Best Long Distance Moving Companies of 2024
Jan. 1 2024, Published 3:41 p.m. ET
- Introduction
- Our Top Picks
- Methodology
- Summary of Best Long Distance Moving Companies of 2024
- Best Cross Country Moving Companies of 2024
- 1: Moving APT
- 2: Adams Van Lines
- 3: Pricing Van Lines
- 4: Mayzlin Relocation
- 5: Native Van Lines
- 6: iMoving
- 7: Out of State Moving Companies
- Costs of Long Distance Moving in 2024
- Cost Calculator
- Delivery Times for Long Distance Moving
- How to Choose a Long Distance Moving Company (What to Look For)
- Moving Company Features Breakdown
- Types of Moving Companies
- How to Prepare for a Move
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Introduction
Finding the best moving company for local or short distance or long distance or cross country moves can be a daunting task fraught with the complexities of managing a myriad of variables. Luckily, the Moving Feedback Team has provided extensive research for those in need of an impartial guide to the best moving companies of 2024.
Our Top Picks
Methodology
Based on extensive research and insights from the moving feedback team and their two decades in the moving industry, we've identified the best movers of 2024. This process involves a thorough evaluation of various moving companies based on factors such as customer feedback, service range, pricing transparency, reliability, and delivery efficiency. We also examine the cost structures of different movers and provide a specialized cost calculator to provide realistic estimates for moving. This methodical approach underpins our rankings and provides a reliable framework for assessing the quality and suitability of different moving companies. Furthermore it provides a framework for people to pick the ideal mover for their specific needs.
Summary of Best Long Distance Moving Companies of 2024
Name | Average Rating | Price | Superlative |
---|---|---|---|
Moving APT - GET QUOTE | 4.8/5 | $3,410 to $7,920 | Best Overall |
Adam Van Lines - GET QUOTE | 4.7/5 | $3,210 to $7,520 | Best for Long Distance |
Pricing Van Lines - GET QUOTE | 4.6/5 | $2,950 to $6,950 | Most Affordable |
Mayzlin Relocation - GET QUOTE | 4.5/5 | $3,710 to $8,320 | Best for Customization |
Native Van Lines - GET QUOTE | 4.3/5 | $3,300 to $7,900 | Best Customer Service |
iMoving - GET QUOTE | 4.2/5 | $3,100 to $8,250 | Best for Online Booking |
Out of State Moving Companies - GET QUOTE | 4.1/5 | $3,300 to $8,175 | Most Customer Centric |
Name | Services Offered | Pros | Cons | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Moving APT - GET QUOTE | Transportation, Packing, Loading, Unloading, Storage | Best customer testimonials, Best moving network, Price matching, Helpful moving cost calculator, Clean, Itemized estimates, Most efficient and effective experience | Annoying Online Chat | |
Adam Van Lines - GET QUOTE | Transportation, Packing, Loading, Unloading, Storage | Experienced and professional staff, Wide range of services offered, Flexible pricing options | Personal info required for online quotes. | |
Pricing Van Lines - GET QUOTE | Transportation, Packing, Loading, Storage | Worldwide network of expert movers, Commercial and residential moving services, Quick moving quote estimates | No international moving services, Increased delivery times during peak moving season | |
Mayzlin Relocation - GET QUOTE | Transportation, Packing, Loading, Unloading, Storage | Friendly Customer Service, Safe and Secure Services, Complete Jobs within Scheduled Time, Flexible with Customer Requirements | No international moving services | |
Native Van Lines - GET QUOTE | Transportation, Long-term Storage | Broad range of moving services, Custom moves available, Free storage for up to 30 days, No hidden fees | Email address required for free moving quote | |
iMoving - GET QUOTE | Transportation | Binding quotes, Flexible cancellation policy, View multiple estimates at once, No phone calls needed | Services may not be available in every state | |
Out of State Moving Companies - GET QUOTE | Transportation, Packing | Extensive experience, Comprehensive service, High customer satisfaction | No international moving services, Premium Pricing depending on service |
Best Cross Country Moving Companies of 2024
1: Moving APT
Average Rating: 4.8
Average Price (2-3 Bed): $3,410 - $7,920
Superlative: Best Overall
Why We Picked Moving APT:
As a moving broker, Moving APT can save you time by matching you with a licensed carrier that specializes in your moving scenario. With thousands of partners plus price matching, this service can be a great alternative to calling multiple movers yourself. Customers say the Moving APT website is easier to use than other moving company websites. The website features free quotes as well as an extremely helpful moving cost calculator. Servicing 50 states and 150+ countries, Moving APT has 2,500 partners and can find a moving company for any situation.
