Allied Van Lines is our top pick for seniors because of its senior-focused benefits, including a discount and retirement relocation guide. Moving later in life can involve different priorities, whether you’re downsizing, moving closer to family, or transitioning to a retirement community.
We evaluated leading moving companies based on their senior-specific resources, services, pricing, and overall value. We also surveyed 1,000 homeowners nationwide who had moved within the previous two years and analyzed responses from adults ages 65 and older to better understand how they planned and experienced their moves.
Key Takeaways
- Allied Van Lines ranks as our best moving company for seniors because of its senior-focused resources, nationwide availability, and overall value.
- The average cost of a senior move is about $3,020, though your total will vary based on your home size, distance to move, and the moving services you choose.
- In our 2026 moving survey, 76% of respondents ages 65 and older used a full-service moving company, showing that many older adults opted for professional help with loading, transportation, and unloading.
Top Moving Companies for Seniors
Here are our top choices for movers that specialize in supporting older adults:
- Allied Van Lines: Best for Vehicle Relocation
- JK Moving Services: Best Specialized Packing
- International Van Lines: Best Full-Service Mover
- Safeway Moving Inc.: Most Reliable Pricing
- American Van Lines: Best Overall Moving Labor
Comparing Top Movers for Seniors
Below is a comparison table of our top moving companies, including their average national prices, deposit requirements, and our overall ratings.
| Company | Star Rating | Average Price | BBB Rating | Deposit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$3,520 | A+ | None | ||
$3,601 | A+ | None | ||
$3,112 | A+ | Up to 25% | ||
$2,944 | A+ | 20%–30% | ||
$2,273 | A+ | $250 |
Notes: The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. BBB ratings are accurate as of the time of publishing.
Our Reviews of the Best Moving Companies for Seniors
Below, we break down our picks for moving companies to help you find the best fit. Our provider reviews cover everything from cost estimates to senior-specific services and discounts.
Allied Van Lines
Company Overview
- Provides a 15% discount to seniors
- Offers a free retirement relocation guide on its website
- Is the only mover on our list that has portable storage containers that come with the option of professional packing
Keep in Mind
- Varies senior discount availability by region
- Puts items from multiple moving customers in the same truck, which can lead to incorrect unloading
Our Review
Allied Van Lines is our top pick for senior moves thanks to its 15% senior discount and retirement relocation resources. The company offers a free retirement relocation guide with moving tips and timelines tailored to older adults. Allied is also the only mover on our list that combines portable storage containers with professional packing services, giving seniors a more flexible and potentially less expensive alternative to a traditional full-service move.
Allied still has a few drawbacks. The senior discount varies by region, so some seniors may not be eligible for the full 15% off. Additionally, Allied sometimes consolidates belongings from multiple customers on the same truck, which can lead to mix-ups at delivery. If that’s a concern, ask about options for direct shipment, though this may come with additional costs. We also called and couldn’t confirm an exact age range for the senior discount; Allied’s criteria may be 55+ or 65+. Check with a local Allied representative to see if you’re eligible.
Customer Experiences
We read through reviews on the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot to learn more about customer experiences with Allied Van Lines. Positive reviewers praised the company’s professional movers and clear communication. Some customers also said crews handled their belongings carefully. However, negative reviewers reported damaged or missing items. Others described delivery delays and issues resolving claims.
JK Moving Services
Company Overview
- Has dedicated senior moving specialists to simplify moves to assisted living communities
- Offers online articles and resources to ease senior citizens into the moving process
- Has senior discounts for adults 55 and older, which is a wider age bracket than other movers on our list
Keep in Mind
- Is the most expensive mover on our list
- Doesn’t offer local or intrastate moving services outside of Washington. D.C., metropolitan area
Our Review
JK Moving Services has specialists trained to assist seniors relocating to retirement communities and assisted living facilities. They can help with downsizing, create a personalized moving plan, and provide online resources to guide seniors through every stage of the moving process. JK Moving also offers a senior discount for adults ages 55 and older, making it a good option for younger seniors who may not qualify for discounts from other movers.
JK Moving is very similar to Allied Van Lines in terms of its services and insurance options, but it’s the priciest mover on our list, which could be a problem for seniors on fixed incomes. This mover also mainly handles international, long-distance, and interstate moves; it only offers local moves in the DMV area, so you’ll need to hire a different company if you’re planning a local move outside of Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Customer Experiences
Positive reviewers said their movers were punctual and went the extra mile to make the moving process easier, including coordinating additional services. Negative reviewers were more critical of JK Moving’s pricing, with some citing unexpected costs or last-minute changes. Others reported communication problems when those issues occured.
