Whether you’re moving across town, the State of Delaware, the country, or the globe, selecting the right mover is paramount. Opting for one of the best moving companies in Delaware can help ensure you experience a worry-free move. The state may only be 35 miles wide at its widest, but even small, local moves can be complex to navigate.
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
We reviewed top choices for moving companies on basic services, customization, reputation, and transparency on a scale of 10. I also did a deeper dive through secret shopping and research to identify the best movers within The First State so you have a solid foundation to work from when it’s time for your own move. I looked into discounts, services, and more, too, to help you save money, effort, and time.
Working with one of the best moving companies in Delaware is a great way to take the stress out of moving. Whether you opt for full-service, self-service, or a solution in between, these movers are able to help you and your belongings get where you’re going.
Top 5 Moving Companies
- If you’re moving within, into, or out of Delaware, I recommend moving with International Van Lines. The company can handle local, long-distance, interstate, and international moves with most of the services homeowners and tenants in The First State are going to be looking for.
- If you need home staging, Moving APT should be on your radar. They’re the only company on this list that offers this unique service, but they do operate as a broker. This means you’ll be partnered with one of their agents rather than using Moving APT branded trucks.
- The State of Delaware doesn’t require moving companies to have any local licenses or registrations to operate their trucks. This can make spotting scams more difficult. Always check a mover’s USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number and customer reviews before hiring them.
Read our full Moving Methodology for more details.
My Expert Recommendation
If you’re moving within Delaware, into the state, or elsewhere, I highly recommend International Van Lines (IVL). They have a solid reputation behind them with an A on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and a 4.2 on Trustpilot as of this writing. In addition, they offer most services Delawareans are going to be looking for in movers, and they can assist with international moves to over 150 countries.
One service IVL doesn’t offer, however, is home staging. This solution can increase the selling price of your home and attract more buyers. Moving APT is the only mover on this list that offers home staging. Like IVL, they also offer a number of services, and they’re able to assist with moves to 180 countries as well as local moves within Delaware.
Delaware Moving Companies I Didn’t Include
Mayflower Moving operates in Delaware, but I didn’t include them due to their dearth of reviews. Their BBB profile is actually that of their parent company, UniGroup, so only a few reviews on the BBB are for Mayflower itself. In addition, they’re not on Google or Yelp, and their Trustpilot profile (which, as of this writing, is at only a 2.4 average) only has six reviews. Nailing down their reputation, therefore, is difficult.
I also didn’t include North American Van Lines. While the brand does operate in Delaware, it’s impossible to get a quote or even a ballpark estimate from the company without an in-home or virtual assessment. The quick quote feature on their website requires your contact information and will not give you an estimate without talking to the representative.
Compare The Highest Rated Moving Companies In Delaware
| Company | Rating | BBB Rating | Cost | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
A |
$1,400–$9,200 |
VISIT SITE | |
|
A+ |
$1,700–$13,800 |
VISIT SITE | |
|
B |
$1,250 – $8,500 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
C |
$3,000–$11,200 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
A+ |
$1,200–$11,250 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
B |
$1,200–$11,250 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
A+ |
$600–$5,100 |
VISIT SITE | |
 JK Moving Services |
A+ |
$3,000–$6,000 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of publication.
Our Reviews of the Best Moving Companies in Delaware
International Van Lines
4.5
Our Rating
The emails you receive from International Van Lines after you request a quote are extremely informative. Not only do they break down your estimate and how IVL arrived at the price, but they clearly explain what’s included in the quote, which moving services are not included (and how much extra they cost if you want them), their cancellation policy, and more.
That said, IVL’s cancellation policy is generous. Customers who made reservations and placed deposits with IVL can cancel their reservation up to two business days before their move to receive their full deposit back. When some companies only allow you to cancel within three days of booking, this can be a comfort.
International Van Lines is our pick for best full-service mover, and they’re a fantastic choice if you want to have them pack up your belongings. IVL includes full-service packing in their base quotes and advises you (both over the phone and on their website) that opting to do your own packing will save you little to no cash. If you want to pack your own items or save money, then IVL might not be the best option for you.
Many movers have a quick quote tool on their website, and IVL does, too, but theirs requires you to enter your contact information in order to get an idea of how much your move will cost. If you’re in the early days of shopping around and don’t want to be called or emailed, this can be frustrating.
