Moving day is a stressful time in any person’s life. Whether it’s across town or a long-distance move, hiring a moving company is one way to ease your mind and lighten your physical load. Even when moving out of state, there are many companies that provide affordable out-of-state relocation services. For things to go smoothly, it’s important to hire reputable movers. We’ve researched and reviewed the top cheap moving companies and ranked them according to our detailed methodology. Read on to learn specifics about the best cheap moving companies.
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.2
Top-notch packing services
Nationwide partner network
Comprehensive moving calculator
What Are the Best Cheap Moving Companies?
Our top nine recommended cheap moving companies for 2024 are:
Compare the Best Cheap Moving Companies
The table below outlines data for the most affordable moving companies on the market. We constantly update these ratings and price estimates to reflect industry changes. Continue reading in-depth reviews of several top providers.
Company | Best For | Our Rating | BBB Rating | Local Cost | Long-distance Cost |
 | Best Full-Service | B | $650–$1350 | $2,100–$5,400 | |
 | Most Transparent Pricing | B- | $550–$1,100 | $2,550–$5,700 | |
 | Best Cost Estimation Tools | B | $700 - $1,250 | $1,800 - $4980 | |
 | Best Flat-Rate | Not Rated | Not available for local moves | $2,200–$5,500 | |
 | Most Moving | B | Call for a quote | $2,750–$5,200 | |
 | Most Customizable | A+ | Call for a quote | $2,750–$6,000 | |
 | Best Vehicle | A+ | $800–$1,500 | $2,000–$5,000 | |
 | Best Pricing | A+ | $800–$1,500 | $2,000–$5,000 | |
 | Best Technology | A+ | Call for quote | $2,000–$5,000 | |
 | Best Container Service | A+ | Not available for local moves | $1,350–$2,400 | |
 | Best Valuation Coverage Options | A+ | $1,200-$2,750 | $3,100-$8,400 |
International Van Lines
4.5
Our Rating
Founded in 2000, the company started as an international moving company but has since included local and interstate moves in its services. For these reasons, IVL earns 4.5 out of 5 stars and is recognized as the Best Full-Service Moving Company.
International Van Lines operates in all 50 states, partnering with a large network of moving partners that provide a range of add-on services. Other movers don’t offer as many services, so you may spend valuable time piecing together multiple providers for relocation assistance. International Van Lines has a catalog of add-on services that make it simple to use as a one-stop shop for all your moving needs.
International Van Lines is a full-service moving company with a range of services to suit various customer needs.
You can book the following moving services through IVL:
- Auto transportation
- Custom crating
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Loading and unloading services
- Packing and unpacking services
- Packing supplies
- Short and long-term storage solutions
- Specialized fragile item packing services
IVL’s wide range of moving options can likely meet your needs. It offers the following moving options:
- Air freight
- Commercial moves
- Government and military moves
- Ground transportation
- International moves
- Local moves
- Long-distance moves
- Ocean freight
Like many moving companies, International Van Lines offers seniors a 15% discount. It may have additional promotional discounts, like discounts for an off-season move, but you must ask when you’re ready to book your move.
American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
American Van Lines wins our superlative for Most Transparent Pricing and gets 3.6 out of 5 stars overall.
We like that American Van Lines offers flat-rate pricing so you know what to expect and don’t get surprised when you receive the final bill. The last thing anybody wants is to get hit with hidden fees after a move.
American Van Lines is a full-service mover. The company offers the following services:
- Antique moving
- Custom crating for large or unusually shaped items
- Fine art moving
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Moving supplies
- Packing and unpacking
- Piano moving
- Storage
AVL offers a diverse range of moving options, including:
- Corporate moves
- Interstate moves
- Local moves
- Long-distance moves
- Military moves
American Van Lines doesn’t offer discounts but it does price match. We recommend getting quotes from one or more movers and then getting one from American Van Lines to compare. That’s one way to ensure you’re getting the lowest price.
