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Detroit to Ann Arbor, MI Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

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  • Moving 43 miles from Detroit to Ann Arbor can cost anywhere from $745 to $2,569. A smaller move will cost around $48.
  • Professional movers for this move from Detroit to Ann Arbor often price out between $745 and $2,569.*These numbers are based on a 2–3 bedroom home and – day delivery time. Your total cost and delivery time will vary based on your home size, the distance, and the time of year.
  • Our top-recommended mover for relocating from Detroit to Ann Arbor is Safeway Moving.
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Best movers from Detroit to Ann Arbor

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.9
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.8
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
4.2
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.8
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
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Professional
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Container
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Rental truck
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Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing

Estimated cost to move from Detroit to Ann Arbor

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 43-mile move from Detroit to Ann Arbor, MI, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Mar 16, 2026. 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.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $443 - $1,345
  • Moving Container $110 - $766
  • Rental Truck $36 - $88
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $745 - $2,569
  • Moving Container $379 - $1,086
  • Rental Truck $48 - $118
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,351 - $3,869
  • Moving Container $722 - $1,399
  • Rental Truck $58 - $149
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
PODS
Romulus, MI Dexter, MI
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Feb 19, 2026
BLVD Moving
Farmington, MI Wayne, MI
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Feb 13, 2026
United Van Lines
Melvindale, MI Northville, MI
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Feb 03, 2026
American Van Lines
Southgate, MI Plymouth, MI
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 23, 2026
Allied Van Lines
Berkley, MI Barton Hills, MI
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 21, 2026
Joyce Van Lines
Bingham Farms, MI Chelsea, MI
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 15, 2026
North American Van Lines
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI Wixom, MI
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Dec 07, 2025
Mayflower Transit
St. Clair Shores, MI Milan, MI
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 05, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Ferndale, MI Ann Arbor, MI
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 05, 2025
AB Moving
Taylor, MI Novi, MI
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 03, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Ann Arbor to Detroit guide.

Local moving companies in Detroit

Choosing one of the 84 local moving companies in Michigan for your Detroit to Ann Arbor move means less stress and more peace of mind. Local movers know the area inside and out, offer personalized services, and take care of everything from packing to transport, making your move easier, faster, and hassle-free.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. O'Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
81% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors. Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

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Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, polite and professional staff, and speedy moving process. Movers consistently handle belongings with care while maintaining clear communication, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Most clients say workers are reliable, prompt, and attentive. People also mention transparent pricing and easy scheduling as standout features. On the flip side, a small number of clients report damages to furniture or property and say that the company is slow to address such issues. A few mention challenges reaching customer service or experiencing rude behavior. With 298 customer reviews analyzed—93% positive—College Hunks stands out as a top performer compared to many moving services, excelling in speed, professionalism, and efficiency, but occasional mishandling and follow-up hassles mean attention to claims can be improved.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

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Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive. Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

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Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
89% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful. Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

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Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.

Services Offered

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  • 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
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
73% of all reviews were positive
24% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with O'Sullivan means fast work and respectful treatment of your belongings. Out of 320 pieces of feedback, 73% rated the company positively, reflecting efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and reasonable rates as standout features. Customers frequently compliment the team's ability to move quickly while keeping items safe, and many say the pricing is budget-friendly compared to other movers in the area. The booking process is usually described as easy, with frequent recommendations citing trustworthy, hardworking crews. Some negative input highlights recurring problems: several clients reported damage to their items or property and faced slow responses or unreturned calls when seeking compensation. Unexpected or higher-than-expected charges also appear regularly in the negative feedback. In contrast to other movers, O'Sullivan receives high levels of repeat and referral business, pointing to a generally higher satisfaction rate but is also flagged for inconsistent resolution of claims. If customer communication and claims response matched their crews' care and speed, customer satisfaction would likely be among the best in the region.
Get a Quote (800) 430-7881

Company Info

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State license #: 20587

Years in Business: 42

DOT #: 1660642

Alternate Names: O'Sullivan Moving & Storage

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage

Cost to move from Detroit to Ann Arbor

Browse the table below for average cost estimates to move from Detroit to Ann Arbor. We’ve split the numbers by home size and service type to help you evaluate your choices.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $346 - $1,084 $105 - $758 $37 - $87
2 - 3 bedrooms $745 - $2,569 $379 - $1,086 $48 - $118
4+ bedrooms $1,351 - $3,869 $722 - $1,399 $58 - $149
*Estimated ranges for a 43-mile move from Detroit to Ann Arbor come from moveBuddha’s dataset as of Mar 16, 2026. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified prices from movers across the country and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and shifting market conditions. Actual charges may differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel rates, and timing. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Ann Arbor

Expect a studio or one-bedroom move from Detroit to Ann Arbor to cost about $346– $1,084. A two- to three-bedroom move from Detroit to Ann Arbor typically ranges from $745 to $2,569, and a large move from Detroit to Ann Arbor is usually $1,351–$3,869.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Ann Arbor

Moving containers for a Detroit to Ann Arbor relocation will run $105 to $758 for a small load. For a two- to three-bedroom move, expect $379 to $1,086. A four-bedroom or larger shipment typically costs $722 to $1,399. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving within Michigan.

