Top-rated movers to make your Detroit to Chapel Hill move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Detroit that offers long-distance services to Chapel Hill can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 36 top local movers in Detroit who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Detroit to Chapel Hill.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 114
DOT #: 511993
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 624288
Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1673815
Alternate Names: Royal Movers
Services Offered
- 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
Company Info
State license #: 20587
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 1660642
Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Chapel Hill?
In Michigan, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,184 – $3,574 | $699 – $1,740 | $507 – $949 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,203 – $5,436 | $1,220 – $2,382 | $516 – $1,116 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,871 – $8,111 | $1,803 – $3,413 | $657 – $1,311 |
Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Chapel Hill
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chapel Hill from Detroit, you can expect prices to land between $1,184 and $3,574. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,203 to $5,436 for the trip from Detroit to Chapel Hill. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,871 and $8,111.
Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Chapel Hill
Moving containers from Detroit to Chapel Hill will cost you $699 to $1,740 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,220 to $2,382. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,803 to $3,413. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Chapel Hill
Renting a moving truck from Detroit to Chapel Hill typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $507 and $949 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $516 to $1,116. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $657 to $1,311.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Detroit to Chapel Hill move
The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,789 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,670 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Detroit.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $507 to $1,156, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Detroit to Chapel Hill
Many movers find Chapel Hill easier on the wallet than Detroit – roughly 10% less for singles and 28% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,248 for one person in Chapel Hill versus $2,500 in Detroit. For a family of four, it’s $4,790 compared with $6,687.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Detroit | Chapel Hill | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,325 | $1,325 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,542 | $3,433 |
| Average home value | $73,156 | $592,460 |
| Average income (per capita) | $37,761 | $65,621 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,500 | $2,248 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,687 | $4,790 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.06% | 3.2% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 4.5% |
- Planning a move to Chapel Hill? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 56% higher than in Detroit, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Chapel Hill are about 710% higher than those in Detroit.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 74% higher in Chapel Hill compared to Detroit, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Chapel Hill, as the cost of living for a single person is 10% lower compared to Detroit.
- A move to Chapel Hill can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 28% less than what it costs in Detroit.
- The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is about 65% lower than in Detroit. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Chapel Hill are 25% more than in Detroit, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in North Carolina are 6% above those in Michigan. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Detroit and Chapel Hill:
| Living Expense | Detroit | Chapel Hill |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $251.12 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $55.77 | $55.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.52 | $4.53 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.94 | $4.04 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $68.50 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $43.00 | $42.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Chapel Hill.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Detroit than in Chapel Hill.
- Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Chapel Hill.
- Bread costs less in Detroit than in Chapel Hill.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Detroit than in Chapel Hill.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Chapel Hill.
- Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Chapel Hill.
How life is different in Detroit vs. Chapel Hill
| Detroit | Chapel Hill | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 639,111 | 63,764 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 51 | 34 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 50 |
| Crime index | 72.92 | 26.42 |
| Safety index | 27.08 | 73.58 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Chapel Hill’s population is about 90% less than Detroit.
- Chapel Hill’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
- Chapel Hill is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
- Both Chapel Hill and Detroit have similar bike-friendliness scores (52 vs 50), meaning Chapel Hill is about as safe for cyclists as Detroit. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Chapel Hill’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 26.42 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
- Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 73.58 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
- Air quality in Chapel Hill is Moderate, and in Detroit it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Detroit to Chapel Hill move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: North Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: North Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Chapel Hill. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Chapel Hill
Planning your move to Southern Part of Heaven? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Chapel Hill.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Chapel Hill
- Franklin Street Area
- Carrboro
- Midtown Chapel Hill
- East 54
Best neighborhoods for families
- Meadowmont
- The Oaks
- Winmore
- The Preserve at Jordan Lake
- Southern Village
- Briar Chapel
- Dunhill
- Governor’s Club
- Westfall
- Claremont/Claremont South
Things to do in Chapel Hill
After settling into your new North Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chapel Hill has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Chapel Hill features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, and Kidzu Children’s Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Detroit to Chapel Hill?
Planning your move from Detroit to Chapel Hill? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Detroit.
When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Chapel Hill?
Because most people are moving from Detroit to Chapel Hill in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Detroit to Chapel Hill take?
The 650-mile journey from Detroit, MI to Chapel Hill, , typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Detroit offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chapel Hill.
Are there special savings available from movers in Detroit?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 have discounts for military personnel. 2 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Detroit?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Detroit, 22 movers can manage piano relocations. 8 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Michigan has 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
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