The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Athens, AL

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Aug 13, 2025 • 5 min read

Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Hi, I'm Ryan.
Let's get moving.

I've helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that's right for you.

Preferred partner:

Bellhop Moving

4.66
Best overall value:

Safeway Moving

4.85
Best local mover:

Motivated Movers, Inc.

4.62
Best for small moves:

MiniMoves

4.8
Best moving container:

PODS

4.8
Best labor-only mover:

Bellhop Moving

4.66
Best rental truck:

U-Haul Truck Rental

4.15

Need more help? Build your move plan.

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Preferred partners

Company	Quote	Rating
Bellhop Moving	Get A Quote	4.66 / 5
Flex Moving & Storage	Get A Quote	4.42 / 5
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.85 / 5

Our track record

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

Founded in 2015
3,500+ moving companies analyzed
$50,000 in moving grants delivered
Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
Fact-checked for accuracy

Best long-distance movers in Athens for those moving out of state

If you're moving out of Athens and heading beyond Alabama's borders, here are our top picks for interstate moving companies:

Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Allied Van Lines: 4.75 out of 5 stars
Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.85 / 5

Get A Quote

(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

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

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

Get A Quote

866-835-2392

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

(844) 950-2963

At A Glance

Custom crates for electronics & art
Satellite shipment tracking
1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
Self-packing option
No deposit required

read our full review

Get A Quote

(844) 950-2963

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.75 / 5

Get A Quote

866-825-0554

At A Glance

Fragile packing
Storage options
24/7 shipment tracking
Quick & efficient
Accurate quotes

read our full review

Get A Quote

866-825-0554

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.9 / 5

Get A Quote

(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

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

Best long-distance movers in Athens for those staying in state

A move within Alabama can still involve long hours on the road, especially when you're leaving Athens for a destination several hundred miles away.

For longer in-state relocations, we recommend sticking with the best long-distance moving companies we’ve vetted.

Below are our top moving company picks for Athens, AL:

Preferred Partner

Bellhop Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars

Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Applewhite Movers LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
The Armstrong Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
This Side Up Moving & Storage : 4.58 out of 5 stars

Bellhop Moving

209 10th Ave, Suite 560, Nashville, TN 37203 US

79% of all reviews were positive

21% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Customer feedback describes Bellhop Moving as fast, friendly, and highly professional. Of the 222 reviews analyzed, nearly 79% praise the company’s efficient staff, careful handling of belongings, quick moving process, good communication, and professionalism. Many customers enjoyed smooth coordination, punctual crews, and worry-free moving days, setting Bellhop apart from less reliable moving services.

While most moves run seamlessly, about 21% of input relates serious complaints, mainly about damages to property or furniture, late arrivals or cancellations, and communication lapses. Such negative experiences often involve inadequate compensation for damages or confusion about scheduling. Bellhop earns widespread recommendations for speed and care, but some users report avoidable setbacks other moving companies are better equipped to handle.

Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Storage
Pay by credit card
Deposit Required

Motivated Movers, Inc.

211 Palmer Rd, Suite D,, Madison, AL 35758 US

94% of all reviews were positive

6% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Top marks for hustle: the vast majority of the 255 feedback entries for Motivated Movers, Inc. praise efficient moving, professional teams, and careful handling of customer belongings. Nearly 94% of customers shared a positive experience, highlighting staff courtesy, quick and organized service, and movers who routinely went the extra mile. Clients often compare Motivated Movers favorably to other companies, citing lower stress, reasonable prices, and reliable communication.

On the rare occasion issues occurred (about 6% of input), most complaints centered on items damaged, unexpectedly high final bills, or unprofessional behavior by management during disputes. A single neutral review noted high costs and poorly protected appliances. Motivated Movers appears to perform far above industry averages in service quality, with especially strong marks for professionalism and efficiency, but future customers should clarify pricing and keep an eye on item care to avoid rare pitfalls.

Get a Quote (256) 858-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Hot Tubs
Pool Tables
Antiques
Crating
Storage
Safes
Pay by credit card

Applewhite Movers LLC

5640 Oakwood Road Northwest, Huntsville, AL 35806 US

87% of all reviews were positive

10% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Moving made easy—most customers describe Applewhite Movers LLC as prompt, polite, and highly efficient. Out of 140 reviews analyzed, 87% were positive. Clients often highlight the professionalism, careful handling of belongings, impressive speed, and helpful movers who communicate well.

