Best Long-Distance Movers in North Carolina for 2025

Quick answer: We compared 115 professional movers in North Carolina and Safeway Moving came out on top for long-distance moves. Safeway Moving outperformed the statewide average of 85.94% positive reviews, thanks to their balance of quality and affordability.

ryan carrigan moving expert
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.
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.
Need more help? Build your move plan.
Get Quote
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

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

Best long-distance movers in North Carolina when moving out of state

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

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Allied Van Lines: 4.75 out of 5 stars
  5. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841

Best long-distance movers in North Carolina when staying in state

If you’re gearing up for a big move within North Carolina — we’re talking hundreds of miles, not just a quick trip across town — these are the top intrastate movers you’ll want to consider:

  1. Flex Moving & Storage: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  2. You Move Me: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. Easy Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/FlexStorageInc/,
86% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Flex Moving & Storage’s fast, careful, and professional crews who make moving less stressful and deliver strong results. Most input highlights efficient service, reliable communication, careful handling of belongings, and a courteous approach. Highly rated feedback consistently mentions both speed and safe transport. On the other hand, a few customers point to significant issues like hidden charges, delayed moves, and trouble reaching support. These problems stand out as rare but serious missteps. Flex Moving & Storage receives a much higher rate of positive feedback than many competitors, driven by standout reliability and attentiveness. Out of 14 reviews, 85.7% are positive, showing a strong trend of customer satisfaction with only isolated but notable complaints.
Get a Quote (704) 397-3281

Company Info

Years in Business: 3

DOT #: 3610638


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/YouMoveMeCo/, https://twitter.com/youmovemeco?lang=en
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


You Move Me is a well-established local moving company that has been serving Charlotte, NC, and the surrounding areas since 2015. Unlike many nearby movers, You Move Me offers comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and even piano moving, making them a versatile choice for local residential moves. With an impressive 4.9 rating from 590 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are highly regarded for their reliability and professionalism. Customers particularly appreciate that the company accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, adding convenience to their already stellar service.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
62% of all reviews were positive
35% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, with 62% of input reflecting strong satisfaction out of the 92 reviews analyzed. Customers highlight prompt, careful service from polite movers, quick moving processes, and competitive pricing. Many praise the care taken with belongings, friendly attitudes, and seamless booking. On the downside, over one-third of customer feedback cites frustration with damages to furniture or property, poor communication, and instances where movers lacked experience or preparation. A few reviewers also faced unresolved claims, delays, or insufficient compensation for damaged items. While Bellhop offers more budget-friendly rates and efficient service compared to many moving companies, the risk of damages and inconsistent quality underscores the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. Most who use Bellhop for standard, smaller moves appreciate the value, but concerns remain for complex or larger moves requiring extra care or experience.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.


Bellhop Moving has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Raleigh, NC, since 2012. Known for their impressive customer satisfaction, they boast an outstanding 4.7 average rating on Google from 626 reviews, although their Yelp profile holds a more modest 3.7 average from 85 reviews. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, making them a versatile choice compared to many nearby movers. While they do require a deposit, they accept credit cards for added convenience. With a B+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Bellhop Moving is a reputable choice for those looking to relocate locally.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/athensmovingexperts, https://twitter.com/athensmovingexp
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Athens Moving Experts gets top marks from customers who appreciate reliable, courteous, and hardworking crews. Nearly 94% of feedback is positive across 334 reviews. People routinely mention how efficiently the teams work, how carefully they handle belongings, and how friendly and communicative they are throughout the process. Fair pricing stands out as another frequent highlight compared to competitors. A few clients, however, report issues such as damaged or poorly packed items, especially during busy or larger moves. Some negative input also cites crews lacking experience or rushing, which led to mistakes. In the rare neutral reviews, most concerns relate to minor service lapses or pandemic-related policy misunderstandings rather than major moving problems. Athens’s consistent reputation for speed, respectful service, and professionalism places them ahead of most local movers, but a small number of clients wish for even greater attention to packing quality and oversight during complex jobs.
Get a Quote (919) 760-7774

