Best 5 Movers in Detroit, MI

How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Detroit

Consider each company's customer reviews, cost, services, and licensing before choosing.

Determine Your Budget

According to our research, Detroit moving companies charge $39 per hour on average. The typical cost overall is $4,335 for two-bedroom homes. Your actual cost will depend on the season, move distance, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, and your home size.

Consider getting quotes from a minimum of three moving companies in your area to make an informed choice. Written estimates are crucial in this process. They should include a comprehensive breakdown of the total cost, covering the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate on hand until the move is done to ensure fair pricing practices.

Read Customer Reviews

Moving companies rely on solid customer feedback. Check websites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, social media, Trustpilot, and Yelp to learn about the typical customer experience with that mover.

Ensure Proper Licensing

Moving companies in Detroit must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving within Michigan, your mover needs operating authority from the Michigan State Police's Motor Carrier Division.

If you're moving across state lines, the regulations are different. Interstate moving companies must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and must carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.

Services

Ask if the mover you chose provides the services that meet your expectations as you receive quotes. Conduct an inventory of your belongings before getting quotes and make a list of any additional services that you may need to ensure accurate pricing. Notify your moving company representative about any special conditions or needs to determine if the company can provide adequate service.

Types of Moving Services

A full-service mover will include the following services for standard moves:

• Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
• Loading and unloading
• Released liability coverage for loss or damage

Tell your moving company about any other services you need during the quote process. These services may lead to higher pricing for your move:

• Crating for art or antiques
• Extra flights of stairs
• Long carries
• Packing
• Piano moving
• Storage
• Unpacking
• Vehicle shipping

Tips To Consider When Moving in Detroit, MI

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Detroit move.

Schedule an Early Move

Detroit usually gets congested with traffic during rush hour. Navigating it can be more challenging in a moving truck compared to a standard personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may result in delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. Scheduling your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is lighter.

Avoid Busy Season

The peak moving season—between May and September—coincides with Detroit's hot weather. This can negatively impact your moving process if you begin looking too late and can't find an available moving company. If you book far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the season. However, the movers may be hampered by the heat.

Pack in Advance

Begin packing about six weeks before your move so you won't have to rush at the last minute. You can pack a few boxes each day to make the process less stressful. Most movers only move items that have been packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before their arrival.

How Much do Movers Cost in Detroit, MI

Movers in Detroit cost $2,673 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,594 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.