Best overall value
Local moving companies in Tacoma
- All Ready Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Mountain Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Apex Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Atlantic Relocation Systems: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Bekins Northwest: 4.52 out of 5 stars
All Ready Moving & Storage
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 2083124
Years in Business: 21
1690 Marine View Dr., Suite D, Tacoma, WA 98422 USAll Ready Moving & Storage customers rave about the moversโ professionalism, efficient service, careful handling, and positive attitudes. Across 95 reviews, 91.6% provided positive input, citing staff as friendly, polite, and highly helpful. Quick moves and support through stressful transitions stand out, with many noting items were well cared for and the teams stayed communicative throughout. Most feedback highlights a seamless experience rare among moving companies. A few clients voiced concerns regarding unexpectedly high costs, disorganized or careless packing, and occasionally unprofessional conduct, especially on more complex relocations. Only a small fraction experienced billing issues or unsatisfactory handling. Compared to other movers, All Ready delivers more consistent service with exceptional staff dedication, but clarity on pricing and consistent quality remains an area for competitors to match.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2083124
Mountain Moving & Storage
rating
4.96 / 5
DOT #: 885643
Years in Business: 62
9413 47th Ave SW Bldg 14 Suite E, Lakewood, WA 98499 USMoving with Mountain Moving & Storage feels like working with pros who get the job done efficiently, with lots of respectful and skilled movers. Feedback from 179 customers shows that 84% found the process quick and their possessions handled carefully by helpful crews. Customers trusted the teams for professionalism, fast service, and attention to detailโfactors rarely matched by other moving companies. On the downside, a few experienced issues with item damage or felt the company lacked proper communication, especially when resolving problems. A small number pointed to unprofessional behavior and found claims tough to resolve. Most noted the staff was courteous and efficient, with only a handful encountering serious problems. Overall, Mountainโs track record puts them ahead of many regional movers, but they could further stand out by sharpening their communication and quality controls.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 885643
- State license #: 885643
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Mountain Trucking Co Inc
Local Associations
Apex Moving & Storage
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 1064661
Years in Business: 25
914 Valley Ave NW Ste 102, Puyallup, WA 98371 USApex Moving & Storage stands out for its high level of customer satisfaction, with 248 reviews analyzed and about 86% offering positive feedback. Customers highlight the team's professionalism, quick and efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and strong communication from booking to delivery. Many mention thoughtful movers who show respect for property and are easy to work with, making the moving process smoother than with typical companies. Some point to better experiences with Apex compared to other movers, citing consistently prompt arrivals and accurate estimates. A handful of reviews raise concerns about items being damaged, inconsistent communication, or unexpected fees, but these make up a much smaller portion of the input. While most people report less stress and more reliability with Apex compared to other moving services, a few say their issues werenโt resolved satisfactorily. Overall, Apex receives notably more positive recommendations and repeat customers than many moving companies in the region.
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
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1064661
- State license #: 1064661
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Apex Moving & Storage LLC
- Apex Movers LLC
- Apex Packing & Loading Service
Atlantic Relocation Systems
rating
4.52 / 5
DOT #: 2730619
Years in Business: 100
2121 S 80th St, Tacoma, WA 98409 USCustomers consistently praise Atlantic Relocation Systems for its professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, good communication, and swift moving process. Over three-quarters of feedback is positive, out of 139 reviews analyzed. Movers often receive high marks for friendliness, organization, and attention to detail, setting the company apart from many competitors. Customers appreciate how teams listen, adapt to needs, and provide strong follow-through, making relocation significantly less stressful. Negative input highlights damage to items, rude staff interactions, and delays with delivery or arrival. Issues include careless packing, property mishandling, and unsatisfactory resolution of claims, though such complaints appear less frequently than positive remarks. The overall impression is that Atlantic Relocation performs above industry standards in moving professionalism and customer care but shows room for better consistency in item protection and customer response during less-than-ideal situations.
