Moving locally, interstate, or internationally already has a lot of moving parts. Add antiques to the mix, and you’re making a move more complex. But many moving companies are well equipped to handle transporting vintage items, including heirlooms, mirrors, furniture, and more, thanks to customizable packing services and crating. Whether you’re moving a collection of vintage salt and pepper shakers or a grandfather clock, you want to be sure you’re working with one of the best moving companies for antiques.
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
During my secret shopping with a number of companies that specialize in moving vintage and fragile items, I inquired directly about moving an antique grandfather clock interstate. I requested information on how the clock would be handled and the costs associated with getting it safely to my new location. Most companies were very forthcoming about my options or directed me to their solutions on their websites. Each company in my top five was scored on basic services, customization, reputation, and transparency.
When moving, the last thing you want is to discover that a priceless heirloom that has been in your family for generations has been broken. While accidents do happen, working with the right moving company can help lessen the chance of damages. In this article, I’ve highlighted the five best moving companies for antiques that I found during my research so you can know what to expect when it’s time for your move.
Top 5 Moving Companies for Antiques
- My top choice when moving antiques is JK Moving Services. The company’s website explains how your antiques will be cared for, and the representative I spoke to was quick to explain the costs and options associated with moving a vintage item interstate. JK Moving is a broker/carrier, however, which can be worrying as you might not be partnered with the brand on moving day. Another option I recommend for moving antiques is American Van Lines, thanks to their status as a carrier, helpful customer service, informative website, and storage solutions including climate-controlled vaults.
- When transporting antiques, it’s always a good idea to have the moving company or a third-party vendor handle the packing. This will help ensure your items are properly protected against damage and could make a difference if you have to make an insurance claim at a later date.
- Asking the right questions during the quoting process can give you the information you need to choose the best moving partner for your vintage items. You should inquire about customizable solutions, crating, storage facilities, security features, and additional insurance. Every antique is different, so be on the lookout for tailored services.
Read our full Moving Methodology for more details.
My Expert Recommendation
My top recommendation for moving antiques is JK Moving Services. The company’s website details how its team has the expertise and experience to care for and move vintage items. The emails I received were also informative regarding my options for moving an antique grandfather clock and explained to me what I could expect. In addition, JK Moving has excellent storage facilities that include 24/7 video surveillance, motion sensors, and fire suppression systems. Climate-controlled storage facilities are even an option if your antique needs special care beyond specialty packaging or custom crating.
However, JK Moving does operate as a broker/carrier, which means you may not be working with JK Moving on your move day. This can be a bit of a gamble, so my backup choice would have to be American Van Lines. It’s a carrier, so you’ll be working with American if you opt to hire the company. What sets this brand apart from others is the fact it has a dedicated webpage for its antiques moving services. In addition, like JK Moving, American offers climate-controlled storage units with plenty of security features.
Antique Moving Companies I Didn’t Include
Although you could technically move your antiques with U-Pack, I wouldn’t recommend it. Since it’s a self-service option, you have to pack all your items yourself, and while you can opt for loading and unloading services with the company, it comes with an additional fee, and you’ll be working with a third-party organization. U-Pack also only offers carrier negligence coverage and catastrophic coverage. If your antiques are damaged due to improper packing and loading, you may have few options in the way of recourse. Some homeowners insurance companies will cover damages incurred during a move, but not all. I just really wouldn’t recommend using a self-service option at all to move your priceless antiques.
Another brand I didn’t go with is Mayflower Moving. Although Mayflower is a full-service moving company, the company has no information about how it can care for antiques on its website during your move. In addition, Mayflower is a broker/carrier, which means you could be putting your vintage items in the hands of someone other than Mayflower, and this always comes with a bit of risk. The combination of this status and the lack of information made me hesitant to recommend them as a top choice for moving companies for antiques.
Compare The Highest Rated Moving Companies for Antiques
| 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 for Antiques
International Van Lines
4.5
Our Rating
International Van Lines (IVL) has an extensive webpage dedicated to explaining how its moving and packing services operate and what the customer can expect when working with the brand. The company’s professional packers are trained to deliver customized and specialized packing solutions for antiques, heirlooms, and pianos — reassuring to customers who are moving with these high-value items.
And since you’re likely going to be moving more than antiques and heirlooms, IVL is also a great option for all of your other moving needs. The company tackles a majority of the services homeowners are going to be looking for when moving, such as packing and unpacking, car shipping, and junk removal. Instead of having to get a separate company to handle your vintage property, IVL is equipped to handle it all.
Whenever I try to speak to International Van Lines, communication is tough. I’d leave messages, call, and even use the chat feature on the website, yet very rarely left the conversations with the information I needed as a secret shopper. According to several reviews, this doesn’t seem to be the norm, but it happened to me three separate times when contacting IVL. Although I was able to learn that IVL will move my grandfather clock through a third-party partner, I was not able to get a quote.
