($1,730) Cost of Moving From Montana to South Dakota
Quick answer: The average cost to move from Montana to South Dakota ranges from $620 to $7,791 and takes one–six days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from South Dakota to Montana guide.
Our track record
The best Montana to South Dakota full-service movers
Thinking about moving from Montana to South Dakota? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.
Kick off your move from Montana to South Dakota with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in Montana.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Montana
With so many movers to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Montana. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Mesa Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- InterWest Moving and Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Baker Transfer & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Montana Transfer: 4.28 out of 5 stars
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 7
1620 Rodgers Street, Missoula, MT 59802 USTwo Men and a Truck, operating in and around Missoula, MT since 2018, stands out for its reliable local residential moving services. With a solid reputation, the company boasts an impressive 4.5-star average on Google My Business from 76 reviews and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, reflecting customer satisfaction and trust. Comparing favorably to other movers in the area, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they accept credit cards with no deposit required. Whether moving a piano or a safe, Two Men and a Truck provides an all-encompassing solution for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
Alternative Business Names
- Two Men and a Truck
Mesa Moving & Storage

DOT #: 3280355
Years in Business: 6
1414 N Montana Ave, Helena, MT 59601Mesa Moving & Storage, operating since 2020, offers comprehensive local residential moving services in and around Helena, MT. Known for their impressive Google rating of 4.7 from 159 reviews and a stellar A+ BBB rating, they consistently outshine many nearby competitors. While their Yelp reviews suggest some mixed experiences, their overall consumer feedback remains highly positive. In addition to local moves, Mesa Moving & Storage excels in packing, unpacking, and crating services, and caters to specialized needs like moving pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. With no deposit required and both cash and credit card payments accepted, they provide a flexible and reputable choice for those seeking reliable local movers.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3280355
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Mesa Moving and Storage Helena, LLC
InterWest Moving and Storage

DOT #: 125550
Years in Business: 34
523 Business Hub Drive, Belgrade, MT 59714InterWest Moving and Storage, serving Belgrade, MT since 1992, specializes in local residential moves and stands out as a highly reputable option compared to other nearby moving companies. With an impressive consumer review profile—boasting a 5.0 average rating on Yelp and a 4.8 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ Better Business Bureau rating—InterWest's commitment to customer satisfaction is clear. The company also offers a range of additional services including packing, unpacking, and crating, and provides full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind. For those seeking reliable, top-rated local moving services, InterWest Moving and Storage is a standout choice.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- DOT #: 125550
- State license #: 125550
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- West One Logistics
Baker Transfer & Storage

DOT #: 469163
Years in Business: 13
706 Daniel St Suite 1, Billings, MT 59102Baker Transfer & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Billings, MT since 2012. Known for their comprehensive range of services, they stand out by offering packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, as well as the capability to move specialty items like pianos, pool tables, and safes. While their Yelp reviews average 3.3 stars, their Google My Business profile boasts a more favorable 4.2-star average, and they hold an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other moving companies in the area, Baker Transfer & Storage’s long-standing reputation and extensive service offerings make them a compelling choice for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 469163
- State license #: 469163
Montana Transfer