Company Info

State license #: 2657

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3205320


Athens Moving Experts has been a reliable staple in the Raleigh, NC moving industry since 2018, offering top-tier local residential moving services. This company stands out with its impressive consumer reviews, boasting a 4.5 average rating on Yelp and a near-perfect 4.9 on Google, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Beyond typical moving services, Athens Moving Experts excels in packing, unpacking, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, antiques, and safes, setting them apart from other local movers. For those in need of trustworthy, comprehensive local moving services, Athens Moving Experts consistently delivers satisfaction and peace of mind.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/easymoverscharlotte, https://twitter.com/easymover
84% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Easy Movers stands out for making moving day simple. Analyzing 290 pieces of customer feedback, 84% reported positive experiences, highlighting the staff's professionalism, fast service, careful handling of belongings, prompt communication, and efficient moving process. Customers praise the teams for their attention to detail, respect toward property, and clear estimates. Many reviewers point out that Easy Movers meets or beats budget expectations and finishes jobs within or ahead of schedule. On the downside, about 15% experienced issues such as significant delays, damaged items, or lapses in communication. Some shared stories of missed appointments and unexpected fees, which set Easy Movers apart from more consistent competitors. Despite these negative reports, positive feedback far outnumbers complaints, suggesting that Easy Movers excels at delivering quality, cost-effective service for most customers.
Get a Quote (704) 588-6868

Company Info

State license #: 2225

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 648055

Alternate Names: EasyMovers


Easy Movers has been a trusted local moving company in Pineville, NC since 1994, specializing in residential moves in and around the area. With a strong reputation for reliability, they boast 720 reviews on Google My Business with an impressive average rating of 4.7, though their Yelp profile shows a more mixed reception with a 3.6 average from 73 reviews. Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, Easy Movers stands out for their comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and piano moving. Their competitive rate of $145 per hour and acceptance of both cash and credit cards make them a versatile choice for those seeking efficient and professional moving services.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Long-distance movers in nearby cities

See More
See Less

Best long-distance movers in North Carolina for small moves

A lot of moving companies have a minimum weight requirement, often around 2,000 pounds. So if you’re moving out of a dorm or a studio apartment in North Carolina, a traditional full-service mover might not be the right fit.

North Carolina has an impressive 60 small load movers, so you won’t be short on options. To save you the hassle of sorting through them all, here are our top picks.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.44 / 5
  • Years in Business: 3
  • Yelp: 4.4 / 5
  • BBB: NR
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.58 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 3.2 / 5
  • BBB: C
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Moving containers for long-distance moves in NC

If you’re up for packing and loading yourself but don’t want to handle the long drive from North Carolina, using a moving container is a smart, budget-friendly alternative to hiring full-service movers.

You can expect to pay between $871 and $6,744 for a moving container in North Carolina. Prices can vary based on a few factors, so it’s smart to compare several moving quotes before you decide.

Kick off your search with these standout container moving companies.

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

Labor-only moving companies in North Carolina

If you can tackle the drive from North Carolina yourself but want help with packing, loading, or unloading, take a look at these highly recommended labor-only movers.

In North Carolina, hiring labor-only movers typically runs between $36 and $41 per hour for each worker.

Check out our top picks for labor-only movers below.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.44 / 5
  • Years in Business: 3
  • Yelp: 4.4 / 5
  • BBB: NR
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.58 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 3.2 / 5
  • BBB: C
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+

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

If you’re looking to save the most money on an out-of-state move from North Carolina, going the full DIY route is your best bet. You’ll take care of driving, loading, and unloading everything yourself.

Renting your own moving truck means you'll have to handle all the heavy lifting yourself, but it’s by far the most budget-friendly option.

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

How we chose the best long-distance movers in North Carolina

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best long-distance moving companies in North Carolina.

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 a long-distance move out of North Carolina

If you're moving long-distance, you can expect moving costs in North Carolina to range from $1,238 to $12,319 or more, depending on the details of your move.

Factors affecting the cost

  • Size: The more stuff you move, the more you’ll pay. Take a good look at what you really need before you leave North Carolina — every additional item bumps up your costs.
  • Distance: How far you're moving from North Carolina makes a big impact on cost. Whether you're heading just a few hundred miles away or relocating across the country, distance is one of the biggest factors in your moving budget.
  • Type of move: Deciding how to move out of North Carolina can make all the difference. You’ve got several options: hire a full-service moving company, rent a truck, use a moving container, or opt for a freight trailer. Each choice varies in cost and comes with its own pros and cons.
  • Services: Think about whether you want to handle packing and unpacking on your own or bring in the pros. Hiring professionals makes the process easier, but it does come with a higher price tag.
  • Seasonal timing: Timing matters when it comes to moving costs. Since moving in the summer usually comes with higher prices, you can save money by scheduling your move between October and April, when rates tend to be lower.

How to save money on your long-distance move from NC

Trying to cut costs on your long-distance move from North Carolina? Take a look at these handy money-saving moving tips.