International Van Lines offers a wealth of moving services and is backed by a solid reputation, which earned them a 9.3 per our criteria. This brand is going to be able to cover the majority of homeowners’ moving needs, from local moves to junk removal. After a call with the company, you’ll receive a detailed, helpful email quote in your inbox. You’ll see exactly how IVL arrived at the estimate, what’s included in your quote, and an outline of the next steps. In addition, the email includes information on IVL’s customizable services, cancellation policy, deposit requirements, and estimated delivery dates, as well as the federally required “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet. No other moving company matches this level of detail in their emails.
Another differentiator for IVL is their deposit and cancellation policies. While some movers require customers to put 50% down to save their move date, IVL only requires 33%. Some other movers also require customers to cancel within three days of booking in order to receive their deposit back. IVL allows customers to cancel up to two business days before. These aren’t the best deposit and cancellation policies out there (U-Pack, for example, requires nothing down and allows you to cancel 24 hours before), but they’re definitely more generous than much of the competition.
As mentioned above, IVL is also our choice for best full-service mover. In Delaware, the company will tackle everything for you, including packing your belongings, loading the truck, and unloading. They’ll also provide unpacking for additional fees. It’s important to note, though, that IVL includes full-service packing in all of their quotes. If you don’t want movers to pack your items or you want to save cash by not opting for full service, IVL may not be a good choice for you. According to their website and the representatives I’ve spoken to, you’re not going to save a lot by asking them not to pack your items.
When working with moving companies, full-service packing is usually an additional cost. With IVL, in most cases, that service is baked into the core quote you receive. Unpacking isn’t included in full service, but the company does provide it. International Van Lines is also equipped to handle local, interstate, international (to over 150 countries), and long-distance moving, as well as loading and unloading. One month of storage is included in quotes, too, with each additional month’s price based on the volume of your move. As a result, IVL earned a perfect 10 in customization.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
Moving brands generally charge $600 or more to handle the packing for their customers. International Van Lines does things a bit differently. For most of their quotes, full-service packing comes included. When I inquired about opting out of full service, I was advised that, due to the way their estimations are designed, it would save me little to no money to do the packing myself. Now, if you don’t want to trust a company to handle your packing or you want to save some cash by doing that part yourself, IVL may not be the best choice for you.
I inquired about a two-bedroom home move from Maybrook, NC, to Carrboro, NC. The weight was estimated at 3,682 lbs., and I received the following estimates:
- Full-service option with packing: $4,000.52
- Bulky item: $150
- Unpacking service: $175.00/hour at a minimum of 4 hours
- Piano handling: $150 to $350
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set eight weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
Although full-service packing is usually included in IVL’s quotes, it never hurts to ask how much you could save if they removed that service from your estimate. It could end up being worthwhile for you. Their website also advises that you ask about senior and military discounts, which can range from 5% to 15% off your total cost.
IVL earned a 9 in customization. While they offer a number of services homeowners in Delaware could need, they don’t currently offer home staging, which is a great resource if you want to attract more buyers or potentially increase the selling price of your home. Assembly and disassembly of basic furniture, basic liability (at $0.60 per lb. per article), and most packing materials are included in the quote. Customers can opt for additional services, such as increased insurance, custom crating, and car shipping. Junk removal is also offered through IVL, but availability and prices depend on the size of the shipment and the available space on the truck. You’re advised to contact your relocation specialist about debris and junk removal.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
Thanks to their A on the BBB and a 4.2 on Trustpilot as of this writing, International Van Lines received a 10 in reputation. Happy customers detail careful crews, polite staff, efficient moves, and stress-free experiences moving into their new homes. Reviews on the BBB and Google (3.51 and 3.9, respectively) are more mixed, but IVL has an extremely low rating on Yelp at only 1.7. Here, 1-star reviews vastly outweigh 5-star reviews, and past clients explained furniture and belongings were damaged, there were sudden fee increases on the day of the move, and deliveries were delayed.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A / 3.51 out of 5 stars | 177 |
| Trustpilot | 4.2 out of 5 stars | 54 |
| 3.9 out of 5 stars | 804 | |
| Yelp | 1.7 out of 5 stars | 544 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for International Van Lines
Positive reviews for International Van Lines talk about amazing experiences during the entire move process. Crews and representatives of the company were helpful, knowledgeable, and thoughtful. Moves were stress free and efficient.
Most Common Criticism for International Van Lines
A recurring theme in negative reviews of IVL would be “broken items.” Many customers leaving 1-star reviews explained that belongings were smashed, electronic equipment was missing components, and furniture was dented upon delivery. One customer on Yelp stated that movers made a hole in their wall and damaged a staircase.