International Van Lines offers a wealth of services homeowners are looking for in a full-service moving company, especially if they’re looking to move with antiques. With specialty packing solutions, customized services, and third-party crating, IVL is equipped to move priceless artifacts from Point A to Point B. The company also recommends going with its specialty packing services for antiques, as this will help ensure the items are properly insured before transit.
IVL is our choice for the best full-service mover as the organization does offer plenty of packing solutions that can be key to getting your items to your new location safely, whether moving to the next state over or to one of the 150 countries IVL services. For customers looking to ship their cars or get assistance with disassembling and reassembling their antique furniture, this brand has you covered as well. IVL came in at a 9 based on its scores under basic services, customization, reputation, and transparency. The company didn’t land a perfect 10 because of its lack of home staging solutions, clearly listed additional fees, and GPS tracking option.
However, where IVL falls short for me personally is communication. Time and time again, I have struggled to get the most basic of questions answered from this moving company. For my initial conversation, for a move from New York to North Carolina, I had to call back four times in order to speak with a representative, with callbacks promised every one of those times. My second conversation was about a move from Alaska to Washington, where I was informed that IVL does not service Alaska. This is not clear on the website, and the quick quote feature will give you an estimate for this exact move. Next, since calling had proven futile, I decided to try the chat function. Responses took a while to come in, and, in the end, I was simply directed toward the quick quote feature and a landing page for their packing services. I did receive a follow-up email stating that a third-party partner of IVL’s would custom crate an antique grandfather clock, but I was not given an exact quote for this service.
When it comes to basic services, IVL earned a perfect 10 out of 10. The organization offers services for local, long distance, interstate, and international (to 150 countries around the world) moves. I do want to note here that the company doesn’t perform moves in Alaska, though this can be confusing on the website since the quick quote feature will give you an estimate for moves to and from the 49th state. For homeowners moving antiques in particular, though, International Van Lines offers solutions for packing, unpacking, loading, unloading, and storage. For antiques, customers will specifically want to look into the specialty packing services as this will help ensure all valuable items are properly insured in case the worst should happen. The company also recommends utilizing temperature-controlled (or climate-controlled) storage for antiques, fine art, and fragile items to better control the humidity and protect the vintage items from damage.
| 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
IVL’s representative was unable to give me an exact quote for moving a grandfather clock, instead telling me that a third-party provider would handle the crating. However, the brand’s initial quote email is highly informative about the estimate and the additional fees you could expect to pay during your move. The quote I received included full packing (for $0.01), basic valuation protection, disassembly and reassembly of basic furniture, blankets and protective pads for furniture, and 30 days of storage. Customers could pay additional fees for packing services related to fragile items such as antique mirrors.
For a move with 55 pieces between Maybrook, NY, and Carrboro, NC, a distance of 573 miles, I was quoted:
- Full-service option with packing: $4,000.52
- Unpacking service: $175.00/hour at a minimum of 4 hours
- Bulky item packing: $150
- Piano handling fees: $150 – $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
International Van Lines does offer discounts to customers, including a 15% discount to seniors. The brand’s blog also details that many moving companies offer 10% to 15% off to military members and veterans and that some drop the price by $200 to $500 if you simply ask them to. In addition, the blog notes that not many companies offer American Automobile Association (AAA) members discounts, but it never hurts to inquire.
IVL ticks all the boxes under customization except home staging, coming in at 9/10. For those looking to move antiques, however, the brand covers all the bases, including assembly/disassembly, packing materials, and specialty item packing. It’s important to note that the quote I received said the estimate only included assembly/disassembly of basic furniture, so antique furniture may come with an additional fee. Custom crating is available for vintage items through a third-party partner, and a follow-up email from the representative informed me that the partner would remove the chain and pendulum before making a specialty wood crate for a grandfather clock. In addition, International Van Lines does offer basic liability (for $0.60 per lb per article), and additional insurance coverage may be available for antiques upon request.
| 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 |
IVL earned a 10 for reputation thanks to its A rating with the Better Business Bureau and 4.3 rating on Trustpilot as of this writing. Customers who left positive reviews often talk about helpful representatives from the company, even though that wasn’t my personal experience, and a stress-free move. In addition, some customers noted amazing specialty packing services when they needed to move a grand piano and artwork. However, International Van Lines does fall short on Yelp, in particular, with a vast majority of the reviews coming in at 1 star — many stating items were broken upon delivery and that insurance offered very little in the way of restitution.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 4.3 | 53 |
| 3.8 | 739 | |
| Yelp | 1.7 | 540 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for International Van Lines
Customers leaving positive reviews for IVL praised the entire experience from start to finish, stating that the movers were professional, arrived on time, and made the move simple, especially thanks to the unpacking service. Clients also explained that their items and furniture were expertly wrapped and arrived without damage.
Most Common Criticism for International Van Lines
On Yelp, though, many IVL customers explain they had a negative experience, with one review saying, “Everything that can break was broke!” Another client stated that their grandmother’s china was completely lost, and they were only offered $30 after filing a claim. In one instance, when a customer explained that their items arrived damaged and posted photos, it appeared to be a partner of IVL, which is always a possibility as IVL operates as a broker/carrier.
Where International Van Lines comes up short is transparency, with a 7.7. The brand lost some points due to its lack of GPS tracking options during moving, which can deliver peace of mind when you’re moving your most precious items. The company also doesn’t clearly list additional fees on the website, which can make it a bit more difficult to determine how much it will cost to move your antiques without calling to get a more specific quote. However, IVL did get some points thanks to the available sample pricing, quick quote feature, posted customer service hours, online and over-the-phone booking, available binding estimates, and disclosing its status as a broker/carrier.
American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
American Van Lines is one of the few moving companies that I secret shopped that has a page on its website dedicated to letting the customer know that the company offers antiques moving services. Although the page lacks details about what you can expect, it does explain the brand’s experience with moving antiques, such as grandfather clocks, items from antique stores, and museum collections.
American also has a fairly straightforward quoting process. After giving the company a call, customers can have a quote in their email inbox that details the expected inventory, what’s included in the total price, and a breakdown of packing service costs, including those for antiques.
American has top ratings across a number of trusted review sites. Many talk about the professionalism of the crew and the responsiveness of the company as a whole. However, one concern I had that came with this brand is the number of 1-star reviews that highlight broken items. This can be a major worry when it comes to antiques and could give me pause when deciding whether or not to work with American.
American Van Lines came in at an 8.5 out of 10. While it doesn’t offer everything a homeowner could need during a move, the brand does cover most of the basics, including antique moving. In fact, one of the services American offers is “special handling” for fragile items such as antiques including fine art, pianos, china sets, grandfather clocks, and other heirlooms. With American’s available certified antique movers and climate-controlled storage units, homeowners can work with a team that understands the importance of keeping their valuables safe and secure.
American also has a fantastic quoting experience available over the phone or through the website. When some companies’ quoting processes can top 40 minutes, it’s refreshing to have a quote in hand after only 17 minutes on the phone. The representative was happy to answer all my questions, and I had a detailed quote in my inbox in just a few moments. When I had a follow-up question about moving with an antique grandfather clock, the representative was quick to get back to me as well and detailed what to expect.
While American Van Lines does have a 4.3 on Trustpilot, an A+ with the BBB, and a 4.2 on Google as of this writing, many of the 1-star reviews talk about broken items. When you’re moving precious valuables and heirlooms, even just hearing this can be cause for alarm. This is concerning and gives me pause when recommending them, but the majority of customers did receive their delivery with little to no issues, so these reviews may simply be outliers.
American Van Lines earned a 9 out of 10 for its basic services, as the organization covers just about everything a customer would need. We took a point off as this particular brand does not operate outside of the continental United States. As local, long distance, and interstate movers, however, the company has the services to handle everything else including packing, unpacking, loading, and unloading. For homeowners with antiques who aren’t moving into their new home right away, the storage services available from American also instill confidence. Customers can opt for personal storage vaults in fireproof and stormproof buildings that are climate controlled (a necessity for some vintage items) and come with extra security features, including 24-hour surveillance cameras.
| 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
During my secret shopping, I requested a quote for a move from Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, from American Van Lines. I also requested information about its antiques moving service, specifically for an antique grandfather clock. Although I was able to get a quote for the general move, I was unable to get specific costs associated with moving the grandfather clock. I was informed that American could wrap or blanket wrap the clock or, if I was unable to remove the pendulum or weights myself, I could hire a third-party company through American for an additional fee. The type of antiques you need to move and the services associated with protecting them can impact the final price.
The estimate I did receive included disassembly and reassembly of standard furniture, furniture padding and wrapping, loading, unloading, taxes, tolls, and fuel. For a two-bedroom home move from Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, a distance of just under 590 miles, I was quoted:
- Self-service option: $3,513.99
- Full-service option: $4,459.59
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
Seniors may be eligible for discounts through American Van Lines thanks to the company’s senior discount plan. Many moving companies offer military discounts to current military members and veterans. In addition, during my call with the company, I was informed about their Springtime Promotion. Even if you’re calling during a different season, you might be able to save some cash by simply asking what discounts and promotions the company has available.
American Van Lines falls short when it comes to customization, earning a 7 out of a possible 10. For those looking to move antiques, most of the services you’ll need are covered unless it’s an antique car, as the company doesn’t offer car shipping. With assembly/disassembly and custom crating, however, many antiques will be able to be packed away safely.
American also offers valuation coverage. I was quoted $0.60 per pound per article for valuation coverage with a zero deductible which is known as Released Value Protection (RVP). However, this coverage does not include anything the customer has packed themselves and protection is forfeited if the customer moves any hazardous materials without informing American. For additional insurance, there is Full Value Protection (FVP). This covers, at minimum, $6 per pound, and customers are welcome to go higher than that. For antiques that are worth a lot of money, you’ll want to declare them as “Items of Extraordinary Value” as this will impact the insurance coverage you’re offered.