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
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2730619
- State license #: 2385545
Alternative Business Names
- Effort Enterprises of Tacoma Inc
Bekins Northwest
rating
4.52 / 5
DOT #: 2256609
Years in Business: 11
8500 Durango St SW, Tacoma, WA 98499 USCustomers rave about Bekins Northwest for their fast, professional teams that handle moves efficiently and take excellent care of property. Movers often get praised for being helpful and keeping the moving process smooth and organized. A few reviewers highlight swift booking, friendly staff, and transparent communication. Negative feedback is rare but points to some incidents with damaged belongings, unexpected costs due to inaccurate estimates, and frustrations with insurance. Compared to other movers, Bekins Northwest stands out for helpful service and careful handling, though a small number of clients faced problems with item damage or claims resolution. Out of 59 reviews examined, over 84% reflect highly positive feedback.
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
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2256609
- State license #: 2256609
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Northwest Movers, LLC
- Bekins Moving & Storage
Factors that influence moving costs from Tacoma to Madison
What to know before moving from Tacoma to Madison
Moving from Tacoma to Madison means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Tacoma than in Madison, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Tacoma compares to Madison so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Tacoma | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,650 | $1,600 |
| Average home value | $477,289 | $367,934 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,341 | $62,919 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $4,133 | $2,292 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,260 | $5,457 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | 3.3% |
| Sales tax | 10.3% | 5.5% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 7.65% |
- Rent prices in Madison are 3% lower than in Tacoma, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Madison.
Home prices in Madison are 22.9% lower than in Tacoma. - Income in Madison is 14.2% lower than in Tacoma, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Madison include Datex Ohmeda, American Family Insurance, and Fairway Independent Mortgage.
- The cost of living for a single person in Madison is 44.5% lower than in Tacoma. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Madison is 24.8% lower than in Tacoma.
- The unemployment rate in Madison is 54.79% lower than in Tacoma.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the cityโs sales taxes in Madison are 46.60% lower than in Tacoma.
- State income taxes in Madison are 7.65% higher than in Tacoma.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,663.68 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Tacoma.
How life is different in Tacoma vs. Madison
| Madison | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 223,968 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 6 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 50 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 48 |
| Crime Index | 34.57 | 55.55 |
| Safety Index | 65.43 | 44.45 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Madison's population is about 20% greater than Tacoma.
- Madison's public transportation has a similar score to Tacoma.
- Madison is less walkable than Tacoma with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Tacoma's 54 out of 100.
- With a score of 66 out of 100, Madison is more bike-friendly than Tacoma, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Madison's crime rate is lower than Tacoma with a score of 34.57 compared to Tacoma's 55.55. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55%.
- Madison is considered to be safer than Tacoma with a safety index of 65.43 vs Tacoma's 44.45.
- Air quality in Madison is good, and in Tacoma it's good.
Other things to consider for your Tacoma vs. Madison move
- Weather: August, June and July are the most pleasant months in Madison, while January and December are the least comfortable months for any relocation activities.
- HOA rules: Itโs a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโs a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, itโs not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโs license in Wisconsin, visit the state's public utilities commission
- Moving permits: While Wisconsin doesnโt mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Madison without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers' insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Madison
With your sights set on "Mad City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Madison.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Shorewood Hills
- Maple Bluff
- Monona
- Sun Prairie
- Verona
Best neighborhoods for families
- Dudgeon-Monroe
- Hill Farms-University
- Maple-Prairie
- Westmorland
- Wexford
Things to do in Madison
After getting comfortable in your new Wisconsin home, itโs time to see what Madison is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ thereโs plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Madison include museums and art centers like the Chazen Museum of Art, Madison Children's Museum, Wisconsin Veterans Museum, Wisconsin Historical Museum, and University of Wisconsin Geology Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Olbrich Botanical Gardens, University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, Lake Mendota, and Allen Centennial Gardens โ and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA), Madison Mallards (Baseball), Madison Radicals (AUDL), or Madison Capitols (United States Hockey League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Tacoma to Madison?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Tacoma to Madison. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Tacoma.
When is the cheapest time to move from Tacoma to Madison?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Tacoma to Madison, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Tacoma to Madison take?
The 1,937-mile journey from Tacoma, WA to Madison, WI typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in Tacoma offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Madison.