Services Offered:
Transportation
Packing
Loading
Unloading
Storage
Types of Moves Offered:
Long Distance
Cross Country
Local or Short Distance
Commercial
Corporate
Military
International
Pros:
Best customer testimonials
Best moving network
Price matching
Helpful moving cost calculator
Clean, itemized estimates
Most efficient and effective experience
Cons:
Annoying online chat
2: Adams Van Lines
Average Rating: 4.7/5
Average Price (2-3 Bed): $3,210 - $7,520
Superlative: Best for Long Distance
Why We Picked Adams Van Lines:
Adams Van Lines emerges as a leading choice for a hassle-free relocation. Specializing in full-service, long distance moves, they bring over 18 years of expertise to the table. Having successfully completed over 100,000 moves, their team's proficiency and professionalism are unquestionable. Their comprehensive services include everything from packing to storage, ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience. With their extensive experience and reliable service, Adams Van Lines stands out as a trusted partner for any relocation.
Services Offered:
Transportation
Packing
Loading
Unloading
Storage
Types of Moves Offered:
Long Distance
Cross Country
Local or Short Distance
Commercial
Corporate
Military
Pros:
Experienced and professional staff
Wide range of services offered
Flexible pricing options
Cons:
Personal info required for online quotes
3: Pricing Van Lines
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Average Price (2-3 Bed): $2,950 - $6,950
Superlative: Most Affordable
Why We Picked Pricing Van Lines:
Pricing Van Lines, with its extensive national network, is a prime choice. Their comprehensive services cover every aspect of moving, ensuring a seamless transition. They excel in handling moves of any size nationwide and provide insightful moving resources on their website. Their transparent pricing and extensive moving network simplify the process, making them a go-to for efficient and hassle-free long distance moves.
Services Offered:
Transportation
Packing
Loading
Storage
Types of Moves Offered:
Long Distance
Cross Country
Local or Short Distance
Pros
Worldwide network of expert movers
Commercial and residential moving services
Quick moving quote estimates
Cons
No international moving services
Increased delivery times during peak moving season
Ambiguous call center
4: Mayzlin Relocation
Average Rating: 4.5
Average Price (2-3 Bed): $3,710 - $8,320
Superlative: Best for Customization
Why We Picked Mayzlin Relocation:
Mayzlin Relocation provides the full range of moving services locally or everywhere in the US. The team consists of experienced professional movers who love what they do and take pride in it. Leveraging quality equipment, their professional services are ideal for local and long distance moving needs both residential and commercial. Mayzlin is known for their affordable prices without sacrificing quality.
Services Offered:
Transportation
Packing
Loading
Storage
Types of Moves Offered:
Long Distance
Cross Country
Local or Short Distance
Commercial
Corporate
Military
Pros:
Friendly Customer Service
Safe and Secure Services
Complete Jobs within Scheduled Time
Flexible with Customer Requirements
Cons:
No international moving services
5: Native Van Lines
Average Rating: 4.3/5
Average Price (2-3 Bed): $3,300 - $7,900
Superlative: Best Customer Service
Why We Picked Native Van Lines:
Boasting decades of industry presence, Native Van Lines is synonymous with reliability and excellence, as evidenced by their numerous awards. Offering an array of services, including free storage for up to 30 days, they're equipped for both personal and corporate long distance moves. Their versatility shines through, particularly useful for complex relocations. With Native Van Lines, whether it's expedited transport or extended storage needs, your moving requirements are well catered for, making them a versatile and dependable choice.