We took some points off as well because this company doesn’t offer junk removal 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 | Yes |
| Junk Removal | No |
| Home Staging | No |
American Van Lines is one of the highest-reviewed moving companies on this list and is often touted for its excellent customer service and communications, from the quoting service to moving into the new home. This can be a great benefit for clients who want to keep informed when moving their valuables and antiques. Although a majority of reviews are high, the 1-star reviews give me pause as many of them mention broken items and damaged furniture. When moving antiques, the last thing you want is to discover your vase is smashed upon delivery.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+/4.07 | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 4.2 | 52 |
| 4.2 | 899 | |
| Yelp | 2.3 | 439 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for American Van Lines
Time and time again, customers highlight the communication from the representatives and crew of American Van Lines. Clients were informed every step of the way on what to expect, and if there were any issues, they were notified right away. Many also noted that the entire quoting process was transparent as well.
Most Common Criticism for American Van Lines
Although a majority of the reviews for American are positive, there are some concerning 1-star ratings. One customer on Yelp found, upon delivery, that every plate and bowl they owned was broken, and damage was also done to furniture. In addition, their antique armoire and mirror, which had been in the family for decades, were left behind in the move.
American came in at a 7.7 for transparency. The brand is one of two companies on this list that offer sample pricing right on their websites with examples of moves between select cities in the United States. However, the brand does not clearly list additional fees, including those you might face when moving antiques. In fact, even in my conversation with the representative it wasn’t specified how much I would be paying to move an antique grandfather clock. American does, though, have a GPS tracking option available to customers, which can come in handy if you want to track your vintage items in the midst of your move. The company also received some points for its quick quote feature, online and over-the-phone booking options, binding estimates availability, and the fact that it discloses its broker/carrier status (it’s a carrier). On the other hand, we took some points off due to the lack of customer service hours on the website.
Safeway Moving
4.1
Our Rating
For those with heavier antiques and vintage items, Safeway Moving is one of the best options out there for you, thanks to its flat-rate pricing approach based on space rather than weight. Customers can know exactly how much they’re paying beforehand with less guesswork about how much something weighs. If you have measurements, you’re more likely to get a more accurate quote right off the bat.
As a carrier, Safeway Moving operates its own trucks. When you hire Safeway, the company’s branded trucks are going to show up at your door on moving day. This means you don’t have to gamble with a broker’s partners and agents, hoping you get someone good.
There are two areas where Safeway Moving falls short: its website and its lack of local moving solutions. The website, in particular, has almost no information about its basic moving services, so if you want to learn about how the company handles your antiques, it’s going to take contacting a representative to find out. The company also does not perform local moves, deciding to focus solely on long-distance moves instead.
If you’re moving long distance, interstate, or internationally, Safeway Moving can tackle a majority of your moving needs, including packing up your antiques and vintage furniture, so we gave them an 8.2 out of 10. As our choice for best flat-rate pricing, Safeway bases its quotes and estimates on space rather than weight. This means you won’t be penalized for having heavier pieces of furniture, such as a hefty grandfather clock. If you get a quote and detail the measurements of your items, you receive a solid understanding of how much you’ll have to pay on moving day. Adding items to your move is extremely straightforward as a result.
Safeway Moving also operates as a carrier. This can deliver peace of mind as some moving companies, such as JK Moving Services, operate as both a broker and a carrier. When you call JK Moving Services and hire them for your moving, you can discover a different moving company is actually packing your antiques and property on your moving day. When you hire Safeway, Safeway is going to be the one who shows up, packs your items, and moves them for you.
However, Safeway really falls short when it comes to its website. If you’re looking for information on its antique moving services, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. The website contains no information about moving antiques, pianos, fine art, or fragile items, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to determine how exactly the moving company will care for your items.
Safeway Moving does offer a majority of what a customer needs when moving long distance, interstate, or internationally. However, this moving company does not have local moving services, which is why we gave them an 8 for basic services. I also want to note that Safeway, although the organization offers international services, does not operate in Alaska. Customers looking to move their antique items and furniture can benefit from the company’s packing, unpacking, loading, and unloading services. In addition, Safeway storage services are included in the quote, but it isn’t clear how long you can store your items before accumulating fees. The website and bottom half of the email quote state 30 days, but the representative I talked to and the top of the email say 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
After you talk to Safeway Moving on the phone, they deliver a very detailed quote to your email. It breaks down exactly what you’ll expect to pay, from fuel to origin/destination fees and packing materials to full-service packing. If you need specialty boxes, such as for a mattress, TV, or exercise equipment, the estimate explains how much this will cost as well. The company’s full packing service comes with professional packing for boxes, fragile items, and furniture and is $1.00 to $1.50 per cubic foot. The quote I received clearly listed other additional fees associated with expedited delivery, shuttle service, and storage needs beyond the included period. Customers can opt for an in-person or virtual assessment, or they may waive this option completely and simply give a detailed inventory over the phone.
