The Best Long-Distance Movers in Detroit, MI

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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.
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Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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 Detroit when moving out of state

When you are getting ready to relocate from Michigan, take a look at our top choices for the best interstate movers in Detroit:

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(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
(844) 950-2963
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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 long-distance movers in Detroit when staying in state

Moving within Michigan, even if it’s just a hundred miles or so from Detroit, can be a major undertaking. For longer moves within the state, take a look at the top local long-distance moving companies to help make your transition easier.

Take a look at our top picks for long-distance movers in Detroit:

Preferred Partner
Flex Moving & Storage

,
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Flex Moving & Storage stands out for its high customer satisfaction, with 94% of feedback being positive from 48 reviews. Customers consistently praise the professionalism and courtesy of the staff, efficient and quick moving services, affordable rates, and careful handling of belongings. Many highlight the team’s punctuality and the ease of the booking process. On the other hand, a few customers report issues with communication, delayed arrivals, and unexpected charges, especially regarding billing and customer service responsiveness. Compared to other moving companies, Flex Moving & Storage receives notably more positive feedback for staff attitude and affordability, but should address communication and billing concerns to match the best in the industry.
Get a Quote (313) 509-1469

Company Info

DOT #: 3610638


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/palmermoving/, https://x.com/PalmerMoving
81% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors. Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Royal-Movers-1658269400878748/,
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive. Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/handyrelocations/,
86% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Handy Relocations receives strong praise from most customers, with 85.9% providing positive feedback from 71 reviews analyzed. Shoppers appreciate professional staff, helpful movers, and clear communication throughout the process. Efficient service and upfront, transparent pricing stand out when compared to other companies, along with a reputation for going the extra mile to help customers find what they need. Negative feedback, though limited, points to issues like unexpected charges, challenges with the store's availability, and marketing that some felt was misleading. Handy Relocations sets a high standard for customer service in the moving industry, though attention to billing accuracy and schedule consistency can further enhance the customer experience.
Get a Quote (313) 649-4917

Company Info

State license #: 39343

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3345697


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GrossePointeMovingStorage,
91% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage stands out for delivering fast, careful, and respectful service. Out of 152 feedback entries analyzed, nearly 91% were positive. Customers routinely describe crews as professional, efficient, and polite. Movers excel at handling belongings with caution and working quickly while keeping clients informed, making the process smooth and easy. Many clients also highlight the staff’s helpfulness and the accuracy of estimates—qualities that set this company ahead of typical industry standards. On the downside, some input identified concerns such as damaged items, bills running higher than quoted, and complaints not always being resolved satisfactorily. Still, such occurrences are much less frequent than the many glowing reports. Compared to other movers, Grosse Pointe earns notably stronger praise for speed, professionalism, and quality care, with negative incidents reported far less often.
Get a Quote (313) 822-4400

Company Info

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 279708


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/whitestarmovers/, https://x.com/whitestarusa
89% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful. Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

What add-on services do Detroit movers offer?

Every city has its own moving landscape, and Detroit is no different. Local movers may prioritize certain specialty services that aren’t as common elsewhere.

We’ve got a breakdown for each service below that shows how Detroit stacks up against Michigan and nationwide availability, along with our top suggestions for movers that excel in each service area.

Art handling

Comparing Detroit, MI, & national movers

Detroit
6 (21.43%)
out of 28 total movers
Michigan
14 (24.14%)
out of 58 total movers
Nationwide
1,319 (49.94%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Detroit art movers

Junk removal

Comparing Detroit, MI, & national movers

Detroit
7 (25%)
out of 28 total movers
Michigan
26 (44.83%)
out of 58 total movers
Nationwide
876 (33.17%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Detroit junk removal movers

Fragile-only packing

Comparing Detroit, MI, & national movers

Detroit
5 (17.86%)
out of 28 total movers
Michigan
9 (15.52%)
out of 58 total movers
Nationwide
678 (25.67%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Detroit fragile-only packing movers

Company Quote Rating
White Star Movers, Inc. logo
White Star Movers, Inc.
starstarstarstarstar 4.42 / 5

Storage

Comparing Detroit, MI, & national movers

Detroit
26 (92.86%)
out of 28 total movers
Michigan
53 (91.38%)
out of 58 total movers
Nationwide
2,321 (87.88%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Detroit storage movers

Hot tub relocation

Comparing Detroit, MI, & national movers

Detroit
4 (14.29%)
out of 28 total movers
Michigan
9 (15.52%)
out of 58 total movers
Nationwide
629 (23.82%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Detroit hot tub movers

Company Quote Rating
White Star Movers, Inc. logo
White Star Movers, Inc.
starstarstarstarstar 4.42 / 5

Piano moving

Comparing Detroit, MI, & national movers

Detroit
18 (64.29%)
out of 28 total movers
Michigan
43 (74.14%)
out of 58 total movers
Nationwide
2,072 (78.46%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Detroit piano movers

Best long-distance movers in Detroit for small moves

Big moving companies often won’t take jobs under 3,000 pounds, which makes things tricky if you're moving from a dorm, heading out of a studio, or just bringing a few essentials.

