Updated Jan 12, 2023
Updated Jan 12, 2023
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If you’re planning a move to, from, or within the Great Lake State, you’re sure to have some questions about the general moving process and how to vet different relocation service providers. If you’re new to the state, there are likely plenty of questions you have about settling into day-to-day life here. We’ve done all of the necessary research to address any possible concerns you could have. Here, you’ll learn who the best moving companies are in the state of Michigan. We’ve also broken down how to vet different movers, and how to plan and budget for your move.
Our top recommended moving companies for 2023:
Here, we’ve included a quick comparison of our top movers in Michigan. You’ll find our rating, BBB status and rating, and basic cost information in this chart. Read our provider summaries below to learn more about each and find out what sets them apart.
Company | Website | Our Take | Our Rating | BBB Rating | Local Cost | Long-Distance Cost |
International Van Lines | Site | Best Full-Service Mover | 9.8 | B | $600 – $1,200 | $1,900 – $4,900 |
Allied Van Lines | Site | Most Vehicle Shipping Options | 9.7 | A+ | $750 – $1,350 | $1,800 – $4,500 |
American Van Lines | Site | Most Transparent Pricing | 9.6 | N/A | $500 – $1,000 | $2,300 – $5,300 |
Safeway Moving Systems | Site | Best Overall Moving Broker | 9.6 | N/A | No local services | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Moving APT | Site | Most Moving Partners | 9.5 | B | $2,500 – $4,800 | |
JK Moving Services | Site | Most Customizable Moving Experience | 9.4 | A+ | Call for a quote | $2,500 – $5,500 |
U-Pack | Site | Most Widely-Available Container Service | 9.3 | A+ | N/A | $1,200 – $2,200 |
North American Van Lines | Site | Best Pricing Options | 9.2 | A+ | $750 – $1,350 | $1,800 – $4,500 |
For nearly two decades, International Van Lines has provided leading moving assistance to all 50 states. Their status as a broker and carrier gives them virtually unmatched reach, which shows through their current work rate of 20,000 moves per year.
International’s calling card is their customer service and communication at all points throughout moves. The most common single theme in customer reviews is the strength of their care to all clients. From start to finish, you’ll be readily able to contact a representative to handle any concerns you may have.
Pros
Cons
International and its partners can provide the following relocation services:
International Van Lines’ price points are among the most competitive in the industry relative to full-service providers. We’ve included a table of their average costs to reference before getting a quote here.
<250 mi | 500 mi | 1,000 mi | 2,000 mi | |
2 BR | $1,400 – $4,400 | $1,900 – $4,900 | $2,100 – $5,100 | $2,400 – $5,400 |
4 BR | $3,200 – $6,200 | $5,100 – $8,100 | $5,700 – $8,700 | $6,200 – $9,200 |
Get a quote from IVL here.
Read our full IVL review for a comprehensive breakdown of this mover’s costs, services, and more.
Allied Van Lines is a moving giant with nearly 90 years of experience in providing clients with excellent moving assistance. In the last 15 years alone, it has completed more than 750,000 unique relocations, making it one of the most prolific and active movers. This mover offers a full suite of services that can cater to international moves, commercial relocations, and residential moves equally well.
Allied’s large moving vans make them ideal for an array of vehicle and bulky shipping needs. When planning a move of any size, you’ll find that things will go far easier if you have fewer points of contact to follow up with during the process. Allied being able to directly handle such demanding specialty requests on their own means that you won’t have to broker these services out to third parties.
Pros
Cons
Allied’s leading service profile includes the following:
Here, you’ll find some average costs for moves of varying sizes with Allied:
<250 mi | 500 mi | 1,000 mi | 2,000 mi | |
2 BR | $1,800 – $4,500 | $2,400 – $5,400 | $2,700 – $5,700 | $4,400 – $7,400 |
4 BR | $3,300 – $6,000 | $5,700 – $8,700 | $7,500 – $10,500 | $10,900 – $13,900 |
Get a quote from Allied Van Lines here.
Read our Allied review to learn more.
American Van Lines is one of the largest and best pure carriers in the moving industry. As a carrier, they directly handle each move that they book. This means you’ll always have the added assurance that an AVL licensed crew will carry out your move. The strength and diversity of their service offerings are where this provider shines. With moving teams that are very experienced and selected for their customer service and operational skills, you’ll always have a positive experience.
While it isn’t exactly a rarity in the industry, it is atypical enough to warrant mentioning. American Van Lines exclusively provides flat rate pricing for all moves. This pricing structure should be of interest to more budget-conscious clients. Though AVL’s rates range a bit higher than their competitors, you will always get a guaranteed rate.
Pros
Cons
American Van Lines’ crews are equipped to provide the following:
American Van Lines’ guaranteed rates will provide plenty of peace of mind in the lead-up to moving day. Here are some sample average price ranges from recent AVL moves.