International Van Lines is one of the most transparent companies on this list, tied with American Van Lines at 8.7. Unlike many other moving brands, IVL highlights sample prices right on their website, which can provide great insight if you’re in the early stages of collecting moving quotes. However, they don’t offer examples of additional fees, such as extra costs for bulky items, stairs, and pianos, which caused us to dock some points. The site does have a quick quote tool, but you’ll need to enter your contact information to use it. GPS tracking is available on many of their trucks, and they offer online or over-the-phone booking. IVL operates as a broker/carrier, which means when you hire the company, they could outsource the work or perform the work themselves. However, they mostly operate as a carrier in Delaware, so if you’re moving within the state or the surrounding area, you likely will only be working with IVL.
American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
One of the biggest highlights of American Van Lines (AVL) is their reviews and ratings on third-party sites. With an A+ and 4.1 on the BBB, a 4.3 on Trustpilot, and a 4.2 on Google as of this writing, they have one of the best scores out of any moving company on this list. Customers detail excellent experiences along all move stages from getting a quote to delivery, as well as knowledgeable and helpful representatives and crews.
AVL also makes the best moving companies in Delaware list because of their website. Many of the movers on this list have websites that detail what you should look for in a mover rather than detailing the actual services they offer as a brand. Others are sparse in information. This can make it frustrating when looking for a company that fits your unique needs. AVL, however, not only provides tips for your move but also explains exactly how the company will help you.
AVL’s website is extremely informative, but their emailed estimates are confusing and poorly formatted. They don’t break down quotes like IVL and Safeway Moving’s emails do, so you might be unsure about what something is going to cost you. Even the costs for additional services listed are confusingly written, as every single additional service’s cost is based on the weight of the move. Other companies break down these costs according to hourly rates or quantity. This can make it difficult to determine the final cost in advance.
AVL’s cancellation policy as cited in their email is also not entirely clear, stating, “Estimates may be canceled penalty free and deposits are fully refundable only if the customer cancels the move in writing either 7 business days prior to the first date listed above or 3 business days from when the Bill of Lading is signed (not including weekends and/or holidays), whichever is greater.” It isn’t readily understandable what “first date listed above” is referencing.
According to our criteria, American Van Lines came in overall at 8.5. One of the highlights of this brand is their reviews. They come highly recommended by previous customers, with a 4.1 on the BBB, a 4.3 on Trustpilot, and a 4.2 on Google as of this writing. Moving is complex and stressful, so customers can rest easy knowing they’re working with a well-regarded mover. Customers cite top-notch customer service from both representatives and crews from beginning to end.
AVL also has an extraordinary website. Each page explains what services they offer and how they differ from the competition. Their blog and resources also provide invaluable tips to make your move as easy as possible. Many other movers’ websites, especially those of movers on this list, don’t have nearly as much detail about their various solutions.
However, where AVL really falls short for me is their email quote. The layout of the email is confusing and all over the place. It’s difficult to find what you’re looking for, and the brand simply doesn’t break down estimates as well as IVL or Safeway Moving’s emails. It’s not clear how much you’ll be paying for additional services for things like stairs if you live in a high-rise or need bulky item packing. The wording of the cancellation policy in the email is also bewildering. These emails can make it more complicated to compare quotes when you’re shopping around.
American Van Lines earned a 9 out of 10. We docked a point because they don’t do international moves and only operate within the continental United States. However, they can handle local moves in Delaware as well as interstate or long-distance moves. So whether you’re relocating from Wilmington to Dover, Delaware to Maryland, or California to Delaware, AVL can serve you. You can take advantage of packing and unpacking services for additional fees, but loading and unloading are included in the quote. Storage services are also available, with one month of storage included in the quote, but customers can opt for long-term storage options as well. AVL’s warehouses provide personal, high-value security, and climate-controlled vaults.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | No |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
American Van Lines offers customers both self-packing and full-service packing options. Additional fees could be incurred if the move involves stairs, shuttles, elevators, or excessive walking distance. However, the emailed quote I received doesn’t clearly explain fees or provide a breakdown of the estimate. I highly recommend talking to the representative at the company about your binding estimate, extra fees, and contract before signing anything.
For a 565-mile move between Maybrook, NY, and Carrboro, NC, with 3,304 lb. of belongings, I was quoted:
- Self-packing option: $3,651.39
- Full-service packing option: $4,251.39 to $4,451.39
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set eight weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
American Van Lines posts several special offers right on their website, but as of this writing, none are for moves to or from Delaware. However, it never hurts to ask for a discount. The company does offer seasonal promotions, such as a springtime promotion, but due to the lack of information on their emailed quotes, it isn’t clear how much you stand to save.