For a move between Mobile, AL, and Dallas, TX, for a two-bedroom home, I received the following quotes:
- Self-packing option: $4,030.19
- Full-service option: $4,826.69
- Full-service option with antique grandfather clock: $5,335.26
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 eightweeks 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
For new customers, Safeway Moving delivers a discount right away with its first-time customer discount. Mine was for $200 off. In the past, during other secret shops, I also received an offer for a lower price if I booked right away. Safeway could offer other discounts, but the website doesn’t detail any for veterans, AAA members, or seniors. When looking for a lower price, it never hurts to ask the company for a discount.
Although you wouldn’t be able to tell from its website, Safeway Moving actually does offer a number of customization services. The only solution it doesn’t offer is home staging, which could be a useful tool if you’re looking to get more for your home when you go to sell. As a result, Safeway came in at a 9 out of 10. The brand does offer assembly/disassembly, piano moving, antique moving, custom crating, and junk removal. For antiques, you can request that Safeway professionally pack the items. In addition, Safeway Moving’s quotes include “Basic Valuation Protection” at $0.60 per lb. per article for up to $10,000. If your antique is worth more than $10,000, you may need to request more coverage from Safeway or go with a third-party insurance company that specializes in moving insurance.
| 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 |
A majority of customers seem to have had positive experiences with Safeway Moving. Many reviews speak of excellent customer service from the representatives and crew members, timely delivery, and on-point estimates. However, there are several 1-star reviews, especially on Yelp. In fact, a vast majority of reviews on Yelp for Safeway come in at 1 star, with customers claiming items were lost in transit (or in storage), boxes were smashed, and furniture was broken. For those with antiques, it’s especially important that they’re packaged and loaded correctly, so customers, if they opt for Safeway, should be very clear about any fragile items they will be moving.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B- | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 4.3 | 43 |
| 3.7 | 162 | |
| Yelp | 1.4 | 68 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for Safeway Moving
The most common praise for Safeway Moving has to do with its consistent communication at every touchpoint. The representative you talk to when you get a quote stays involved during the entire process and delivers updates on where your items are at any given time, thanks to GPS tracking. Other customers detail helpful crews, well-packed belongings, and stress-free deliveries.
Most Common Criticism for Safeway Moving
Those who left 1- and 2-star reviews, however, had a vastly different experience with the company. These customers cited smashed boxes, scratched furniture, and improperly packed boxes. Another concern was severely delayed deliveries, with no word on where their property actually was or when it would be delivered.
Safeway Moving, according to the criteria that we look for in transparency, earned a 7. Its website, which is already short on detail, doesn’t have any sample pricing available. The company did get points, though, for its quick quote feature, posted customer service hours (24/7), and ease of booking either online or over the phone. You can also receive a binding estimate, meaning that what you’re quoted, as long as your inventory is accurate, is what you pay on moving day. In addition, Safeway is forthcoming about its status as a carrier. When you hire Safeway, Safeway trucks will show up when it’s time to move. However, if you’re looking for in-depth information about how the moving crews pack or transport your antiques, you’re out of luck since the website is sparse.
Moving APT
3.9
Our Rating
Calling moving companies for quotes can often take 40 minutes or more. That doesn’t include any virtual or in-person assessments the companies request. When calling Moving APT, though, I was on and off the phone in 10 minutes with a very detailed quote in hand. The follow-up email broke down the quote even further and contained details that other companies didn’t include. As a broker, too, the company is able to connect you with specific brands that have years of experience in moving priceless artifacts and antiques.
While Moving APT’s core website is difficult to navigate, the blog can be quite informative. It contains a lot of information for people moving to major cities or to other states, including what to expect during your move to your new home. The articles also provide additional moving advice, which can prove invaluable whether or not you decide to go with this brand.
Outside of a few blog mentions, finding details about how Moving APT handles antiques proved difficult. The representative didn’t respond to my follow-up questions regarding antiques to be moved, and the website has no page dedicated to moving fragile or vintage items. Customers looking to work with this brand might not be reassured that the crews have the expertise to handle antiques with the utmost care.
On top of this, as informative as the blog is, navigating the website can be an exercise in futility. Many of the important details or answers to the questions you may have about moving are playing hide and seek.
Moving APT has one of the best moving quote experiences I have found when calling different companies. Although the organization doesn’t have sample pricing or clearly listed fees on the website, the actual quote experience over the phone was straightforward, painless, and quick. Its moving checklist was extremely efficient, and when you’re often on the phone with these companies for 40-plus minutes or have to schedule an in-home or virtual assessment, Moving APT’s approach is a breath of fresh air.
However, the company’s website is a mixed experience. The blog is regularly updated and contains helpful guides on moving to various cities around the country, what you can expect when moving interstate, and general tips for packing up your belongings. But if you’re looking for details about Moving APT’s actual services, you might be circling for a bit. Many of the web pages under “Moving Services,” for example, simply link to articles that list its partners for a move but don’t list what actual services Moving APT or its agents offer.