<250 mi | 500 mi | 1,000 mi | 2,000 mi | |
2 BR | $1,700 – $4,700 | $2,300 – $5,300 | $2,600 – $5,600 | $4,200 – $7,200 |
4 BR | $4,800 – $7,800 | $5,600 – $8,600 | $7,400 – $10,400 | $10,800 – $13,800 |
Get a quote from American Van Lines here.
If an American Van Lines move interests you, read our full review here.
Safeway Moving Systems is a broker that partners with different carriers across all 50 states. Given its vast service area and network, it can easily handle any moving needs within the Great Lake State. This veteran-owned business stands behind the work it carries out, with accountability, commitment, and integrity being among its core values. This and top-rated customer service have made it a leading choice for moving customers everywhere.
Though it isn’t unique in the moving industry, Safeway’s pricing structure sets it apart from many of its competitors. That it provides flat rates for all clients it services makes it one of the more reliable options for any moving need. Once you’ve been quoted your bottom line estimate, and have signed a moving contract, you can rest assured that your move will be carried out at the agreed-upon cost. This figure will not shift unless you add services or inventory to your move.
Pros
Cons
Safeway and its partners offer the following basics and add-ons. Regardless of your needs, Safeway likely has a carrier in its network that can provide the services you require for your move.
Safeway’s average rates run a little above typical ranges for moves of most sizes. However, you’ll never be subjected to hidden fees when you book with them. Here are some sample ranges for recent Safeway moves:
250 mi | 500 mi | 1,000 mi | 2,000 mi | |
2 BR | $2,000 – $5,000 | $2,100 – $5,100 | $2,200 – $5,200 | $2,700 – $5,700 |
4 BR | $3,200 – $6,200 | $4,700 – $6,700 | $5,500 – $7,500 | $7,800 – $10,800 |
State Availability: 50 States
Learn More: Read our full review to learn more about Safeway Moving Systems’ services and reputation.
Moving APT is a moving broker with more than twenty years of experience providing cross-country and local movers to clients everywhere. Being nationwide brokers, they partner with many top moving companies in each state, including some of the other providers on this list. Whether your moving plan involves relocating within the Detroit area or another state, Moving APT is an excellent option.
Moving APT’s status as a broker lends them a certain amount of versatility and diversity of service.
Pros
Cons
Moving APT’s numerous moving partners can provide the following services listed. Note that service offerings can vary with location and from partner to partner.
Moving APT offers guaranteed pricing for all moves. Given its numerous partner companies, it’s difficult to pin down exact pricing, as this will vary by region. However, they provide a quoted figure of $4,300 for a two-bedroom, 1,200-mile move. You’ll have to get your own cost analysis from Moving APT to get your price. If you can get an estimate from a moving competitor, this company offers price matching for moves of all sizes.
Get a quote from Moving APT here.
Read our Moving APT review to learn how this moving broker books the best movers for you.
JK Moving Services is a nationwide broker and carrier that has provided moving assistance to more than half a million clients in its 40-year history. This provider offers long-distance moving services to all lower 48 states, which can directly assist your Michigan moving needs. An added feature of a move with them is their AI-assisted remote estimate tool. With this, you’ll be afforded the convenience and accuracy of an in-person estimate, no matter your exact location.
JK Moving Services’ diverse range of basic and add-on offerings provides customers with unmatched abilities to customize their own moving experience. You’ll be able to craft your moving package by selecting services on an a la carte basis with this mover and its partner companies.
Pros
Cons
JK’s services include the following:
JK doesn’t provide much in the way of sample pricing on its website. However, $2,500 to $5,500 for a two-bedroom, 500-mile relocation can be expected. Get your free quote from them to get your move started today.
Get a quote from JK Moving Services here.
Our JK Moving Services review can provide more information about costs, services, and customer reception of this mover.
If you’re trying to keep costs low, and are willing to do a fair amount of the labor during your move, then U-Pack may be an ideal option for you. Unlike many container services, this provider allows for even larger moves to be done on the lowest of budgets. Its storage facilities and locations across the United States make them readily accessible to millions of potential clients.
A U-Pack move provides customers with a certain degree of autonomy while also eliminating the need to assume liability for goods in transit. If you book with this provider, you’ll be afforded the choice between a ReloCube and a full trailer, with three days for loading and unloading. This means that you’ll be afforded the luxury of going at your own pace at the most stressful times during your move.
Pros
Cons
U-Pack’s minimal service offerings help to keep costs low. With this container service, you’ll have access to the following:
U-Pack’s “pay for what you use” pricing model keeps costs low. Here, we’ve put together some average sample figures from this provider’s moves.
<250 mi | 500 mi | 1,000 mi | 2,000 mi | |
2 BR | $600 – $1,600 | $1,200 – $2,200 | $1,600 – $2,600 | $2,100 – $3,100 |
4 BR | $800 – $1,800 | $1,800 – $2,800 | $2,800 – $3,800 | $4,100 – $5,100 |
Get a quote from U-Pack here.
Read our U-Pack review to learn more.
