How we chose the best moving companies for your DE to MI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 10 Delaware moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Delaware to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Delaware to Michigan.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,056 – $3,858 |
$720 – $1,855 |
$564 – $1,013 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,990 – $5,419 |
$1,376 – $2,762 |
$597 – $1,179 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,708 – $6,752 |
$1,757 – $3,501 |
$771 – $1,474 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 808-mile move from DE to
MI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Delaware to Michigan
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Delaware to Michigan typically costs between
$1,056 and
$3,858.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$1,990
and $5,419
when moving from DE to MI.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Delaware to Michigan,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,708
up to $6,752.
Cost of moving containers from Delaware to Michigan
If you’re relocating from Delaware to Michigan,
you’ll typically spend between $720
and $1,855 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,376 up to
$2,762.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,757 and
$3,501. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Delaware.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Delaware to Michigan
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$564 and
$1,013.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$597 to
$1,179.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $771 and
$1,474.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from DE to MI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Delaware to Michigan. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Delaware, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from DE to MI
Transitioning from Delaware to Michigan gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Delaware vs. Michigan
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Delaware and Michigan are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Delaware |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,286 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$388,654 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$79,325 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
0.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
6.6% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 19% less expensive in Michigan than in Delaware, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Michigan are about 37% lower than in Delaware, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Michigan are roughly 14% lower than in Delaware.
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Moving to Michigan costs about 8% less than living in Delaware. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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Unemployment in Michigan is about 57% higher than in Delaware. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Michigan has a sales tax, while Delaware does not. Expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 36% lower in Michigan compared to Delaware. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Delaware
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Michigan and Delaware compare.
|
Michigan |
Delaware |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
1,031,890 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Democratic 57-43 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
45″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
13″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
23.48 |
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If you’re moving from Delaware to Michigan, you’ll find Michigan has about 873% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
-
In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while Delaware supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Michigan is 81°F compared to 87°F in Delaware.
A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
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In the coldest months, Michigan dips to about 14°F, colder than 25°F in Delaware.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Michigan, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year, less than the 45 inches you’re used to in Delaware.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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Each year, Michigan gets about 64 inches of snow, far more than the 13 inches you might be accustomed to in Delaware.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
Michigan boasts a lower crime rate than Delaware, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 23.48.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Delaware vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Michigan to Delaware:
| Pros of living in Delaware |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Scenic beauty |
| High-quality healthcare |
Good higher education |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful beaches |
Low cost of living |
| Rich culture |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Delaware vs. Michigan
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Delaware to Michigan:
| Cons of living in Delaware |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Hurricanes |
Cold snowy winters |
| High crime rate |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| Overcrowding |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| High cost of living |
Expensive education |
| Limited public transportation |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Delaware to Michigan move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Michigan, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Michigan. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Michigan
Get excited to explore Michigan. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home 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 Delaware to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Delaware to Michigan?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Delaware to
Michigan
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Delaware to Michigan?
Many people are making the move from Delaware to Michigan to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Michigan has to offer, like scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Delaware or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Delaware.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 19% less and home prices 37% lower than in Delaware.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Delaware residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
Planning to move to Michigan? A single adult should aim for an income of around $54,934 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,608 for an individual, or $6,859 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Delaware?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Delaware:
2 provide military discounts;
1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Delaware to Michigan, expect professional movers to cost around
$1,990 to
$5,419, roughly
$2,069 for a container move, and close to
$888
for a rental truck.
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