Top-rated movers to make your Detroit to Philadelphia move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Detroit that offers long-distance services to Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.
- 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 Philadelphia?
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 | $1,143 – $3,643 | $710 – $1,727 | $423 – $814 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,219 – $5,709 | $1,243 – $2,340 | $500 – $997 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,042 – $8,021 | $1,608 – $3,240 | $624 – $1,239 |
Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Philadelphia
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Philadelphia from Detroit, you can expect prices to land between $1,143 and $3,643. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,219 to $5,709 for the trip from Detroit to Philadelphia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,042 and $8,021.
Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Philadelphia
Moving containers from Detroit to Philadelphia will cost you $710 to $1,727 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,243 to $2,340. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,608 to $3,240. 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 Philadelphia
Renting a moving truck from Detroit to Philadelphia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $423 and $814 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $500 to $997. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $624 to $1,239.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Detroit to Philadelphia move
The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,642 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,929 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 $423 to $1,040, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Detroit to Philadelphia
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Philadelphia runs about 2% higher for singles and -7% higher for families than Detroit.
Singles spend around $2,541 in Detroit versus $2,500 in Detroit; families pay $6,190 compared with $6,687.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Detroit | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,325 | $1,791 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,542 | $3,116 |
| Average home value | $73,156 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $37,761 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,500 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,687 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.06% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 3.07% |
- Planning a move to Philadelphia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 36% higher than in Detroit, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Philadelphia are about 197% higher than those in Detroit.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 87% higher in Philadelphia compared to Detroit, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Since the cost of living for a single person in both Philadelphia and Detroit is within a 5% difference, your expenses will be quite similar.
- A move to Philadelphia 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 7% less than what it costs in Detroit.
- Philadelphia shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Detroit by around 17%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Philadelphia are 33% more than in Detroit, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 28% below those in Michigan. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Detroit and Philadelphia:
| Living Expense | Detroit | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $251.12 | $269.29 |
| Cell phone plan | $55.77 | $61.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.52 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.94 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $68.50 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $43.00 | $48.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Detroit than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Detroit than in Philadelphia.
- Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Philadelphia.
- Bread costs less in Detroit than in Philadelphia.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Detroit than in Philadelphia.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Philadelphia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Detroit than in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Detroit vs. Philadelphia
| Detroit | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 639,111 | 1,603,797 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 51 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 67 |
| Crime index | 72.92 | 66.09 |
| Safety index | 27.08 | 33.91 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Philadelphia’s population is about 151% greater than Detroit.
- Philadelphia’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Detroit’s score of 7.
- Philadelphia is more walkable than Detroit with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
- With a score of 67 out of 100, Philadelphia is more bike-friendly than Detroit, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Philadelphia’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 66.09 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
- Philadelphia is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 33.91 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
- Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Detroit to Philadelphia 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 decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Pennsylvania’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Philadelphia
Planning your move to Philly? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Philadelphia.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cedar Park
- Fishtown
- Manayunk
- Point Breeze
- Washington Square West
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bella Vista
- Bustleton
- Chestnut Hill
- Fitler Square/Rittenhouse Square (City Center West)
- Foxchase
- Roxborough
Things to do in Philadelphia
After settling into your new Pennsylvania home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Philadelphia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Philadelphia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, and Museum of the American Revolution.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love 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 Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)Philadelphia Union (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Detroit to Philadelphia?
Planning your move from Detroit to Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia?
Because most people are moving from Detroit to Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia take?
The 583-mile journey from Detroit, MI to Philadelphia, , 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 Philadelphia.
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.
Helpful moving resources
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