Quick answer: Expect to pay $646–$6,877 for a move from Detroit to Chapel Hill, with most moves taking one to six days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 653 miles.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Chapel Hill to Detroit guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Detroit to Chapel Hill

Choosing a long-distance mover for your trip from Detroit to Chapel Hill can be tough. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed about who you can truly count on.

Save yourself the hassle of sorting through countless moving companies — we've already narrowed down the best for you. Our favorites earned their spots thanks to rave reviews, budget-friendly prices, and versatile services to suit any type of move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to NC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 45 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local movers servicing Detroit to Chapel Hill moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Detroit that also provides long-distance services to Chapel Hill can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in Detroit who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Detroit to Chapel Hill.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/palmermoving/, https://x.com/PalmerMoving
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.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

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
https://www.facebook.com/GrossePointeMovingStorage,
91% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage stands out for delivering fast, careful, and respectful service. Out of 152 feedback entries analyzed, nearly 91% were positive. Customers routinely describe crews as professional, efficient, and polite.
Movers excel at handling belongings with caution and working quickly while keeping clients informed, making the process smooth and easy. Many clients also highlight the staff’s helpfulness and the accuracy of estimates—qualities that set this company ahead of typical industry standards. On the downside, some input identified concerns such as damaged items, bills running higher than quoted, and complaints not always being resolved satisfactorily. Still, such occurrences are much less frequent than the many glowing reports. Compared to other movers, Grosse Pointe earns notably stronger praise for speed, professionalism, and quality care, with negative incidents reported far less often.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 822-4400

Company Info

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 279708


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/whitestarmovers/, https://x.com/whitestarusa
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.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

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
https://www.facebook.com/Royal-Movers-1658269400878748/,
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.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

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
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenandaTruckMacomb, https://x.com/TwoMenAndATruck
92% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stress relieved—that's the story from Two Men and a Truck feedback. Analyzing 247 reviews, 91.5% praised professional, efficient, and helpful teams. Customers repeatedly mention the staff's professionalism, careful handling of belongings, quick moving process, and friendly attitude.
Moves are characterized by clear communication and efficient service, often finishing ahead of schedule, which sets this company apart from many competitors. Negative input, making up 8.5%, highlights concerns over damaged items, unexpectedly high costs, and occasional delays. The most frequent complaints involve property damage and dissatisfaction with pricing or response to claims. While most moves go smoothly, customers seeking extra assurance about item safety or cost transparency should review their options. Compared to typical moving services, Two Men and a Truck consistently delivers on professionalism and speed, with far fewer complaints about lateness or mishandling. The overwhelmingly positive response suggests the company is a reliable choice for most moving needs.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 359-0167

Company Info

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Chapel Hill?

Detroit movers charge $100 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,467 - $4,807 $884 - $2,289 $617 - $1,098
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,872 - $6,877 $1,706 - $3,331 $646 - $1,344
4+ bedrooms $5,097 - $10,056 $2,194 - $3,906 $782 - $1,577
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 653 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Michigan to North Carolina

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to North Carolina typically costs between $1,467 and $4,807. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,872 and $6,877 when moving from MI to NC. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to North Carolina, you're looking at costs ranging from $5,097 up to $10,056.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to North Carolina

If you're moving from Michigan to North Carolina, expect to pay between $884 and $2,289 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,706 up to $3,331. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,194 and $3,906. 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 Michigan to North Carolina

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 $617 and $1,098. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $646 and $1,344. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $782 and $1,577.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from Detroit to Chapel Hilltoggle

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Detroit to Chapel Hill (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,467, while larger moves may reach $8,612 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Detroit,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $617 to $1,477), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Chapel Hill

Moving from Detroit to Chapel Hill means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Detroit than in Chapel Hill, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Detroit compares to Chapel Hill so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Detroit Chapel Hill
Average rent cost $1,250 $1,950
Average home value $73,156 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $65,621
Cost of living (single person) $2,500 $2,248
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,687 $4,790
Unemployment rate 9.06% 3.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.5%
State income tax 4.25% 4.5%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Chapel Hill, since prices are typically 56% higher than in Detroit.
  • The home prices in Chapel Hill are 709.9% higher than in Detroit, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Chapel Hill, where incomes are, on average, 73.8% higher than in Detroit. Major employers in Chapel Hill include University of North Carolina, Performance Bicycle, and Investors Title.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Chapel Hill. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 10.1% lower than in 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 28.4% less than what it costs in Detroit.
  • The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is 64.68% lower than in Detroit.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Chapel Hill, since its sales taxes are 25.00% higher than what you are paying in Detroit.
  • State income taxes in Chapel Hill are 5.88% higher than in Detroit.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,697.60 in Chapel Hill to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Detroit.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill Detroit
Population 63,764 639,111
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 7
Walkability score 34 51
Bike friendliness score 50 52
Crime Index 26.42 72.92
Safety Index 73.58 27.08
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Chapel Hill might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 90% less than Detroit.
  • Getting around Chapel Hill without a car might be more difficult than in Detroit. Chapel Hill has a public transportation score of 6 out of 10, whereas Detroit is ranked 7. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Chapel Hill neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Detroit. Based on its score of 34 out of 100, Chapel Hill isn't as walkable as Detroit, which has a score of 51 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • Chapel Hill and Detroit are similarly bike-friendly based on their comparable ratings of 50 and 52 respectively. Bike-friendliness scores between 50 and 100 indicate varying levels of infrastructure to support cyclists, including bike lanes and roadway connectivity. Cities with scores under 50 are considered more car-dependent.
  • Chapel Hill has a lower crime rate than Detroit based on scores of 26.42 and Detroit's 72.92, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Chapel Hill than in Detroit, based on Chapel Hill's safety index of 73.58 versus 27.08 for Detroit. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Chapel Hill isn't as good as it is in Detroit, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. Chapel Hill has an air quality rating of Moderate, and Detroit is considered to be good. Cities with good to moderate air quality may have varying levels of minor potential for health risks for certain people. Beyond the moderate rating, those health risks increase in severity and the amount of residents affected.

Other things to consider for your Detroit vs. Chapel Hill move

  • Weather: May, September and October are the most pleasant months for moving as these are the driest month in Chapel Hill in a yearl, while January and July are the months you need to watch out as there might be some weather-related delays.
  • 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 you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Chapel Hill. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

With your sights set on Southern Part of Heaven, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Chapel Hill.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Meadowmont
  • Briar Chapel
  • Dunhill
  • Governor's Club
  • Claremont/Claremont South

Things to do in Chapel Hill

After getting comfortable in your new North Carolina home, it's time to see what Chapel Hill is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chapel Hill, such as the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Kidzu Children's Museum, and FRANK Gallery.
  • 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: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Detroit to Chapel Hill?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Detroit to Chapel Hill are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Detroit. are lower.

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?

Moving from Detroit, MI to Chapel Hill, NC covers 653 miles and usually takes one to six days Need to move faster? Some Detroit movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Chapel Hill.

Helpful moving resources