American Van Lines only received a 7 in customization as they don’t offer home staging, junk removal, or car shipping. If you’re looking for any of these extra moving services, you’ll have to go with the competition. Assembly and disassembly of standard furniture and basic valuation coverage ($0.60 per lb. per article) are included in the quote. Full Value Protection (FVP) is also available at $240, $500, and $1,000 deductible levels. Packing materials are included in the full-service quote, but specialty boxes, such as ones for mattresses and mirrors, as well as custom crating, cost extra.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | No |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | No |
| Home Staging | No |
Like IVL, American Van Lines earned a perfect 10 in reputation. As of this writing, they have an A+ and 4.1 on the BBB, a 4.3 on Trustpilot, and a 4.2 on Google. These are some of the best reviews I’ve seen among moving companies, with many customers saying they had amazing, stress-free moves with AVL. Moving processes are described as efficient and straightforward. Crews are also said to be kind and careful, and representatives are communicative and responsive, even if problems occur. However, on Yelp, this Delaware mover does have more 1-star reviews than 5-star ones — although negative reviews do state that American Van Lines did take action to rectify problems.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ / 4.1 out of 5 stars | 435 |
| Trustpilot | 4.3 out of 5 stars | 71 |
| 4.2 out of 5 stars | 951 | |
| Yelp | 2.3 out of 5 stars | 447 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for American Van Lines
Positive reviews detail standout experiences with AVL, stating that items were expertly packed, communication was helpful when questions or concerns arose, and crews were extremely efficient. Many customers said they would hire AVL again based on their experiences.
Most Common Criticism for American Van Lines
Negative reviews cited that many items were broken upon delivery, including smashed mirrors and dented furniture. Others detailed delayed deliveries, rude drivers, and little to no compensation when there were problems with the move.
American Van Lines is tied with International Van Lines in transparency at 8.7. The mover clearly lists sample pricing and special offers right on their website so customers can get a good baseline of what their move could cost them. They don’t, however, explain additional fees and their emails aren’t clear about extra costs, either. And like IVL, their website features a quick quote tool, but you will have to enter your contact information to use it. One great aspect of AVL is the fact that they’re a carrier only. This means when you hire American Van Lines, they aren’t going to outsource the work to anyone else. The company also offers GPS tracking, binding estimates, and online and over-the-phone booking.
Safeway Moving
4.1
Our Rating
Safeway Moving operates as a broker/carrier but mainly as a carrier on the East Coast. For many customers in Delaware, Safeway is going to be handling your move from start to finish. Operating as a broker/carrier can have its downsides, but it allows the company to offer more moving services than its competitors, so Safeway can be a great one-stop shop for those who require extras like junk removal or car shipping.
Safeway is also a top choice for me because they base their quotes on space used in the trailer rather than weight. When I called different moving companies with the exact same inventory list and measurements to get quotes, they delivered vastly different weight estimates. If you go in with measurements of your items and a detailed inventory list with Safeway, however, you stand to get a more accurate binding estimate upfront, even without a virtual or in-person assessment of your belongings.
The biggest downside of Safeway Moving is their website. It has barely any information about the services and customization options the movers offer. When you’re just getting started and comparing movers, this can be off-putting as you don’t know if they actually offer the solutions you need. Some of the details are contradictory to what is said over the phone or in emails.
Safeway Moving, like IVL and AVL, also require contact information in order to use their quote tool. However, as of this writing, the quote tool is showing an error message not supplying estimates.
Safeway Moving earned an 8.2 overall thanks to their abundance of customization options and good reputation. This moving company operates as a broker/carrier but is a carrier on the East Coast and in Delaware, which can be great if you don’t want to gamble with your move. Brokers and broker/carriers may outsource the entire move or parts of the move to other moving companies, which can result in you getting paired with a not-so-great brand. One good side of working with a broker/carrier, however, is their ability to offer an abundance of services not offered by those that only operate as carriers.
What I like about Safeway, too, is the fact that they base their binding estimates on space. When other moving companies are giving you weight estimates that vary by hundreds or thousands of pounds, it can be frustrating to compare quotes. If you go into a conversation with Safeway with a detailed inventory list as well as measurements of your furniture, you stand to get a more accurate quote. Plus, if it turns out you use less space than expected, they’ll actually lower your price — though, of course, your price will increase, too, if you use more space, but Safeway will let you know up front how much each additional foot will cost.
Safeway Moving really falls short, however, on their website. It’s pretty barren, with little to no information about services, brand differentiators, or customization options. Some details are even contradictory to those in the binding estimates emails I received. In addition, their website features a quote tool that requires contact information and in any case is currently not working. Getting information about this brand before you give them a call is pretty difficult as a result.
