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($1,041) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to Madison, WI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 436 miles from Detroit to Madison has an average cost ranging from $376 to $4,936. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–four days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Detroit to Madison

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
4.5
  • 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
4.5
  • 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
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Detroit to Madison

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Detroit to Madison. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 28 interstate moving companies in Detroit. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Madison.

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
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
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Detroit to Madison

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 436-mile move from Detroit to Madison using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,195 – $3,568
  • Moving Container $875 – $1,528
  • Rental Truck $371 – $690
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,990 – $4,936
  • Moving Container $1,142 – $2,216
  • Rental Truck $376 – $795
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,264 – $7,355
  • Moving Container $1,531 – $2,918
  • Rental Truck $492 – $993
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.
North American Van Lines
Hazel Park, MI Randolph, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 26, 2025
Roadway Moving
Clawson, MI Jefferson, WI
Studio apartment
Nov 25, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Inkster, MI Orfordville, WI
4 Bedrooms
Nov 13, 2025
American Van Lines
Ypsilanti, MI Maple Bluff, WI
2 Bedrooms
Nov 10, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Rochester, MI Ridgeway, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 05, 2025
United Van Lines
New Baltimore, MI Cross Plains, WI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Oak Park, MI Clyman, WI
2 Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Sylvan Lake, MI Shorewood Hills, WI
Studio apartment
Oct 11, 2025
BLVD Moving
Lake Orion, MI Poynette, WI
Studio apartment
Sep 09, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Orchard Lake Village, MI Wyocena, WI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Detroit to Madison moves

Organizing a move from Detroit to Madison can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 37 local movers in Detroit known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Detroit to Madison.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 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. Handy Relocations: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.2% of all reviews were positive
15.2% 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

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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.0% of all reviews were positive
7.0% 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

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.3% of all reviews were positive
25.7% 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

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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.9% of all reviews were positive
11.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Handy Relocations receives strong praise from most customers, with 85.9% providing positive feedback from 71 reviews analyzed. Shoppers appreciate professional staff, helpful movers, and clear communication throughout the process. Efficient service and upfront, transparent pricing stand out when compared to other companies, along with a reputation for going the extra mile to help customers find what they need. Negative feedback, though limited, points to issues like unexpected charges, challenges with the store’s availability, and marketing that some felt was misleading. Handy Relocations sets a high standard for customer service in the moving industry, though attention to billing accuracy and schedule consistency can further enhance the customer experience.
Get a Quote (313) 649-4917

Company Info

State license #: 39343

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3345697

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.8% of all reviews were positive
6.6% 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.
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

How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Madison?

On average, moving companies in Michigan charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,041 – $3,199 $594 – $1,441 $360 – $703
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,990 – $4,936 $1,142 – $2,216 $376 – $795
4+ bedrooms $3,264 – $7,355 $1,531 – $2,918 $492 – $993
*Estimated cost ranges for a 436-mile move from Detroit to Madison are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Madison

When planning a move to Madison from Detroit, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,041 and $3,199. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,990 and $4,936 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,264 to $7,355.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Madison

When you’re heading from Detroit to Madison, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $594 and $1,441. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,142 and $2,216. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,531 to $2,918. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Michigan easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Madison

A moving rental truck from Detroit to Madison is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $360 to $703. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $376 to $795, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Detroit to Madison costs around $492 to $993.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Detroit to Madison

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Detroit to Madison may only cost $1,517, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,050.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Detroit.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($360–$887), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Madison

Many movers find Madison easier on the wallet than Detroit – roughly 8% less for singles and 18% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,292 for one person in Madison versus $2,500 in Detroit. For a family of four, it’s $5,457 compared with $6,687.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Detroit Madison
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,693
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $3,100
Average home value $73,156 $367,934
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $62,919
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $2,292
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $5,457
Unemployment rate 9.06% 3.3%
Sales tax 6.0% 5.5%
State income tax 4.25% 7.65%
  • Rent is about 28% more expensive in Madison than in Detroit. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 403% steeper in Madison compared to Detroit.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 67% greater in Madison than in Detroit, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Madison. The cost of living for a single person there is 8% below that of Detroit.
  • A move to Madison can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 18% lower compared to Detroit.
  • Madison has a lower unemployment rate than Detroit by about 64%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 8% cheaper in Madison compared to Detroit. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 80% more in Wisconsin than in Michigan. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Detroit versus Madison:

Living Expense Detroit Madison
Basic utilities $251.12 $215.88
Cell phone plan $55.77 $50.44
Dozen eggs $3.52 $4.04
Loaf of bread $2.94 $3.75
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $77.50
Gym membership $43.00 $64.29
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Madison.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Detroit than in Madison.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Madison.
  • Bread costs less in Detroit than in Madison.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Detroit than in Madison.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Madison.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Detroit than in Madison.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Madison

Detroit Madison
Population 639,111 269,840
Transportation score 7 6
Walkability score 51 50
Bike friendliness score 52 66
Crime index 72.92 34.57
Safety index 27.08 65.43
Air quality Good Good
  • Madison’s population is about 58% less than Detroit.
  • Madison’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • Madison and Detroit are similarly walkable.
  • With a score of 66 out of 100, Madison 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.
  • Madison’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 34.57 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Madison is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 65.43 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Madison is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Madison move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Detroit and Madison are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the 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: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Wisconsin, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Wisconsin, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • 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 Madison. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Madison

With your sights set on Mad City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Madison.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Madison
  • Shorewood Hills
  • Middleton
  • Fitchburg
  • Maple Bluff
  • Monona
  • Columbus
  • Sun Prairie
  • Lake Mills
  • Verona

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Dudgeon-Monroe
  • Hill Farms-University
  • Maple-Prairie
  • Westmorland
  • Wexford

Things to do in Madison

With your move to Wisconsin complete, you can dive right into experiencing Madison. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Madison is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Chazen Museum of Art, Madison Children’s Museum, Wisconsin Veterans Museum, and Wisconsin Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Olbrich Botanical Gardens, University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, Lake Mendota, and Allen Centennial Gardens — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)Madison Mallards (Baseball)Madison Radicals (AUDL)Madison Capitols (United States Hockey League)Forward Madison (USL League One) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Detroit to Madison?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Detroit to Madison. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Detroit.

When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Madison?

Want to save on your move from Detroit to Madison? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Detroit to Madison take?

The 436-mile move from Detroit, MI, to Madison, , takes one to four days. Some Detroit movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Madison.

What kinds of discounts do Detroit movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 3 movers offer special pricing for military members. 3 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Detroit?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 22 movers in Detroit provide piano moving services. 8 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,300 and 1,465.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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