The Best Long-Distance Movers in Hickory, NC

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Aug 15, 2025 • 5 min read

Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

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

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

Preferred partner:

Bellhop Moving

4.58
Best overall value:

Safeway Moving

4.85
Best Hickory-based mover:

Preferred Moving Company, LLC

4.58
Best for small moves:

Preferred Moving Company, LLC

4.58
Best moving container:

PODS

4.8
Best labor-only mover:

Preferred Moving Company, LLC

4.58
Best rental truck:

U-Haul Truck Rental

4.15

Need more help? Build your move plan.

Get Quote

Preferred partners

Company	Quote	Rating
Bellhop Moving	Get A Quote	4.58 / 5
Flex Moving & Storage	Get A Quote	4.38 / 5
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.85 / 5

Our track record

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

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

Best long-distance movers in Hickory when moving out of state

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

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

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.85 / 5

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

At A Glance

GPS tracking en route
Veteran-owned
Dedicated move coordinator
Flat-rate pricing
Donates a portion of moves to charity

read our full review

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

866-835-2392

At A Glance

Experienced & fully trained moving crews
Specializes in moving art & antiques
Competitive pricing
Can handle last-minute moves
Climate-controlled storage

read our full review

Get A Quote

866-835-2392

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

(844) 950-2963

At A Glance

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

read our full review

Get A Quote

(844) 950-2963

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.75 / 5

Get A Quote

866-825-0554

At A Glance

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

read our full review

Get A Quote

866-825-0554

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.9 / 5

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

At A Glance

Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
Hands-on customer service
24/7 support
Price-matching policy

read our full review

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

Best long-distance movers in Hickory when staying in state

A move within North Carolina might sound local, but if you’re leaving Hickory, you could still be looking at a long haul. That’s where one of the best local long-distance movers can make all the difference.

Below are our top picks for long-distance moving companies based in Hickory:

Preferred Partner

Bellhop Moving

Preferred Moving Company, LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
You Move Me: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Bellhop Moving

6433 Creekstone Place,, Charlotte, NC 28213 US

54% of all reviews were positive

44% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Bellhop Moving stands out for professional and courteous movers who work efficiently and handle items with care. More than half of feedback praises friendly attitudes, quick moving times, and help from knowledgeable staff. Many people found the process organized and appreciated clear communication from crews.

On the other hand, customers report frequent problems with damage to items, late arrivals, and difficulties resolving complaints. Several describe poor compensation for damaged possessions and challenges communicating with customer service. While the hands-on teams often outshine competitors and keep local moves smooth, Bellhop’s administrative side leaves many customers dissatisfied, especially when things go wrong. Out of 79 reviews, 54% contained positive experiences, but issues with item safety and unreliability are mentioned at a higher rate compared with most other moving companies.

Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2968

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Services Offered

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

Preferred Moving Company, LLC

1025 19th St SW, Hickory, NC 28602 US

80% of all reviews were positive

19% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Strong word-of-mouth and repeat customers fuel Preferred Moving Company, LLC’s reputation, supported by 108 pieces of customer feedback. Nearly 80% report a positive experience, noting professional and courteous staff, careful handling of items, quick and efficient service, and affordable rates. Many say movers protected their belongings and maintained good communication from booking to completion, often exceeding expectations compared to larger competitors.

A handful of complaints focus on damage to items, unresolved customer issues, and missing belongings. Dissatisfied reviewers cited inadequate follow-up when problems arose. While most moves are smooth and handled by skilled, polite teams, a few negative reports describe poor complaint handling that is less common with higher-rated moving companies. For those valuing professionalism, efficiency, and reasonable pricing, Preferred Moving Company, LLC remains a trusted regional choice.

Get a Quote (828) 855-0558

Company Info

State license #: 2598

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2779878

Alternate Names: Preferred Moving Company, LLC

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Crating
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Pay by credit card

Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC

2860 Nathan St, Newton, NC 28658 US

89% of all reviews were positive

11% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Barringer Moving & Storage, LLC stands out for delivering a highly professional and efficient moving experience. Out of 129 customer reviews, nearly 90% praise the company's courteous, careful staff and strong communication. Feedback frequently highlights affordable and transparent pricing, especially compared to other moving companies.