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
4.2
Our Rating
As a brokerage company with a network of licensed, pre-screened moving companies, Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) connects you to the best, most affordable movers. If you’re a military service member looking to start a Personally Procured Move (PPM), IMRG offers packing services designed to stand up to military inspection. Its network also has companies that provide military vehicle and equipment transportation
We like IMRG because of its impressive network of partners and free customer resources. IMRG works with top-quality, low-cost movers like Atlas Van Lines, a company with 75 years of industry experience. Its website provides invaluable resources like moving-prep checklists, guides, and a cost calculator.
IMRG’s service offerings depend on what local companies are available. However, IMRG’s wide network of partners typically provides the following services:
- Packing
- Disassembly and reassembly
- Vehicle transportation
- Furniture moving
- Piano and antique moving
- GPS tracking
- Junk removal
When working with IMRG, you can choose from companies that specialize in the following kinds of relocations:
- Interstate moves
- Local moves (only larger than 50 miles)
- Self-service moves (such as PODS)
- Military moves
- Corporate and commercial moves
- Cross-country moves
- Long-distance moves
Unfortunately, IMRG doesn’t currently have any available discounts — but many of its partner companies offer senior and military discounts.
Safeway Moving
4.1
Our Rating
With a star rating of 3.7 out of 5, Safeway Moving is the Best Flat-Rate Moving Company on our list.
Safeway Moving provides one bottom-line price for your move. Its transparent flat rates mean you won’t experience any surprises during the billing process, which can be an issue with other moving companies.
Safeway’s services depend on location, though you’ll likely have access to packing and other basic labor needs. Depending on which carrier it assigns to your move, you may have other specialty add-ons available, such as:
- Assembly and disassembly of furniture
- Car shipping
- Custom crating
- Full valuation coverage
- Junk removal
- Packing materials
- Specialty item moving
- Storage options
Safeway Moving has the following moving options:
- International moves
- Interstate moves
- Long-distance moves
- Military moves
Safeway has multiple discounts, but you must ask for them. It offers discounts to first responders, teachers, seniors, students, and veterans. There are also discounts for advanced bookings.
Moving APT
3.9
Our Rating
Moving APT earns 4.3 out of 5 stars and wins the superlative of Most Moving Partners. With more than 500 partners nationwide, it features 2,500 moving trucks in its network.
Finding inexpensive movers is easy with Moving APT’s vendors. The company offers no in-house moving services and instead serves as a broker, pairing you with a mover best suited to your timetable, budget, and scope. In fact, it negotiates your price.
Below are some of the popular services booked through Moving APT. However, because it is a brokerage and relies so heavily on partners, not all services are available to all customers. Services vary by partner, which often hinge on your location or specific move.
- Appliance connection services
- Auto shipping
- Custom crating
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Junk removal
- Packing services and supplies
- Piano moving
- Storage services
Remember, Moving APT pairs you with a moving partner, so moving options vary. Possible options include:
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Local moves
- Long-distance moves
- Military moves
Like other highly-rated moving companies, Moving APT offers price matching. To get a competitive rate, gather multiple quotes before contacting Moving APT. The company has discounts for military personnel and senior citizens, short-distance moves, and early booking.
JK Moving Services
4.2
Our Rating
JK Moving Services earns 4 out of 5 stars overall and offers the Most Customizable Moving Experience of the moving companies on our list.
JK provides more unique add-ons of any mover, positioning it as a viable option if you have niche moving needs. For example, if sensitive files are stored in your home, JK Moving Services offers archival services, ensuring none of your data is compromised.
JK Moving Services also finances moves, which helps when you already have to pay upfront costs for your new residence. Financing comes in the form of monthly payments after the move.
JK Moving Services offers a range of supplementary services, including:
- Archive services
- Auto relocation services
- Crating
- Freighting
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Loading and unloading
- Long and short-term climate-controlled storage
- Packing and unpacking
- Specialty services for antiques, fine art and pianos
- Specialized services for law firms, medical offices and other specialized workplaces
- Transport and delivery
In addition to the customizations available, you can turn to JK Moving Services for any of the following moves:
- Data center moves
- Employee relocation
- Government official moves
- International moves
- Local moves
- Long-distance moves
- Office moves
Unfortunately, JK Moving Services has no discount pricing. And it offers no price-matching. However, the ability to customize your move ensures you only pay for the services you need and use.
Allied Van Lines
4.2
Our Rating
Allied earns our superlative for Best Vehicle Shipping and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
If you need to relocate a vehicle as part of your move and don’t want to drive it, we recommend Allied Van Lines. Allied has the Best Vehicle Shipping Options in the industry. Unlike some movers, Allied Van Lines doesn’t outsource its vehicle shipping. The company is so confident in its services that if your vehicle doesn’t arrive on schedule, it covers the cost of a rental car until your vehicle arrives.
Allied Van Lines is a full-service moving company with many optional services, including transportation for boats and recreational vehicles. In addition, you can book:
- Auto, boat, and other recreational vehicle transportation
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Full-value coverage
- Packing and unpacking
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
Allied Van Lines can service almost any U.S. customer. The company also has a selection of moving options, including the following:
- Commercial moves
- Cross-country moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Local moves
Although Allied doesn’t advertise discounts, our research finds you probably can get one — you just need to ask. When you’re on a phone call with a representative, ask about current special promotions or discounts. If you qualify, double-check they’ve been applied to your invoice.
U-Pack
3.5
Our Rating
U-Pack earns 3.6 out of 5 stars for its scheduling flexibility and additional services and is our Best Overall Container Service.
U-Pack is a solid alternative for customers who want more flexibility in their moving schedule. The company offers flexible pickup and delivery for its containers, making it easier to move on your schedule. Unlike many other container services, U-Pack provides trailer services, making a DIY move for any sized home possible.
U-Pack limits its services to long-distance container moving and storage services. If you want to move locally, you’ll need to look at other moving companies. U-Pack only services moves of more than 150 miles. U-Pack’s moving services are also limited. If you need additional moving services, you’ll have to source them through a third party.
U-Pack’s ReloCube containers or moving trailers can be used for any of the following types of moves:
- International moves (Canada, Puerto Rico)
- Job relocation
- Long-distance moves
- Military moves
- Senior moves
- Student moves
U-Pack offers no discounts. However, you can apply one of many coupons available through the U-Pack website to offset some of the costs of your move.
North American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
North American Van Lines receives 4.4 out of 5 stars, and our superlative for Best Pricing Options.
North American Van Lines stands out for its unique pricing options, allowing its customers to choose the pricing type that fits best. For example, it has special “not-to-exceed” and “bottom line” pricing. These are beneficial for customers who are on a tight budget.
North American Van Lines is a full-service mover. You can select from any of the following add-on services:
- Appliance disconnection and reconnection
- Basic liability coverage
- Boxes and packing supplies
- Custom crating
- Crane vans for oversized items
- Fragile-only packing
- Full-service packing
- Full-valuation coverage
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Loading and unloading
- Storage
North American Van Lines provides the following moving options:
- Corporate moves
- Cross-country moves
- International moves
- Local moves
- Long-distance moves
- Out-of-state moves
North American offers discounts to members of labor unions and American Legion members. If you belong to the American Legion, you’re eligible for moving and storage discounts, non-peak rates, and guaranteed quotes. The American Legion membership discount also provides up to $100,000 in replacement coverage protection for items in transit.
Union members can secure up to $50,000 in replacement coverage and all the perks provided for legion members. You’re also eligible for packing discounts if you’re a union member.
PODS
3.2
Our Rating
PODS scores 3.2 out of 5 stars and is our choice for Most Flexible Container Service.
PODS is a moving container service that offers affordable DIY moving solutions. Unlike many other container moving companies, PODS is available for local and long-distance moves. Additionally, PODS has multiple container sizes, a bonus for customers with variable packing and storage needs. PODS has pickup and delivery windows that are customizable, letting you pack and move on your schedule.
PODS offers basic moving services. It can connect you with a third party if you want additional services, like help loading or unloading. It does have the following direct services:
- Long-term storage
- Short-term storage
PODS can be a solution for many types of moves. Available options are:
- Cross-country moves
- Interstate moves
- International (Canada) moves
- Local moves
- Long-distance moves
- Small moves
PODS has multiple promotions available through its website. While many have an expiration date, PODS always has some offers on the table. Examples are six months of free storage to 30% off your move cost. Look under the promotions tab on the PODS website to see today’s discounts.
How Much Do Top Moving Companies Typically Charge?
Moving costs depend on how far you’re moving, the amount of furniture you’re taking, when you move, how far in advance you can schedule your move, and the add-on services you need.
| Type of move | Low estimate | High estimate |
| Local | $687 | $2,504 |
| Long-distance | $3,466 | $8,433 |
| International | $1,333 | $10,666 |
For a full-service two-bedroom household moving from New York to Los Angeles, you can expect to pay between $4,600 and $9,400. For a short-distance, full-service four-bedroom move, you’ll likely pay $1,500 to $1,800. As you can see, distance, size, and optional services all impact the cost of your move.
How Can You Negotiate With the Top Moving Companies and Get Discounts?
Relocating can be very expensive, but there are several budget-friendly ways to move overseas. One of the best ways to save money on a move is to negotiate. The most straightforward way to build your bargaining power is to gather estimates from multiple professional movers. Once you collect a few quotes, ask the company you want to work with if it will price-match or if it will come down in price to get your business.
Another tactic is to ask for a discount or ask if it has any coupons or special promotions. Some moving companies don’t advertise their promotions but will offer them if asked. For example, there are often off-season moving discounts available. There are also movers offering price cuts for veterans. If you’re flexible about your moving day, you can save a lot of money by waiting for a discount at non-peak times of the year.
Make sure you won’t pay for any unnecessary services. Look over your moving estimate carefully and figure out what you can do independently, like packing or unpacking. Then ask the moving company for a new estimate without additional services.
Persistence here pays off. Don’t give up if you can’t get a lower price on your first call. Call back in a few days and ask again politely. Places like the Bellhop Moving company are available in a lot of areas and are worth pricing against other providers. It’s often worth it for companies to gain new customers by giving a discount. On the contrary, hidden fees or scam tactics may be involved if a company is eager to give you a low estimate. Work with a well-reviewed business to lower your risk of getting ripped off.
How Can You Avoid Moving Scams From Bad Moving Companies?
Unfortunately, scams are too common in the moving industry. They can cost you money, time, and patience during a period when all three commodities are strained. Hopefully we can help. Here are some of the most common moving scams:
- Disappearing movers: Some scammers go as far as loading your items onto a moving truck and then simply cease to maintain contact, disappearing with your items.
- Fake credentials: Companies may provide fraudulent information that makes them look legitimate. You can always cross-reference the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number on the FMCSA website to ensure there is an official record.
- Hidden fees: If you receive a very low initial estimate, you may get a bill later that is full of hidden charges — or one that claims your inventory was larger than initially estimated.
- Hostage shipments: Disreputable moving companies will hold your belongings until you pay additional charges not disclosed in your original contract.
The best way to protect yourself is to watch for red flags. If there is a lack of information online about a particular company, or a company refuses to provide references, it’s cause for concern.
You should be suspicious if you see a history of company name changes or receive a contract with vague terms and conditions. Being vigilant about the movers you work, with is the best way to ensure the possession of your items and that you don’t get taken advantage of.