Services Offered:
Transportation
Long-term Storage
Types of Moves Offered:
Long Distance
Cross Country
Local or Short Distance
Pros:
Broad range of moving services
Custom moves available
Free storage for up to 30 days
No hidden fees
Cons:
Email address required for free moving quote
6: iMoving
Why We Picked iMoving:
iMoving stands out as a digital marketplace connecting users with premier movers. Their platform enables easy comparison and booking of moving services, emphasizing convenience and transparency. By listing only licensed and insured movers, iMoving ensures the safety and security of your belongings. Their platform is akin to a moving services aggregator, offering the ease of comparing quotes and booking services online, embodying the ultimate convenience in moving solutions.
Services Offered:
Transportation
Types of Moves Offered:
Long Distance
Cross Country
Local or Short Distance
International
Pros
Binding quotes
Flexible cancelation policy
View multiple estimates at once
No phone calls needed
Cons
Services may not be available in every state
7: Out of State Moving Companies
Average Rating: 4.1
Average Price (2-3 Bed): 3,300 - 8,175
Superlative: Most Customer Centric
Why We Picked Out of State Moving Companies:
Out of State Moving Companies was founded with a singular, straightforward objective: to make moving a stress-free experience. Boasting over 10 years of experience in the moving industry, they have successfully managed the relocation of more than 100,000 customers, handling both local and long distance moves with a high level of expertise and customer satisfaction. Throughout its decade of operation, Out of State Moving Companies has remained steadfast in its mission and values, prioritizing customer happiness and the simplification of the moving process.
Services Offered:
Transportation
Packing
Types of Moves Offered:
Long Distance
Cross Country
Local or Short Distance
Pros:
Extensive experience
Comprehensive service range
High customer satisfaction
Cons:
No international moving services
Premium Pricing depending on service
Costs of Long Distance Moving in 2024
The cost of hiring movers is an important consideration, whether for local / short distance or long distance / cross country moves. Costs can range significantly, from around $650 to over $18,500, influenced by the amount of belongings, distance of the move, and additional services required.
For example, a short distance move for a small apartment typically costs less than a full-scale family home relocation. Our comprehensive analysis provides guidance on potential costs tailored to your specific requirements, along with expert insights on the moving process, making it an invaluable tool for planning your move.
Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2 - 3 Bedroom | 4 - 5 Bedroom |
---|---|---|---|
Local (Less than 100 Miles) | $650 to $800 | $750 to $1900 | $1200 to $4500 |
100 Miles | $1000 to $1500 | $1250 to $1700 | $1500 to $3400 |
250 Miles | $1200 to $2000 | $1500 to $3500 | $2000 to $4800 |
750 Miles | $1400 to $2900 | $2100 to $6900 | $5500 to $7900 |
1500 Miles | $1600 to $3200 | $2600 to $7400 | $6700 to $9500 |
2500 Miles + | $1900 to $3700 | $3900 to $8200 | $12000 + |
Cost Calculator
In over two decades in the business, Moving APT has quoted over 2 million moves. Leveraging this historical data and competitors’ quotes, Moving APT created a Cost Calculator tool for those looking for a quick but accurate estimate. See here for the Cost Calculator.
Delivery Times for Long Distance Moving
When planning a move, anticipate a delivery timeline ranging from 1 to 21 business days, depending on the size of your load and travel distance. To better understand the expected waiting period for your specific moving situation, refer to the accompanying table outlining various scenarios and their corresponding delivery timelines.
