A long-distance move exceeds 100 miles or crosses over a state line, and there’s no getting around it — planning a long-distance move is stressful. Working with the best moving company to get into your new home can make your big day much easier.

We’ve reviewed and ranked the best long-distance moving companies using several criteria like service add-ons, customer satisfaction, and years of experience. With our research, we’ve compiled a detailed roundup of the moving industry’s top 10 best long-distance moving companies.

Our Top Pick
Best Full-Service Mover

4.5

One month of free storage included with your move

Provides moves in all 50 states

Offers air & ocean freighting

VISIT SITE
Most Transparent Pricing

4.0

Flat rate pricing for all moves

Offers price matching

Expedited moves between big cities

VISIT SITE
Best Cost Estimation Tools

4.2

Top-notch packing services

Nationwide partner network

Comprehensive moving calculator

VISIT SITE

What Are the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies?

Our top 10 recommended long-distance moving companies for 2023: 

International Van Lines: Best Full-Service Mover

Compare the Top Long-Distance Movers

The table below outlines data for the best moving companies on the market for your long-distance relocation. We constantly update these ratings and price estimates to reflect industry changes. Continue reading for more in-depth reviews of several top providers.

Company

Best For

Our Rating

BBB Rating

Local Cost

Long-distance Cost

Best Full-Service
Mover

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
Pricing

Not Rated

Not available for local moves

$2,200–$5,500

Most Moving
Partners

B

Call for a quote

$2,750–$5,200

Most Customizable

A+

Call for a quote

$2,750–$6,000

Best Vehicle
Shipping Options

A+

$800–$1,500

$2,000–$5,000

Best Pricing
Options

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


Best Full-Service Mover

International Van Lines

4.5

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Get 10% Off Your Next Move

We ranked International Van Lines as the best full-service provider for long-distance moves. Scoring 4.5 out of 5 stars, we like IVL for its wide array of service offerings, well-reviewed customer service, and flexible storage options. Originally founded as an international moving company, IVL has decades of experience in long-distance moves, making it a reliable choice for your move.

Provides long-distance and international moving services to 180 countries
Reputable news outlets highly regard its customer service team
All moves include a month of free storage — one of the longer free storage options available
Some moves are subcontracted, which can make the moving process confusing
A lack of clearly stated customer service hours can make it challenging to get help

As a full-service moving company, IVL can meet many long-distance moving needs. 

Customers can use the following moving services available through International Van Lines:

  • Auto shipping
  • Crating services
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Loading and unloading services
  • Packing supplies and services
  • Specialized packing services
  • Storage solutions

International Van Lines has various moving options available to suit your needs:

  • Air and ocean freight
  • Commercial and office moving services
  • Government and military moving services
  • International moves
  • Local moves
  • Long-distance moves

International Van Lines offers a 15% discount to seniors year-round. While other promotional discounts may be available, you’ll need to ask about them when you speak to a representative. 

Most Transparent Pricing

American Van Lines

4.0

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Price Matching Available

We chose American Van Lines because it offers the most transparent pricing among our top-rated providers. American Van Lines has multiple pricing options, including flat-rate pricing options. This makes it simple to budget for your move without worrying about potential hidden fees that some other companies may include. AVL earns 3.6 out of 5 stars and is an excellent choice for customers who value transparent and fixed pricing.

Estimates are binding, which means you won’t be charged more than what you’re quoted
All movers are in-house and are provided regular training for specialty items like fine art
Expedited services are available if you’re moving between major cities
Service is only provided in 48 states
Deposits are required at your booking, sometimes up to 50% of estimated moving costs

American Van Lines markets itself as a full-service mover and currently offers the following services:

  • Antique and fine art handling
  • Custom crating options
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Packaging supplies
  • Packing and unpacking services
  • Piano moving services
  • Storage options

Though slightly more limited than some other providers, the following moving options are available from AVL:

  • Corporate and office moving services
  • Cross-country and interstate moving
  • Government and military moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

There aren’t any discounts advertised with American Van Lines. However, the company offers price matching. We recommend calling multiple providers for a quote to get the best rate possible. With multiple quotes, you can negotiate the best price for your move with AVL.

Best Cost Estimation Tools

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

4.2

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
No current offers available.