DOT #: 514197
Years in Business: 61
209 Commerce, Missoula, MT 59808Montana Transfer, a reputable moving company established in 1965, offers local residential moving services in and around Missoula, MT. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an average rating of 3.8 from 68 Google reviews, Montana Transfer outshines many local competitors despite mixed feedback on Yelp. They provide a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and the fragile-only packing if needed, accommodating specialized needs such as piano and art moving. Montana Transfer accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 514197
- DOD certified
The best Montana to South Dakota moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in Montana and drop it off at your new home in South Dakota.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best Montana to South Dakota moving truck rentals
If you're looking to cut costs on your move from Montana to South Dakota, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you'll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Montana to South Dakota labor-only movers
If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.
Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from Montana to South Dakota:
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How we chose the best moving companies for your MT to SD move
How much does it cost to move from Montana to South Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Montana to South Dakota. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
---|---|---|---|
Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,730 - $5,497 | $893 - $2,137 | $605 - $1,087 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $3,316 - $7,791 | $1,561 - $3,016 | $620 - $1,385 |
4+ bedrooms | $5,604 - $11,735 | $2,152 - $4,113 | $815 - $1,545 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 659 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from Montana to South Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Montana to South Dakota, you can expect prices to land between $1,730 and $5,497. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,316 to $7,791 for the trip from MT to SD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,604 and $11,735.
Cost of moving containers from Montana to South Dakota
If you're moving from Montana to South Dakota, expect to pay between $893 and $2,137 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,561 up to $3,016. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,152 and $4,113. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Montana.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Montana to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $605 and $1,087 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $620 to $1,385. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home or making a long-distance move from Montana to South Dakota, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $815 to $1,545.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MT to SD
There are many factors that influence Montana moving costs. The cost to move from Montana to South Dakota will depend on these factors:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in Montana is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from MT to SD
When moving from Montana to South Dakota, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.
Cost of living: Montana vs. South Dakota
Before you move, it’s smart to see how cost of living compares between Montana and South Dakota. This quick, side-by-side breakdown covers essentials like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a better idea of how your budget might be affected. Check out how these two states stack up when it comes to cost of living:
Montana | South Dakota | |
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Average rent cost | $974 | $878 |
Average home cost | $462,631 | $306,944 |
Average income (per capita) | $66,341 | $69,457 |
Cost of Living Index | 100 | 100 |
Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 1.9% |
Average Sales Tax | 0.0% | 6.4% |
State Income Tax | 6.75% | 0.0% |
- You’ll pay about 10% less in rent in South Dakota compared to Montana, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Here’s some good news for your wallet—home prices in South Dakota are about 34% lower than in Montana. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
- Great news—you’re likely to make about 5% more in South Dakota compared to Montana. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
- With a similar cost of living in both Montana and South Dakota, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
- With an unemployment rate about 42% lower than Montana, South Dakota boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
- Sales taxes are 6% higher in South Dakota than in Montana, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
- One big perk of moving to South Dakota is there’s no state income tax. That means you get to keep more of your money, whether you’re earning a salary, freelancing, or living off retirement income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Montana
Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in South Dakota versus Montana across some essential lifestyle factors:
South Dakota | Montana | |
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Population | 919,318 | 1,132,812 |
Political leaning | Republican 63-37 | Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Summer high | 85ºF | 84ºF |
Winter low | 7ºF | 12ºF |
Annual rain | 23" | 15" |
Annual snow | 39" | 49" |
Crime index | 21.14 | 23.37 |
- With a population about 19% smaller than Montana, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living. Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
- In the last presidential election, South Dakota leaned Republican, while Montana supported Republican.
- Summer highs typically reach about 85ºF in South Dakota and 84ºF in Montana. With similar temperatures, you shouldn't have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- During winter, temperatures in South Dakota can drop to around 7ºF, while Montana usually only experiences lows near 12ºF. Moving to South Dakota means adjusting to chillier winters, which could bring higher heating costs and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and winter activities that come with a colder climate.
- Get ready for about 23 inches of rain each year in South Dakota, which is quite a change from the 15 inches you’re used to in Montana. The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
- In South Dakota, you can expect about 39 inches of snow each year, much less than the 49 inches you’d deal with in Montana. So, if you’re moving to South Dakota, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
- Moving to South Dakota means choosing a safer place to call home. With a lower crime index of 21.14 versus Montana’s 23.37, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s comforting to know your new home offers extra security.
Comparing the pros of Montana vs. South Dakota
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in South Dakota to Montana.
Pros of living in Montana | Pros of living in South Dakota |
---|---|
Unmatched natural beauty | Outstanding tax benefits |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities | Robust job market |
Ample economic opportunity | Low cost of living |
Delicious unique cuisine | Beautiful rural landscapes |
No traffic | Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Montana vs. South Dakota
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Montana to South Dakota.
Cons of living in Montana | Cons of living in South Dakota |
---|---|
Dangerous wildlife | Extreme weather |
Remote lifestyle | Small-town mindset |
Touristy | Sparsely populated |
Lacking in urban amenities | Strange and offensive laws |
Challenging weather | Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Montana to South Dakota move
- Weather: In South Dakota, drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage with at least the following minimum limits: $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person in an accident, $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Dakota moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: South Dakota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to South Dakota. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get ready to discover South Dakota. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports Teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University