Positive experiences mention respectful crews who protect belongings and properties as if they were their own, making moves easy even in stressful situations. While most customers felt confident recommending Barringer, some noted high costs and issues with packing quality and missing or damaged items during a few moves. Cost-related concerns appeared more often in negative input than at similar companies. Although complaints are few, they suggest that those seeking the lowest price or needing flawless packing should clarify expectations beforehand. Barringer demonstrates a level of professionalism and care rarely seen among moving companies, reflected in repeated high ratings from satisfied customers.

Get a Quote (828) 851-4383

Company Info

State license #: 2509

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2062164

Services Offered

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

Ashe Van Lines Moving and Storage

871 Highland Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601 US

94% of all reviews were positive

5% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Movers that care set Ashe Van Lines apart. Our analysis of 223 customer feedback entries shows 94% positive remarks, with a reputation for professionalism, fast service, and careful handling of belongings. Customers highlight the team’s respectful approach and recommend them widely for both local and out-of-state moves.

Many note the efficiency and politeness of the staff, with moves completed faster than expected and at rates often deemed affordable compared to industry norms. Some even mention personal touches from management and flexible scheduling. Negative experiences, while rare, point to issues like damaged items, surprise charges, and occasional delays—problems that can sour the process and are less common with leading national movers. A couple of three-star reviews reflect communication issues and minor property damage. Overall, feedback suggests Ashe Van Lines consistently delivers high-quality moving support, excelling in professionalism and care, though potential customers should confirm details up front to avoid rare but significant problems.

Get a Quote (828) 851-6833

Company Info

State license #: 2627

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2844367

Services Offered

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

You Move Me

4300 Barringer Drive, Charlotte, NC 28217 US

94% of all reviews were positive

5% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Customers rave about You Move Me for their consistently professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient moving process, prompt communication, and quick service. Out of 296 reviews, 94% are positive—a strong record compared to most moving services, where praise often centers on reliability and friendliness. Many clients highlight how polite, organized, and attentive the crews are, with moves usually completed faster than expected and within the quoted price.

Negative feedback makes up just over 5% and focuses on reports of damaged or missing items and unexpected cost increases. A few customers mention property scratches or items left unpacked. Some describe communication issues after a problem occurred, mainly involving follow-up on claims for damaged or missing possessions. Neutral input, though rare, points to scheduling hiccups and occasional assembly mistakes. Compared with similar companies, You Move Me stands out for delivering smooth moves but should address isolated complaints about item care and billing accuracy.

Get a Quote (800) 926-3900

Company Info

State license #: 2572

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2518689

Alternate Names: TEC Ventures LLC

Services Offered

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

Gentle Giant Moving Company

3827 Barringer Drive, Charlotte, NC 28217 US

97% of all reviews were positive

3% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Like clockwork, Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out for delivering quick, careful moves with polite, professional teams. Out of 277 feedback entries, 97% praised their efficient service, careful handling, strong communication, and respectful crews. Customers commonly noted how rapidly yet delicately their belongings were moved, and many compared Gentle Giant favorably to other companies for great teamwork and customer care.

Pricing came in as expected or lower for most reviewers. A small number of customers, 2.5%, encountered issues with communication or abrupt customer service, generally during scheduling or initial contact, and some found pricing policies confusing. Only one neutral review appeared. Compared to other movers, Gentle Giant earns trust and recommendations for their reliable, efficient approach, but could improve by streamlining communication for all situations.

Get a Quote (704) 376-2338

Company Info

State license #: 2406

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Co. (NC), LLC

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Crane vans
Storage
Pay by credit card

Best long-distance movers in Hickory for small moves

Full-service movers often require a minimum shipment weight of 3,000 pounds, which means they’re not always a fit if you’re moving out of a dorm, downsizing from a studio, or bringing just a few key pieces with you.

For smaller loads, it’s usually best to hire a Hickory-based company that focuses on small moves.