Safeway Moving isn’t a local mover in Delaware. If you’re planning a move from Wilmington to Dover, you’re going to have to go with another brand. They do, however, perform interstate, international, and long-distance moves. As a result, we gave them an 8 in basic services. Loading and unloading are included in Safeway’s quotes, and packing and unpacking services can be purchased for additional costs. Thirty days of storage is included in the quote as well, but you may be able to get more time by simply asking — I was once offered 45 days.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | No |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
Loading, unloading, disassembly and reassembly of furniture, valuation coverage, and furniture padding are all included in quotes with Safeway Moving. Customers can opt for full-service moves that include packing materials and professional packing at $1.00 to $1.50 per cubic foot. The price depends on the location and season. Reservations can be canceled for a full refund up to seven days before the pickup date.
For a 2-bedroom home move between Maybrook, NY and Carrboro, NC, and an estimated 521 cubic feet (or 3,647 lb.), I was quoted:
- Self-packing option: $3,700
- Full-packing option: $4,300
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set eight weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
Safeway Moving doesn’t supply a lot of information on their website, but according to their emails, they do offer a first-time customer discount. In my experience, this has ranged between $200 and $700 off the total price. You might be able to get a further discount simply by asking.
Like many moving companies on this list, Safeway Moving doesn’t offer home staging. They do provide many other moving services, however, including car shipping, custom crating, antique moving, special item moving, packing materials, and piano moving. The exact cost of or services included in these solutions is not made clear on their website or in emails, so customers will have to talk to a representative to get more details. Basic valuation coverage is included in the quote at $0.60 per lb. per article for up to $10,000, but customers can opt for Full Value Protection with deductible levels of $250, $500, and $1,000.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
Thanks to their B- on the BBB and 4.2 on their claimed Trustpilot profile, Safeway Moving landed at 9 for their reputation. Positive reviews on Trustpilot highlight outstanding representatives at the company, specifically thanking them by name and saying they were responsive and thoughtful. They also found the brand overall to be reliable and honest. Reviews on Yelp, however, tend to be 1-star, where past clients explained that Safeway hired out subcontractors and they were not made aware that the company operated as both a moving carrier and a moving broker.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B- / 3.8 out of 5 stars | 113 |
| Trustpilot | 4.2 out of 5 stars | 36 |
| 3.8 out of 5 stars | 212 | |
| Yelp | 1.3 out of 5 stars | 66 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for Safeway Moving
One of the biggest highlights among customers who had positive experiences with Safeway Moving was the customer service from both representatives and moving crews. Several 5-star reviews actually name these employees, detailing excellent communication and responsiveness every step of the way.
Most Common Criticism for Safeway Moving
Negative reviews tell a different story, explaining that cost estimates were incorrect, items were poorly handled, and that Safeway didn’t alert them that they wouldn’t be working with the Safeway brand but rather a partner of the company, leading to some problems during the move.
Safeway Moving comes in lower in transparency at just a 7. The majority of points they lost are due to the lack of sample pricing on their website. While they do state “no extra fees” on the page, too, it’s not clear what those fees refer to as the emails outline several additional fees you could incur during your move. GPS tracking is also only available on some of their trucks. The company did get some points for their posted customer service hours, online and over-the-phone booking availability, and binding estimates. Safeway does have a quick quote tool featured on their website, but it requires your contact information, and it’s giving an error message as of this writing.
Moving APT
3.9
Our Rating
Moving APT is a moving broker and operates with a massive network of moving companies in the United States and 180 other countries. In fact, they have over 2,500 partners. This allows them to offer a wealth of services to customers while operating as both a local mover and a long-distance mover, and they’re the only brand on this list that earned a 10 in both basic services and customization.
Moving APT’s website leaves a lot to be desired, but one of its highlights is the moving checklist and planner. They walk you through each week before your move, letting you know what needs to be done when and what to expect during each step. This can be invaluable information, especially if it’s your first move.
Working with a moving broker, however, is a double-edged sword. It’s like a box of chocolates — you never know what you’re going to get. You could be partnered with one of Moving APT’s great agents, or you could be paired with a moving company with more 1-star than 5-star reviews.
Moving APT also comes in low on transparency — the lowest on this list at only a 5.3. Their website is lacking in information about what their partners offer, and they don’t provide important details such as customer service hours, sample prices, or possible extra fees. Their agents also don’t have GPS tracking on their trucks.
Overall, Moving APT came in at an 8.2. They earned a perfect 10 in both basic services and customization. As a moving broker, they have a network able to handle any move, whether you’re moving from Dover to Wilmington, from Delaware to Connecticut, or from the United States to one of the 180 countries they operate in. They also have a wealth of customization services whether you need junk removal, home staging, car shipping, or something else.
