The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Madison, WI

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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.
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Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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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 Madison for those moving out of state

If you’re moving out of Wisconsin, here are our top picks for best interstate moving companies in Madison:

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
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
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 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 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 long-distance movers in Madison for those staying in state

Even if you’re just relocating from Madison to another Wisconsin city, your move could still be a couple hundred miles or more. In that case, you’ll want to hire one of the top long-distance movers.

Here are the best long-distance moving companies that are located within Madison:

Preferred Partner

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/dreiskemoving/, https://twitter.com/DreiskeI
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (28%)
  • Careful handling (26%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
  • Lack of communication (18%)
Review Analysis
Moving day peace of mind stands out in customer input for Dreiske Moving & Storage. After reviewing 263 responses, 84% reported positive experiences. Dreiske's team gets frequent praise for professionalism, careful handling of belongings, efficiency, and friendly, helpful staff—qualities few competitors match as consistently. Customers found their moves smooth and felt their valuables were treated with respect and caution. Some felt pricing was fair and the process clear, adding to their confidence. While many moves went off without a hitch, negative feedback focused on damaged items, communication breakdowns during claims, and charges higher than expected. In a few cases, customers described unresolved damage or confusion over final costs. Most customers felt their team was capable and courteous, but sustained negative reports indicate Dreiske can improve transparency and claims support. For reliability and a professional, considerate staff, Dreiske receives high marks but should address damage control and billing communication more thoroughly to surpass industry standards.
Get a Quote (815) 385-9386

Company Info

State license #: 69338

DOT #: 822740


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TMJTMadison, https://x.com/2menandatruckwi?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Efficient service (29%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (28%)
  • Unexpected charges (25%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (20%)
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and professional crews are frequent themes found in the 286 feedback entries for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Nearly 80% of input praises their efficient service, skilled and polite movers, careful handling of belongings, responsive communication, and fast-moving teams. Many note seamless scheduling, prompt arrivals, and property treated with respect. While most find the staff courteous and the process smooth, over one-fifth raise concerns, especially about damage to items, inaccurate estimates, and unexpected charges. Some reported broken furniture, billing surprises, or unresolved claims, with a few experiencing high costs or responses slower than agreed. Compared to many moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives above-average marks for professionalism and care, but feedback underscores the importance of vigilant inventory tracking and clear, accurate quoting before booking.
Get a Quote (608) 340-1557

Company Info

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Lightner & Lightner, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GoArmstrongMadison/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Careful handling (30%)
  • Good communication (30%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (32%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (30%)
  • Lack of communication (30%)
Review Analysis
Armstrong Relocation stands out for its responsive, professional, and courteous staff. Customers frequently praise their careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and efficient moving process. Many mention friendly movers who are eager to help, making the experience less stressful than other moving services. Feedback often notes accurate estimates and competitive pricing, outshining many industry competitors. Negative feedback focuses on item damage during moves, dissatisfaction with claims resolutions, and occasional unprofessional interactions or lowballed estimates. Among 57 reviews analyzed, 77% are positive, with most input stressing reliability and care, while negative experiences center around damage and communication. Compared to other movers, Armstrong earns strong marks for customer service and careful handling, but could improve on damage prevention and clarity in estimates.
Get a Quote (608) 838-5940

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc., Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services, The Armstrong Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TopNotchMovers/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (36%)
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Good communication (29%)
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges (27%)
  • Damage to items (24%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (21%)
Review Analysis
Top Notch Moving and Storage earns its name with the overwhelming majority of customer feedback citing efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling. Nearly 95% of 234 total reviews express strong satisfaction, highlighting friendly movers and consistent communication. Customers regularly note prompt arrivals, care for personal belongings, and an easy, stress-free process. Several customers mention moving delicate items and heavy furniture with no damage, even in challenging conditions. Friendly and approachable staff and good communication further set this company apart from competitors. A very small percentage of reviews report upset over property damage, higher-than-expected charges, or unprofessional interactions, especially during complex moves. Some customers experienced additional fees not clearly outlined or insufficient handling of claims when things went wrong. Only one neutral review described mixed staff performance during illness. Compared to typical moving companies, Top Notch stands out for service consistency and upbeat, helpful crews. Most clients enthusiastically recommend the company, with return customers making up a notable portion of input. The strong focus on efficiency, careful handling, and people skills makes Top Notch Moving and Storage a reliable choice for local and long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (608) 590-3710

Company Info

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3322160

Alternate Names: TopNotchMovers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Best long-distance movers in Madison for small moves

Many full-service moving companies have a 3,000-pound minimum requirement and may not be able to help you if you are moving a college dorm or studio apartment — or have decided to just take a few items with you.

