The best local moving companies in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers 87 interstate moving companies ready to support your move to North Dakota. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best local movers in Pennsylvania, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- The Armstrong Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Forward Moving LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Zippy Shell: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- South Hills Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 8917264
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage
Armstrong Relocation, a local moving company in Mount Joy, PA, has been providing residential moving services since 1950. They distinguish themselves with a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, as well as the expertise to move pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike many nearby competitors, Armstrong Relocation accepts credit cards and requires no deposit. With an impressive 205 reviews on Google averaging 4.7 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their strong reputation is a testament to their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8920700
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3078473
Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.
Forward Moving LLC, serving Exton, PA, has been the reliable choice for local residential moving since 2018. Known for their comprehensive range of services, they handle everything from simple packing and unpacking to more specialized tasks like moving pianos, art, and antiques. While their Yelp reviews average a 3.9 rating from 11 reviewers, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.9 average from 274 reviews, and they hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Forward Moving LLC accepts credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3060008
Alternate Names: Masha Mobile Moving and Storage, LLC
Zippy Shell, a local moving company based in Pottstown, PA, has been serving the community since 2019. Renowned for their exceptional customer service, they boast an impressive 4.3 rating on Yelp from 39 reviews and an even higher 4.6 rating from 168 reviews on Google My Business, along with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many of their competitors, Zippy Shell offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, making them a one-stop-shop for all moving needs. Additionally, they are equipped to move delicate items such as pianos and antiques, ensuring a secure and efficient relocation process. For those looking for trusted local residential movers, Zippy Shell stands out as a reliable and highly-rated choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 8919262
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: BLL Charles Inc
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been serving the Glenshaw, PA area with reliable local residential moving services since 2018. Renowned for its comprehensive offerings, such as office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, this company stands out among local competitors. Clients appreciate their no-deposit policy and credit card payment options, evidenced by an impressive 4.7-star average from 853 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though Yelp reviews are more mixed. Overall, College Hunks offers a trustworthy and versatile moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 94
DOT #: 98045
South Hills Movers, a trusted name in Bethel Park, PA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1931. With an impressive array of offerings that include packing, unpacking, and specialized services for moving pianos, art, and antiques, they cater to a wide range of customer needs. While their Yelp profile shows a modest rating, they boast a stronger 4.1 average on Google and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a generally positive reputation. Compared to other nearby movers, South Hills Movers stands out for their long history and comprehensive service options, making them a reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Pennsylvania to North Dakota moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Pennsylvania and drops it off at your new home in North Dakota.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best Pennsylvania to North Dakota moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Pennsylvania to North Dakota, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Pennsylvania to North Dakota labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They’ll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from Pennsylvania to North Dakota.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your PA to ND move
How much does it cost to move from Pennsylvania to North Dakota?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Pennsylvania to North Dakota. You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,157 – $4,445 | $1,026 – $2,306 | $843 – $1,666 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,707 – $6,099 | $1,798 – $3,468 | $911 – $2,083 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,983 – $8,661 | $2,470 – $4,675 | $1,232 – $2,469 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,488-mile move from PA to ND are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s dataset as of Nov 04, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling. For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Pennsylvania to North Dakota
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Pennsylvania to North Dakota will cost between $1,157 and $4,445. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from PA to ND will range from $2,707 to $6,099, and a large move from Pennsylvania to North Dakota will cost from $4,983 to $8,661.
Cost of moving containers from Pennsylvania to North Dakota
If you’re moving from Pennsylvania to North Dakota, expect to pay between $1,026 and $2,306 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,798 up to $3,468. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,470 and $4,675. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Pennsylvania to North Dakota
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $843 and $1,666. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $911 and $2,083. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,232 up to $2,469 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from PA to ND
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Pennsylvania to North Dakota. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in Pennsylvania is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from PA to ND
A relocation from Pennsylvania to North Dakota comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Pennsylvania vs. North Dakota
Comparing expenses in Pennsylvania and North Dakota shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
| Pennsylvania | North Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,110 | $912 |
| Average home cost | $268,824 | $263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,170 | $73,959 |
| Cost of living index | 99 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 2.4% |
| Average sales tax | 6.34% | 6.96% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 2.9% |
- Expect to pay around 18% less in rent in North Dakota than in Pennsylvania, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
- Home prices are about the same in North Dakota and Pennsylvania, so there’s no need to change up your mortgage budget, unless you’re upgrading your living situation.
- Good news — you won’t need to stress about your finances since average incomes are similar in both North Dakota and Pennsylvania.
- Since the cost of living is about the same in North Dakota and Pennsylvania, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
- With an unemployment rate about 29% lower than Pennsylvania, North Dakota boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
- Sales taxes are 10% higher in North Dakota than in Pennsylvania, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 6% lower in North Dakota than in Pennsylvania. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in North Dakota vs. Pennsylvania
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in North Dakota stacks up against Pennsylvania across important lifestyle factors:
| North Dakota | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 783,926 | 12,961,683 |
| Political leaning | Republican 68-32 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 0ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 19″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 39″ | 38″ |
| Crime index | 22.74 | 17.62 |
- With a population about 94% smaller than Pennsylvania, North Dakota offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle. Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
- During the last presidential election, both Pennsylvania and North Dakota supported the Republican candidate.
- In North Dakota, summer highs hover around 82°F, while Pennsylvania sits at 83°F. Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
- During the coldest part of the year, North Dakota drops to about 0°F while Pennsylvania only reaches 19°F. Moving to North Dakota with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
- You’ll enjoy about 19 inches of rain each year in North Dakota, compared to 44 inches in Pennsylvania. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- In North Dakota, you’ll get about 39 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania averages around 38 inches annually. With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
- North Dakota has a higher crime rate than Pennsylvania with a crime index of 22.74 vs. 17.62. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Pennsylvania vs. North Dakota
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in North Dakota versus Pennsylvania:
| Pros of living in Pennsylvania | Pros of living in North Dakota |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant fun and recreational activities | Peaceful rural life |
| Beautiful landscapes | Affordable living costs |
| Ample economic opportunity | High-quality education opportunities |
| Excellent education options | Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in Pennsylvania vs. North Dakota
Moving from Pennsylvania to North Dakota comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Pennsylvania | Cons of living in North Dakota |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | Long and cold winters |
| Bad driving conditions | Lack of diversity |
| Nuclear power plants | Housing shortages |
| Unpredictable weather | Small populations |
| High taxes on gasoline | Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Pennsylvania to North Dakota move
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT). Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a North Dakota moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in North Dakota, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to North Dakota without a hitch. 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. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in North Dakota
Get ready to discover all that North Dakota has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in North Dakota
- Red River Zoo
- Fargo Air Museum
- North Dakota Museum of Art
- Roger Maris Museum
- Dickinson Museum Center
Parks in North Dakota
- The Dakota Zoo
- Red River Zoo
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo
Sports teams in North Dakota
- Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL)
- Fargo Force (USHL)
- Minot Minotauros (NAHL)
Universities in North Dakota
- University of North Dakota
- North Dakota State University
- University of Mary
- Minot State University
- Valley City State University
FAQs
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