Moving APT’s website also has some invaluable information for homeowners, with great advice for your upcoming move. Their checklist, in particular, is incredibly useful and serves as a guide during your entire move, even if you don’t go with Moving APT. They offer a downloadable version so you can print it out and post it on your fridge.
However, Moving APT does come in very low on transparency. Due to their status as a moving broker, they aren’t able to clearly talk about sample pricing and additional fees, as prices, services, and availability can vary wildly between different partners. This can also mean vastly different experiences among their partners, so you’ll always want to do your research if you know the agent you’re going to be working with.
Moving APT received a perfect 10 in basic services as they and their moving partners are equipped to handle local moves within Delaware, as well as interstate, long-distance, and international moves. The company offers both “Standard Full Service Moves” and “Platinum Full Packing Service Moves.” Loading and unloading are included in both, as is one month of free storage, but packing and crating are only included with the Platinum Full Packing Service. Unpacking can be purchased at delivery for an additional fee. The storage facilities and its features, such as climate control and security, will depend on the agent you’re partnered with.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
Getting a quote from Moving APT was extremely simple compared to other brands. While many other movers keep you on the phone for over 40 minutes or require a virtual or home assessment, I was able to get a binding estimate with Moving APT in just 10 minutes. They asked for the same information as other companies, but were much more efficient. However, I do want to note that other movers estimated the amount I needed to be moved between 3,000 and 4,000 lbs. Moving APT’s quote was much higher at an estimated 5,274 lb, but their prices were still comparable to competitors’ costs, thanks to discounts.
I requested quotes for a two-bedroom move between Maybrook, NY, and Carrboro, NC and received the following numbers:
- Self-service option: $2,700
- Full-service option (without unpacking): $3,700
- Full-service option with Full Value Protection (without unpacking): $4,522.64
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set eight weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
Moving APT’s quote included two discounts for me. First, I was offered a 5% coupon discount on the basic price and the fuel surcharge. I was also offered a three-day pickup window flexibility coupon. If you can be flexible about your moving date, this can be a great way to save hundreds of dollars, if not more. Moving APT also offers a 15% discount if you use their moving cost calculator and provide your email address.
Moving APT is the only mover in Delaware on this list that earned a perfect 10 in customization. Unlike the other four, they do offer home staging, which can potentially increase interest in your home as well as its sale price. Assembly and disassembly of standard furniture pieces and basic valuation coverage are included in both their Standard and Platinum moves. Full Value Protection can also be purchased if you require additional insurance for your belongings. Packing materials and custom crating are included in Platinum move estimates, too, but the email also has a handy link to their page to purchase packing materials. It has specialty boxes, kits, blankets, bubble wrap, tape, stretch wrap, and more. Moving APT and their partners offer piano, antique, and special item moving, as well as junk removal and car shipping.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | Yes |
Moving APT scored the lowest in reputation out of my choices for the best moving companies in Delaware at just 7.8. This is largely due to their lack of presence on Trustpilot and their B+ rating on BBB. Reviews across the BBB and Google are mixed, at 3.53 and 3.7, respectively, as of this writing. On Yelp, a majority of reviews are only 1 star. This broad range of experiences is likely due to the fact that Moving APT is a broker. Customers working with the brand will have vastly different experiences depending on the moving company they’re partnered with. However, it’s important to note that Moving APT is responsive to both positive and negative reviews on Google and negative reviews on the BBB.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B+ / 3.53 out of 5 stars | 15 |
| Trustpilot | Not available | Not available |
| 3.7 out of 5 stars | 245 | |
| Yelp | 1.3 out of 5 stars | 172 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for Moving APT
Customers who left praise for Moving APT cite efficient crews, timely deliveries, excellent packing services, and smooth moving experiences. They were also very happy with the quotes, which they stated were much lower than those of competitors.
Most Common Criticism for Moving APT
Common criticism for Moving APT revolves around poor cost estimates and lack of communication. Customers leaving 1-star reviews stated that quotes doubled upon pickup, and the companies they were partnered with were not responsive to questions or concerns.
Moving APT came in at just a 5.3 for transparency. Although their website contains helpful advice for selecting movers and making your moving day as stress-free as possible, it lacks concrete information about services. They don’t list sample prices, customer service hours, or additional fees. In addition, the company and their partners don’t have GPS tracking on their trucks. Online and over-the-phone booking, as well as binding estimates, are offered, however. Moving APT’s website does have a quick quote tool and you can get a range without having to enter your personal contact information, which is definitely a plus. They’ll even give you a 15% discount if you give them your email address after using the tool.
U-Pack
3.5
Our Rating
U-Pack’s pricing strategy is very straightforward — you only pay for the space you use. If you end up using less space than expected, your price is lower. If you end up using more space, you’ll owe more. The representative can quantify the adjustments for you ahead of time. In addition, they don’t charge a deposit, and you can cancel up to a day before your scheduled container drop-off or trailer arrival.
U-Pack also has a much shorter delivery period. While other companies may take up to 21 days to deliver when you’re moving interstate, U-Pack delivers in just a few days. My move from Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, was estimated between four and six days, for example.
U-Pack is a self-service mover. This can be a great way to save money, but it’s not for everyone. Customers who use container services need to be able to handle all the moving labor themselves. That includes packing and unpacking as well as loading and unloading the container. The company does have a third-party vendor they recommend for packing and loading services, but this will cost you extra.
U-Pack’s business model means they don’t provide diverse services. They don’t handle international moves, car shipping, and junk removal, for example. In addition, you probably won’t want to transport your antiques, heirlooms, or fine art with this brand as they offer little insurance coverage or packaging protection.
U-Pack is a self-service moving company — the only one on this list. Full-service moving companies will handle the loading and unloading of their trucks for you. U-Pack is different as they’ll only handle the transportation of your belongings. You’ll have to load and unload the container or truck yourself unless you hire a third party to do the work for you. While it does require extra work, it can be an excellent way to save money — potentially hundreds of dollars, if not more.
When you need your property quickly, U-Pack is also a fantastic choice. Many full-service movers let you know it could take up to 21 days for your items to be delivered. However, U-Pack delivers your belongings in a fraction of that time. During my secret shopping, the delivery time between Mobile, AL, and Dallas, TX, was between four and six days.
However, self-service moves aren’t for everyone. If you live in a high-rise, have priceless antiques or heirlooms, or can’t load and unload the container yourself, for example, you might be better off going with a full-service mover. U-Pack also lacks customization options as they don’t offer extras like junk removal, car shipping, and custom crating. It’s important to understand exactly what you’re responsible for when using a self-service moving company before signing a contract. I did want to recommend this brand, though, for customers who want to handle a majority of the move themselves and save some money. Overall, we gave U-Pack a 6.9.
U-Pack received a 7 for basic services. While they can handle local moves within Delaware as well as interstate and long-distance moves, they don’t do international transportation. Many moves are through their containers, known as ReloCubes, and you can rent as many ReloCubes as you need for your move. Unlike some other self-service moving companies, U-Pack also has moving trailers available. Packing, unpacking, loading, and unloading services are limited, though, and only available through a third party, which will cost you extra. However, U-Pack has two storage options. You can choose to store your items in their ReloCubes for as long as you need or on a moving trailer for up to 120 days.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | No |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
U-Pack’s cost estimates depend on how much space you’ll need on one of their trailers or how many ReloCubes you require. If you end up using more or less space, they’ll adjust the price accordingly and can let you know ahead of time how much you’ll be spending for each additional foot (or saving if you use less than expected). Their emails, however, are severely lacking in information and will only let you know the cost, recommended space, and whether they’re sending you a trailer or ReloCube.
For a two-bedroom home move from Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, I was advised to use a trailer and was quoted:
- 14 ft. of space: $2,166
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, for a single-family home, with a move date set eight weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
Like many moving companies, U-Pack doesn’t offer discounts for AAA (American Automobile Association) or AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) members. The representative I spoke to during my secret shopping did, however, recommend that I book as soon as possible. Since U-Pack doesn’t require a deposit and allows you to cancel your reservation up to a day before, locking in a lower quote can potentially save you hundreds of dollars. You can also get special moving offers and price reduction alerts if you supply your email while using their quick quote tool.