Many noted a stress-free experience and appreciated the team’s respectfulness and reliability, which set Applewhite apart from typical moving services in the region. Negative feedback mostly relates to property damage, delayed schedules, and unprofessional attitude during some moves, with a few reports of mishandling and poor claim resolution. Compared to other companies, Applewhite consistently delivers better communication and more diligent movers, though some improvements in damage claims and staff consistency could further strengthen their reputation.

Get a Quote (256) 430-1198

Company Info

State license #: 4119

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2172780

Services Offered

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

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

8215 Stephanie Drive Southwest, Huntsville, AL 35802 US

85% of all reviews were positive

13% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Moving with Two Men and a Truck frequently means careful handling and a courteous, professional team. Analysis of 247 pieces of customer feedback reveals 85% positive experiences. Movers stand out for treating furniture and fragile items with care, working efficiently, and keeping customers informed.

Packing is meticulous, and jobs are often finished quickly. Communication from the office and booking staff is reliable. Many customers returned to the company after trying competitors who didn’t measure up. On the downside, about 13% of feedback reports notable problems. Damaged belongings top complaints, followed by delays and trouble resolving issues with the claims department. A handful of families described slow moves or items arriving late, and several noted poor follow-up when filing claims for broken items. Compared to most moving services, Two Men and a Truck’s drivers and teams deliver stronger respect for property and quicker, friendlier service. Some customers did pay more than expected or faced communication lapses when there was a problem, but the majority received a seamless, damage-free move with attentive, helpful service.

Get a Quote (256) 392-9462

Company Info

State license #: 614

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Pianos
Storage
Safes
Pay by credit card

The Armstrong Company

2775 Wall Triana Highway, Huntsville, AL 35824 US

87% of all reviews were positive

12% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Feedback for Armstrong Relocation stands out for highlighting a reliable, skilled moving crew. Out of 119 reviews, 87% share positive experiences, often complimenting professional staff, careful handling, and efficient service. Customers mention effective communication and speed, noting how Armstrong reduces moving stress.

On the downside, 12% express concerns like damaged items, unexpected extra charges, and delayed deliveries. A small portion describe frustration with claims or lost belongings. Armstrong Relocation scores higher customer satisfaction than many competitors, frequently winning praise for staff politeness and thoroughness. Despite rare but impactful complaints, most input positions this company as a top performer for care, professionalism, and hassle-free moves.

Get a Quote (256) 772-6664

Company Info

State license #: 3859

Years in Business: 64

DOT #: 1170867

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Antiques
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Pay by credit card

This Side Up Moving & Storage

217 Import Circle, Huntsville, AL 35806 US

94% of all reviews were positive

6% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Customers rave about This Side Up Moving & Storage for their professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, and strong communication, with 229 out of 244 reviews praising these traits. Movers regularly earn praise for their courtesy, quick moving process, and the care they show in protecting belongings and homes. Many mention seamless booking, reliable quote accuracy, and respectful treatment, even in physically demanding moves.

Compared to other moving companies, This Side Up receives more consistent five-star input. Some negative feedback centers on property damage, poor complaint resolution, and lost items. Delays in claims handling and unaddressed damages frustrate the small minority of dissatisfied customers. One neutral review noted confusion and a truck mismatch, resulting in minor damages and unexpected charges. The company stands out for delivering a professional and respectful experience, but could improve by enhancing how it handles claims and follows up after reported issues.

Get a Quote (256) 653-7612

Company Info

State license #: 3959

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1874024

Services Offered

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

Best long-distance movers in Athens, AL, for small moves

Did you know that most professional moving companies have a minimum requirement for the total weight of your belongings? This means that if you are moving a small amount of items, those companies will likely not be an option for your relocation.

Some companies, however, specialize in small moves. So, if you are moving a studio apartment or just have a few pieces of furniture to relocate from Athens, check out these suggestions:

MiniMoves

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

No minimum move size
Full-service packing
Short-term storage

Check prices Visit Website

Transit Systems Inc (TSI)

rating

4.7 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

34+ yrs experience
Online chatbot
Car shipping

Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Athens, AL

Moving containers, also known as moving pods, offer short- and long-term storage so you can move from Athens at your own pace. With this option, you pack and load the container yourself and the professionals drive the container to your new home for you.