Here are the companies we recommend:

Preferred Moving Company, LLC

rating

4.58 / 5

Years in Business: 10
Yelp: 3.3 / 5
BBB: A+

Get A Quote

(828) 855-0558

All My Sons Moving & Storage

rating

4.66 / 5

Years in Business: 26
Yelp: 1.7 / 5
BBB: A

Get A Quote

(704) 344-1300

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Hickory

Using a moving container is a smart way to cut costs on your move from Hickory to another North Carolina city or even out of state. You’ll do the loading and unloading yourself, but you get the flexibility to tackle it on your own schedule. Plus, the container company takes care of all the driving, so you don’t have to worry about hauling your stuff across the miles.

Container prices depend on how far you’re moving, as well as how many — and what size — containers you need. Be sure to grab a few moving quotes so you can compare rates for your unique move.

Here are the top moving container companies to kick off your search:

PODS

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Unlimited storage
3 container sizes
10% discount

Get A Quote

Visit Website

U-Pack

rating

5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Fast delivery
Nationwide
100+ miles moves

Check prices Visit Website

MovingYourself

rating

4.5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Affordable pricing
Offers car shipping
No hidden fees

Get A Quote

(352) 322-2920

Labor-only moving companies in Hickory

You do the driving, they handle the lifting — that’s the beauty of working with a labor-only moving crew. It’s a solid option if you’re moving out of Hickory and just need help on either end.

Check out these trusted companies:

Preferred Moving Company, LLC

rating

4.58 / 5

Years in Business: 10
Yelp: 3.3 / 5
BBB: A+

Get A Quote

(828) 855-0558

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

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

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

U-Haul Truck Rental

rating

4.15 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Greatest coverage
7 truck sizes
One way rentals

Check prices (800) 468-4285

Penske Truck Rental

rating

4 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Most expensive
4 truck sizes
Unlimited mileage

Check prices (844) 847-9517

Budget Truck Rental

rating

4.3 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Affordable pricing
Online pricing
Several discounts

Check prices Visit Website

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Hickory, NC

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 Hickory

In Hickory, you can expect to pay about $114 per hour for professional movers. To get a reliable estimate, even the most reputable interstate movers will need specifics about your move’s distance and volume.

Factors that affect the cost of moving from Hickory

Distance of your move: The farther you travel from Hickory, the more you'll pay. A short intrastate move costs far less than going cross-country.
Amount of stuff you’re moving: The total weight and volume of your belongings directly impacts your cost. Taking time to downsize before leaving Hickory can lead to serious savings.
Services you add on: Packing, unpacking, and extra help from labor pros can streamline your move— but they also raise the final bill.
Type of mover you select: From full-service movers to DIY rental trucks, your choice of move style will determine how much effort and cash you're putting in.
Timing of your move: Peak moving season (summer) and weekends typically cost more. Moving between October and April — or mid-month, mid-week — can help cut down costs.

To help you budget smarter, try our moving cost calculator to estimate long-distance prices. Plus, check out our in-depth guide on moving costs in Hickory.

FAQs

What else should I know about moving out of North Carolina?

If you're planning a move out of North Carolina, your moving company needs to be properly licensed and have a US Department of Transportation number. Rest assured, every Hickory mover on our list meets these requirements. Want to double-check? You can look up any company in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

Planning an out-of-state move? Make sure to check out the FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move guide to understand your rights and what to expect during your move.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving out of Hickory?

For a move within Hickory, hiring a local moving company is usually your most budget-friendly option. But if you're planning to leave North Carolina, a national mover might cost a little extra, but you’ll benefit from their greater experience with long-distance relocations.

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

Moving companies in Hickory tend to be less busy in November and December thanks to colder temperatures (around 29°F), the holidays, and the school year. That means you’ll have more room to negotiate with movers and potentially score better deals during these months.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Hickory?

If you’re moving less than 50 miles within Hickory, handling the move yourself will almost always save you the most money. The most budget-friendly ways to move out of the Hickory usually involve renting a moving truck from options like U-Haul, or choosing a moving container service such as PODS. Need more tips? Check out our guide on the cheapest ways to move out of state.