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($1,057) Cost to Move From Madison, WI to Detroit, MI

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 436 miles from Madison to Detroit has an average cost ranging from $406 to $5,114. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–four days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Madison to Detroit

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Madison to Detroit

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Madison to Detroit. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 3 interstate moving companies in Madison. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Detroit.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Madison to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 436-mile move from Madison to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,099 – $3,625
  • Moving Container $869 – $1,614
  • Rental Truck $361 – $693
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,943 – $5,114
  • Moving Container $1,205 – $2,315
  • Rental Truck $406 – $847
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,314 – $6,956
  • Moving Container $1,507 – $2,819
  • Rental Truck $485 – $930
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Roadway Moving
Maple Bluff, WI Orchard Lake Village, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
PODS
Verona, WI Novi, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 05, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Oregon, WI Grosse Pointe Park, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 01, 2025
American Van Lines
Marshall, WI Farmington, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 14, 2025
Safeway Moving
Cambria, WI Riverview, MI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Orfordville, WI Flat Rock, MI
Studio apartment
Sep 06, 2025
North American Van Lines
Clyman, WI New Baltimore, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
United Van Lines
Milton, WI Monroe, MI
Studio apartment
Aug 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
Friesland, WI Grosse Pointe, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Belleville, WI Romulus, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Detroit, MI to Madison, WI guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Madison to Detroit moves

Organizing a move from Madison to Detroit can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating five local movers in Madison known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Madison to Detroit.

  1. Above Average Moving LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. The Armstrong Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  4. Top Notch Moving and Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.28 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.0% of all reviews were positive
6.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Above Average Moving LLC lives up to its name by consistently delivering efficient and professional moving experiences. Out of 226 customer reviews, an impressive 92% praised the company, citing hardworking, careful staff, smooth and fast service, and lower pricing compared to other movers. Customers repeatedly mention the team’s attention to detail and courteous attitudes. Moves frequently finish ahead of schedule, and all types of belongings—furniture, pianos, fragile items—arrive safely. On the less favorable side, a small portion of feedback noted incidents of item damage, inaccurate estimates, and slow or absent communication, especially with follow-up or during delays. Compared to typical moving companies, Above Average stands out for its friendly service and cost-effectiveness, though improving estimate accuracy and communication could strengthen their reputation further. The majority of feedback confirms a reliable, customer-focused approach that makes moving easier and less stressful for most clients.
Get a Quote (608) 556-7980

Company Info

State license #: 26753

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2595339

Alternate Names: Above Average Moving LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
77.2% of all reviews were positive
22.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Armstrong Relocation stands out for its responsive, professional, and courteous staff. Customers frequently praise their careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and efficient moving process. Many mention friendly movers who are eager to help, making the experience less stressful than other moving services. Feedback often notes accurate estimates and competitive pricing, outshining many industry competitors. Negative feedback focuses on item damage during moves, dissatisfaction with claims resolutions, and occasional unprofessional interactions or lowballed estimates. Among 57 reviews analyzed, 77% are positive, with most input stressing reliability and care, while negative experiences center around damage and communication. Compared to other movers, Armstrong earns strong marks for customer service and careful handling, but could improve on damage prevention and clarity in estimates.
Get a Quote (608) 838-5940

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc. , Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services , The Armstrong Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.0% of all reviews were positive
21.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and professional crews are frequent themes found in the 286 feedback entries for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Nearly 80% of input praises their efficient service, skilled and polite movers, careful handling of belongings, responsive communication, and fast-moving teams. Many note seamless scheduling, prompt arrivals, and property treated with respect. While most find the staff courteous and the process smooth, over one-fifth raise concerns, especially about damage to items, inaccurate estimates, and unexpected charges. Some reported broken furniture, billing surprises, or unresolved claims, with a few experiencing high costs or responses slower than agreed. Compared to many moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives above-average marks for professionalism and care, but feedback underscores the importance of vigilant inventory tracking and clear, accurate quoting before booking.
Get a Quote (608) 340-1557

Company Info

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Lightner & Lightner, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.9% of all reviews were positive
4.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top Notch Moving and Storage earns its name with the overwhelming majority of customer feedback citing efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling. Nearly 95% of 234 total reviews express strong satisfaction, highlighting friendly movers and consistent communication. Customers regularly note prompt arrivals, care for personal belongings, and an easy, stress-free process. Several customers mention moving delicate items and heavy furniture with no damage, even in challenging conditions. Friendly and approachable staff and good communication further set this company apart from competitors. A very small percentage of reviews report upset over property damage, higher-than-expected charges, or unprofessional interactions, especially during complex moves. Some customers experienced additional fees not clearly outlined or insufficient handling of claims when things went wrong. Only one neutral review described mixed staff performance during illness. Compared to typical moving companies, Top Notch stands out for service consistency and upbeat, helpful crews. Most clients enthusiastically recommend the company, with return customers making up a notable portion of input. The strong focus on efficiency, careful handling, and people skills makes Top Notch Moving and Storage a reliable choice for local and long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (608) 590-3710