As a brokerage company with a wide selection of vetted, licensed, and pre-screened partners, Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) provides some of the best long-distance moving options. If you’re a military service member looking for a Personally Procured Move (PPM), IMRG is an optimal choice, as it offers packing services that stand up to military inspection and transportation for military equipment and vehicles. Additionally, if you need reliable junk removal services as part of your move, IMRG provides expert solutions to ensure a seamless transition.

Works with moving providers in all 50 states 
Can connect customers with providers offering specialized services, like piano moving, vehicle transportation, and much more 
Has a website that provides helpful information, including a moving cost calculator, checklists, and general guides 
Mixed reviews from BBB, Yelp, and Google 
As a brokerage company, the quality of service and availability may vary depending on local providers 

The specific available services differ depending on each company. However, IMRG’s many partners offer the following types of services: 

  • Packing 
  • Disassembly and reassembly
  • Vehicle Transportation 
  • Furniture moving 
  • Piano and antique moving 
  • GPS tracking
  • Junk removal

When working with IMRG, it can connect you with moving companies that offer: 

  • Long-distance moves
  • Local moves (50 miles or more) 
  • Self-service moves (such as PODS)
  • Interstate moves
  • Military moves  
  • Corporate and commercial moves
  • Cross-country moves

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group has no discounts. However, its partner companies provide senior and military discounts to qualifying customers. 

Best Flat-rate Pricing

Safeway Moving

4.1

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
No current offers available.

Though other companies offer a flat-rate pricing option, Safeway Moving provides one bottom-line price for your move, earning 3.7 out of 5 stars and recognition as the best flat-rate moving company. Regardless of your service requirements, Safeway Moving’s flat-rate model means you won’t see anything unexpected on your final bill — something that can happen with other providers.

All moving partners must hold an insurance policy of at least $1,000,000
All licenses and insurance are compatible with HOA requirements
The primary company focus is long-distance moving
Customers must pay a deposit even before scheduling a move
The website provides very little information and lacks features like online chat

Safeway Moving acts as a moving broker, meaning your move is subcontracted to another company that executes the moving services. As such, available services vary depending on which carrier performs your move. Though you’ll generally have access to basic labor like loading and unloading, other add-ons may be available, such as:

  • Auto transportation
  • Crating services
  • Furniture assembly and disassembly
  • Moving supplies
  • Specialty services for fragile items
  • Storage options

Safeway Moving doesn’t offer any options for local moving, though it does provide these other services:

  • International moving services
  • Cross-country and interstate moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Military moving services

Safeway Moving discounts services for first responders, seniors, students, teachers, and veterans. The company also has early booking promotional offers if you plan your move at least 30 days in advance. To receive these discounts, you must inquire about them at the time of your booking.

Best Quoting Experience

Moving APT

3.9

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Use Code APT23 For 20% Off

Moving APT has over 500 partners across the United States, with 2,500 moving trucks in its network. Though the company doesn’t provide any in-house services, it does connect you to a mover that best suits your needs and budget. For its vast network offering a range of services and availability, Moving APT earns 4.3 out of 5 stars and recognition for having the most moving partners.

More scheduling availability than other providers due to its large network
Moving partners are all vetted and background checked
Customer service representatives are available 24/7
Any cancellations must be made within a week of the pickup date to receive a refund
No compensation is provided for damages caused by movers within its network

Additional moving services can be booked through Moving APT, though exact services may vary based on the moving company you’re paired with. These are some of the most frequently booked services:

  • Appliance connection
  • Car shipping
  • Crating services
  • Furniture assembly and disassembly
  • Junk removal
  • Moving supplies
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Piano moving
  • Storage solutions

Moving APT acts as a broker, pairing you with a moving company. Because of this, moving options can be variable but usually include the following:

  • Cross-country moving
  • Interstate moving
  • International moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Military moving

Moving APT offers early booking discounts, senior discounts, and discounts for active, reserve, and retired military personnel. Similarly to other moving companies, Moving APT will price match, though you must solicit quotes from other companies beforehand to negotiate the lowest price for your move.

Most Customizable Moving Experience

JK Moving Services

4.2

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
No current offers available.

JK Moving Services is our choice for the most customizable moving experience. Unlike any other relocation specialist, the company offers niche add-on moving services and financing plans, making it possible to tailor your moving experience to your unique financial and service needs. JK Moving Services ranks among our top providers with 4 out of 5 stars.

Offers add-on services not available from other companies
Deposit is set to a flat rate rather than a percentage
Storage options are climate-controlled, unlike many other included storage options
Deposits are nonrefundable
Doesn’t offer price matching like many of its competitors

JK Moving Services doesn’t only move you from point A to point B. The company also provides the following services:

  • Car transportation services
  • Climate-controlled storage options
  • Crating for large and oddly shaped items
  • File archiving services
  • Fine art and antique handling
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Loading and unloading services
  • Packing and unpacking services
  • Transport and delivery

JK Moving Services is a high-end moving company. It’s one of the most trustworthy relocation services in the industry for specialized moves like legal and medical offices. In addition, the company also provides the following moving options:

  • International moving services
  • Interstate moving services
  • Local moving services for D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Office and data center moving services

JK Moving Services doesn’t provide discounts, price matching, or promotions to its customers. Although, with its customizable services, you can be sure you’ll only pay for what you need.

Best Vehicle Shipping Options

Allied Van Lines

4.2

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
No current offers available.

Allied Van Lines makes our list with 4.7 out of 5 stars and takes the title for best vehicle shipping options. A lot of companies outsource their vehicle shipments, but not Allied. Keeping tabs on the status of your vehicle shipment is simple and doesn’t require talking with a third party. The company also has a policy that covers the cost of a rental car if there are any delays in your vehicle shipment.

Transportation services are available for all types of vehicles, not just cars
A rental car is complimentary if there are any delays in your vehicle shipment
Auto shipment is managed in-house, unlike most companies
Some of Allied’s additional services cost more than its competitors
Unfavorable customer reviews mention a difficult claims process

Allied Van Lines has a range of additional moving services to choose from, including the following:

  • Car, boat, and recreational vehicle transport
  • Fragile item packing
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Packing and unpacking services
  • Shipment location tracking
  • Storage options

As well as vehicle shipping, Allied Van Lines has plenty of other moving options, such as:

  • Cross-country moving services
  • Interstate moving services
  • International moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Office and commercial moving services

According to our research, there are discounts available from Allied Van Lines, though they aren’t advertised. When you call to book your services, simply ask if there are any applicable discounts for your move and ensure they’re applied to your bill.

Best Overall Container Service

U-Pack

3.5

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
$25 Off With Code BLOG25

Customers seeking flexible moving schedules are better off choosing a container service. U-Pack is a practical choice if you want to pack on your own time and schedule pickup and delivery for your individualized needs. In addition to small moving containers, U-Pack provides trailer services, making DIY moves possible even for large homes. Rated as our best overall container service, U-Pack earns 3.6 out of 5 stars.

The website includes moving guides, packing and unpacking checklists, and general advice
Moving quotes are available instantly, unlike other providers
Belongings can be moved to Canada and Puerto Rico
No proprietary app is available for tracking the status of your move
Limited additional service offerings compared to other companies

U-Pack has limited services available — specifically, long-distance moves and storage services. Though services like packing and unpacking can be obtained through a third party, services directly from U-Pack are minimal.

U-Pack has the following moving options available:

  • International moves (Canada and Puerto Rico)
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Military moving services
  • Senior moving services
  • Student moving services

While U-Pack accepts third-party coupons, no discounts are associated directly with the company. 

Best Pricing

North American Van Lines

4.0

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Seniors Get 40–65% Off

With North American Van Lines, customers can choose a pricing structure that best suits them, which is why it gets 4.4 out of 5 stars and is recognized by our team as having the best pricing options. The company offers “bottom line” and “not-to-exceed” pricing options, which can offer peace of mind for customers on a strict budget.

The company has some of the most experience of any long-distance professional movers on our list
Various pricing options allow customers to plan financially for their move
Customers can track their move through an app specific to NAVL
Certain customer reviews mention unreliable movers
The location of your move may affect available storage options

North American Van Lines has the following add-on services available for your move:

  • Appliance hookup
  • Crating services
  • Fragile item packing
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Moving supplies
  • Oversized item moving
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage options

The following options are available to NAVL customers:

  • Corporate moving 
  • Cross-country moving
  • International moving
  • Interstate moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

North American Van Lines has discounts available for American Legion members and members of labor unions. If you think you qualify for a discount, ask a representative for details when you book your move. You could enjoy perks like packing and storage discounts and replacement coverage protection of up to $100,000.

Best Solution For Local Moves

PODS

3.2

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
30% Off Storage

PODS scores 3.2 out of 5 stars and is an excellent choice for customers seeking a container moving service. While some container services only offer one container size, PODS has multiple sizes. This is ideal for homeowners with varying capacity needs for their long-distance move. Additionally, there is no time limit to pack or unpack your PODS container, making the company our choice for the most flexible container service.

Three container sizes are available to suit varied needs
PODS CityService makes moving from high-density areas more simple
PODS is licensed by the Canada Border Services Agency, making international moves more straightforward
PODS are not available in all 50 states
Any extra moving services must be solicited from another company

PODS has minimal services available to its customers — you can have your items transported from one location to another and store your items short or long-term. You’ll need to hire a separate company if you want additional services like packing or help moving heavy items.

PODS customers have the following moving options available:

  • Cross-country moving
  • Interstate moving
  • International moving — Canada only
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

PODS always has several promotional offers on its website. Discounts range from 30% off of the cost of your move to free storage. At the time of your move, explore available discounts under the promotions tab on the website, and double-check that any discounts are applied to your final bill.


What Makes a Good Long-Distance Moving Company?

There are a number of companies that offer economical out-of-state moving services. When it comes time to move to a new home in a different state or across the country, choosing the right company is crucial. In this informative video from House Method, moving expert Sean Donnelly breaks down the key factors to look for when selecting a reputable long-distance moving company.


How Much Does a Long-Distance Move Typically Cost?

The average long-distance moving costs depends on various factors, like how far you’ll be moving and the size of your home. If you get any add-ons or specialty services, that will also affect the final bill. Below, you can find the average price ranges for long-distance moves.

500 miles1,000 miles2,000 miles
2 Bedroom$2,575–$5,387$2,850–$5,631$3,987–$6,825
4 Bedroom$5,512–$8,062$7,250–$9,525$9,587–$12, 037

Our research team gathered online quotes for different types of long-distance moves. Moving a two-bedroom home from New York to San Francisco costs, on average, between $2,000 and $10,000. A full-service move for a four-bedroom home from North Carolina to Maryland costs between $1,800 and $8,300. Clearly, distance and the size of your move greatly impact the overall cost.


Can You Negotiate With the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies?

Knowing how to negotiate with your moving company can equate to big savings for you. But how do you do it? 

The most basic tactic is to shop around and get quotes from multiple movers. Once you’ve done that, you can try your hand at bargaining and see if your preferred company will match any of the prices you’ve been quoted.

Another way to save is to avoid any unnecessary services. Even if you’re preparing for an international move, seek affordable methods for packing for your move abroad. If you don’t need help packing, don’t pay for it. Ensure that additional service charges haven’t been included in your bill. They can get rolled into a final moving estimate, so be explicit that you don’t want them included. Sometimes, it works to simply ask for a discount. Some may be available even if a company hasn’t advertised a particular discount. 

Although getting turned down on your first call can feel discouraging, following up is to your advantage. Call back a few days later and politely ask about negotiating a lower price again. Worst case scenario, the company gives you a firm “no,” but your tenacity may save you hundreds or even thousands if the movers agree to bargain with you.


How Can You Avoid Moving Scams From Bad Long-distance Moving Companies?

When you’re low on patience and time, opting for the first good moving deal that comes your way can be appealing. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is — scams are unfortunately common in the industry. These are some of the most common scams, according to our research:

  • Bogus credentials: Some companies may provide documents that look credible but are fake. You should double-check that the company’s USDOT number is official on the FMCSA site.
  • Low initial estimate: Movers that give a very low initial estimate often do so as a bait-and-switch tactic. Once they’ve secured you as a customer, you’ll get a bill padded with hidden fees.
  • Hostage shipments: This is a scam where movers refuse to deliver your belongings unless you pay a fee, literally holding your items hostage. You have to be careful so that you do not find yourself in a situation where you are looking for ways to deal with held items by moving companies.
  • Disappearing movers: Some movers will load a truck with your belongings and drive off, never to be seen again and taking permanent possession of your household goods.

To protect yourself, you should be vigilant about any red flags. Ensure that any mover you choose to work with has been well-researched, positively reviewed, and willing to provide references.

Today’s Homeowner Tips
We recommend taking an inventory of your belongings while you pack and unpack. If anything has gone missing in transport, you’ll know right away. It will also be helpful information to have in the event you need to make a claim.

How To Choose the Best Long-Distance Moving Company

Choosing the best long-distance movers depends on several factors, such as:

  • Your budget: Budget is a primary factor for most long-distance moves. If you’re looking to save, choose a mover that will match your required price, and don’t sign up for unnecessary add-ons.
  • Your timeline: If your timeline is flexible, you’ll have more moving companies to choose from. If you need last-minute moving options or you need to move in a hurry, your choices may be more limited.
  • Your distance: Some companies have deals for long-distance moves or moves between major cities. Shop around to find the best mover based on the distance of your move.
  • Your items: Certain movers are trained to move specialized items. If you have fragile or sensitive belongings, it may dictate your choice of moving company.
  • Your preferences: Sometimes, your preferences can win over other deciding factors, like a budget. Your top pick may be a particular company simply because it fits your preferences.

While these are the primary factors, other things you should consider before moving are how well-established the company is and other customers’ experiences. Real customer testimonials, transparent prices, and the company’s standing with the Better Business Bureau are all good indications of whether or not a moving company is reputable.


So, What Is the Best Long-Distance Moving Company?

The best long-distance moving company will be the one that suits your specific needs, like budget and timeline. To make your move easier, thoroughly review the offerings of our top-rated companies and be aware of potential scams. 

If you’re interested in examining another moving company not mentioned above, you can read our review of Colonial Van Lines.

Before committing to a moving date, get quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers. Though the process can be tedious, ensuring you get the best long-distance moving company for your needs is worth it.

Our Top Pick
Best Full-Service Mover

4.5

One month of free storage included with your move

Provides moves in all 50 states

Offers air & ocean freighting

VISIT SITE
Most Transparent Pricing

4.0

Flat rate pricing for all moves

Offers price matching

Expedited moves between big cities

VISIT SITE
Best Cost Estimation Tools

4.2

Top-notch packing services

Nationwide partner network

Comprehensive moving calculator

VISIT SITE


    FAQs About the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies

    What items are not worth moving long distances?

    Remember, long-distance movers charge per pound for your move. It’s best to cut down on bulky items like clothing, books, and old furniture.


    How much should I save for a long-distance move?

    If hiring professional movers, you can expect to spend at least $1,000. If you can make a plan in advance, you’ll get a better idea of your long-distance moving costs and how much you need to save.


    What time of year is best to move long-distance?

    Spring and fall are the best times of year to move. The weather is generally temperate in most places, and you can often find off-season discounts that will help you score a cheap move.


    What is the best way to pack for a long-distance move?

    The best way to pack for a long-distance move is to make a moving plan and timeline. Sticking to a schedule can help ensure your move is stress-free.



    Methodology: How We Ranked The Best Long-Distance 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 solutions, 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.

    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Dani Straughan

    Dani Straughan

    Contributor

    Dani Straughan is a content producer for Today’s Homeowner from Durham, North Carolina, with an extensive writing background across multiple industries, ranging from coffee to automotive parts. Dani specializes in creating empathetic content that helps readers make informed decisions about home products and services. When they’re not writing about DIY projects and roof care, you will likely find Dani building custom handcrafted furniture or going on nature walks with friends.

    Learn More

    photo of Lora Novak

    Lora Novak

    Senior Editor

    Lora Novak meticulously proofreads and edits all commercial content for Today’s Homeowner to guarantee that it contains the most up-to-date information. Lora brings over 12 years of writing, editing, and digital marketing expertise. She’s worked on thousands of articles related to heating, air conditioning, ventilation, roofing, plumbing, lawn/garden, pest control, insurance, and other general homeownership topics.

    Learn More

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