10 Best Moving Companies in Rhode Island (2026 Reviews)
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moveBuddha analyzed 27 Rhode Island movers and 7,748 verified reviews. Gentle Giant Moving Company is the highest-rated local mover in Rhode Island, with a 4.52/5 moveBuddha rating, 43 years in business, and 98% positive feedback across 447 verified reviews.
Local moves in Rhode Island cost $481 for a studio to $3,121 for a 5+ bedroom home. Get a personalized estimate with moveBuddha's free moving cost calculator, then compare movers, starting with our top-ranked Rhode Island mover, Gentle Giant Moving Company.
rating
4.56 / 5
- Years in Business: 43
- Yelp: 4.6 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.56 / 5
- Years in Business: 28
- Yelp: 1.9 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.5 / 5
- Years in Business: 16
- Yelp: 2.5 / 5
- BBB: A+
10 Best Local Moving Companies in Rhode Island
The 10 best local moving companies in Rhode Island are led by Gentle Giant Moving Company, which has a moveBuddha rating of 4.52/5 and 98% positive customer reviews. Ratings among the top 10 companies range from 3.88 to 4.52 out of 5, based on a combined 5,236 verified customer reviews.
moveBuddha evaluated 27 moving companies in Rhode Island, scoring each on industry experience, review quality, quote accuracy, and customer service. Our ratings incorporate verified customer reviews, FMCSA complaint data, BBB standing, and moveBuddha's proprietary data from more than 1,000 real moving quotes and moves. Last updated November 2026.
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.52/5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.44/5 stars
- Chris Corrigan Moving Inc.: 4.36/5 stars
- Economy Movers & Storage Inc: 4.36/5 stars
- Lawton Moving & Storage: 4.36/5 stars
- Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage: 4.34/5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.12/5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.08/5 stars
- A Able Affordable Moving: 4.00/5 stars
- OVO Moving & Storage Inc.: 3.88/5 stars
Experienced movers
Flexibility
Consistency and follow-up
Respectful of property
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Gentle Giant Moving Company has been in business for 43 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like international moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Gentle Giant Moving Company has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 447 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Gentle Giant Moving Company.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Gentle Giant Moving Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I always move with Gentle Giant because they are consistently EXCELLENT! They're professional, on time, fast, careful, attentive...couldn't be better. They've moved me three times now.
Their moving team was very professional and efficient, and finished the job so much faster than expected. They wrapped furniture in tarps, and were very careful with anything labelled as fragile.
Quick moving process
Friendly and approachable staff
Helpful movers
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
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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 28 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. All My Sons Moving & Storage has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 2656 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.9.
Quote accuracy 3.7
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from All My Sons Moving & Storage.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All My Sons Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Tim, Mike and Clinton were very professional and efficient. They moved our second-floor three-bedroom apartment to a third floor in under two hours. I’m very impressed with how quick and painless this process was today
Denzel and Felix did an amazing job with our move! They were very accommodating and careful with everything, and organized things into the truck and new apartment very professionally. All My Sons also charges a great rate for the move!
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Flexibility
Respectful of property
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Chris Corrigan Moving Inc. has been in business for 127 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. Chris Corrigan Moving Inc. has about 89% positive reviews across roughly 385 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.4.
Quote accuracy 3.8
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Chris Corrigan Moving Inc.. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Chris Corrigan Moving Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Mark and the entire crew were friendly, professional, quick, and efficient. We've moved a few times and these guys were the best.
Chris was very accommodating and understood that move dates can change many times. The crew worked hard, respected our property, finished promptly, and the price was very fair.
Experienced movers
Affordable rates
Flexibility
Respectful of property
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Economy Movers & Storage Inc has been in business for 50 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Economy Movers & Storage Inc has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 226 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Economy Movers & Storage Inc.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Economy Movers & Storage Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Fast, efficient, helpful, and willing to go above and beyond. They even fixed a furniture leg after delivery and made my move easy and smooth!
The movers handled everything carefully without sacrificing speed and went above and beyond to get our couch through a window.
