The best local movers for Grand Rapids to Boston moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Grand Rapids that also handles long-distance moves to Boston. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 13 local movers in Grand Rapids who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Grand Rapids to Boston.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Powell Relocation Group: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- H & H Moving Company, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Phase Six Moving, LLC , Two Men and A Truck/Grand Rapids North
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 261884
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 261884
Alternate Names: Powell Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 2956991
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: MTC Learning Technologies, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 97
DOT #: 77949
Alternate Names: Corrigan Moving Systems – Grand Rapids, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3328141
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Grand Rapids to Boston?
The average hourly rate for movers in Michigan is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,222 – $4,369 | $746 – $1,960 | $551 – $1,019 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,419 – $6,060 | $1,410 – $2,617 | $645 – $1,236 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,893 – $8,129 | $1,820 – $3,598 | $792 – $1,608 |
Cost to hire movers from Grand Rapids to Boston
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Grand Rapids to Boston will cost between $1,222 and $4,369. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Grand Rapids to Grand Rapids will range from $2,419 to $6,060, and a large move from Grand Rapids to Boston will cost from $3,893 to $8,129.
Cost of moving containers from Grand Rapids to Boston
If you’re moving from Grand Rapids to Boston, expect to pay between $746 and $1,960 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,410 up to $2,617. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,820 and $3,598. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Grand Rapids to Boston
Renting a moving truck from Grand Rapids to Boston 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 $551 and $1,019. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $645 and $1,236. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $792 up to $1,608 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Grand Rapids to Boston
The cost of Grand Rapids movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,199, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,636.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Grand Rapids, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($551–$1,417) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Grand Rapids to Boston
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Boston runs about -10% higher for singles and 58% higher for families than Grand Rapids.
Singles spend around $4,820 in Grand Rapids versus $5,333 in Grand Rapids; families pay $11,304 compared with $7,160.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Grand Rapids | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,900 | $3,361 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,200 | $5,973 |
| Average home value | $328,256 | $739,121 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,299 | $89,212 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,333 | $4,820 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,160 | $11,304 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 6.2% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.25% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 9.0% |
- Rent is estimated to be 105% higher in Boston compared to Grand Rapids; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 125% greater in Boston than in Grand Rapids.
- Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 41% higher in Boston than in Grand Rapids, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Boston. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 10% lower than in Grand Rapids.
- When relocating to Boston, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Boston is 58% greater than in Grand Rapids.
- In Boston, the unemployment rate is approximately 44% higher than in Grand Rapids, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes show little difference between Boston and Grand Rapids (around 5%), making it one less financial concern for your move.
- Income taxes are 112% higher in Massachusetts than in Michigan, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Grand Rapids and Boston:
| Living Expense | Grand Rapids | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $118.12 | $203.15 |
| Cell phone plan | $45.33 | $57.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.25 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.46 | $4.07 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $67.50 | $135.00 |
| Gym membership | $33.99 | $77.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Grand Rapids than in Boston, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Grand Rapids than in Boston.
- Eggs are less expensive in Grand Rapids than in Boston.
- Bread costs less in Grand Rapids than in Boston.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Grand Rapids than in Boston.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Grand Rapids than in Boston.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Grand Rapids than in Boston.
How life is different in Grand Rapids vs. Boston
| Grand Rapids | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 198,893 | 675,647 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 56 | 98 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 86 |
| Crime index | 44.23 | 39.88 |
| Safety index | 55.77 | 60.12 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Boston’s population is about 240% greater than Grand Rapids.
- Boston’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Grand Rapids’s score of 6.
- Boston is more walkable than Grand Rapids with a score of 98 out of 100 vs Grand Rapids’s 56 out of 100.
- With a score of 86 out of 100, Boston is more bike-friendly than Grand Rapids, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Boston’s crime rate is lower than Grand Rapids with a score of 39.88 compared to Grand Rapids’s 44.23. This means that Boston neighborhoods are safer than 39.88% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Grand Rapids neighborhoods are safer than 44.23%.
- Boston is considered to be safer than Grand Rapids with a safety index of 60.12 vs Grand Rapids’s 55.77.
- Air quality in Boston is Good, and in Grand Rapids it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Grand Rapids to Boston move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: Moving companies in Massachusetts are required to obtain a license from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities – Transportation Oversight Division to provide local and intrastate moving services in Massachusetts movers must carry adequate cargo insurance and publicly file their tariffs required to list the services they provide and the cost for each. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Massachusetts moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Massachusetts doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Boston. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. In Alabama and Massachusetts, Released Value Protection is a no-cost option provided by movers but offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. If you seek full value coverage for your items, consider consulting with your moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Boston
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Athens of America, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Boston.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Allston-Brighton
- Back Bay-Beacon Hill
- East Boston
- Jamaica Plain
- South Boston
Best neighborhoods for families
- Charlestown
- East Boston
- Hyde Park
- Roslindale
- West Roxbury
Things to do in Boston
Once you’re settled into your new home in Massachusetts, it’s time to get out and discover what Boston has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Boston, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library, and Museum of Science.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Boston Public Garden, Boston Common, Arnold Arboretum, and Charles River Esplanade — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Boston Red Sox (MLB)Boston Bruins (NHL)Boston Celtics (NBA)New England Patriots (NFL)New England Revolution (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Grand Rapids to Boston?
The best time to move from Grand Rapids to Boston is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Grand Rapids.
When is the cheapest time to move from Grand Rapids to Boston?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Grand Rapids to Boston, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Grand Rapids to Boston take?
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Boston, covers 835 miles and usually takes two to seven days. Need to move faster? Some Grand Rapids movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Boston.
Which movers in Grand Rapids give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers here honor AAA discounts.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Grand Rapids?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 10 movers in Grand Rapids advertise piano moving expertise. 4 movers in Grand Rapids provide antique moving services. State totals show 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Grand Rapids moving services
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