Our top picks for moving containers for long-distance moves from Athens include:

PODS

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Unlimited storage
3 container sizes
10% discount

Get A Quote

Visit Website

U-Pack

rating

5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Fast delivery
Nationwide
100+ miles moves

Check prices Visit Website

Rental trucks in Athens, AL for a total DIY long-distance move

If saving money is your top priority, renting a truck for your move from Athens might be the way to go. Just remember — it’s a full DIY job. You’ll be packing, lifting, driving, and unloading everything yourself. And while it may look budget-friendly upfront, costs like gas, mileage, and tolls can sneak up on you. Do the math before locking it in.

Take a look at our top rental truck picks for long-distance moves:

U-Haul Truck Rental

rating

4.15 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Greatest coverage
7 truck sizes
One way rentals

Check prices (800) 468-4285

Penske Truck Rental

rating

4 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Most expensive
4 truck sizes
Unlimited mileage

Check prices (844) 847-9517

Labor-only moving companies in Athens, AL

Labor-only movers are perfect when you need extra hands but not a full-service moving truck. They’ll handle the packing, heavy lifting, and even furniture assembly, while you’re in charge of the truck and materials.

Check out these top-rated labor-only moving companies for long-distance moves from Athens, AL:

Bellhop Moving

rating

4.66 / 5

Years in Business: 12
Yelp: 3.4 / 5
BBB: C+

Get A Quote

(866) 774-5063

Motivated Movers, Inc.

rating

4.62 / 5

Years in Business: 14
Yelp: 4.1 / 5
BBB: A+

Get A Quote

(256) 858-6683

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

rating

4.72 / 5

Years in Business: 35
Yelp: 2.1 / 5
BBB: A+

Get A Quote

(256) 392-9462

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Athens, AL

Company	Our Rating	Quote
Safeway Moving	4.85 overall rating	Get A Quote
American Van Lines	4.5 overall rating	Get A Quote
North American Van Lines	4.5 overall rating	Get A Quote
Allied Van Lines	4.75 overall rating	Get A Quote
Mayzlin Relocation	4.9 overall rating	Get A Quote

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Athens, AL

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best moving companies. We look at:

Customer satisfaction (40%): Companies that consistently deliver services in a timely manner — with good communication and within the estimated cost — score the highest within this category.
Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry, so we look for companies that take a customer-focused approach to handling their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
Industry reputation (15%): We look at whether a company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
Online reputation (15%): It’s important to us that a company maintains a professional website with accurate information and promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
Service options (10%): We look for companies with a wide breadth of services, including packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of a long-distance move out of Athens, AL

Professional movers in Alabama charge around $127 per hour on average. However, even the most reputable interstate moving companies need more details—like how far and how much you're moving—before giving you an accurate quote.

Here’s a look at average long-distance moving costs from Athens, AL to major cities:

Destination	Distance	Home size	Cost
Boise, ID	2,024 miles	3 bedroom	$5,692 - $9,220
Wichita, KS	776 miles	2 bedroom	$2,850 - $6,837
New Orleans, LA	434 miles	1 bedroom	$1,967 - $5,063

To get an accurate estimate of the cost for your long-distance move out of Athens, use our moving cost calculator. And, be sure to check out our detailed post about moving costs in Alabama.

FAQs

What else should you know about moving out of state?

A moving company helping you move out of Alabama must be properly licensed and have a U.S. Department of Transportation number. Of course, all the Athens movers we’ve included on this list have everything in order, but you can check for yourself on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

If you’re moving from one state to another, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move document from the FMCSA.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving from Athens?

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Athens is going to be the most cost-effective approach. If you’re moving out of Alabama, using a national moving company like Safeway Moving comes with more experience. That experience — along with the increased mileage — typically means higher costs than with local relocations.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Athens?

Moving companies in Athens are usually slower in November and December due to the holidays and kids being in school, so you can negotiate with a mover more during those months and save some money.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Athens?

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Athens. The cheapest options for moving out of Athens are usually renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. We’ve also got a helpful guide if you’re looking for the cheapest ways to move out of state.