Affordable rates
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Friendly and approachable staff
Quick response times
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Lawton Moving & Storage has been in business for 81 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Lawton Moving & Storage has about 74% positive reviews across roughly 106 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Lawton Moving & Storage. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Lawton Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I called them on extremely short notice (3 days), and they accommodated me. The crew was helpful, professional, efficient, and made the move easy and affordable.
Both teams were quick, professional, and respectful. Pricing was more than fair.
Friendly and approachable staff
Helpful movers
Professional and polite staff
Good communication
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage has been in business for 16 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage has about 85% positive reviews across roughly 787 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.5.
Quote accuracy 3.8
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage, and Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage 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. Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Miguel, Xavier and Dave were amazing! They took great care of my items and were all very pleasant to work with! I will book again and recommend!
Had a great move with Steven, Xaviar, and Miguel! They were on time, worked hard, and communicated with us throughout the process.
Affordable rates
Good communication
Friendly and approachable staff
Respectful of property
Careful handling
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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 many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 82% positive reviews across roughly 289 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.1.
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
Called several companies, they had the lowest price, however I was pleasantly surprised they were far superior to work with than all the others. Office/scheduling was extremely helpful and pleasant, answered ALL my questions!
Easy move start to finish! Really appreciate the excellent communication with office staff, as well as movers. My pieces were expertly handled & movers went above and beyond to ensure that job was done to my satisfaction. Thank you!!
Flexibility
Quick response times
Friendly and approachable staff
Quick moving process
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been in business for many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like estate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 244 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.2.
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 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Brian & Sandro were excellent, very efficient, and hustled in extreme heat. They helped take apart items and put them back together, plus moved plants without any damage.
I placed my reservation yesterday and Olivia and Nelson arrived this morning on time. They were resourceful and willing to work with us.
Affordable rates
Flexibility
Quick response times
Knowledgeable staff
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.1
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. A Able Affordable Moving has been in business for many 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 Able Affordable Moving has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 80 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.8.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from A Able Affordable Moving.
Customer service 3.2
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. A Able Affordable Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
John quoted us the best quote we could find on short notice and was extremely helpful. His crew moved a truckload of appliances and furniture quickly.
Affordable prices, great communication, prompt services and hassle-free move. They moved a spinet piano carefully, including wrapping it.
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Friendly and approachable staff
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. OVO Moving & Storage Inc. has been in business for many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. OVO Moving & Storage Inc. has about 25% positive reviews across roughly 16 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.1.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from OVO Moving & Storage Inc..
Customer service 3.5
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. OVO Moving & Storage Inc. emphasizes clear communication.
Recent reviews
The crew worked efficiently, wrapped all my furniture, protected the wood floors, and had friendly demeanors.
The movers were on time, very nice, extremely careful with my things, and moved quickly. I was pleased and will use them again!
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Compare the top moving companies in Rhode Island
Based on moveBuddha's moving data, updated November 2026, here's how the top 10 movers in Rhode Island compare.
| Mover | moveBuddha score | Positive reviews | Verified reviews | Years in business | FMCSA status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Gentle Giant Moving Company Get A Quote |
4.52/5 | 98% | 447 | 43 | Active |
| #2 All My Sons Moving & Storage Get A Quote |
4.44/5 | 90% | 2,656 | 28 | Active |
| #3 Chris Corrigan Moving Inc. Get A Quote |
4.36/5 | 89% | 385 | 127 | Active |
| #4 Economy Movers & Storage Inc Get A Quote |
4.36/5 | 90% | 226 | 50 | Inactive |
| #5 Lawton Moving & Storage Get A Quote |
4.36/5 | 74% | 106 | 81 | Active |
| #6 Correira Brothers' Moving & Storage Get A Quote |
4.34/5 | 85% | 787 | 16 | Active |
| #7 TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Get A Quote |
4.12/5 | 82% | 289 | N/A | Active |
| #8 College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving Get A Quote |
4.08/5 | 93% | 244 | N/A | Active |
| #9 A Able Affordable Moving Get A Quote |
4.00/5 | 94% | 80 | N/A | N/A |
| #10 OVO Moving & Storage Inc. Get A Quote |
3.88/5 | 25% | 16 | N/A | Active |
How to read FMCSA status: Movers that transport belongings across state lines must be registered with the FMCSA. "N/A" means we didn't find an active FMCSA registration, which is common for movers that only offer local or in-state moves, or labor-only services like loading and unloading. These movers are typically licensed or registered at the state level instead. If you're moving out of Rhode Island, choose a mover with an active FMCSA status.