If for any reason you’ve fallen victim to a wrong moving company, one of the best ways to resolve hostage shipment situation is to file a formal complaint with relevant authorities, such as the Better Business Bureau or the appropriate regulatory agency.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Top Moving Company?
Choosing the best affordable moving company depends on several factors. Here are some important things to consider before your move:
- Your budget: Your budget probably will be the single most important determining factor in picking the best cheap moving company. If you are looking for ways to save money on your move, opt for a mover that won’t try to sell you unnecessary services and one that offers competitive price matching.
- Your timeline: You can save a lot of money if you have a flexible moving timeline. Choose a company that offers off-season discounts for maximum savings.
- Your distance: It may seem counterintuitive, but some companies offer better rates for long-distance moves rather than local ones. Depending on how far you’re moving, it may be cheaper to work with one company over another.
- Your items: If you have items that require specialized packing, you may end up paying for them. If you don’t have things that need special handling, don’t pay for packaging extras.
- Your preferences: Sometimes, your preferences for a particular company may override your budgetary restrictions. If there are preferences you can compromise on, it can save you money.
In addition to these primary factors, consider a company’s experience and what previous customers say. Researching a provider’s standing with the Better Business Bureau, reading online reviews, and comparing quotes are great ways to ensure you’ll deal with a professional and reputable moving company.
So, What Is the Best Cheap Moving Company?
The best cheap moving company is the one that suits your budget, your timeline, and the specifics of your move. To choose the right company for a successful and stress-free move, research what top companies offer, understand how to negotiate for better moving prices, and have your radar up for potential scams.
Before booking your moving date, get quotes from at least three reputable interstate moving companies. Though it may take time to gather these quotes, it can equal big savings for your upcoming move. Companies like Atlas Van Lines do provide free quotes, so why not?
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.2
Top-notch packing services
Nationwide partner network
Comprehensive moving calculator
FAQs About the Best Cheap Moving Companies
What month is the cheapest to move?
You’ll save money if you schedule your move any time between September and April. Peak moving season is in the summer and early fall, so scheduling outside peak season guarantees savings.
What is the best way to get a moving quote?
The best way to get a moving quote is to get an in-home, written estimate. In-home quotes are the most accurate as the company can see what you own and the layout of your home, both factors that will affect the cost of your move.
What is the cheapest way to do a move?
The cheapest way to do a move is to plan strategically. Start by decluttering ahead of time so you’re not paying to move things you won’t keep. You should also take on tasks that you can do yourself, like packing and unpacking.
What day is the cheapest to hire movers?
Weekday moves are the least expensive. Hiring movers for weekends hikes the price.
Methodology: How We Ranked The Best Cheap Moving Companies
At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement projects. Our moving company ratings emphasize what matters most to you — reputable, affordable companies able to tackle a wide range of packing and moving tasks.
Our ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and interviews with former and current professional movers.
A company can earn a maximum of 100 points across four categories converted to a five-star scale. We researched and analyzed dozens of full- and self-service moving companies and developed the following formula:
- Transparency (30 Points): We awarded top points to companies that supplied quotes quickly and provided easy-to-read moving contracts. We used the availability of sample pricing and quick quote features, GPS tracking, and clear customer service hours to determine this metric. Points were also awarded for up-front communication regarding policies, licensing, insurance, and the clear listing of added fees.
- Basic Service Options (20 Points): While this may seem like a given for most movers, a strong basic service profile is not guaranteed when you book your move. Movers that offer local, long-distance, and international moving, while providing packing and loading with their basic service packages rate highly here.
- Customization Options (30 Points): Aside from basic services, a comprehensive list of added services indicates a mover’s quality. Assembly and disassembly, valuation coverage, piano moving, car shipping, and similar add-ons indicate a mover that puts customer service first.
- Reputation (20 Points): We assessed each mover’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. We weighed BBB ratings and the company’s complaint response rate to calculate this metric.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
