Quick answer: Expect to pay $382–$5,344 for a move from Knoxville to Durham, with most moves taking one to four days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 349 miles.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Durham to Knoxville guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best movers by type

There are 8 interstate moving companies in Knoxville, so figuring out which one is best for your move from Knoxville, TN, to Durham, NC, can feel overwhelming. You’ll also need to decide whether to hire professional full-service movers or take a more DIY approach.

Not to worry — we’ve made the process easier for you. We compared each mover by key factors like service options and cost, and analyzed customer feedback in online reviews. Using our research, we have narrowed the list of Knoxville companies to only the best long-distance movers in Knoxville, no matter what type of move you’re planning.

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Professional
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Container
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Rental truck
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Labor only

Best professional movers from Knoxville to Durham

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from Knoxville to Durham far less complicated. From wrapping and packing your belongings to transporting them safely, these companies cover the entire process so you can spend your time on what matters most.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Knoxville?toggle

Availability varies a lot by market. Use this table to see how common each service is among movers in Knoxville, compared to all of TN and nationwide, so you can spot what’s easy to book and what may take extra planning.

Service Knoxville (Count) Knoxville (%) Tennessee (Count) Tennessee (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 9 100% 67 99% 2836 98%
Unpacking 9 100% 67 99% 2801 97%
Fragile-only packing 1 11% 12 18% 718 25%
Packing materials 8 89% 42 62% 1684 58%
Storage
Storage 6 67% 57 84% 2502 87%
Climate-controlled storage 4 44% 30 44% 977 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 5 56% 34 50% 1887 65%
Art 1 11% 17 25% 1401 48%
Antiques 2 22% 21 31% 1401 48%
Piano 6 67% 45 66% 2176 75%
Hot tub 0 0% 8 12% 670 23%
Pool table 0 0% 11 16% 944 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to NC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 41 Tennessee 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.

The best local movers servicing Knoxville to Durham moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Knoxville that offers long-distance services to Durham can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Knoxville who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Knoxville to Durham.

  1. Gouffon Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Bellhop Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Carey Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
,
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for Gouffon Moving & Storage delivers a clear picture: 243 reviews analyzed, with an impressive 91.8% being positive. Customers frequently describe crews as professional, courteous, efficient, and careful with possessions. Many mention clear communication and stress-free experiences, while timely arrivals and fair pricing set Gouffon apart from typical movers.
Negative feedback concerns damage to items, claims of unprofessional behavior, and difficulties getting complaints resolved—issues that are rare but stand out in comparison to other highly rated companies. With overwhelmingly positive input, Gouffon stands out as one of the most respected moving companies in its region, though a handful of customers caution to watch for mishandled items and follow-up on post-move problems.
Show more
Get a Quote (865) 584-8545

Company Info

Years in Business: 137

DOT #: 553340


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TMTKnoxville/, https://twitter.com/knoxvilletmt
82% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving can be a headache, but most feedback on TWO MEN AND A TRUCK describes reliable, polite, and energetic teams that take the stress out of relocation. Out of 238 customer submissions, 82% praised efficient service, respectful and professional movers, careful treatment of belongings, and clear communication. Customers valued fast moves and recommended the company to friends and family, often comparing them favorably to local competitors for speed and courtesy.
Over 16% of input, though, cited trouble with damaged items, surprisingly high bills, and slow or absent response on claims or complaints. Several reported that final costs far exceeded initial quotes or that the company fell short in resolving issues. Four reviewers felt experiences were mixed, mainly due to organization or communication glitches. For prompt, careful moves with attentive staff, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out, but confirming details on pricing, insurance, and claims remains important—especially compared to other movers with more consistent complaint resolution.
Show more
Get a Quote (865) 225-6350

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Bellhop-Moving-111043493616818/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving days made easy—Bellhop Moving stands out with 32 customer feedback submissions, where 78% praised their experiences. Repeated mentions include professional crews, careful handling, efficient progress, rapid service, and clear communication. Customers consistently note Bellhop’s friendly and polite teams who take extra precautions with belongings and keep clients informed throughout the process.
In contrast, about 22% reported issues such as damaged items, a lack of communication, or being surprised by extra charges. Most frustrations highlighted poor complaint handling and insufficient support when problems arose, with a few cases involving property damage. Bellhop’s positive scores reflect a stronger reliability and focus on customer service than typically found among moving companies, but a small fraction of customers report serious shortcomings regarding protection of items and responsiveness.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Home-Mover/All-My-Sons-Moving-Storage-of-Knoxville-160797413980682/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
62% of all reviews were positive
37% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
All My Sons Moving & Storage earns high marks for courteous crews, professionalism, and cautious handling of customer belongings. Out of 328 pieces of feedback, 61.6% praised the staff's positive attitude, efficient work, and thorough communication. Customers often note that movers protect furniture well and make the moving day stress-free.
On the flip side, 36.6% of input details recurring problems such as damaged items, costs that wind up higher than estimates, and unexpected extra charges. Some customers report that claims for damages are hard to resolve or compensation offered is inadequate. The company has more positive feedback than many movers, especially for friendly teams, but repeated complaints about damage and pricing transparency keep it from being a top-tier relocation provider in the region.
Show more
Get a Quote (865) 276-7161

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/CareyMovingKnoxville/, https://twitter.com/CareyMoving
82% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Carey Moving & Storage delivers standout moving experiences, with more than 80% of input showing satisfied customers. Feedback highlights professional, courteous staff, careful handling of belongings, efficient and helpful moving crews, and prompt communication. Customers consistently cite team members’ politeness, attention to detail, and speedy service as reasons they recommend the company.
On the other hand, some people report significant concerns—chiefly damage to possessions, missing items, and episodes of unprofessional conduct. A handful of users faced lost or broken valuables without complete compensation, and some noted chaotic service or lack of follow-up on claims. Compared to other movers, Carey receives higher-than-average praise for staff professionalism and helpfulness, but negative experiences with property care and claims handling set them back for a small segment of users. Out of 115 reviews analyzed, these pros and cons clearly establish where Carey excels and where improvements are most needed.
Show more
Get a Quote (865) 329-6025

Company Info

State license #: 076235

Years in Business: 117

DOT #: 076235


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Knoxville to Durham?