Cost of renting a moving truck from Detroit to Ann Arbor

Renting a moving truck from Detroit to Ann Arbor is generally the lowest-cost option, though it means you’re responsible for all driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $37 to $87. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $48 to $118, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Detroit to Ann Arbor costs around $58 to $149.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from Detroit to Ann Arbor

Cost of living: Detroit vs. Ann Arbor

Comparing life in Detroit and Ann Arbor goes beyond just looking at housing prices. We’ll break down key financial factors, like rent, home values, average income, day-to-day expenses, and local job trends, so you can get a clear picture of how living in Ann Arbor stacks up against Detroit.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Detroit Ann Arbor
Average rent cost $1,250 $2,260
Average home cost $73,156 $474,909
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $66,964
Cost of living (single person) $2,500 $2,176
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,687 $5,344
Unemployment rate 9.06% 3.5%
Average Sales Tax 6.0% 6.0%
  • Rent prices in Ann Arbor are 81% higher than in Detroit. You can expect to pay more for housing, which could leave you with less money for savings or other expenses.
  • Home prices in Ann Arbor are 549% higher than in Detroit. That means you might face a steeper down payment and higher monthly mortgage payments if you’re buying a home.
  • Income in Ann Arbor is 77% higher than in Detroit, which could mean greater earning potential and improved financial stability, especially if your salary aligns with the local average.
  • Moving to Ann Arbor means you’ll spend 13% less on living expenses than you would in Detroit. That puts more cash in your pocket to save, splurge, or invest as you please.
  • If you’re relocating to Ann Arbor, you’ll be glad to know the cost of living is 20% lower than in Detroit. That means you can stretch your budget further and possibly enjoy an even better quality of life after your move.
  • The unemployment rate in Ann Arbor is 61% lower than in Detroit, which suggests a stronger job market with more employment opportunities and greater economic stability.
  • Sales taxes match in Ann Arbor and Detroit, so your day-to-day spending on taxable goods shouldn’t be affected by the move.

If you’re used to living on $3,000 a month in Detroit, you’d need roughly $2,610 to maintain the same lifestyle in Ann Arbor.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Ann Arbor

Before you move, see how life stacks up in Ann Arbor compared to Detroit. You should compare everything from weather and cost of living to politics, safety, and population. This side-by-side breakdown will help you figure out which city matches your lifestyle and priorities.

Detroit Ann Arbor
Population 639,111 123,851
Political leaning Democratic 51-46 Democratic72-26
Summer high 84ºF 83ºF
Winter low 19ºF 17ºF
Annual rain 34" 36"
Annual snow 33" 43"
Crime index 72.92 31.0
  • You’ll find that Ann Arbor has about 81% fewer people than Detroit. Living in a smaller city often comes with perks like more tranquility, extra space, and lower costs. Just keep in mind you might miss some big-city amenities.
  • In the last presidential election, Ann Arbor leaned Democratic72-26, while Detroit leaned Democratic.
  • Moving between Detroit and Ann Arbor won’t bring major summer surprises. With highs near 83°F in both cities, your summer lifestyle should stay consistent.
  • During the chilliest months, both Detroit and Ann Arbor experience similar lows—expect 19°F in Detroit and 17°F in Ann Arbor.
  • Both Detroit and Ann Arbor experience similar annual rainfall, with Detroit receiving 34 inches and Ann Arbor getting 36 inches.
  • Typically, Ann Arbor gets more snow than Detroit, averaging 43 inches a year versus Detroit’s 33.
  • You’ll feel safer in Ann Arbor, thanks to its lower crime index (31.0) compared to Detroit (72.92).

Things to do in Ann Arbor

Craving adventure, lively culture, or some live sports action? You’ll find it all in Detroit.

Museums in Ann Arbor

  • Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
  • University of Michigan Museum of Art
  • University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
  • Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
  • Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry

Parks in Ann Arbor

  • Gallup Park
  • Hudson Mills Metropark
  • County Farm Park
  • Buhr Park
  • Lillie Park

Sports teams in Ann Arbor

  • Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten)

Universities in Ann Arbor

  • University of Michigan
  • Cleary University
  • Concordia University Ann Arbor
  • Washtenaw Community College

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Detroit to Ann Arbor?

Shipping furniture from Detroit to Ann Arbor with a mover will cost between $346 and $1,084. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $745–$2,569, and a four-bedroom move or bigger move from Detroit to Ann Arbor will cost from $1,351–$3,869.

How much are moving container companies from Detroit to Ann Arbor?

If you're moving from Detroit to Ann Arbor and considering moving containers, here’s what you can expect to pay: For a studio or one-bedroom, prices generally range from $105 to $758. If you’ve got two or three bedrooms, costs typically fall between $379 and $1,086. Got an even bigger space? For four- or five-bedroom homes, expect to pay anywhere from $722 up to $1,399.

How much is a moving truck from Detroit to Ann Arbor?

If you want to keep costs down, renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just remember, you’ll be responsible for driving and all the heavy lifting. We’ve included estimated fuel costs in our pricing, so there are no surprises.

If you’re renting a truck for a studio or one-bedroom move, you’ll usually spend between $37 and $87. Planning to move a larger apartment? You’re looking at costs from $48 to $118. For a four-bedroom home or bigger moving from Detroit to Ann Arbor, truck rental prices typically range from $58 up to $149.

How far in advance should I book Detroit-to-Ann Arbor movers?

For a smooth move from Detroit to Ann Arbor, book your movers at least two months in advance. If you’re moving during the busy summer months, try to secure your moving reservation three months ahead. Early booking not only increases your chances of getting your preferred date but can also help you snag lower rates. Some companies even throw in early-bird discounts when you reserve ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Ann Arbor?

To score the best moving deals to Ann Arbor, plan your move between early October and late April. Avoiding the busy May-to-September season means you’ll spend less and have an easier time picking your ideal moving date.

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