When moving from Alabama to Michigan, expect to spend between
$2,543–$6,405 if using professional movers, about
$2,151 for a moving container, and around
$997
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Alabama
Alabama offers 40 interstate moving companies ready to support your move to Michigan. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best local movers in Alabama, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Changing Spaces Moving Inc: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- This Side Up Moving & Storage : 4.52 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
Motivated Movers, Inc. has been serving Madison, AL, and surrounding areas with reliable local residential moving services since 2011. Setting themselves apart from nearby moving companies, they offer an array of specialized services, including packing and unpacking, as well as the capability to move bulky items like pianos and hot tubs. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp, 4.8 on Google, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, customer satisfaction is a clear priority. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trustworthy choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3822
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 1164434
Changing Spaces Moving Inc has been a trusted name for local residential moving services in and around Birmingham, AL since 2004. Unlike many nearby movers, they offer a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, and they can even handle specialized tasks like moving pianos. Customers consistently praise the company, as evidenced by their average Yelp rating of 4.1 and a perfect 5.0 on Google My Business. Furthermore, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau underscores their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3959
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1874024
This Side Up Moving & Storage offers highly-regarded local residential moving services in Huntsville, AL, and has been trusted by the community since 2006. While nearby moving companies might not offer the same comprehensive range of services, This Side Up stands out by providing packing, unpacking, crating, and piano moving services with no deposit required. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident from their outstanding 4.8 average rating on Google with 378 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, although Yelp reviews are more mixed with an average rating of 3.4 from 19 reviews. For those seeking a reliable, full-service local mover, This Side Up Moving & Storage is a reputable choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3915
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage Of Birmingham, LLC
All My Sons Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Alabaster, AL since 1999. While the company boasts an impressive average rating of 4.6 from over 1,780 reviews on Google My Business and holds an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp profile tells a different story with an average rating of 1.3 from 62 reviews. In addition to local moves, they offer packing and unpacking services, and can handle special items like pianos and antiques. Although a deposit is required, All My Sons Moving & Storage accepts credit cards, making payments convenient. Comparatively, their longevity and extensive positive reviews on Google suggest reliability, making them a competitive choice among local moving companies.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 457
Years in Business: 111
DOT #: 2897746
Alternate Names: Covan World-Wide Moving, Inc. , Coleman American Moving Services , Coleman World Group, LLC , Coleman Worldwide Moving , Covan Worldwide Moving
Coleman Worldwide Moving, established in 1915, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Montgomery, AL. Unlike many nearby movers, Coleman also provides an array of additional services such as office moving, packing and unpacking, and safe relocation, which sets them apart. Consumer feedback is mixed, with a Google My Business rating of 3.6 based on 36 reviews, but they hold an impressive A rating from the Better Business Bureau. This long-standing and reputable company accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, making them a convenient choice for local residents.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
The best Alabama to Michigan moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Alabama and drops it off at your new home in Michigan.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best Alabama to Michigan moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Alabama to Michigan, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Alabama to Michigan labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They’ll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from Alabama to Michigan.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to MI move
After studying pricing from 44 Alabama movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
- Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Alabama to Michigan?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Alabama to Michigan. You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,241 – $4,527 | $793 – $1,890 | $642 – $1,145 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,543 – $6,405 | $1,366 – $2,937 | $633 – $1,362 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,141 – $7,815 | $1,878 – $3,628 | $820 – $1,621 |
*Estimated costs for a 933-mile move from AL to MI are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s dataset as of Nov 04, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling. For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Alabama to Michigan
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Alabama to Michigan will cost between $1,241 and $4,527. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from AL to MI will range from $2,543 to $6,405, and a large move from Alabama to Michigan will cost from $4,141 to $7,815.
Cost of moving containers from Alabama to Michigan
If you’re moving from Alabama to Michigan, expect to pay between $793 and $1,890 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,366 up to $2,937. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,878 and $3,628. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Alabama.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to Michigan
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $642 and $1,145. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $633 and $1,362. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $820 up to $1,621 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AL to MI
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Alabama to Michigan. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in Alabama is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from AL to MI
A relocation from Alabama to Michigan comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Alabama vs. Michigan
Comparing expenses in Alabama and Michigan shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
| Alabama | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $925 | $1,037 |
| Average home cost | $227,508 | $245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,609 | $68,505 |
| Cost of living index | 88 | 92 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.9% | 4.7% |
| Average sales tax | 9.22% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 5.0% | 4.25% |
- Rent in Michigan is approximately 12% higher than in Alabama, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 8% higher in Michigan than in Alabama.
- Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 15% higher in Michigan compared to Alabama. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
- Since the cost of living is about the same in Michigan and Alabama, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
- Unemployment in Michigan is about 62% higher than in Alabama. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
- Sales tax in Michigan is 35% lower than in Alabama. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Michigan can really help lower your monthly costs.
- Income taxes are 15% lower in Michigan than in Alabama. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Alabama
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Michigan stacks up against Alabama across important lifestyle factors:
| Michigan | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,037,261 | 5,108,468 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49.7-48.3 | Republican 65-35 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 14ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 34″ | 56″ |
| Annual snow | 64″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 19.98 | 21.48 |
- Michigan is about 96% more populous than Alabama. With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
- During the last presidential election, both Alabama and Michigan supported the Republican candidate.
- Michigan averages 81°F in summer, a cooler contrast to 91°F in Alabama. Expect milder summers, lower utility costs, and more time to enjoy being outdoors.
- During the coldest part of the year, Michigan drops to about 14°F while Alabama only reaches 33°F. Moving to Michigan with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
- You’ll enjoy about 34 inches of rain each year in Michigan, compared to 56 inches in Alabama. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- Every year, Michigan gets around 64 inches of snow, much more than the 1 inch that Alabama typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
- Michigan has a lower crime rate than Alabama with a crime index of 19.98 vs. 21.48. A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Alabama vs. Michigan
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Michigan versus Alabama:
| Pros of living in Alabama | Pros of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Scenic beauty |
| Tasty southern comfort food | Good higher education |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Top-notch college football | Low cost of living |
| Rich history | Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Alabama vs. Michigan
Moving from Alabama to Michigan comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Alabama | Cons of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| Poor quality of life | Cold snowy winters |
| Severe weather | Spotty economic opportunity |
| Restrictive alcohol laws | Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Poor healthcare | Expensive education |
| Cockroaches | Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Alabama to Michigan move
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Michigan moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Michigan, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Michigan without a hitch. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Michigan
Get ready to discover all that Michigan has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Alabama to Michigan?
Opting for a full-service Alabama moving company might mean a higher upfront cost, but it lets you relax while the pros tackle all the details. Want to be more budget-friendly? You can rent a moving truck or choose a moving container. Just keep in mind you’ll be taking on more of the work yourself. If you’re keen to cut costs even further, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Alabama to Michigan?
Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from Alabama to Michigan using a top-rated auto transport company.
What are the benefits of moving from Alabama to Michigan?
The main reasons people are moving from Alabama to Michigan are the amazing upsides of living in Michigan, such as scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Alabama or Michigan?
Living in Alabama usually costs less than in Michigan. Housing is more affordable in Alabama, with average rent about 11% less and home prices 7% lower than in Michigan. However, taxes are lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Alabama residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
You should make approximately $54,934 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Michigan. The cost of living in Michigan is about $3,608 per month for an individual and $6,859 for a family of four. Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Alabama?
Some movers in Alabama provide budget-friendly deals. Special pricing for military members is available from 2 moving companies. Discounts for seniors are offered by 1 movers. Student savings are available through 5 moving providers. Teacher and educator discounts can be found with 1 movers. Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 1 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
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