When relocating from Washington to Michigan, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,841 to
$8,414, roughly
$3,056 for a container move, and close to
$1,993
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Washington
In Washington, you can choose from 74 interstate movers capable of assisting with your move to Michigan. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Washington. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- A2B Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- All Ready Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- On The Go Moving and Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- You Move Me: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 1941425
Years in Business: 15
A2B Moving & Storage, LLC has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Auburn, WA since 2010. Renowned for their comprehensive offerings, they excel in packing, unpacking, and crating services, as well as handling specialized moves like pianos, hot tubs, and safes. Compared to other nearby companies, A2B stands out with an impressive average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.6 on Google My Business, further emphasized by their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. No deposit is required, and they accept various payment methods, including credit cards and cryptocurrency, making them a convenient and reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 2083124
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2083124
All Ready Moving & Storage has been a trusted choice for local residential moving services in and around Tumwater, WA since 2005. Boasting a sterling reputation with 4.8 stars on Yelp and 4.7 stars on Google from hundreds of satisfied customers, they are a top contender among nearby moving companies. They also hold an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. In addition to local moves, they provide comprehensive packing and unpacking services, labor-only options, and specialized capabilities for moving pianos and antiques, making them a versatile and reliable option for a variety of moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: HG064180
Pricing: $180/hr
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2120054
Alternate Names: On The Go Moving and Storage , On The Go Moving & Storage Bellevue , On The Go Moving & Storage Redmond , On The Go Moving & Storage Seattle
On The Go Moving and Storage has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Seattle, WA since 2012. Unlike many nearby competitors, this company also offers specialized services such as moving antiques and office relocations, and they require no deposit for their services. The company boasts a strong reputation with an average rating of 4.2 stars on Yelp from 259 reviews and 4.8 stars on Google from 357 reviews, though its Better Business Bureau rating is a C-. Overall, On The Go Moving and Storage is a trusted option for local moves in the Seattle area, combining experience with customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Offices
- Antiques
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 14401
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 2518689
Alternate Names: 0955821 BC Ltd.
You Move Me offers exceptional local residential moving services throughout Vancouver, WA, and has been a trusted name in the industry since 2014. With an average rating of 4.5 on Yelp and an impressive 4.9 across nearly 1900 Google reviews, customer satisfaction is evidently high. Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, this company stands out for its reliability and professional service. Unlike many nearby competitors, You Move Me also provides comprehensive packing and unpacking services, and no deposit is required to secure a booking. Customers can rest easy knowing their move is in capable and caring hands.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 20229
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: SOUTH SOUND COLLEGE HUNKS LLC
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, based in Tukwila, WA, offers reliable local residential moving services, gaining a solid reputation since its inception in 2020. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, they stand out among nearby competitors by providing comprehensive services including office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only assistance. The company enjoys high consumer praise, boasting an impressive 4.9 average rating from 645 Google reviews, although their Yelp rating is lower at 3.9 from 49 reviews. College Hunks accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, making the moving process seamless and stress-free for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Washington to Michigan 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 Washington and drop it off at your new home in Michigan.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best Washington to Michigan moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from Washington to Michigan, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat equity, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Washington to Michigan labor-only movers
If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that’s the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.
For a smooth move from Washington to Michigan, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to MI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 94 Washington moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
- 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%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
- Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
- Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Washington to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Washington to Michigan. 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 | $1,380 – $5,391 | $1,107 – $2,998 | $1,121 – $2,252 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,841 – $8,414 | $1,971 – $4,142 | $1,201 – $2,786 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,984 – $12,596 | $2,954 – $5,648 | $1,500 – $3,380 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,031-mile move from WA to MI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Washington to Michigan
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to Michigan typically costs between $1,380 and $5,391. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,841 and $8,414 when moving from WA to MI. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Washington to Michigan, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,984 up to $12,596.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to Michigan
If you’re relocating from Washington to Michigan, you’ll typically spend between $1,107 and $2,998 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,971 up to $4,142. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,954 and $5,648. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington to Michigan
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,121 and $2,252. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,201 to $2,786. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,500 and $3,380.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to MI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Washington to Michigan. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Washington, which usually means higher prices.
- Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from WA to MI
Transitioning from Washington to Michigan gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Washington vs. Michigan
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Washington and Michigan are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
| Washington | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,900 | $1,037 |
| Average home cost | $588,856 | $245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) | $90,325 | $68,505 |
| Cost of living index | 115 | 92 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.8% | 4.7% |
| Average sales tax | 6.5% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.25% |
- Rent is about 45% less expensive in Michigan than in Washington, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Home prices in Michigan are about 58% lower than in Washington, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Michigan are roughly 24% lower than in Washington.
- Moving to Michigan costs about 20% less than living in Washington. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
- Unemployment rates are about the same in Washington and Michigan, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
- Sales tax in Michigan is 8% lower than in Washington, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
- Michigan has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Washington
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Michigan and Washington compare.
| Michigan | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,037,261 | 7,812,880 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49.7-48.3 | Democratic |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 79ºF |
| Winter low | 14ºF | 31ºF |
| Annual rain | 34″ | 38″ |
| Annual snow | 64″ | 18″ |
| Crime index | 19.98 | 37.32 |
- If you’re moving from Washington to Michigan, you’ll find Michigan has about 28% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
- In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while Washington supported Democratic.
- The average summer high in Michigan is 81°F, while Washington averages 79°F. With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
- In the coldest months, Michigan dips to about 14°F, colder than 31°F in Washington. Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
- In Michigan, you’ll experience about 34 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 38 inches you’re used to in Washington. While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
- Each year, Michigan gets about 64 inches of snow, far more than the 18 inches you might be accustomed to in Washington. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
- Michigan boasts a lower crime rate than Washington, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 37.32. This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Washington vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Michigan to Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington | Pros of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| Beautiful landscapes | Scenic beauty |
| Ample economic opportunity | Good higher education |
| High quality of life | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Low cost of living |
| Delicious seafood | Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. Michigan
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Washington to Michigan:
| Cons of living in Washington | Cons of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| Constant rain | Cold snowy winters |
| Bad traffic | Spotty economic opportunity |
| High cost of living | Poor transportation infrastructure |
| High crime rate | Expensive education |
| Natural disasters | Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Washington to Michigan move
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- 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 you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Michigan, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- 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 Michigan. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Michigan
Get excited to explore Michigan. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Washington to Michigan?
If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Washington moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Washington to Michigan?
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 Washington to Michigan separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to Michigan?
Many people are making the move from Washington to Michigan to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Michigan has to offer, like scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Washington. Housing is more affordable in Michigan, with average rent about 45% less and home prices 58% lower than in Washington. The tax rate is about the same between Washington and Michigan.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
Planning to move to Michigan? A single adult should aim for an income of around $54,934 to live comfortably. Monthly costs average $3,608 for an individual, or $6,859 for a family of four. Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Washington?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Washington: 4 provide military discounts; 5 have senior-discount programs; 2 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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