Best Movers Near St. Joseph, MO (2026 Reviews)
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Move It With M & S LLC is St. Joseph's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.42/5 stars. Rankings are based on 45 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to St. Joseph, MO, covering 2 local St. Joseph movers.
Local movers in St. Joseph are priced hourly. The Missouri average is $128/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
Why use moveBuddha for your St. Joseph, MO move
- moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple St. Joseph mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
- Book a moveBuddha Certified St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph, MO right now: Peak summer moving season is here. The 4th of July is one of the busiest moving weekends of the year. Prices spike and availability drops sharply around the holiday. If your St. Joseph move is scheduled near that window, you should already have a mover locked in. If not, move quickly.
What are the top-rated moving companies in St. Joseph, MO?
moveBuddha scored 2 St. Joseph movers drawing on 45 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 4.17/5. Rankings also draw on moveBuddha's reviews of 55 Missouri movers and 19,280 verified Missouri customer reviews to surface the closest and highest-rated companies serving St. Joseph from nearby locations.
- Move It With M & S LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Moving Proz: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- A Friend With A Truck Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- The Dudes Moving Company LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Metro Wide Movers, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Professional Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Mike's Moving Company LLC: 3.92 out of 5 stars
- You Move Me: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Move It With M & S LLC has been in business for 18 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Move It With M & S LLC has about 69% positive reviews across roughly 39 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.3.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Move It With M & S LLC.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Move It With M & S LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
These people were great! Finished our move in half the time, friendly, very professional, super accommodating, and excellent pricing. They didn't stop working and made our moving day easy!
There very nice people and very fair on the price to move your stuff...quick fast and polite very careful with moving the stuff...everything was perfect...I'm not ever using anybody else but them.
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Moving Proz has been in business for 10 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.3
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Moving Proz has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 290 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.1.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Moving Proz, and Moving Proz makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Moving Proz emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The movers were extremely efficient, polite, and had great attitudes the entire time, despite us changing our mind MULTIPLE times on where we wanted furniture placed."
"They packed our whole house today and did a great job! They were friendly and nice and strong and like I said before did a great job! Thank You!"
Efficient service
Quick moving process
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Affordable rates
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. A Friend With A Truck Movers has been in business for 15 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. A Friend With A Truck Movers has about 83% positive reviews across roughly 393 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.5.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from A Friend With A Truck Movers.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. A Friend With A Truck Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"They moved my 3 BR townhome to a 4 BR house fast and efficiently. Very personable and took pride in their job. Would hire again 10/10."
"Best moving company I’ve used. Efficient, professional, and able to solve solutions swiftly when needed. The booking process was easy and straightforward, and they were able to get us on the schedule quickly."
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. The Dudes Moving Company LLC has been in business for 7 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. The Dudes Moving Company LLC has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 232 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from The Dudes Moving Company LLC.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. The Dudes Moving Company LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"I recently hired The Dudes Moving Company for my relocation, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the experience! From start to finish, their professionalism and efficiency truly stood out. The team arrived on time and was incredibly organized, making the entire moving process feel effortless. They handled my belongings with care, ensuring everything arrived at my new home in perfect condition. Communication was seamless throughout the entire process even with a snowstorm hindering our plans. The staff was friendly and kept me informed at every step, which significantly reduced my stress levels during the move ... If you’re looking for a reliable and professional moving company, I highly recommend The Dudes! They deserve every bit of this 5-star review!!"
"We had a fantastic experience with The Dudes for our recent move! Caleb, Eric and the crew took every possible precaution wrapping and covering all our furniture. They were thorough in protecting the floors, doors/door jams and railings. All of our furniture arrived safe and in perfect condition!"
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. All My Sons Moving & Storage has been in business for 25 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. All My Sons Moving & Storage has about 44% positive reviews across roughly 511 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.4.
Quote accuracy 3.8
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from All My Sons Moving & Storage, and All My Sons Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All My Sons Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Charles and Anthony were very professional, willing to help, and hardworking. They took time to carefully wrap the furniture, safeguarding it for the move between locations. These guys had a great attitude. Yes, I recommend. Call now."
"My mom was really stressed about this move but these boys made it stress free. They really listened to my mom’s direction. Handled everything with care and a smile. I will definitely be recommending this company to all my friends and family."
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Metro Wide Movers, LLC has been in business for 14 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.3
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Metro Wide Movers, LLC has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 271 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.9.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Metro Wide Movers, LLC.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Metro Wide Movers, LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Jacob, Elijah, and Peyton were professional, friendly and FAST! They were very careful with our belongings and consistently communicated to ensure that furniture and boxes went into the right rooms."
"Hutch and crew did a fantastic job! I'm going to hire and request this specific crew for my next move after our build is finished. I can't thank them enough! Best moving crew to date!"
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Helpful movers
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Professional Moving & Storage has been in business for 28 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and labor-only moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Professional Moving & Storage has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 240 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Professional Moving & Storage, and Professional Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Professional Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The movers showed up on time, were very efficient, and took great care with our things. I highly recommend Professional Moving and Storage!"
"Joseph and his crew did an excellent job. They were fast, efficient and very careful with our stuff. Very friendly, courteous and professional."
Efficient service
Quick moving process
Professional and polite staff
Helpful movers
Highly recommended
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Mike's Moving Company LLC has been in business for 15 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 3.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Mike's Moving Company LLC has about 50% positive reviews across roughly 6 total reviews.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Mike's Moving Company LLC.
Customer service 3.5
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Mike's Moving Company LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
They are “Pack Masters”! Thank you Mike, for making this part in my journey stress free! Huge shout out to Josh and Nicholas!
Mike’s Moving is reliable, reasonable and they are hard workers! He moved me from MO to CO with no problems. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HIM!
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Friendly and approachable staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. You Move Me has been in business for 14 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. You Move Me has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 8573 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.4.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from You Move Me.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. You Move Me emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Brayden, and Eli from You Move Me did a fantastic job moving me from Manhattan KS to Shawnee. The guys were awesome, cheerful and careful with my belongings. Not a single unhappy face. Amazing!! I recommend this company without hesitation."
"The guys at You Move Me were beyond fantastic! They had me moved into my new home even earlier than my allotted time! They worked hard and made sure everything was wrapped and cared for like it was their own! Highly recommended!"
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Helpful movers
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for 5 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 73% positive reviews across roughly 307 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.6.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"We recently moved and hired Two Men and a Truck, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! They arrived right on time, handled our furniture with great care, and made sure every box was placed in the correct room."
"Morgan and his team are pros. They worked quickly and efficiently and communicated with us and each other well, finishing well under budget. They were courteous and conscientious."
How do St. Joseph, MO moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4.42 |
69% | A+ | ||
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4.62 |
88% | B+ | ||
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4.52 |
83% | A+ | ||
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4.48 |
96% | A+ | ||
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4.42 |
44% | A | ||
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4.62 |
88% | A+ | ||
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4.58 |
95% | A+ | ||
3.92 |
50% | A+ | ||
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4.48 |
96% | A+ | ||
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4.36 |
73% | A+ |
Proximity to St. Joseph 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 Missouri cities
- Affton movers
- Arnold movers
- Ballwin movers
- Bellefontaine Neighbors movers
- Belton movers
- Blue Springs movers
- Bolivar movers
- Branson movers
- Bridgeton movers
- Carthage movers
- Chesterfield movers
- Clayton movers
- Columbia movers
- Concord movers
- Crestwood movers
- Creve Coeur movers
- Dardenne Prairie movers
- Eureka movers
- Excelsior Springs movers
- Farmington movers
- Ferguson movers
- Festus movers
- Florissant movers
- Fort Leonard Wood movers
- Fulton movers
- Gladstone movers
- Grain Valley movers
- Grandview movers
- Hannibal movers
- Harrisonville movers
- Hazelwood movers
- Independence movers
- Jefferson City movers
- Jennings movers
- Joplin movers
- Kansas City movers
- Kearney movers
- Kennett movers
- Kirksville movers
- Kirkwood movers
- Lake St. Louis movers
- Lebanon movers
- Lee's Summit movers
- Lemay movers
- Liberty movers
- Manchester movers
- Marshall movers
- Maryland Heights movers
- Maryville movers
- Mehlville movers
- Mexico movers
- Moberly movers
- Neosho movers
- Nixa movers
- O'Fallon movers
- Oakville movers
- Old Jamestown movers
- Overland movers
- Ozark movers
- Poplar Bluff movers
- Raymore movers
- Raytown movers
- Republic movers
- Rolla movers
- Sedalia movers
- Smithville movers
- Spanish Lake movers
- Springfield movers
- St. Ann movers
- St. Charles movers
- St. Louis movers
- St. Peters movers
- Town and Country movers
- Troy movers
- Union movers
- University City movers
- Warrensburg movers
- Washington movers
- Webb City movers
- Webster Groves movers
- Wentzville movers
- Wildwood movers
Popular moving routes from St. Joseph, MO
Local movers in St. Joseph are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-44, I-55, and I-70. 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 St. Joseph, MO for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
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How much do movers cost in St. Joseph, MO?
Local movers in St. Joseph are priced hourly. The Missouri average is $128/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.
| Home size | Estimated local move cost in St. Joseph |
|---|---|
| Studio | $231 – $385 |
| 1 bedroom | $308 – $539 |
| 2 bedrooms | $462 – $770 |
| 3 bedrooms | $693 – $1,155 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $924 – $1,694 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for St. Joseph's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare St. Joseph mover prices? See our full guide on St. Joseph, MO mover costs →
Which St. Joseph, MO movers offer specialty services?