Company Info

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3322160

Alternate Names: TopNotchMovers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.1% of all reviews were positive
10.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and fast service set College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving apart from most competitors in the industry. Out of 248 feedback submissions, 89% praised efficient work, quick process, and professional, polite crews who communicate clearly and handle belongings with care. Customers frequently mention the stress-free, friendly experience, and many highlight the company’s promptness and attention to details others sometimes overlook. On the other hand, negative feedback makes up around 11% of input. The main complaints concern damage to belongings, late or missing arrival, and unexpected charges—especially for those comparing pricing or needing timely, careful moves. College Hunks earns high marks for execution and customer experience but should improve consistency on careful handling and accurate billing to match the leading industry performers.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Madison to Detroit?

On average, moving companies in Wisconsin charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,057 – $2,997 $673 – $1,476 $391 – $700
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,943 – $5,114 $1,205 – $2,315 $406 – $847
4+ bedrooms $3,314 – $6,956 $1,507 – $2,819 $485 – $930
*Estimated cost ranges for a 436-mile move from Madison to Detroit are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Madison to Detroit

When planning a move to Detroit from Madison, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,057 and $2,997. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,943 and $5,114 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,314 to $6,956.

Cost of moving containers from Madison to Detroit

When you’re heading from Madison to Detroit, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $673 and $1,476. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,205 and $2,315. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,507 to $2,819. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Wisconsin easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Madison to Detroit

A moving rental truck from Madison to Detroit is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $391 to $700. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $406 to $847, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Madison to Detroit costs around $485 to $930.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Madison to Detroit

The cost of Madison movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Madison to Detroit may only cost $1,496, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,517.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Madison.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($391–$908), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Madison to Detroit

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Detroit runs about 9% higher for singles and 23% higher for families than Madison.

Singles spend around $2,500 in Madison versus $2,292 in Madison; families pay $6,687 compared with $5,457.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Madison Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $1,693 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $3,100 $2,542
Average home value $367,934 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $62,919 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $2,292 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $5,457 $6,687
Unemployment rate 3.3% 9.06%
Sales tax 5.5% 6.0%
State income tax 7.65% 4.25%
  • Rent is about 22% less expensive in Detroit than in Madison, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 80% cheaper in Detroit than in Madison.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 40% less in Detroit than in Madison.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Detroit, with the cost of living for a single person being 9% more than in Madison. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to Detroit, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 23% higher than in Madison.
  • Detroit has a higher unemployment rate than Madison by about 175%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes in Detroit surpass those in Madison by 9%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 44% less in Michigan compared to Wisconsin, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Madison versus Detroit:

Living Expense Madison Detroit
Basic utilities $215.88 $251.12
Cell phone plan $50.44 $55.77
Dozen eggs $4.04 $3.52
Loaf of bread $3.75 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $68.50
Gym membership $64.29 $43.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Madison than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Madison than in Detroit.
  • Eggs cost more in Madison than in Detroit.
  • Bread is more expensive in Madison than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Madison than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Madison than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Detroit.

How life is different in Madison vs. Detroit

Madison Detroit
Population 269,840 639,111
Transportation score 6 7
Walkability score 50 51
Bike friendliness score 66 52
Crime index 34.57 72.92
Safety index 65.43 27.08
Air quality Good Good
  • Detroit’s population is about 137% greater than Madison.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Madison’s score of 6.
  • Detroit and Madison are similarly walkable.
  • Detroit has a bike-friendliness score of 52 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Madison, which has a score of 66.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Madison with a score of 72.92 compared to Madison’s 34.57. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 27.08 vs Madison’s 65.43.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Madison it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Madison to Detroit move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Madison and Detroit are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Michigan, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Michigan, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Detroit. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Detroit

With your sights set on America’s Comeback City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Detroit.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Corktown
  • Brush Park
  • Woodbridge
  • Downtown
  • Lafayette Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Sherwood Forest
  • Palmer Woods
  • University District
  • Corktown
  • Lafayette Park

Things to do in Detroit

With your move to Michigan complete, you can dive right into experiencing Detroit. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Detroit is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Madison to Detroit?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Madison to Detroit. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Madison.

When is the cheapest time to move from Madison to Detroit?

Want to save on your move from Madison to Detroit? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Madison to Detroit take?

The 436-mile move from Madison, WI, to Detroit, , takes one to four days. Some Madison movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Detroit.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Madison?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 3 movers in Madison provide piano moving services. 1 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

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