U-Pack lacks customization options, landing at only a 5. Assembly and disassembly of furniture and packing materials are only available through their third party vendor for additional costs. While U-Pack does offer valuation coverage, they only offer carrier negligence liability coverage and catastrophic liability coverage, which won’t cover damages caused by improper packing. So while you can absolutely ship your piano, antique, or fine art with U-Pack, it may not be advisable due to the lack of proper insurance policies. The company can assist with junk removal and motorcycle moving but does not offer car shipping, custom crating, or home staging.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | No |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | No |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
U-Pack received an 8 in reputation. While they have an A+ and 4.35 on the BBB, they only have a 2.5 on Trustpilot as of this writing. The company doesn’t have an office in Delaware — their closest one is just over the border in Anton, PA. That office currently has a 4.8 on Google and a 4.6 on Yelp. Customers leaving positive reviews said communication was outstanding, delivery and pickup were timely, and representatives of the brand were helpful. Negative reviews, however, explained that there were miscommunications and broken items upon delivery. U-Pack is responsive to many reviews, positive and negative, on the BBB, Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ / 4.35 out of 5 stars | 202 |
| Trustpilot | 2.5 out of 5 stars | 222 |
| 4.8 out of 5 stars | 22 | |
| Yelp | 4.6 out of 5 stars | 10 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for U-Pack
Customers of U-Pack that left positive reviews cited on-point, affordable quotes, lack of hidden charges, and excellent communications before and during moves. Representatives of the company were also said to be helpful and responsive.
Most Common Criticism for U-Pack
Those leaving negative reviews for U-Pack often state that their items were broken upon delivery. Even positive reviews often highlight this and advise customers to securely pack their items before using this self-service brand.
U-Pack’s highest score is in transparency at 8. Their quick free quote tool allows you to get a price and space estimate without requiring your contact information, but it does invite you to supply your email in order to receive special offers and alerts for price reductions. U-Pack’s website also lists sample pricing, and while it doesn’t have posted customer service hours, there is a handy tool that tells you how many representatives are available to take your call at any given time. The company offers both online and over-the-phone booking as well as binding estimates. GPS tracking, however, is only available on some trailers and ReloCubes.
What to Look for in a Reputable Moving Company in Delaware
Moving companies in Delaware aren’t required to have local licenses within the state. However, all moving companies located in the United States are required to have registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number. If you’re moving into another state, the brand should meet that state’s registration requirements.
Reputable movers will also give you a copy of the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet and a bill of lading, both of which are required by the federal government. Before hiring a moving company, you should also check reviews, BBB accreditation, and insurance.
How To Avoid Moving Scams in Delaware
Mover fraud, hostage loads, bait and switches, and no-shows are all common moving scams in Delaware and the United States. However, because DE doesn’t require registration for movers, it can be easier for fraudulent companies to appear legit. Doing your research will help you avoid scams, so always check to make sure a mover has a USDOT number and the appropriate registrations if you are moving to or from a state other than Delaware.
In addition, you should:
- Be aware of warning signs
- If a mover only accepts cash, doesn’t display their street address on their website, or requires a large deposit or the full amount up front, it could be a fraudulent company. Reputable companies will have their contact information on their website, will usually only request up to 50% as a down payment, and will accept more payment options than just cash.
- Hold onto any documentation for at least a year
- Keep copies of any documentation a mover gives you, including booklets, bills of lading, contracts, insurance policies, and more. If a company doesn’t give you the required information, be sure to ask for it. If they refuse, you should work with a different brand.
- List your inventory
- Your moving company should create a list of your inventory to be moved, but be sure to create your own. This will help you check for discrepancies before you sign any paperwork and could make the difference if you have to file a claim later.
- Avoid too-good-to-be-true deals
- If a moving quote is thousands less than other companies, it could be a sign of a bait and switch, especially if you’ve had virtual or in-home assessments of your property to be moved. Bait and switches are when companies will lowball you only to add on potentially thousands in fees on moving day.
- Check reviews
- Reputable moving companies will have a number of reviews and recommendations. If you’re not finding any, it could be a sign of a fraudulent brand.
Delaware Moving Company News
U-Haul recently released their list of Top Growth States of 2023, and Delaware was named number 15, up from number 27 in 2022. It’s one of only two states to make the top 20 (it’s joined by Vermont at number 12). The list is created each year by calculating one-way customer transactions. The company also noted that many customers are looking to move out of the Northeast, and the Southeast and Southwest remain prime destinations for migration.
StorageCafe’s study shows very similar data, stating that Delaware is the “16th-most-sought-after-state” in the United States by net migration.
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
How Much Does a Moving Company Cost in Delaware?
The average cost of a moving company in Delaware is $3,243.58. This price can be affected by the size of your move, your origin, your destination, and any services you’d like to request, but you may be able to get a lower price by negotiating and asking for discounts.
Should You Tip Movers in Delaware?
You should tip movers in Delaware. Generally, you’ll want to tip movers by percentage (10% to 20%), hourly ($5 to $10 per hour per day), or daily ($20 to $50 at the end of each day).
Are Moving Companies in Delaware Worth It?
A moving company in Delaware is worth it for a majority of homeowners. While it is entirely possible to do it yourself, you stand to save money, time, and effort by hiring professional movers.