Other local Rhode Island movers
These Rhode Island movers were reviewed by moveBuddha but did not make our top 10. See all 27 Rhode Island movers we've reviewed →
- Arpin RI Moving and Storage
- College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Providence
- Born to Move Moving Company
- Champion Movers
- CUNHA TRUCKING & MOVING CO., INC.
- A Able Affordable John Roberts Rhode Island Furniture & Piano Movers
- RA Movers
- Gentry Moving & Storage
- Mullins & Crum Mvng & Storage
- Arpin International Group Inc
- Surv Providence
- RA Storage & Movers
- Cisco's Moving Services
- Movers of Honor
- New England Boat Movers
- Aquidneck Building Movers & Riggers, Inc.
Rhode Island ranked among the top 10 most outbound states in the country in mid-2026. According to moveBuddha's mid-2026 moving trends analysis, Rhode Island recorded a 0.72 in-to-out moving search ratio, meaning more people searched for moves out of the state than into it. With housing affordability remaining a concern across the Northeast, compare Rhode Island movers and reserve your preferred moving date early. See moveBuddha's full 2026 Moving Trends Report →
Best Interstate Movers in Rhode Island
The best interstate movers in Rhode Island are led by Safeway Moving, which scores 4.90/5 on moveBuddha. 16 of Rhode Island's 27 movers (59%) hold interstate operating authority, compared with 71% nationally. The top-rated interstate movers below average 4.87/5. Data last updated November 2026.
If you're moving from Rhode Island to a destination 500+ miles away, a local mover may not be the right fit. Long-distance moves require interstate operating authority, appropriate estimates, and the equipment and experience to handle moves across state lines. We recommend using one of the top-rated long-distance moving companies in Rhode Island for any out-of-state move of significant distance.
Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving (USDOT#: 3166589) offers the best overall value among full-service interstate movers for moves over 500 miles from Rhode Island because it combines solid pricing with premium features that make long-distance moving feel more manageable from start to finish.
- Best overall value: Safeway Moving stands out with a barcode-scanned inventory and 24/7 customer support, giving you more control and visibility than many competitors we reviewed.
- Competitive advantage: Safeway adds to that value with 30 days of free climate-controlled storage and optional full-value protection, which can be especially useful for expensive items or more complicated interstate moves.
- Average cost: Safeway Moving's pricing typically falls between $1,000 and $4,900 for long-distance moves, based on moveBuddha's pricing data.
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (USDOT#: 614506) is our top pick for the most experienced full-service interstate mover for moves over 500 miles from Rhode Island because it has the operational depth and specialized handling expertise needed for long-distance moves involving antiques, pianos, bulky furniture, and other high-value items.
- Most experienced handling: American Van Lines operates as a carrier with in-house crews trained to manage fragile, oversized, and high-value shipments, which makes it especially reliable for moves where careful execution is critical.
- Competitive advantage: American Van Lines backs that up with custom crating, climate-controlled storage, antique services, and support for last-minute long-distance moves, making it a leading choice for complex and specialty-item relocations.
- Average cost: Our moveBuddha data shows American Van Lines pricing around $3,948 for a typical 2-bedroom interstate move around 1,000 miles.
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines (USDOT#: 070851) is our top pick for the best customized plans among full-service interstate movers for moves over 500 miles from Rhode Island because it provides more control over pricing, services, and booking terms than competing long-distance movers.
- Best customized plans: North American Van Lines offers flexible, build-your-own service options with a la carte pricing and tracking tools, making it easier to tailor a move to your budget and priorities.
- Competitive advantage: North American Van Lines has no upfront deposit, flexible service packages such as fragile-only packing, and vehicle-shipping add-ons, which gives it more customization than other full-service competitors.
- Average cost: Pricing typically falls between $5,330 and $13,462 for long-distance moves, based on firsthand moveBuddha pricing data.