In those cases, turning to a Detroit mover that specializes in small shipments is usually the way to go.

These are our top recommendations:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.48 / 5
  • Years in Business: 17
  • Yelp: 2.1 / 5
  • BBB: A
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.28 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 5 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
  • Years in Business: 41
  • Yelp: 4 / 5
  • BBB: NR

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Detroit

A moving container can be a great solution if you want to save a little money on your move from Detroit to another Michigan city or out of state. While you will have to handle the heavy lifting, you can load and unload containers at your preferred pace over several days or more. And the container company will still handle the driving for you.

Container costs vary depending on the distance of your move and the size and number of your containers, so it’s good to get multiple moving quotes to compare pricing for your specific relocation.

You can start with these top moving container companies:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Labor-only moving companies in Detroit

Driving yourself out of Detroit doesn’t mean you have to haul every box alone. With help from a labor-only moving company, you can get the loading and unloading support you need without paying for a full-service move.

These are the pros we recommend:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.48 / 5
  • Years in Business: 17
  • Yelp: 2.1 / 5
  • BBB: A
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.28 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 5 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
  • Years in Business: 41
  • Yelp: 4 / 5
  • BBB: NR

Rental trucks in Detroit for a total DIY long-distance move

Going the DIY route keeps more cash in your pocket, especially when moving from Detroit. Handling everything yourself—including the driving—can bring your daily truck rental cost to around $19–$39, with a mileage fee of $0.59–$0.79 per mile on top.

It’s the most labor-intensive option, but these rental truck providers are ideal for budget-conscious movers:

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

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Detroit, MI

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%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company is well regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
  • Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, expedited delivery, and more.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of long-distance movers in Detroit

Hiring professional movers in Detroit typically costs around $100 per hour. That said, the top interstate moving companies will still need key details — like how far you’re going and how much you're moving — to provide an accurate quote.

Factors that affect the cost of moving from Detroit

  • Moving method: Your budget will look very different depending on whether you go full-service, use a container, or rent your own truck. Choose based on how much labor you’re willing to handle yourself.
  • Distance from start to finish: Longer moves mean higher transportation costs. Relocating across several states from Detroit will cost more than a nearby in-state move.
  • Extras you request: Need help packing? Unloading? Storage? Those perks add convenience — but they also add to your bottom line.
  • The size of your move: Movers charge based on total weight or volume. If you’re taking everything, costs will rise. Lightening the load before leaving Detroit can help.
  • Time of year you move: Summer rates are almost always higher. If you want a better deal, try planning for the off-season or mid-month window.

Use our moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate. You can also see exactly what to expect with our full guide to moving costs in Detroit.

FAQs

What else should I know about moving out of Michigan?

Planning a move out of Michigan? Make sure your movers are fully licensed and registered with a valid US Department of Transportation number. All of our top picks in Detroit meet these standards, so you’re in safe hands. Want to double-check for yourself? You can easily look up any moving company in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

Planning an out-of-state move? Check out the FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move guide to understand what to expect and learn about your protections every step of the way.

Is a local mover or a national mover better for leaving Detroit?

Sticking with a local mover in Detroit is generally easier on your wallet. With 28 movers available in the area, you’ll have no shortage of options — and we’ve highlighted the ones most worth considering.

But if your move is taking you out of Michigan, national companies often have the resources and experience to handle big relocations more smoothly, even if they come at a premium.

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

Moving in Detroit during November and December can actually work in your favor. With temperatures around 19°F and fewer people moving because of the holidays and school, moving companies tend to have more availability. This gives you a great opportunity to land discounts and even negotiate for better rates. Don’t miss these tips on how to negotiate with moving companies and save even more.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Detroit?

For moves under 50 miles in Detroit, doing it yourself is often the most affordable route. Renting a truck from U-Haul or using a moving container service like PODS can help you save a lot. Want even more budget-friendly tips? Take a look at our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

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