For customers who want to know, “If I want to move my antiques with Moving APT, what can I expect?” it’s going to take a call. Part of the reason for this is the company operates solely as a broker. The brand will connect you with other partner companies that can handle your antiques, but knowing what to expect might take a bit of legwork from the customer.
Since Moving APT operates as a broker and has over 2,500 partners, the brand is able to offer just about any service a customer could need when moving homes. Whether you’re moving to the next city over or 5,000 miles away, there’s likely a partner for you in its catalog. In addition, thanks to having such a wide range of agents, Moving APT’s representatives can partner you with a company that specifically specializes in moving antiques. The company notes in the blog that these experts will have specialized tools and techniques to keep vintage items safe during the entire move. In addition, Moving APT’s quotes include free storage for up to 1 month.
| 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 APT’s quoting experience is one of the best I’ve had when secret shopping for moving estimates. The representative’s follow-up email also breaks down exactly what you’re paying for, including fuel, packing materials, carrier total, booking fee, and coverage. For antiques, customers may want to opt for the Platinum Full Packing Service, which includes packing materials, crating, and packing service. Unpacking is not included in this price and costs extra. The quote also detailed that there could be additional fees for any items that are oddly shaped, custom built, heavy, or bulky, which can be applicable to many vintage items.
I was unable to get information regarding how much it would be to move an antique grandfather clock, but for a two-bedroom home move from Maybrook, NY to Carrboro, NC, with 85 items, I was quoted:
- Self-service option: $2,700
- Platinum Full Packing Service (without unpacking): $3,700
- Platinum Full Packing Service 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 8 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 offered me two discounts right off the bat. I received a 5% coupon discount off the basic estimate price and fuel surcharge fees. In addition, for those who can be flexible with their move day, the company has a three-day pick-up window flexibility coupon, which took nearly $1,300 off my quote. Additional discounts may be available through Moving APT’s various partners for veterans, AAA members, and AARP members.
Moving APT also received a 10 out of 10 for customization, as it is the only moving company on this list that offers home staging. Home staging can be a fantastic resource if you’re looking to get top dollar for your home. When it comes to your antiques, though, this moving company and its partners can assist with assembly, disassembly, packing, special item moving, and custom crating. When you have a valuable item to move, you want to be sure that you’re working with a brand that has experience with antiques. With over 2,500 partners, Moving APT has the network to find the agent that can handle your unique needs. In addition, the company offers “Full Value Protection” and basic limited liability protection of $0.60 per lb. per article. For my quote from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, my items were estimated at $31,644 and came with a $500 deductible.
| 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 |
We gave Moving APT a 7.8 for reputation. Moving APT is not BBB Accredited, but the brand does have a B+ on the site and a 3.53 out of 5 as of this writing. We did take some points off, too, because the company is not on Trustpilot. One customer on Google, with which the company currently has a 3.8, stated that the Moving APT company they were partnered with did an amazing job with antiques. However, it’s important to note that Moving APT is a broker, and not every customer’s experience will be the same. Other unhappy clients express they experienced poor customer service, late pickups and deliveries, and increased expenses on moving day.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B+/3.53 | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | N/A | N/A |
| 3.8 | 249 | |
| Yelp | 1.3 | 172 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for Moving APT
For customers who had positive experiences with Moving APT and its partners, reviews detail wonderful customer service, seamless moving experiences, and constant updates regarding their property. A customer who was looking to move antiques stated that all fragile pieces and furniture items were carefully wrapped and moved, and the crew and representative for the company regularly checked in with the company to make sure they were happy with the experience.
Most Common Criticism for Moving APT
Moving APT operates as a broker, so going with this company can be a bit of a gamble on who arrives at your door. Negative reviews state that customers’ experiences were fraught with major delays at both pickup and delivery, unprofessional crews, and unresponsive representatives at partner companies. One customer on Google states that damage was done to tool chests and machinery, yet insurance claims were denied.
Moving APT comes in very low on transparency, landing at a 4.3, mostly because its website and brand lack many of the tools and resources that other moving companies offer. For example, since the company operates as a broker, it doesn’t list on its website sample pricing or additional fees a customer may incur. Although the company highlights some of the movers it uses, it’s not readily apparent that the brand is a broker, not a carrier. Moving APT also lost some points because the company doesn’t offer GPS tracking, and it doesn’t state customer hours on its website. Some points were earned, though, thanks to its quick quote feature, ease of booking online or over the phone, and its binding estimates. For customers who are looking to protect their most valuable items in the midst of a move, the lack of information on MovingAPT’s website can throw a wrench in determining how much you’ll be spending and where your items are at any given time once they’re packed up.
JK Moving Services
4.2
Our Rating
When you’re moving antiques and valuable items, you’re going to carefully consider moving company reviews. After all, repairing or replacing vintage items can be expensive and difficult, if not impossible, especially if they’re heirlooms or custom made. So JK Moving Services’s stellar reviews really strike me. The company is BBB Accredited (with an A+ rating), is rated a 4.5 by Google, and has a 3.5 on Yelp as of this writing — some of the highest reviews found among moving companies I’ve contacted.
JK Moving Services is also fantastic when it comes to getting information. Its website is informative, and the initial emails I received were full of details related to my move, making the quoting process as stress free as possible. In addition, when I had a follow-up question about transporting an antique grandfather clock, the representative I spoke to was extremely responsive and detailed my options.
As helpful as JK Moving Services’s website is, the brand is not forthcoming about its status as a carrier/broker. You might hire JK Moving only to discover that another company’s moving truck shows up on moving day. This can be a blessing or a curse, especially when moving antiques. You could be partnered with a brand that offers stellar packing and moving solutions for vintage items, or you could find yourself with a nightmare of a company that is ill equipped to handle your antiques.
JK Moving Services came in at an overall 8.4 thanks to its abundance of basic services and customization options as well as its good reputation. Customers on Google and other trusted review sites speak of excellent experiences with irreplaceable items, such as original paintings and unique furniture, and found that JK Moving Services’s crews were able to expertly pack and prepare for transporting, arriving on time and without any damage.
My own experience with JK Moving Services’s quoting process has been a bit of a mixed bag. The website is highly informative (even if it lacks prices and some other important details), and the emails contain PDFs, videos, and other facts about working with the brand that can help make a move more stress free. The quoting process did take over 24 hours, even though I didn’t opt for an in-home or virtual assessment. I had to call and then respond to follow-up emails in order to get a number in my inbox. However, when I did have questions about moving antiques, the representative responded in less than 15 minutes with valuable information.
Where JK Moving Services falls short (and loses points) is transparency. The company is not up front about how it operates as both a broker and a carrier, which can be important information to have when you’re planning to move priceless items and heirlooms. You need to know who is going to be responsible for your property, especially when it’s irreplaceable. If you’re moving antiques, I highly suggest questioning this company about who exactly will be moving your items and, if the job is outsourced, checking that partner brand’s reviews and website in advance to verify it’s equipped to handle antiques.
Whether you’re moving your antique vase interstate or to one of the 170-plus countries the organization serves, JK Moving has you covered, coming in at a 10 for basic services. As a broker/carrier, the brand is equipped to handle just about any job due to its network of movers. For antiques, such as a grandfather clock, I was advised I had two packing options: a specific box designed for a grandfather clock or a third-party specialist would come crate the antique for added protection. In addition, JK Moving offers fragile-only packing with high-quality materials if you don’t want to pay to have all of your items packed through full-service packing.
| 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
When I followed up with the representative at JK Moving regarding moving an antique grandfather clock, I received a response in less than 15 minutes, which was the fastest response from any company I’ve contacted regarding this item. The quote I received detailed the prices for both a grandfather clock box and crating so I could choose the protection I wanted for my vintage item. Some antiques may not fit so easily into an existing box, so crating or other specialized packing services may serve you best. On the whole, the quoting process took a bit of effort even without an in-person or virtual assessment. It required a phone call and some follow-up emails to receive the initial estimate. I was advised that a more accurate estimate could be delivered after I submit a self-survey of 30 to 60 videos of my home showing all the items to be moved.
For a move from Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, a distance of about 588 miles, for a two-bedroom home and an antique grandfather clock, I received the following estimates:
- Self-service option: $7,522
- Full-service option: $9,388
- Grandfather clock box: $99
- Crating for grandfather clock: $1,024.98
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
Discounts through JK Moving Services may depend on whether you’re working with JK itself or with one of its partners. Customers working with a third-party partner may have to inquire about specific discounts offered by the third party. JK offers financing options to approved customers with as little as 0% interest through a financing partner, which can be a great way to make a move more affordable — especially if it’s unexpected. The company also offers 2% off if you’re buying a home from Brookfield Residential.
JK Moving Services came in at a 9 out of 10 for customization, only losing a point for its lack of home staging. Many of the services JK does offer, however, can be a great help when you’re moving antiques. For larger pieces, assembly and disassembly may be included in your quote, and the company sells specific packing materials for antiques. For example, grandfather clock boxes are available for purchase. JK Moving’s website also details that it has custom crating, which can deliver specialized protection for the most delicate of items, and has experienced packers and movers on staff who are knowledgeable about moving antiques, pianos, sculptures, and other collections. The quote I received included valuation coverage for up to $24,000 with a $0 deductible.
| 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 |
The company’s reputation is another reason I selected JK Moving Services as one of the best moving companies for antiques. With an A+ and on the BBB and a 4.5 on Google as of this writing, the organization has some of the top reviews out of the moving companies I’ve spoken to. JK Moving only lost some points here due to its lower score with Trustpilot, where the company has only a single review. Customers leaving positive reviews speak of carefully wrapped glass and ceramic items, furniture pieces, and other property, as well as reliable tracking of every single box to be moved. However, other customers had very different experiences and claimed items arrived damaged, even on short moves.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 3.6 | 1 |
| 4.5 | 1,323 | |
| Yelp | 3.5 | 374 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for JK Moving Services
Customers leaving positive reviews for JK Moving often cite responsive communication and friendly staff, something I’ve found to be true myself in my own interactions with the organization. Others detail that the packing services were top notch, and their items arrived in perfect condition and on time.
