Best Movers Near Howell, MI (2026 Reviews)
Extra Mile Moving is our preferred moving company in Howell. Rankings are based on 18,827 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Howell, MI, covering 73 local Howell movers.
Local movers in Howell are priced hourly. The Michigan average is $139/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
- Years in Business: 5
- Yelp: 4 / 5
- BBB: A+
- Years in Business: 44
- Yelp: 3 / 5
- BBB: A+
- Years in Business: 22
- Yelp: 3.2 / 5
- BBB: F
Why use moveBuddha for your Howell, MI move
- moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Howell mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
- Book a moveBuddha Certified Howell 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 Howell, MI right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Howell. 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 Howell, MI?
Extra Mile Moving is our preferred moving company in Howell .
moveBuddha scored 73 Howell movers drawing on 18,827 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.82/5. Rankings include movers based in Howell and those serving the area from nearby locations.
- Extra Mile Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Handle With Care Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Bos Moving & Services, Inc.: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Changing Places Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Men on the Move: 4.3 out of 5 stars
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Extra Mile Moving has been in business for 5 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Extra Mile Moving has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 521 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Extra Mile Moving, and Extra Mile Moving makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Extra Mile Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Accommodated my move on the date I wanted. Movers were friendly and did a fantastic job. Price was good.
Nice fellows who are very careful with your belongings…and your walls.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Handle With Care Moving has been in business for 34 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Handle With Care Moving has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 505 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.6.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Handle With Care Moving, and Handle With Care Moving makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like military, seniors, students.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Handle With Care Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Most inexpensive quote we received—several thousand dollars less than Allied or Mayflower. Packing, loading, travel, and unloading went smoothly, with zero broken items; the owner quickly fixed a hardware problem.
Great experience from start to finish. They helped with packing, cleaning, moving my car and belongings, accommodated my schedule, and stayed responsive. Everything went smoothly, making a long-distance move much easier.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been in business for 27 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and estate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 229 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.7.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The entire booking process was simple and easy. The crew called me when they were a half hour away. Grant and Craig arrived on time and handled the tricky basement stairs perfectly.
They were able to schedule us next day for pick up and kept in contact with us every step of the way! Explained everything very clearly as far as cost and quotes and made the experience easy and stress free.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 550 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.1.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage, and Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
James and Shermain were fast, professional, and careful. The move cost 50% less than other companies, sometimes more.
Josh walked me through the steps, stayed responsive, and the crew was flexible with what I could load in a 45-minute window. Offloading was very quick.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Bos Moving & Services, Inc. has been in business for 44 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Bos Moving & Services, Inc. has about 78% positive reviews across roughly 237 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Bos Moving & Services, Inc..
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Bos Moving & Services, Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Reasonable cost, fast, strong, a pleasure to be with, and everything was perfect.
From my initial conversation with Alicia through the follow-up call and moving day, everything was fantastic. All items were handled with care, and the crew worked with us on furniture placement.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Corrigan Moving Systems has been in business for 74 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. Corrigan Moving Systems has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 270 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.9.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Corrigan Moving Systems.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Corrigan Moving Systems emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
They were timely, communicative, professional and thoughtful. They explained everything, organized the items they were packing and fit them in the two boxes like a glove.
Very clean, respectful and polite. They laid down mats wherever they needed to walk so they didn’t dirty anything up.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC has been in business for 16 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 241 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Kingsley Moving Systems LLC.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC emphasizes clear communication.
Recent reviews
Best local moving company I’ve used. The rates were very competitive, the moving team was professional, fast and careful with my belongings and they even finished ahead of schedule which saved me money. Highly recommend them.
Frenchie, Shanon and Sterling were excellent. They moved our things quickly and were careful not to scuff or scratch a wall or floor. They were conscientious, efficient, and friendly.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for 22 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and labor-only moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 91% positive reviews across roughly 805 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.2.
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 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Super all around experience! I received an estimate via text within about 20 minutes. Eric and Lucas completed the job within the quoted time and were very courteous.
Very pleased and impressed with this company! They were respectful, punctual, and willing to go above and beyond. They carefully respected our belongings, worked efficiently, and nothing was damaged.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 3.5
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Changing Places Moving has been in business for 38 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Changing Places Moving has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 399 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.7.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Changing Places Moving.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Changing Places Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Chris and the staff were accommodating when I needed to reschedule several times. The crew was thorough and hardworking, going above and beyond to pack my dishes.
Jeremy checked in weekly, while Gavin stayed communicative throughout our two-day move. Jahmal went above and beyond with a challenging treadmill; the whole team was professional and smooth.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Men on the Move has been in business for 31 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Men on the Move has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 193 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.7.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Men on the Move.
Customer service 3.5
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Men on the Move emphasizes clear communication.
Recent reviews
Men on the move was super easy to work with, received a walkthrough and estimate/quote, and learned their movers are all full-time and often long-term employees with them. Ray and Ty showed up on time and quickly got to work.
Personal service. Jeff gave us an honest quote and suggested ways we could help bring the price down. The team arrived on time, worked efficiently, and were very careful with our more breakable items. Finished early!
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How do Howell, MI moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | City rank | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #8 of 73 | 98% | A+ | |||
|
#2 of 73
Top 10 in Michigan |
94% | A+ | |||
|
#1 of 73
Top 10 in Michigan |
90% | C+ | |||
|
#3 of 73
Top 10 in Michigan |
92% | A+ | |||
| #12 of 73 | 78% | A+ | |||
|
#5 of 73
Top 10 in Michigan |
93% | A | |||
|
#4 of 73
Top 10 in Michigan |
90% | A+ | |||
| #15 of 73 | 91% | F | |||
| #13 of 73 | 94% | A+ | |||
| #22 of 73 | 92% | A+ |
Proximity to Howell 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 Michigan cities
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Popular moving routes from Howell, MI
Local movers in Howell are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-75, I-94, and I-96. 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 Howell, MI for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
- Best overall value
- Veteran owned
- Portion to charity
- Certified crews
- Flat-rate pricing
- Family-owned
- 1,800 trucks
- Storage available
- Customized moving plans
How much do movers cost in Howell, MI?
Local movers in Howell are priced hourly. The Michigan average is $139/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.
| Home size | Estimated local move cost in Howell |
|---|---|
| Studio | $330 – $550 |
| 1 bedroom | $440 – $770 |
| 2 bedrooms | $660 – $1,100 |
| 3 bedrooms | $990 – $1,650 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,320 – $2,420 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Howell's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare Howell mover prices? See our full guide on Howell, MI mover costs →
Which Howell, MI movers offer specialty services?
Availability of specialty services varies significantly across Howell's moving market. Of the 73 moving companies moveBuddha reviewed, here is which services are offered, how often, and by whom:
- Piano moving: 33 of 73 Howell movers (45.21%) offer it. Extra Mile Moving (4.44/5) also offers piano moving.
- Antique handling: 18 of 73 Howell movers (24.66%) offer it. Extra Mile Moving (4.44/5) also handles antique care.
- Art packing: 14 of 73 Howell movers (19.18%) offer it. Handle With Care Moving (4.58/5) also offers art packing.
- Climate-controlled storage: 13 of 73 Howell movers (17.81%) offer it. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.36/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
- Fragile-only packing: 10 of 73 Howell movers (13.7%) offer it. Handle With Care Moving (4.58/5) also offers fragile-only packing.
What movers in Howell offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 33 of 73 Howell movers (45.21%). Extra Mile Moving (4.44/5) also offers piano moving.
| Piano moving in Howell | Details |
|---|---|
| Howell movers offering this | 33 of 73 (45.21%) |
| Top-rated Howell piano movers | Extra Mile Moving, Handle With Care Moving |
| Upright piano | $880 to $1,650 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,320 to $2,750 |
| Grand piano | $1,980 to $3,850 |
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 Howell offer antique handling?
Antique handling is available from 18 of 73 Howell movers (24.66%). Extra Mile Moving (4.44/5) also handles antique care.
| Antique handling in Howell | Details |
|---|---|
| Howell movers offering this | 18 of 73 (24.66%) |
| Top-rated Howell antique movers | Extra Mile Moving, Handle With Care Moving |
| Added cost to a household move | $1,100 to $2,750 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $55 to $550 |
| Custom crating per item | $165 to $220 |
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 Howell offer art packing?