North American Van Lines (NAVL) is one of today’s oldest, most trusted moving brands in the United States. Since 1933, they have provided some of the best moving services in the industry to clients everywhere. With a network of more than 500 locations, it is in a prime position to help millions of potential customers. Their leading range of services, 24/7 customer service, and competitive pricing options genuinely stand out in customer reviews.
As mentioned above, North American’s pricing options are fairly unique in the industry. While many movers offer some of these, North American’s willingness to work with you to determine an ideal cost and structure is unique. You can rest assured that your budgetary needs and constraints will be respected with “bottom line” and “not to exceed” pricing options.
Pros
Cons
NAVL’s leading service profile includes the following:
Here, we’ve assembled some average ranges from recent North American Van Lines moves. Your costs could vary greatly, depending on service requirements and total inventory.
<250 mi | 500 mi | 1,000 mi | 2,000 mi | |
2 BR | $1,800 – $4,500 | $2,400 – $5,400 | $2,700 – $5,700 | $4,400 – $7,400 |
4 BR | $3,300 – $6,000 | $5,700 – $8,700 | $7,500 – $10,500 | $10,900 – $13,900 |
Get a quote from North American Van Lines here.
Read our NAVL review to learn more.
If you’re going into the moving quote process for the first time, you should be aware of key areas to evaluate any mover. Here, we’ve broken these down in detail. You’re well within your rights to request proof of the following registrations and insurance policies during any free quote you receive. Any reputable moving company will happily provide documentation when asked.
Your Michigan movers will have to carry at least a local form of registration to operate. Interstate moving companies will also include federal registration.
Professional moving companies have minimum insurance standards to adhere to. This includes:
Positive customer reviews are a must for any moving company trying to market itself based on the strength of its client feedback. This includes reviews on Google, Yelp, social media, and Better Business Bureau. Be sure to look this up prior to booking.
Full-service moves traditionally come to mind when people mention a move of any kind. This type of relocation involves your mover of choice taking on your entire move, from packing, crating, and extra protection of antiques, to the actual loading and unloading of your goods. This will come with the highest associated costs but allow you to have the most stress-free experience in most cases.
While you can move a home of any size on your own, a self-service move is best suited for smaller to mid-sized homes. This can entail renting a moving truck or arranging for a container service to ship your goods to your new home.
There are many reasons to move to Michigan, including some of the most beautiful scenery available, which provides access to plentiful hunting and fishing destinations, and stunning getaway locations. This state’s harsh winters are a bit of a drawback, but they’re buffered on either side by beautiful autumns and ideal springs. Perhaps of even greater importance is the low cost of living associated with life here.
Here, we’ve put together a cost breakdown for full-service moving. These ranges are simply estimates of what you can expect to pay for typical moves of varying sizes. In order to get your own optimized pricing figure, you’ll need to get personalized quotes prior to booking. These costs can be influenced by the following:
1 BR | 2 BR | 3 BR | 4 BR | |
Local | $1,200 | $1,500 | $2,000 | $2,750 |
250 mi | $2,750 | $3,800 | $5,100 | $6,000 |
500 mi | $3,100 | $4,100 | $6,000 | $6,700 |
1000 mi | $3,500 | $4,500 | $6,400 | $8,400 |
2000 mi | $4,300 | $4,900 | $6,800 | $9,000 |
2500 mi | $4,800 | $5,100 | $7,100 | $10,000 |
3000 mi | $5,100 | $6,000 | $8,750 | $11,250 |
If you’re still hunting for a place to live within Michigan, you should consider these locales. Each provides residents with some of the best that the state has to offer.
Whether you’re moving to Michigan for the lower cost of living, the variety that its four seasons bring, or the natural beauty, you should be fully informed before making your decision. Here, we’ve listed a few key metrics to be aware of prior to planning your relocation.
The surest way to plan a successful move is to begin the quote process early. Begin researching movers near you around two months ahead of your Michigan move. Doing so will give you the required time to properly vet each mover. Schedule your quotes with the goal of having several written estimates in hand around six weeks out from moving day. Once you’ve evaluated your options and decided, you should try to have your move booked a month ahead of time. Get a copy of your moving estimate and contract and keep them handy until the completion of your move.
For two movers (labor only), and two hours of labor, you’ll be in line to pay between $160 and $180. This equals around $40 to $45 per mover, per hour. If your laborers need special equipment or dollies, or if they’re
Michigan’s frigid winters and muggy summers mean that a Spring or Autumn move would be ideal. Moving companies are typically at their busiest between May and September. If you have some degree of control over when you’ll be moving, you may want to aim to miss this window.
All Michigan intrastate moving companies must carry a motor carrier certificate specific to household goods. This is maintained through the state Public Service Commission. Membership with the Michigan Movers’ Association is a plus. You should be able to check all of these through a company website
According to the Michigan Movers’ Association, you should follow these steps:
At House Method, our primary goals are to be a reliable source of information and to be totally transparent to our readers. With that in mind, we’ve developed the following formula to render objective ratings – on a scale of 10 points – for the moving companies we review.
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