($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.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from South Dakota to Montana guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
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 car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

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.

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • 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
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

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.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Mesa Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. InterWest Moving and Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Baker Transfer & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  5. Montana Transfer: 4.28 out of 5 stars

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.52 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 7

1620 Rodgers Street, Missoula, MT 59802 US

Two 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.

Get a Quote (607) 644-7509

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Two Men and a Truck
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Mesa Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.52 / 5

DOT #: 3280355

Years in Business: 6

1414 N Montana Ave, Helena, MT 59601

Mesa 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.

Get a Quote (406) 442-9470

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

Alternative Business Names

  • Mesa Moving and Storage Helena, LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

InterWest Moving and Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.52 / 5

DOT #: 125550

Years in Business: 34

523 Business Hub Drive, Belgrade, MT 59714

InterWest 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.

Get a Quote (406) 587-5153

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

Alternative Business Names

  • West One Logistics
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Baker Transfer & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.34 / 5

DOT #: 469163

Years in Business: 13

706 Daniel St Suite 1, Billings, MT 59102

Baker 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.

Get a Quote (406) 245-3147

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

Montana Transfer

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.28 / 5

DOT #: 514197

Years in Business: 61

209 Commerce, Missoula, MT 59808

Montana 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.

Get a Quote (406) 728-8080

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

Back to Top movebuddha icon

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:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

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:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

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:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 7
  • Yelp: 2.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 34
  • Yelp: 3.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.34 / 5
  • Years in Business: 13
  • Yelp: 3.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your MT to SD movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 9 Montana 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.

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
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
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

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Montana to South Dakota? toggle

Hiring a full-service Montana moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Montana to South Dakota? toggle

Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from Montana to South Dakota separately through one of the top car shipping companies.

What are the benefits of moving from Montana to South Dakota? toggle

The main reasons people are moving from Montana to South Dakota are the amazing upsides of living in South Dakota such as outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.

Is it cheaper to live in Montana or South Dakota? toggle

It is generally cheaper to live in South Dakota than in Montana. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is much more affordable in South Dakota, with average rent about 10% less and home prices 33.7% lower than in Montana. South Dakota has no income tax.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota? toggle

You should make approximately $ 62,125 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in South Dakota. The cost of living in South Dakota is approximately $ 2,497 per month for an individual and $ 5,637 for a family of four. The exact amount you’ll need to live comfortably may be more or less depending on where in South Dakota you live For example, larger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City will have higher housing costs than those in smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources