The best local moving companies in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, you have a choice of 94 interstate moving companies that can accomodate your move to South Dakota. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Massachusetts based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Michael’s Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Marathon Moving Co.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 31391
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1718049
Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.
Boston Best Rate Movers has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around Waltham, MA since 2006. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them an excellent choice for meticulous movers. Clients consistently praise their reliability, as evidenced by their 4.7 average rating across 32 Yelp reviews and 530 Google reviews, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, their no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards add to their customer-friendly approach.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 30293
Pricing: $199/hr
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 782104
Alternate Names: Michael’s Moving & Storage, Inc
Michael’s Moving & Storage, a trusted name in the Boston, MA area since 1996, specializes in local residential moving services with a reputation that surpasses many nearby competitors. Boasting an impressive array of consumer reviews—an average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 133 reviews and a glowing 4.8 on Google from 565 reviews—the company also holds an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. In addition to local moves, Michael’s offers comprehensive packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing services, ensuring safe transport of pianos, art, and antiques. While their rate is $199 per hour for local moves and a deposit is required, the convenience of accepting both cash and credit cards makes transactions smooth for clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 943487
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 943487
Alternate Names: Marathon Moving Company, Inc.
Marathon Moving Co., a reputable and seasoned moving company based in Canton, MA, has been serving the local community with excellence since 2001. Highly regarded by customers, the company boasts a 4.3 average rating on Yelp from 75 reviews and a stellar 4.7 average rating on Google My Business from 190 reviews; it also holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby moving services, Marathon Moving Co. offers an extensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques. With full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking available, they ensure peace of mind throughout the moving process, though a deposit is required.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Gentle Giant Moving Company has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Marshfield, MA since 1981. Setting themselves apart from other nearby movers, they also offer packing, unpacking, and storage services, and are equipped to handle special items like pianos with care. The company boasts an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and consistently high customer reviews, averaging 4.2 stars on Yelp and 4.9 stars on Google. With a strong reputation and a comprehensive range of services, Gentle Giant Moving Company is a reliable choice for those looking to move locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 70719
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 70719
Olympia Moving & Storage, located in Watertown, MA, has been providing exceptional local residential moving services since 1994. They stand out among nearby moving companies with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, and the ability to move delicate items such as pianos, antiques, and safes. Their reputation is solid, boasting a Yelp average rating of 4.1 from 148 reviews, a Google My Business rating of 4.5 from 229 reviews, and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Olympia Moving & Storage also accepts credit cards and offers full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
The best Massachusetts to South Dakota moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Massachusetts and delivering it to your new place in South Dakota.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
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The best Massachusetts to South Dakota moving truck rentals
If you’re looking to cut costs on your move from Massachusetts to South Dakota, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you’ll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
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The best Massachusetts to South Dakota labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from Massachusetts to South Dakota, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your MA to SD move
Using rate data from 106 Massachusetts movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
- Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
- Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
- Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to South Dakota?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Massachusetts to South Dakota with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,225 – $4,787 | $1,091 – $2,561 | $997 – $1,897 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,099 – $6,706 | $1,833 – $3,973 | $1,101 – $2,348 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,411 – $10,273 | $2,477 – $5,278 | $1,414 – $2,677 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,718-mile move from MA to SD, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Massachusetts to South Dakota
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to South Dakota, you can expect to spend between $1,225 and $4,787. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,099 to $6,706 on the same route (MA to SD). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Massachusetts to South Dakota typically runs between $5,411 and $10,273.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to South Dakota
Moving from Massachusetts to South Dakota? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,091 and $2,561. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,833 to $3,973. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,477 up to $5,278. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to South Dakota
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $997 and $1,897. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,101 and $2,348. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,414 and $2,677.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to SD
There are many factors that influence Massachusetts moving costs. The cost to move from Massachusetts to South Dakota will depend on these factors:
- How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
- When you move: Summer moves in Massachusetts fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
- Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from MA to SD
Moving between Massachusetts and South Dakota involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. South Dakota
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between Massachusetts and South Dakota. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates, this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle. Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
| Massachusetts | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,588 | $878 |
| Average home cost | $623,131 | $306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) | $96,505 | $69,457 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.9% | 1.9% |
| Average sales tax | 6.25% | 6.4% |
| State income tax | 9.0% | 0.0% |
- Rent in South Dakota is about 45% cheaper than in Massachusetts, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices in South Dakota are roughly 51% less than in Massachusetts, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
- Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Dakota are about 28% lower than in Massachusetts.
- Since the cost of living is about the same in Massachusetts and South Dakota, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
- South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than Massachusetts by about 51%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
- Sales tax is similar in South Dakota and Massachusetts, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
- South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Massachusetts. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Massachusetts
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how South Dakota differs from Massachusetts in these areas.
| South Dakota | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 919,318 | 7,001,399 |
| Political leaning | Republican 63-37 | Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high | 85ºF | 82ºF |
| Winter low | 7ºF | 16ºF |
| Annual rain | 23″ | 49″ |
| Annual snow | 39″ | 47″ |
| Crime index | 21.14 | 13.92 |
- With a population about 87% smaller than Massachusetts, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living. Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
- In the last presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican and Massachusetts voted Democratic.
- Summer highs in South Dakota average 85°F, almost the same as 82°F in Massachusetts. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
- Winter in South Dakota can dip to 7°F, colder than the 16°F lows in Massachusetts. Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
- In South Dakota, you’ll see about 23 inches of rain each year, less than the 49 inches you’re used to in Massachusetts. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
- In South Dakota, you’ll see just 39 inches of snow each year, compared to Massachusetts, which gets 47 inches annually. Moving to South Dakota means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- South Dakota reports a higher crime rate than Massachusetts, with a crime index of 21.14 versus 13.92. A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. South Dakota
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in South Dakota stacks up against Massachusetts:
| Pros of living in Massachusetts | Pros of living in South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Natural beauty | Outstanding tax benefits |
| Excellent education system | Robust job market |
| Delicious seafood | Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Home to boston | Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. South Dakota
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Massachusetts to South Dakota, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Massachusetts | Cons of living in South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Bad traffic | Extreme weather |
| Poor driving conditions | Small-town mindset |
| Harsh winter weather | Sparsely populated |
| High cost of living | Strange and offensive laws |
| Peculiar liquor laws | Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to South Dakota move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: South Dakota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to South Dakota right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get ready to discover South Dakota. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Massachusetts to South Dakota?
Hiring a full-service Massachusetts moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to South Dakota?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving package. Alternatively, you can book vehicle transport from Massachusetts to South Dakota separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to South Dakota?
More and more folks are relocating from Massachusetts to South Dakota to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Massachusetts. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is more affordable in South Dakota, with average rent about 45% less and home prices 51% lower than in Massachusetts. Taxes are also lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
If you’re planning to live on your own in South Dakota, aim for an income of around $62,655 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,529 if you’re flying solo, or $5,562 for a family of four. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Massachusetts?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Massachusetts. Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies. Savings for seniors are available from 3 movers. Students benefit from discounts provided by 6 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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