International Van Lines
Company Overview
- Has senior discounts for adults 65 and up that vary in percentage depending on your location and inventory
- Is the only mover on our list with an online moving calculator to help you estimate your total costs
- Offers a consolidation service for smaller moves, so you can share a moving truck with another customer to save money
Keep in Mind
- Requires a 25% deposit to book a moving date
- Doesn’t complete intrastate or local moves
Our Review
International Van Lines (IVL) offers a senior discount for adults ages 65 and older, though the amount varies by location and move type. The company also stands out for its online moving calculator, which lets you estimate your moving costs before requesting a quote. For seniors with fewer belongings, the company’s consolidation service can also reduce costs by allowing multiple shipments to share a single truck.
On the downside, International Van Lines requires a 25% deposit to reserve your move, which may be difficult for seniors on a fixed income. The company also doesn’t offer local or intrastate moves, making it a better choice for long-distance and international relocations. If you’re moving within the same state, another provider on our list may be a better fit.
Customer Experiences
Positive reviewers praised International Van Lines for carefully handling furniture and fragile belongings. Some also appreciated timely deliveries and good communication throughout their moves. Negative reviewers reported damaged or missing items, while others described delays and frustration with the company’s claims process.
Safeway Moving Inc.
Company Overview
- Has a Retirement Advocate Program to help seniors understand moving and associated costs
- Specializes in Homeowners Association (HOA) moves and regulations
- Has AARP, veteran, and senior citizen discounts—senior discounts are for adults 65 and older
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t sell packing supplies, so you’ll have to buy them from a third party
- Only offers two insurance options, whereas other companies that offer three or more
Our Review
Safeway Moving Inc. is a good choice for seniors who want extra guidance throughout the moving process. Its Retirement Advocate Program helps older adults understand moving costs and plan their relocation, while the company’s experience with homeowners associations (HOAs) can be especially helpful if you’re moving into a retirement or planned community. Safeway also offers discounts for AARP members, veterans, and seniors ages 65 and older.
Safeway doesn’t sell packing supplies, so you’ll need to purchase your own if you aren’t using its packing services. The company also requires a deposit of up to 40% of your moving cost and offers only two insurance options, which may not provide enough coverage for high-value belongings. If you’re moving expensive antiques or collectibles, consider a mover with more coverage options or look into third-party insurance.
Customer Experiences
Positive reviewers said Safeway’s crews worked quickly and handled their belongings with care. Some also praised the movers for being professional and punctual. Negative reviewers reported communication problems and delivery delays. Others said their final costs were higher than their initial estimates.
American Van Lines
Company Overview
- Offers several discounts for seniors
- Provides flat-rate pricing, so there won’t be surprise charges on moving day
- Has the highest customer ratings out of all movers on our list
Keep in Mind
- Offers the fewest senior-specific services of any company on our list
- Doesn’t offer vehicle shipping
Our Review
American Van Lines offers several discounts for seniors, though the customer service representative we spoke with couldn’t confirm the exact savings. The company’s flat-rate pricing helps eliminate surprise costs, making it a good option for seniors on a budget. The rate also includes services such as furniture disassembly and reassembly, plus specialty moving for fine art, antiques, and pianos.
American Van Lines lacks some of the senior-focused resources offered by other movers, such as relocation guides and specialized moving assistance. It also requires a deposit of up to 50% of your moving cost and doesn’t offer vehicle shipping, so you’ll need to make separate arrangements if you’re relocating a car.
Customer Experiences
Positive reviewers praised American Van Lines for its professional crews and careful handling of their belongings. Some also appreciated clear communication and on-time delivery. Negative reviewers reported delivery delays and damaged belongings, while others said they had trouble getting updates or responses from the company.
How Much Does Moving Cost?
The national average cost of a move is roughly $3,020, including homes of all sizes and move distances. The table below compares average moving costs by home size, giving you a better idea of what to expect based on the number of bedrooms you’re moving.
| Home Size | Average Cost |
| 1 Bedroom (2,000–4,000 lbs) | $2,356 |
| 2 Bedrooms (4,000–7,000 lbs) | $2,437 |
| 3 Bedrooms (7,000–10,000 lbs) | $3,450 |
| 4+ Bedrooms (10,000+ lbs) | $6,382 |
Moving Cost by Distance
On average, a local move costs about $1,489, while moving 50–200 miles increases the average to $2,074. Longer relocations continue to raise costs, with moves of 801–1,100 miles averaging $3,201 and moves of 1,701 miles or more averaging $3,945.
Local moves are typically billed by the hour, while long-distance moves are usually priced based on shipment weight and mileage. In our 2026 moving survey, 47% of homeowners ages 65 and older moved within the same city, making local moves the most common among this group. Another 29% moved to a different state, while 22% moved elsewhere within the same state.
What Else Goes Into Moving Costs?
Home size and distance have the biggest impact on moving costs, but they’re not the only factors. The weight of your shipment can also affect your price, especially for long-distance moves. If you’re transporting antiques, artwork, pianos, or other specialty items, you may pay extra for custom crating or specialized handling. Optional services such as packing, unpacking, storage, and vehicle shipping can also increase your total moving costs.
Homeowner Insights
In our 2026 survey of 1,000 homeowners nationwide who had moved within the previous two years, we analyzed responses from adults ages 65 and older. In this group, 58% paid about the same as their original moving quote, while 22% paid more and 14% paid less. Most who set a moving budget also stayed at or below it.
What Moving Services Should Seniors Consider?
Our list of top moving companies for seniors includes full-service movers because they provide the most support throughout the moving process. In our 2026 moving survey, 76% of respondents aged 65 and older used a full-service moving company to load, transport, and unload their belongings. However, depending on your budget and how much assistance you need, there are several types of moving services to consider.
Full-service movers provide the most comprehensive support, handling packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and, in some cases, unpacking. While this is the most expensive option, it can significantly reduce the physical demands of moving, making it a good choice for seniors with mobility limitations or anyone who wants a more hands-off experience.
Moving containers offer a balance between cost and convenience. The company delivers a container to your home, allowing you to pack at your own pace before transporting it to your new home. This option works well for seniors who have help from family or friends or only need professional assistance with part of the move.
Labor-only movers assist with loading, unloading, and other heavy lifting but don’t provide a moving truck. If you’re renting a truck or moving container, this option can reduce moving costs while helping you avoid lifting heavy furniture and boxes yourself.
Truck rentals are typically the least expensive moving option, but they also require the most work. You’ll be responsible for packing, loading, driving, unloading, and returning the truck. Unless you have reliable help and feel comfortable handling every step of the move, this option may not be the best fit for many seniors.
Pro Tip
- If you’re helping an older loved one move, involve them in decisions whenever possible, from choosing a moving company to deciding which belongings to keep. According to Li-Mei Chen, Ph.D., MSW, an assistant professor at George Mason University’s College of Public Health, older adults tend to adjust better after a move when they feel they had a say in the decision and maintained a sense of control throughout the process.
What Did Our Survey Show About Senior Moves?
In 2026, we surveyed 1,000 homeowners nationwide who had moved within the previous two years about their moving decisions and experiences. We analyzed responses from adults ages 65 and older to learn why they moved, how they researched moving companies, and how satisfied they feel with their moving experience.
Family and Cost Drove Moving Decisions
About 21% of senior survey respondents moved to live closer to family or friends. Another 19% of respondents cited housing or cost-of-living concerns, while 19% wanted to live in a different area. If you’re considering a move, compare housing costs, transportation, and proximity to family or other support in your new community.
Recommendations Helped With Mover Research
Nearly half of respondents (49%) turned to family, friends, or neighbors when researching moving services, while 32% said price was the most important factor when choosing a mover. Recommendations can help narrow your options, but compare several written estimates to weigh costs against services and reputation.
Seniors Used Extra Help During Their Moves
Other than their primary moving service, 44% of respondents ages 65 and older paid for help with large or heavy items. Another 28% used storage services, while 26% paid for professional packing. If you want to reduce the physical demands of moving, consider which tasks you’d prefer professionals to handle when comparing services and quotes.
Most Older Adults Had a Positive Experience
About 60% encountered none of the challenges included in our survey, and 82% were satisfied or very satisfied overall. Another 72% said they would use the same moving company or service again. Choosing a mover that provides the level of assistance you need can help make the process more manageable.
How To Save Money on a Senior Move
Many seniors are living on a retirement budget, so finding ways to lower moving costs can make a significant difference. These tips can help you reduce expenses while still hiring a reputable moving company.
- Compare multiple quotes: Request estimates from at least three moving companies to compare pricing, included services, and valuation coverage before making a final decision.