Distance | Days |
---|---|
0 to 200 Miles | 1-3 business days |
200 to 500 Miles | 2-7 business days |
500 to 800 Miles | 3-10 business days |
800 to 1200 Miles | 4-12 business days |
1200 to 1700 Miles | 5-14 business days |
1700 to 2500 Miles | 6-21 business days |
2500 to 3300 Miles | 7-21 business days |
How to Choose a Long Distance Moving Company (What to Look For)
When selecting a moving company, consider these essential factors:
Reputation: Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge reliability and service quality
Licenses and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed and insured for interstate moves
Experience: Look for companies with extensive experience in the type of relocation you need
Services Offered: Assess whether the company provides services that match your specific needs, like packing, storage, or fragile item handling
Price and Transparency: Get detailed quotes and understand the pricing structure to avoid hidden fees
Customer Service: Consider the responsiveness and helpfulness of the company's customer service team
Moving Company Features Breakdown
Here are some key features to consider:
Packing and Unpacking Services: Some companies offer full packing and unpacking services for a stress-free move.
Storage Solutions: Check if the company provides short-term or long-term storage options.
Specialized Moving Services: Look for services like piano moving, art and antique handling, or vehicle transportation.
Flexible Scheduling: Ensure the company can accommodate your preferred moving dates.
Tracking: Advanced companies offer real-time tracking of your belongings during the move.
Types of Moving Companies
Moving companies can be categorized as follows:
Local Movers / Short Distance Movers: Specialize in moves within a certain radius, usually within the same state.
Long Distance Movers or Cross Country Movers: Handle moves across states or countries, focusing on interstate and international relocations.
Commercial Movers: Focus on business relocations, handling office equipment and logistics.
Corporate Movers: Cater to the relocation needs of businesses and their employees, managing the logistics of moving office contents as well as providing support for employee relocation, ensuring a seamless transition to new corporate locations with minimal disruption to operations.
How to Prepare for a Move
Preparing for a move involves several steps:
Create a Checklist: List all tasks you need to complete before, during, and after the move.
Declutter and Donate: Reduce the load by getting rid of items you no longer need.
Gather Supplies: Obtain boxes, packing materials, labels, and other necessary supplies.
Start Packing Early: Begin with items you use less frequently and label boxes clearly.
Change of Address: Notify important parties about your address change.
Prepare an Essentials Box: Pack a box with items you'll need immediately upon arrival at your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far in advance should I book a moving company?
Ideally, book 2-3 months in advance for a long distance / cross country move. For local / short distance moves, 4-6 weeks should suffice. Booking early often ensures better availability and sometimes better rates.
What is the average cost of a move?
The cost varies widely based on distance, the volume of belongings, and services required. On average, long distance or cross country moves can cost between $2,000 and $8,000. Local or short distance moves are typically charged by the hour.
How do I know if a moving company is legitimate?
Check if they are licensed and insured, especially for interstate moves. Verify their USDOT number with the FMCSA for interstate movers. Also, read reviews and check their standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Can I pack my belongings myself?
Yes, you can pack your belongings yourself. However, be aware that some moving companies may not cover damages in self-packed boxes unless the box shows significant external damage.
What happens if my items are damaged during the move?
Moving companies offer different levels of liability coverage. Check their policy before moving. In the event of damage, file a claim with the company as per their guidelines.
How do moving companies calculate the cost of a move?
Costs are typically based on the weight of your belongings, the distance of the move, labor costs, and additional services like packing or storage.
Do moving companies disassemble and reassemble furniture?
Most full-service movers will disassemble and reassemble basic furniture. However, confirm this service in advance, especially for complex or valuable items.
What should I do if I need to move on short notice?
Contact moving companies immediately to check availability. Be flexible with moving dates and be prepared for higher costs due to the urgency.
Can I track my shipment during the move?
Some moving companies offer tracking services for moves. Ask the company about their tracking options.
Are there items that moving companies won’t transport?
Yes, movers typically won’t transport hazardous materials, perishable food, plants, pets, and sometimes high-value items. Each company has its own policy, so it’s best to check in advance.
Remember, policies and practices can vary between companies, so it's always a good idea to confirm these details directly with the moving company you choose.