- 1,800 trucks
- Storage available
- Customized moving plans
What specialty moving services are available in Rhode Island?
Not every mover in Rhode Island offers specialty services. Based on moveBuddha's review of 27 Rhode Island movers, here are the specialty services available in Rhode Island, how common they are, and who we recommend for each:
- Art handling: The best art handling company in Rhode Island is Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 30% of Rhode Island movers offer art handling as a specialty service.
- Antique moving: The best antique moving company in Rhode Island is Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 30% of Rhode Island movers offer antique moving as a specialty service.
- Junk removal: The best junk removal company in Rhode Island is All My Sons Moving & Storage (4.44/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 30% of Rhode Island movers offer junk removal as a specialty service.
- Fragile-only packing: The best fragile-only packing company in Rhode Island is Arpin RI Moving and Storage (3.86/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 7% of Rhode Island movers offer fragile-only packing as a specialty service.
- Storage: The best storage company in Rhode Island is Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5 moveBuddha rating). About 63% of Rhode Island movers offer storage services.
- Climate-controlled storage: The best climate-controlled storage company in Rhode Island is Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 33% of Rhode Island movers offer climate-controlled storage as a specialty service.
- Hot tub relocation: The best hot tub relocation company in Rhode Island is College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.08/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 7% of Rhode Island movers offer hot tub relocation as a specialty service.
- Piano moving: The best piano moving company in Rhode Island is Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5 moveBuddha rating). About 52% of Rhode Island movers offer piano moving as a specialty service.
How much do movers cost in Rhode Island?
Hiring local movers in Rhode Island costs an average $481 for a studio up to $3,121 for a 5+ bedroom home. Most local movers in Rhode Island charge $90/hour for a 2-person crew, based on moveBuddha's 2026 quote data. Compare flat-rate vs. hourly movers before you book.
The table below breaks down average local moving costs in Rhode Island by home size, including estimated total prices and hourly rates.
| Home size | Avg. total cost | Cost/hour |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $481 | $126 |
| 1 bedroom | $607 | $126 |
| 2 bedrooms | $884 | $176 |
| 3 bedrooms | $1,837 | $247 |
| 4 bedrooms | $2,084 | $247 |
| 5+ bedrooms | $3,121 | $346 |
Peak-season moves (May through August) and month-end dates cost 15% to 20% more. Get a personalized Rhode Island moving cost estimate →
Key Rhode Island Moving Tips & Consumer Protection
Whether your move stays in Rhode Island or becomes a cross-country move, here is what to know before you book:
- Weather: Rhode Island has warm summers and cold winters. The state's southern coastal portions have hot summers and cool winters with a mix of rain and snow.
- Building and parking rules: If you are moving to or from an HOA community or a building with an elevator, check the handbook or ask management about moving days, truck size limits, and elevator reservations. Also check with your destination city for any truck or container parking permits, especially in downtown or high-traffic areas.
- Rhode Island mover licensing: In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Verify a license → You can also confirm any mover's USDOT status and complaint history through the FMCSA site.
- Red flags: Be wary of movers that provide quotes without assessing your belongings, demand large cash deposits upfront, arrive in unmarked trucks, or refuse to provide a written estimate. These are common warning signs of a potential rogue moving company.
- Moving insurance: Interstate movers must offer free basic coverage, but it pays only $0.60 per pound per item (just $3 for a 5-pound item worth $500). Requirements for local moves vary by state, so ask your Rhode Island mover what coverage it includes and whether it offers full-value protection.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move to keep your mail uninterrupted.
How to choose movers in Rhode Island
Choosing the right moving company in Rhode Island means looking beyond price. Licensing, customer reviews, transparent estimates, and consumer protections all matter. Use this checklist to compare movers before you book.
- Pricing and estimates: Get written estimates from at least three moving companies, ideally after an in-person or virtual walkthrough. Ask about binding estimates, potential extra fees, and what's included in the quoted price. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to see how estimates compare with typical moving costs.
- Discounts and price matching: About 15% of Rhode Island movers offer military discounts, and about 4% offer senior discounts. Ask whether your mover offers additional savings or will match a competitor's written estimate.
