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South Dakota to Tennessee Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
- When moving from South Dakota to Tennessee, a two-bedroom move with professional movers is commonly $2,800–$6,600.*Estimates assume a 2–3 bedroom household with two–eight day delivery. Your costs and timelines vary by home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from South Dakota to Tennessee is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Who are the best movers to move from South Dakota to Tennessee?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from South Dakota to Tennessee is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from South Dakota to Tennessee below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from South Dakota to Tennessee
We recommend using a professional, long-distance mover for your South Dakota to Tennessee move, since they’re built for the coordination a 1,140 mile journey can require. After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from South Dakota to Tennessee.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to Tennessee?
It costs between $2,800–$9,500 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from South Dakota to Tennessee. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
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FAQ
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to Tennessee?
Moving from South Dakota to Tennessee can cost anywhere from $1,400–$8,016, but most people pay around $2,831–$6,629 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,400 – $5,166 | $800 – $2,017 | $703 – $1,273 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,831 – $7,113 | $1,449 – $3,138 | $775 – $1,561 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,848 – $9,512 | $2,121 – $3,871 | $889 – $1,977 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,140-mile move from SD to TN using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,831 – $7,113 to hire a moving company to move you from South Dakota to Tennessee. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,400 – $5,166
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,831 – $7,113
- 4+ bedrooms: $4,848 – $9,512
How much do moving containers cost from South Dakota to Tennessee?
Using a moving container from South Dakota to Tennessee costs, on average, $1,449 – $3,138. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $800 – $2,017
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,449 – $3,138
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,121 – $3,871
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from South Dakota to Tennessee will costs you between $775 – $1,561, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $703 – $1,273
- 2–3 bedrooms: $775 – $1,561
- 4+ bedrooms: $889 – $1,977
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from South Dakota to Tennessee, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from SD to TN?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Tennessee — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $878 in South Dakota to $1,047 in Tennessee, and average home values go from $306,944 to $319,208.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (100 vs. 90), unemployment (1.9% vs. 3.3%), and taxes — including average sales tax (6.4% vs. 9.55%) and state income tax (0.0% vs. 0.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| South Dakota | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $878 | $1,047 |
| Average home cost | $306,944 | $319,208 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,457 | $64,035 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 1.9% | 3.3% |
| Average sales tax | 6.4% | 9.55% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 0.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Tennessee?
Rent is about 19% higher in Tennessee than in South Dakota.
Avg rent: $878 vs. $1,047
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are pretty similar in South Dakota and Tennessee.
Avg home value: $306,944 vs. $319,208
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 8% lower in Tennessee than in South Dakota.
Avg income (per capita): $69,457 vs. $64,035
Is the overall cost of living higher in Tennessee?
The cost of living is 10% lower in Tennessee than in South Dakota.
Cost of living index: 100 vs. 90
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 49% higher in Tennessee than in South Dakota.
Avg sales tax: 6.4% vs. 9.55%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Neither South Dakota nor Tennessee has a state income tax.
State income tax: 0.0% vs. 0.0%
How is daily life different in Tennessee compared to South Dakota?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| Tennessee | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,126,489 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Republican 64-36 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 88ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 27ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 53″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 5″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 29.24 | 21.14 |
Will Tennessee feel more crowded than South Dakota?
Tennessee is about 675% more populous than South Dakota — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both South Dakota and Tennessee voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (88°F vs. 85°F).
Winter: Tennessee is milder on average (27°F vs. 7°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Tennessee?
Rain: Tennessee gets more rain (53″ vs. 23″).
Snow: Tennessee gets less snow (5 inches vs. 39 inches).
Is Tennessee safer than South Dakota?
Tennessee has a higher crime index than South Dakota (29.24 vs. 21.14). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in Tennessee?
Museums in Tennessee
- Titanic Museum Attraction
- Graceland
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
- Lotz House Museum
- National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel
Parks in Tennessee
- Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
- Bicentennial Greenbelt Park
- Chimneys Picnic Area
- Winged Deer Park
- Steele Creek Park
Sports teams in Tennessee
- Memphis Grizzlies Basketball (NBA)
- Nashville Predators Hockey (NHL)
- Nashville SC (MLS)
- Tennessee TItans (NFL)
Universities in Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University
- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
- The University of Tennessee at Martin
- The University of Memphis
- Middle Tennessee State University
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Tennessee move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, 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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Tennessee moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Tennessee does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance for free. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Tennessee?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Tennessee?
Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, 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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Tennessee moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
Discount availability varies by mover.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
South Dakota Moving Services
Frequently Traveled South Dakota Routes
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