Art packing is available from 14 of 73 Howell movers (19.18%). Handle With Care Moving (4.58/5) also offers art packing.
| Art packing in Howell | Details |
|---|---|
| Howell movers offering this | 14 of 73 (19.18%) |
| Top-rated Howell art movers | Handle With Care Moving, |
| Per-piece handling fee | $55 to $550 |
| Custom crating per item | $165 to $220 |
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 Howell offer climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is available from 13 of 73 Howell movers (17.81%). TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.36/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
| Climate-controlled storage in Howell | Details |
|---|---|
| Howell movers offering this | 13 of 73 (17.81%) |
| Top-rated Howell providers | TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, Changing Places Moving |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $283 |
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 Howell offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 10 of 73 Howell movers (13.7%). Handle With Care Moving (4.58/5) also offers fragile-only packing.
| Fragile-only packing in Howell | Details |
|---|---|
| Howell movers offering this | 10 of 73 (13.7%) |
| Top-rated Howell providers | Handle With Care Moving, |
| 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 Howell
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Howell 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 Howell 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 Howell movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving is Howell's top-rated labor-only provider.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Howell apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in Howell, MI
Not every Howell move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Howell, MI 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.
- Affordable pricing
- Online pricing
- Several discounts
- Most expensive
- 4 truck sizes
- Unlimited mileage
- Greatest coverage
- 7 truck sizes
- One way rentals
Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in Howell, MI 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.
- Unlimited storage
- 3 container sizes
- 10% discount
- Flexible timelines
- Local franchise support
- Fits tight spaces
- Affordable pricing
- Offers car shipping
- No hidden fees
Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in Howell, MI start with College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.62/5) and Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage (4.52/5), 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.
- Years in Business: 27
- 90% positive reviews
- BBB: C+
- Years in Business: 12
- 92% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
- Years in Business: 22
- 91% positive reviews
- BBB: F
Moving in Howell, MI: what you need to know
A Howell 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. Howell residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with Michigan DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Howell 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. 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.
- Winter conditions: Howell's winter lows reach 15°F. Winter moves are cheaper but require planning for ice, snow delays, and longer loading times. Confirm your mover's weather policy before booking.
Michigan moving regulations and your rights
- Verify your mover is licensed: all Michigan movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at Michigan's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
- The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts.
- 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.
- In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- 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: Michigan Movers Association sets professional standards for Michigan movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.
Frequently asked questions: moving in Howell, MI
How much do movers cost in Howell, MI?
Local movers in Howell, MI charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 3 Howell movers, hourly rates range from $89/hour to $115/hour, with a median of $89/hour. Our preferred Howell mover is Flex Moving & Storage.
Key cost factors for a Howell 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: 12% of Howell movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: 3% of Howell movers (2 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 Howell across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 71% of Howell movers (52 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 79% of Howell movers (58 companies) offer full packing, and 63% 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 Howell include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in Howell, MI 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 Howell movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of Howell movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 79% (58 companies) | +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average |
| Packing materials | 63% | Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking |
| Storage | 58% | ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$283/month |
| Full valuation coverage | 3% (2 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) | 18% (13 companies) | $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances) |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 41% (30 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 Howell offer senior, military, or other discounts?
Howell movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 47,839 verified customer reviews across Michigan. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 Howell mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Howell movers are excluded. MI state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.
| Discount type | % of Howell movers | # of movers | Howell movers offering it | Data source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior | 5% | 4 | Handle With Care Moving | Howell |
| Military | 12% | 9 | Extra Mile Moving, Handle With Care Moving, Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage | Howell |
| Student | 1% | 1 | Handle With Care Moving | Howell |
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 Howell?
Book Howell 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 Howell movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Howell 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 Howell 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 Howell 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 Howell licensed and insured?
Michigan requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the Michigan 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 Howell 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 Howell?
Local Howell moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Howell-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 Howell movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most Howell 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 Howell
- 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 Howell 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 Howell?
The cheapest time to move in Howell 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. Howell's summer highs reach 82°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. Howell's winter lows reach 15°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 Howell's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Howell?
moveBuddha scores 73 moving companies in Howell on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews Howell, MI moving companies
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 151 Michigan 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 Howell draw on 47,839 verified customer reviews across Michigan: 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 Howell's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Howell's top movers →
How to move in Howell: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Howell, MI, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- Verify your mover's license and insurance. The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Verify a license.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Howell 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.
- 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 Howell street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Howell 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 Howell, MI
- Best overall: Extra Mile Moving (4.44/5), our preferred Howell mover.
- Best runner-up: Handle With Care Moving (4.58/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): Extra Mile Moving (4.44/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.62/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: $89/hour median for a Howell 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.