In that case, you might be better off going with a long-distance company in Madison that specializes in small moves.

Here are our top suggestions:

Best for Small Moves
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • No minimum size
  • Top-quality materials
  • Full-service packing
read our full review
Check prices Check prices
best for small moves
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Check prices 800-626-1257
At A Glance
  • Specializes in small moves
  • Guaranteed delivery date
  • Online chatbot and resources for a seamless move
  • Car shipping services
  • Gives back with charitable donations
read our full review
Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Madison

A moving container can be a great solution if you want to save a little money on your move from Madison to another Wisconsin city or out of state. While you will have to handle the heavy lifting, you can load and unload containers at your preferred pace over several days or more. And the container company will still handle the driving for you.

Container costs vary depending on the distance of your move and the size and number of your containers, so it’s good to get multiple moving quotes to compare pricing for your specific relocation.

You can start with these two companies:

Best Nationwide Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices
Best value container
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
Check prices Check prices

Labor-only moving companies in Madison

If you don’t mind driving from Madison but want some helping hands in terms of loading and unloading, look into labor-only moving companies.

Here’s who we suggest:

Best Labor Only
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
Check prices Check prices
Best customer experience
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

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

While you’ll save some money with the two alternatives above, the cheapest way to move out of state is by handling all aspects — the heavy lifting and the driving — yourself. On average, a full DIY move from Madison costs $19–$39 a day for a truck rental, plus a per-mile fee of $0.89–$0.99.

Using moving rental trucks definitely requires the most work, but if budget is your biggest concern, check out these options:

Best Availability
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Madison, WItoggle

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 Madison

The average cost for professional movers in Madison is $85 per hour, but even the best interstate moving companies need more information about the distance and size of your move to give you a moving quote.

Factors that affect the cost of moving from Madison

  1. How far you’re moving: Distance is the most impactful cost factor. Naturally, the farther you are moving, the more it will cost. Relocating a couple hundred miles from Madison to another Wisconsin city will not be as expensive as a cross-country move.
  2. The moving option you choose: Your costs will vary significantly depending on whether you choose a full-service mover, a moving container, or a rental truck. Every move is different, so balance your needs and your budget when deciding on the best relocation method.
  3. The amount of belongings you have: Movers determine cost by the total estimated weight of your household items and furnishings, so be sure to itemize your belongings to get the most accurate quote. You may also want to consider downsizing before moving out of Madison to reduce your moving expenses.
  4. Any add-on services you choose: Additional services like third-party labor assistance or packing and unpacking help are convenient, but they will also contribute to your total moving costs.
  5. When you move: The time of the year, month, and even week can all affect what you pay. Summer moves are typically more expensive because they are the busiest season for movers. Moving between October and April can be more cost-effective. Mid-month and mid-week moves are also cheaper, since most people tend to move on the weekends around the start or end of the month.

To give you an accurate estimate, we’ve created a moving cost calculator to help you get a good idea of your long-distance move cost. Plus, we’ve put together a detailed post all about moving costs in Madison.

FAQs

What else should I know about moving out of Wisconsin?toggle

A moving company helping you move out of Wisconsin must be properly licensed and have a U.S. Department of Transportation number. Of course, all of the Madison movers we’ve included on this list have everything in order but you can check for yourself on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

If you’re moving from one state to another, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move document from the FMCSA.

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

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Madison is going to be the most cost-effective approach. If you’re moving out of Wisconsin, using a national moving company comes with more experience, which may cost a bit more.

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

Moving companies in Madison are usually slower in November and December due to the average winter low of 10°F, the holidays and kids being in school, so you can negotiate with a mover more during those months and save some money.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Madison?toggle

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Madison. The cheapest options for moving out of the Mad City are usually renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. We’ve also got a helpful guide if you’re looking for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

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