  • Declutter. Reducing the volume of items you need to move can significantly decrease your moving costs.
  • Book in advance. Planning your move well in advance can help you secure better rates, since last-minute bookings are often pricier.
  • Consider moving containers. If you're looking to save money and are willing to do some of the work yourself, renting a moving container can be a cost-effective option.
  • Research and compare. Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Take the time to compare different companies and negotiate the best rate.
  • Keep an eye out for discounts. With 115 movers in North Carolina, you’ll find 1 offering AAA savings, 2 supporting seniors with lower rates, and 5 providing discounts for military families. You may also discover options for teachers, students, or law enforcement. Asking about moving discounts can reduce your overall moving bill.

A moving checklist is your essential tool for staying organized and sticking to your budget—especially when you're gearing up for a long-distance move.

Choosing the right NC long-distance moving option

If you’re deciding between full-service movers, moving containers, or renting a moving truck, you should consider several factors, including your budget, convenience, and the level of effort you're willing to invest. Here's a quick guide to help you determine which option aligns best with your moving needs.

Full-service NC movers

Full-service movers are the best for those who prefer a hands-off approach. Full-service movers in North Carolina handle everything from packing and loading to transportation and unloading at your new home.

  • Pros: Convenient and time-saving
  • Cons: More expensive than moving containers and truck rentals
  • Consider if: You're moving long-distance, have a large volume of belongings, or simply want to avoid the hassle and stress of moving

Moving containers in NC

Moving containers offer a blend of DIY and professional moving. You pack and load the container at your home in North Carolina, and the company transports it to your new location, where you then unload.

  • Pros: Affordability & flexibility
  • Cons: Have to do the heavy-lifting
  • Consider if: You're looking to save money but still want the convenience of not driving a moving truck, especially for long-distance moves

Renting a moving truck in NC

Renting a moving truck is the ultimate DIY moving option. You're responsible for every aspect of the move, from driving the truck to packing, loading, and unloading your belongings.

  • Pros: Low cost (compared to other options) & control over the moving process
  • Cons: Time-consuming & physically demanding
  • Consider if: You're on a tight budget, moving a shorter distance, or you're comfortable managing and executing the entire move yourself.

Things to consider before hiring a long-distance mover in North Carolina

Whether you're staying in North Carolina for the great communities, low cost of living, and ample economic opportunity or heading out because of the hurricanes, bland weather, and high crime rate, here’s what you need to know before moving.

Company licensing

For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT).

Insurance options

Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.

Moving date

Weather plays a big role in how busy moving companies get, which can drive up prices and limit availability.

  • Winter low temperature: 29°F
  • Summer high temperature: 88°F
  • Annual rainfall: 48”
  • Annual snowfall: 4”

Taking your car

Planning a cross-country move but don't want to drive your car yourself? A North Carolina car shipping service is a hassle-free way to get your vehicle safely to your new place.

Remember, vehicle inspection requirements can differ a lot from one state or city to another, so be sure to find out what’s needed in your new location. Take North Carolina’s requirements, as an example. Before the North Carolina DMV can register a passenger vehicle, it must pass an annual safety inspection if it is less than 30 years old.

FAQ

What is considered a long-distance move?

Different moving companies have their own take on what qualifies as a long-distance move. Some consider anything beyond 50 miles to fit the bill, while others don’t draw the line until 400 miles. According to the FMCSA, however, an official long-distance (or long-haul) move is anything over 450 miles. So whether you’re staying within North Carolina, crossing over to a nearby state, or moving clear across the country, booking a long-distance mover means you’ll have expert help every step of the way.

How far in advance should I book a long-distance move?

To make your long-distance move go smoothly, aim to lock in your moving date at least a month ahead—though booking your move a few months in advance is even better. The earlier you reserve, the more likely you are to get great rates and secure your preferred dates. Plus, you’ll have extra time to sort out your budget, declutter your stuff, and pack at your own pace.

What happens if my belongings are delayed during a long-distance move?

If your belongings show up late after a long-distance move, movers aren’t legally required to make it up to you. When your items are picked up, you’ll get a Bill of Lading listing an estimated delivery date, but most moving companies allow themselves up to 30 days for delays just in case. Think your movers are purposely holding onto your stuff? You can file a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s National Consumer Complaint Database or reach out to the Better Business Bureau for help.

Do I need to buy moving insurance for a long-distance move from NC?

You are not required to buy moving insurance for long-distance moves, but you might want to consider it if you have a lot of high-value pieces. All moving companies provide a basic amount of insurance for all moves, known as “released value protection.” This coverage pays out $0.60 per pound per item in the event of loss or damage to your goods. But that means if a 10-pound statue worth $3,000 is damaged or lost, you’ll only get $6 in compensation.

Full-value protection can make all the difference if something happens to your belongings. Luckily, North Carolina has no shortage of movers that provide it: 30 companies in total, which is 26.09% of the state’s licensed movers. By comparison, 29.74% of 3,174 movers nationwide include it.

Helpful North Carolina resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All