426, while the same move with a 16-foot container would be approximately $323–$813.

In general, you can expect to pay $220–$813 with PODS for a local move. Long-distance moves, which require longer transport times and mileage, are naturally pricier. Renting a PODS container for a long-distance move of 100–250 miles will typically cost between $250 and $2,107, and cross-country moves start at around $2,068 and can be as much as $7,448.

We like PODS for its widespread availability, multiple container sizes (eight, 12, and 16 feet), and ongoing discounts but we know that everyone’s move is unique. While PODS is our overall pick, we always recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to get a clear comparison of pricing and services.

Best moving containers or PODS in Michigan

Moving container companies combine the cost-savings of a DIY move with the convenience of full-service movers. You’ll cut moving costs by loading up all your items into your PODS or moving container yourself, but you’ll still have a professional driver handling the transport of your belongings to your new home within Michigan or across state lines.

You’ll want to look for companies offering a variety of container sizes or types and quick and easy container delivery and pick-up scheduling. If you need long-term storage as part of your move, the top moving container companies provide facilities with 24/7 monitoring and climate-controlled options.

Here are our recommendations for top moving container companies in Michigan.

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices
Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
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Average cost to rent a moving truck in MI

The average cost to rent a moving truck ranges from $57–$136 for a local move and $355–$5,700+ for long-distance moves.

Best moving truck rentals in Michigan

Renting a truck from companies like U-Haul is your most affordable option — but it will also require you to do the most work. you’ll have to box up and load your items, drive the truck, and unload your belongings at your new place yourself or with the help of friends and family or third-party labor.

Check out our top picks for moving truck rentals in Michigan:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Best Value Rental
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Competitive base prices with specialized discounts
  • Round-trip and one-way moves available
  • User-friendly website makes it easy to book the right truck
read our full review
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Average cost of labor-only moving companies in MI

The average cost of hiring a labor-only mover in Michigan is $69 per hour for each moving crew member. Since even smaller moves like studio apartments typically require a minimum crew size of two people, you can expect to pay an hourly rate of approximately $139 for moving labor.

Best labor-only moving companies in Michigan

Don’t want to deal with the heavy lifting? A labor-only company will handle that for you. Labor-only companies in Michigan are kind of like professional movers without the truck.

They provide packing and loading support, as well as optional services like disassembly and reassembly of furniture, but you’ll still have to rent a moving truck and drive.

Take a look at these top-rated labor-only movers in Michigan:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Factors that affect the cost of your Michigan move

The following common factors will affect the cost of your Michigan move:

  • The size of your move: The more items you move, the more the move is going to cost. Obviously, it will take more time to load more items into a truck, but it will also often require a bigger moving crew. Those additional man hours and extra labor mean you’ll pay more for a fully furnished two-bedroom home than you would a minimalist studio apartment. To help keep costs down, make sure you’re only bringing with you those things that you truly want to have in Michigan.
  • The distance of the move: How far you’re moving can greatly impact your costs. If you’re moving locally, you’ll pay an hourly rate and your total price will be based on how long it takes a crew to move a home of your size. A long-distance mover will likely build additional expenses like mileage and fuel and toll costs into your total estimate. Getting a truck from Michigan to your new home state takes longer, so moving companies also adjust pricing to account for the time involved.
  • The type of move: There are several ways to handle your Michigan move. You take a more hands-off approach and hire a full-service moving company. While this is certainly the most convenient choice, you’ll also pay more for a full-service move than you would with DIY options like renting a moving truck. You can save a lot with a truck rental, but you’ll have to drive and do all the loading and unloading yourself (unless you want to hire labor-only movers). You may also want to consider getting a moving container, which saves some money but also provides professional drivers.
  • Home type: If you live in a one-bedroom ranch with a private driveway, your move will be logistically easier. Moving out of condos or high-rise apartments will require additional planning and loading time, especially if parking is an issue. Most movers will typically charge stair and elevator fees for moves that aren’t on the ground floor and homes with more than one story. Long-carry fees will also usually be applied if crews must carry items a longer distance to the truck due to parking limitations.
  • Add-on services: Generally speaking, the more you do yourself the less your Michigan move is going to cost you. However, it can be nice to have professionals do your packing and unpacking for you. That’s going to cost a little extra, as will opting for increased insurance, tacking on short-term storage, or requesting customized crating for electronics, antiques, or fine art.
  • The time of the year: Moving in the summer can cost from 20-30% more than other times of year. That’s because summer is a popular time of year for relocations. Demand and limited availability during peak moving season drives prices up. Moving within or out of Michigan between October and April, when moving companies have less demand, will certainly bring your costs down.

Consider car shipping costs for long-distance MI moves

Professional car shippers will apply their years of know-how to help get your car to your new home as part of your long-distance move. Here are the top car shippers in Michigan:

Company Our take Rating Price
Sherpa Auto Transport
Best for accurate pricing
starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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Montway Auto Transport
Best cross-country shipper
starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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AmeriFreight Car Transport
Best for discounts
starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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Easy Auto Ship
Best for quick pickup
starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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SGT Auto Transport
Best for overall value
starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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Tips to save money on your Michigan move

Regardless of whether you decide to hire a professional full-service mover or go the DIY route, there are some easy things you can do to help you save money on your Michigan move:

  • Declutter and downsize. Decluttering before moving is a great way to reduce costs, since the less you have, the less it will cost to move it! You can donate items you don’t want to keep and may even be able to make some extra cash selling higher-value, gently used pieces.
  • Ask about moving discounts. A lot of moving companies provide special offers for veterans, students, senior citizens, and new customers, so make sure you ask when you’re shopping around for a mover.
  • Move during the off-season. Movers are busiest between mid-May and mid-September, so, if you can, plan your moving day outside of this peak season. Additionally, movers tend to charge more on weekends because of high demand. If you’re able to relocate during the week, you might save some money.
  • Book your move well in advance. Last-minute moves cost more, so if you plan ahead and book at least two months in advance, you’ll be paying less than if you waited until a couple weeks before your moving day.
  • Handle packing yourself. Even if you go with a full-service mover for your Michigan move, you can save money by packing yourself instead of paying a company to do it for you.

What is the cheapest way to move in Michigan?

The cheapest way to move within Michigan is by using a DIY option. For some people in Michigan, it’s cheaper to rent a moving truck, but for others, it makes more sense to hire a professional moving company.

While it seems like a DIY move would also be the cheapest way to relocate out of Michigan, that’s not always the case. Truck rentals can save you money on shorter-distance moves. But for out-of-state relocations, hidden or unexpected expenses like gas, mileage, toll charges, and even food and accommodations on your trip can add up quickly and even push the price of your truck rental above what it would cost to use a full-service mover.

To help you decide, use our free moving cost calculator to get free personalized, instant quotes and quickly compare the cost of truck rentals and professional moving companies.

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