Most Common Criticism for JK Moving Services
Not every customer had a glowing testimonial for JK Moving Services. One customer on Yelp, for instance, found that many of their items were damaged upon delivery, including a shattered travertine marble table top, dented bedroom furniture, and shattered china and crystal, even though they were marked fragile and priceless. Other customers point to poor experiences with JK Moving Services’s partners, explaining they were not informed beforehand that they would be working with another moving company.
JK Moving’s lowest score is definitely for transparency, at only a 6.3. The website and emails contain a lot of information regarding what to expect in your move but fall abysmally short when explaining how much you’ll expect to pay. Getting an accurate estimate is also no walk in the park as you’ll have to answer emails, submit videos, and/or undergo an in-home assessment. When you’re trying to price how much it would be to move your priceless antiques, this can be a bit frustrating and make getting a quote time-consuming. The organization also lost some points due to the fact it doesn’t disclose its broker/carrier status. You could very well be partnered with an agent of JK Moving that isn’t as well equipped to handle moving antiques as the next and be unaware until it’s time to move. I highly recommend being upfront about any antiques or valuable collections you need to move, as this could impact the agent you’re partnered with when working with a moving broker. However, JK Moving Services does get some points thanks to its quick quote feature, GPS tracking option, binding estimates, and booking solutions.
What to Look for in a Reputable Company for Antiques Moving
When looking for a reputable moving company for your antiques, you should always start with the reviews, which deliver insight on how the brand has handled vintage items in the past. It’s also a good idea to ask moving companies about additional insurance options beyond basic coverage. Not all moving companies offer this, but you might get solid advice for getting third-party insurance to protect your valuables in the event of an accident. Double-check the moving company’s credentials as well, including federal requirements, state requirements, and insurance coverage.
I also recommend inquiring about the organization’s specialty services. What solutions does the company have that will ensure your priceless items arrive in your new home in the same condition? You should ask questions such as:
- What packing services do you offer for antiques?
- What speciality boxes do you sell for specific vintage items?
- How will the items be stored at your storage facility?
- Does your storage facility offer climate-controlled vaults?
- What security and tracking features are on your trucks and in storage facilities?
- What actions do the crews take to protect boxes and items marked fragile?
- Does your team have experience moving antiques?
- How should I file a claim if my antique arrives broken?
- Do you offer custom crating for heavier or bulkier vintage items?
How To Avoid Scams for Moving Antiques
To avoid scams when moving antiques, always double-check that the moving company is meeting state or country regulations. All moving companies are required to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number. Checking their registrations will also inform you about their status as a moving company (carrier, broker, or broker/carrier).
I also recommend asking the mover about what types of goods are covered under its insurance. Movers looking to scam you might not fully explain how their insurance works, especially when it comes to antiques and other valuable items, and simply say, “It’s covered.” Always get a complete explanation of the limitations of the insurance before signing anything. Other common scams include:
- Holding property hostage or for ransom until the customer pays more
- This is, in fact, illegal, and a moving company can’t refuse to return your items to you unless you pay additional fees. Movers that do this are usually fraudulent, and checking credentials and reviews can help customers steer clear of these entities.
- No-show scams after a deposit is received
- Paying with a credit card where you can do a chargeback can help you avoid these types of scams, but not all top moving companies accept cards. Avoid paying in cash, especially if the mover only accepts cash.
- Mover fraud where the mover lacks required licenses and registration
- These movers may look legitimate or claim to represent a legitimate company but don’t. Always double-check credentials and registration requirements.
- Change of address scam where a company states you need to pay a fee to change your address
- This is actually free through the United States Postal Service (USPS).
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 for Antiques Moving?
The cost of a moving company for antiques depends on a number of factors, including the type of antiques to be moved, whether packing or custom crating is needed, insurance coverage selections, and the starting location and destination. There may be discounts available, however, that can lower the price, and customers are always free to negotiate with moving companies for a lower quote.
Do You Need a Moving Company for Antiques?
You do need a moving company for antiques because moving them can be complicated, and going without can make transporting them hazardous. Each antique needs special care and preparation to ensure it’s properly packed, transported, and stored.
Are Moving Companies for Antiques Worth It?
A moving company is worth it for antiques as many, especially heirlooms, are irreplaceable and priceless. Although it’s possible to do it yourself, you could be without insurance coverage if something should happen to items during transit.
Other Resources for Prospective Movers
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