- Ask about senior discounts: Many movers offer discounts for seniors, but eligibility requirements vary. Some companies extend discounts to customers 55 and older, while others require customers to be at least 65. Plus, some moving companies provide discounts for American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) members.
- Check for veteran discounts: If you or your spouse served in the military, ask whether the moving company offers a veteran or military discount.
- Move during the off-season: Scheduling your move in the fall or winter, or mid-month, may help you secure lower rates when demand is lower.
- Reduce what you move: Downsizing before your move can lower transportation costs, especially for long-distance relocations, where rates are often based on shipment weight.
How To Prepare for a Senior Move
Moving later in life often requires more planning than a typical relocation. Whether you’re moving closer to family or transitioning to a retirement community, preparing in advance can help reduce stress and make moving day go more smoothly.
Create a Moving Day Plan
Start planning your move several weeks in advance by creating a timeline and organizing important tasks. If family members or caregivers are helping with your move, discuss your preferences early so everyone understands your priorities. Planning ahead can also give you more time to compare moving companies, schedule services, and prepare your new home before moving day.
Plan for Your New Home
Before moving day, measure large furniture to make sure it fits through doorways and into each room. If you’re moving into a retirement or assisted living community, confirm move-in requirements, elevator reservations, parking restrictions, and any required paperwork in advance. Once you arrive, arranging furniture, photos, and other meaningful belongings can help your new space feel more familiar and comfortable.
Pack Your Essentials Separately
Keep medications, medical equipment, identification, financial documents, chargers, toiletries, and several days’ worth of clothing in a separate bag you’ll keep with you during the move. Having these essentials readily available can make your first few days more comfortable while you settle into your new home.
Pro Tip
- Moving often means leaving behind familiar routines and social connections. Chen recommends that family members help older adults reconnect quickly after moving by finding a new primary care physician, pharmacy, and grocery store, while also encouraging them to stay involved with family, neighbors, or community activities.
FAQs About Moving Companies for Seniors
Will Medicare or insurance cover moving expenses?
Original Medicare doesn’t cover moving expenses, and most private health insurance plans don’t either. However, some state or local assistance programs may offer financial help for qualifying seniors, so it’s worth checking what resources are available in your area.
Should seniors choose a full-service moving company?
A full-service mover is often the best choice if you want help with packing, loading, transportation, and unloading. If you’re comfortable handling some parts of the move yourself or have help from family, a moving container or labor-only mover may be a more affordable option.
How far in advance should seniors book a moving company?
Book your moving company at least four to eight weeks before your planned move, especially if you’re moving during the busy spring or summer season. Scheduling early gives you more time to compare quotes and secure your preferred moving date.
What should seniors look for when choosing a moving company?
Look for a licensed and insured moving company with transparent pricing, positive customer reviews, and the services you need, such as packing, storage, or specialty item handling. If you’re moving on a fixed income, ask about senior, veteran, or AARP discounts before booking.
How We Evaluated Movers for Seniors
We chose the best companies for senior moves based on their senior-specific services and discounts. All of the movers on our list are experienced in senior relocations and offer services for packing, storage, and more.
Our Rating System
To find the best moving companies for seniors, we carefully reviewed feedback from hundreds of recent customers, checked ratings on trusted platforms like the BBB and ConsumerAffairs, and analyzed quotes from various movers to get a clear sense of average pricing. We focused on factors that are especially important for seniors, such as discounts, specialized services, and customer service quality.
Here’s a look at our moving methodology:
- Customer service: We assessed each company’s BBB rating, customer feedback, and available online tools, such as moving calculators and checklists. Movers with A or A+ BBB ratings, strong customer service, and a variety of helpful online resources earned top marks.
- Reputation: We looked into each mover’s licensing, truck reliability, and whether they background check employees. Movers with carrier licenses, a low rate of truck breakdowns, and thorough employee screening received the highest scores.
- Value: This category focused on pricing, the types of quotes offered, and DIY availability. Allied Van Lines ranked highest for providing affordable pricing, binding estimates, and DIY portable storage options.
- Service offerings: We compared the services each company provides, from packing and unloading to vehicle shipping. Movers with a broader selection of services earned higher scores.
- Item protection: We considered the insurance options available, along with extra protection services such as GPS tracking, crating, and storage. Movers offering more than just the minimum required coverage and a variety of protection services received the most points.
- Scheduling: We awarded more points to movers with easy-to-use scheduling tools, mobile apps, and multiple ways to contact the company.