- Service and reviews: Look beyond star ratings to see how movers handle customer complaints, damaged belongings, and unexpected charges. moveBuddha evaluates 27 Rhode Island movers on customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. Gentle Giant Moving Company leads with a 4.52/5 rating. See our guide on how to choose a moving company.
- moveBuddha Certified movers: Consider a moveBuddha Certified mover for added protection. Every Certified mover passes our vetting process for safety, licensing, reputation, transparency, and pricing, agrees to ongoing monitoring, and commits to additional customer protections.
- Booking and flexibility: Ask about deposit requirements, cancellation policies, and rescheduling fees before committing. Moving companies book up quickly during peak season (May through August), so try to reserve your preferred date at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
Final Verdict: Best Moving Companies in Rhode Island
After evaluating 27 moving companies in Rhode Island and comparing national providers, moveBuddha recommends these top picks for local moves, long-distance relocations, moving containers, and DIY moves.
- Best overall local mover in Rhode Island: Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5). Gentle Giant Moving Company ranks first among the 27 local movers moveBuddha analyzed in Rhode Island. Local moving costs range from $481 for a studio to $3,121 for a 5+ bedroom home.
- Best overall value for interstate moves: Safeway Moving (4.90/5). Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top pick for value on long-distance moves from Rhode Island, offering flat-rate pricing and full licensing and insurance for interstate relocations. Read our Safeway Moving review.
- Best for professionally trained crews: American Van Lines (4.90/5). American Van Lines stands out for its experienced, professionally trained moving crews and transparent flat-rate pricing on interstate moves. Read our American Van Lines review.
- Best moving container: PODS (4.5/5). Moving containers offer a flexible alternative to full-service movers and can cost significantly less. Load at your own pace while PODS handles transportation.
- Best budget DIY option: Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5). Rental trucks are often the most affordable option for DIY moves in Rhode Island, especially over shorter distances. Factor in fuel, mileage charges, and other fees when comparing the total cost.
FAQs about moving in Rhode Island
How can I see all moving companies in Rhode Island?
You can see all moving companies in Rhode Island in our comprehensive list of Rhode Island movers.
What is the cheapest way to move in Rhode Island?
Rental trucks are the cheapest way to move in Rhode Island. DIY moves cost roughly 30% less than full-service movers. Renting a truck and hiring a labor-only crew for loading and unloading gives you professional help at a fraction of full-service pricing. Moving containers are the next most affordable option and remove the need to drive a large vehicle yourself.
What is a full-service move?
A full-service move means the moving company handles packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. About 70% of Rhode Island movers offer professional packing, and about 63% offer storage. Full-service is the most hands-off option but costs more than DIY alternatives. Confirm exactly which services are included in your quote before signing.
What is the difference between a moving broker and a moving carrier?
A moving carrier owns trucks and employs the crew that physically moves your belongings. A moving broker arranges moves through third-party carriers and does not handle your items directly. moveBuddha is not a broker and does not recommend working with moving brokers. We advise booking directly with a licensed carrier whenever possible.
How much should you tip movers in Rhode Island?
For a local move, $20 to $50 per mover is a standard tip. For a long-distance move, $50 to $100+ per mover is appropriate, especially if the crew handled heavy furniture, stairs, or challenging access conditions. Tipping is not required, but it is customary for good service. Tip each crew member individually in cash at the end of the job. Read our full guide on tipping movers for more information.
How long does a move take in Rhode Island?
A local move in Rhode Island typically takes 4 hours for a 1-bedroom and 8 hours for a 3-bedroom home. Long-distance moves out of Rhode Island add transit time that varies by distance and carrier. Full-service movers typically provide a delivery window of 1 to 14 business days for interstate moves, depending on distance. Rental trucks and moving containers give you more control over exact delivery timing.
When is the best time of year to move in Rhode Island?
The cheapest time to move in Rhode Island is during the off-season, from September through April. Peak moving season runs May through August, with June and July commanding the highest rates. Moves booked midweek and mid-month also tend to cost less than weekend or month-end bookings. Planning around these windows can save 15% to 20% on your total moving cost.
How we chose the best moving companies in Rhode Island
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 27 Rhode Island 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%).
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.