Specialty moving services are not standard across every St. Joseph mover. Based on moveBuddha's review of 2 St. Joseph moving companies, here is what is available, how common each service is in this market, and which movers lead each category:
- Piano moving: 2 of 2 St. Joseph movers (100.0%) offer it. Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5) is St. Joseph's top-rated piano mover.
- Fragile-only packing: 2 of 2 St. Joseph movers (100.0%) offer it. Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in St. Joseph.
What movers in St. Joseph offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 2 of 2 St. Joseph movers (100.0%). Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5) is St. Joseph's top-rated piano mover.
| Piano moving in St. Joseph | Details |
|---|---|
| St. Joseph movers offering this | 2 of 2 (100.0%) |
| Top-rated St. Joseph piano movers | Move It With M & S LLC, Moving Proz |
| Upright piano | $616 to $1,155 |
| Baby grand piano | $924 to $1,925 |
| Grand piano | $1,386 to $2,695 |
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 St. Joseph offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 2 of 2 St. Joseph movers (100.0%). Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in St. Joseph.
| Fragile-only packing in St. Joseph | Details |
|---|---|
| St. Joseph movers offering this | 2 of 2 (100.0%) |
| Top-rated St. Joseph providers | Move It With M & S LLC, Moving Proz |
| 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 St. Joseph
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph 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: 100% of St. Joseph movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Move It With M & S LLC is St. Joseph's top-rated labor-only provider.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar St. Joseph apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in St. Joseph, MO
Not every St. Joseph move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in St. Joseph, MO 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.
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Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in St. Joseph, MO 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.
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Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in St. Joseph, MO start with Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5) and Moving Proz (4.62/5), 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.
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Moving in St. Joseph, MO: what you need to know
A St. Joseph 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. St. Joseph residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with Missouri DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many St. Joseph 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. St. Joseph's summer highs reach 87°F, which pushes prices up and crew availability down. 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: St. Joseph's winter lows reach 18°F. Winter moves are cheaper but require planning for ice, snow delays, and longer loading times. Confirm your mover's weather policy before booking.
Missouri moving regulations and your rights
- Verify your mover is licensed: all Missouri movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at Missouri's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
- Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number.
- 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.
- Opt for Released Value Protection, the budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers. This minimal coverage ensures that movers are liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per item. For a comprehensive coverage of your valuables, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider. Ensure the full value of your items is covered by consulting with the moving company for suitable alternatives.
- 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.
Frequently asked questions: moving in St. Joseph, MO
How much do movers cost in St. Joseph, MO?
Local movers in St. Joseph, MO charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 1 St. Joseph movers, hourly rates range from $75/hour to $75/hour, with a median of $75/hour.
Key cost factors for a St. Joseph 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: many St. Joseph movers require a deposit to secure your booking. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: available from select St. Joseph movers. 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 St. Joseph across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 50% of St. Joseph movers (1 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 100% of St. Joseph movers (2 companies) offer full packing, and 100% 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 St. Joseph include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in St. Joseph, MO 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 St. Joseph movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of St. Joseph movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 100% (2 companies) | +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average |
| Packing materials | 100% | Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking |
| Crating (fragile/high-value items) | 50% (1 companies) | $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances) |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 100% (2 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 St. Joseph offer senior, military, or other discounts?
moveBuddha found no confirmed senior, military, AAA, student, teacher, or law enforcement discounts among the St. Joseph movers in its database. That does not mean discounts are unavailable. Ask each mover directly at the quote stage, since some companies offer unpublished rates for eligible groups. Confirm any discount in writing before signing.
How far in advance should I book movers in St. Joseph?
Book St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph licensed and insured?
Missouri requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the Missouri 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 St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph?
Local St. Joseph moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's St. Joseph-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 St. Joseph movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph
- 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 St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph?
The cheapest time to move in St. Joseph 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. St. Joseph's summer highs reach 87°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. St. Joseph's winter lows reach 18°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 St. Joseph's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews St. Joseph, MO moving companies
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 55 Missouri 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 St. Joseph draw on 19,280 verified customer reviews across Missouri: 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 St. Joseph's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from moveBuddha's #1-ranked St. Joseph movers →
How to move in St. Joseph: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in St. Joseph, MO, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- Verify your mover's license and insurance. Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number. Verify a license.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph, MO
- Best overall: Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5), moveBuddha's #1-ranked St. Joseph mover.
- Best runner-up: Moving Proz (4.62/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: Move It With M & S LLC (4.42/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: $75/hour median for a St. Joseph 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.