Knoxville movers charge $113 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,061 - $3,447 $724 - $1,699 $371 - $662
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,863 - $5,344 $1,212 - $2,453 $382 - $800
4+ bedrooms $3,101 - $7,280 $1,669 - $3,026 $509 - $1,005
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 349 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Tennessee to North Carolina

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Tennessee to North Carolina will cost between $1,061 and $3,447. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from TN to NC will range from $1,863 to $5,344, and a large move from Tennessee to North Carolina will cost from $3,101 to $7,280.

Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to North Carolina

Moving containers from Tennessee to North Carolina will cost you $724 to $1,699 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,212 to $2,453. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,669 to $3,026. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Tennessee.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee to North Carolina

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 $371 and $662. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $382 and $800. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $509 up to $1,005 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Knoxville to Durhamtoggle

The cost of Knoxville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Knoxville to Durham might cost as little as $1,061, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $6,705.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Knoxville, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $371 to $847 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Knoxville to Durham

Expect higher day-to-day spending in Durham than in Knoxville — roughly 28% more for singles and 14% more for families.

Monthly basics come to $2,803 for singles and $5,945 for families in Durham, versus $2,184 and $5,200 in Knoxville.

See the detailed comparison below to budget accordingly:

Knoxville Durham
Average 1 BR rent $1,667 $1,875
Average 3 BR rent $3,210 $2,573
Average home value $350,035 $391,719
Average income (per capita) $61,050 $396,291
Unemployment rate 4.7% 4.1%
Sales tax 9.25% 7.5%
State income tax 0.0% 4.5%
  • Rent prices in Durham are 5% lower than in Knoxville, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • The home prices in Durham are 11.9% higher than in Knoxville, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Durham, where incomes are, on average, 549.1% higher than in Knoxville. Major employers in Durham include Duke University & Duke Univ. Health System, IBM, and Durham Public Schools.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Durham, since the cost of living for a single person in Durham is 28.3% higher than in Knoxville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Durham, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Durham is 14.3% higher than in Knoxville.
  • The unemployment rate in Durham is 12.77% lower than in Knoxville.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Durham, since the city's sales taxes in Durham are 18.92% lower than in Knoxville.
  • State income taxes in Durham are 4.50% higher than in Knoxville.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Knoxville and Durham:

Knoxville Durham
Basic utilities $215.94 $148.21
Cell phone plan $54 $51.67
Dozen eggs $4.06 $4.53
Loaf of bread $3.64 $3.66
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $15
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $85 $70
Gym membership $34.67 $40
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Knoxville than in Durham.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Knoxville than in Durham.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Knoxville than in Durham.
  • Bread costs less in Knoxville than in Durham.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Knoxville than in Durham.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Knoxville than in Durham.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Knoxville than in Durham.

How life is different in Knoxville vs. Durham

Durham Knoxville
Population 283,506 190,740
Transportation Score 4 4
Walkability score 30 31
Bike friendliness score 38 30
Crime Index 54.72 42.54
Safety Index 45.28 57.46
Air Quality Good Good
  • Durham's population is about 49% greater than Knoxville.
  • Durham's public transportation has a similar score to Knoxville.
  • Durham and Knoxville are similarily walkable.
  • With a score of 38 out of 100, Durham is more bike-friendly than Knoxville, which has a score of 30 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Durham's crime rate is higher than Knoxville with a score of 54.72 compared to Knoxville's 42.54. This means that Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54%.
  • Durham is considered to be less safe than Knoxville with a score of 45.28 vs Knoxville's 57.46.
  • Air quality in Durham is good, and in Knoxville it's good.

Other things to consider for your Knoxville vs. Durham move

  • Weather: The climate in Durham is unlikely to affect your move. However, some days in the winter, the roads may become icy which causes traffic issues.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in North Carolina, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Durham Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Durham

Now that you've decided to make the move to City of The Viper, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Durham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Golden Belt
  • Research Triangle Park
  • Central Park
  • Chapel Hill
  • Northgate Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Treyburn
  • American Village/Arrowhead
  • Willowhaven
  • Fieldstone by the Eno
  • Hope Valley Farms

Things to do in Durham

After getting comfortable in your new North Carolina home, it's time to see what Durham is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Durham is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection, and Golden Belt.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Duke University (ACC) and Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Knoxville to Durham?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Knoxville to Durham. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Knoxville.

When is the cheapest time to move from Knoxville to Durham?

Because spring and fall moves from Knoxville to Durham are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Knoxville to Durham take?

The 349-mile journey from Knoxville, TN to Durham, NC, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Knoxville offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Durham.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Knoxville?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

How many movers in Knoxville can handle specialty items for my move to Durham?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Knoxville, 6 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of TN, there are 45 piano movers and 21 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2176 and 1401 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources