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Best Long-Distance Movers: Expert Reviewed (December 2023)

By Stephanie Koncewicz Reviewed By Sam DeLisle 9/21/2023

Long-distance moving companies have unique qualifications that make them adept at handling longer moves. Our team researched and reviewed the best moving companies by vetting their services, reviews, and overall quality. From that list, we’ve ranked the best long-distance moving companies to help you choose the best option. We recommend starting your search by requesting quotes from International Van Lines and American Van Lines, depending on your moving needs. Both providers offer quality long-distance packages with plenty of add-on options.


10 Best Long-Distance Moving Companies

Most movers define relocations of more than 100 miles as long-distance moves. Here are our best long-distance moving companies for a range of relocation needs:

  1. International Van Lines: Best Service Offerings
  2. American Van Lines: Best Overall Moving Labor
  3. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group: Most Efficient
  4. Safeway Moving Inc.: Most Reliable Pricing
  5. Moving APT: Best Customer Service
  6. JK Moving Services: Best Specialized Packing
  7. Allied Van Lines: Best for Vehicle Relocation
  8. North American Van Lines: Best for Claims
  9. Mayflower Moving: Best for Large Moves
  10. United Van Lines: Best Base Moving Coverage

Compare the Best Long-Distance Movers

To rate the top long-distance movers, we used a comprehensive methodology that factors in services, reputation, online resources, and more. Here’s how each company compares:

Star Rating BBB Rating Estimate Info Link
International Van Lines International Van Lines
A $2,500โ€“$4,300 VISIT SITE
American Van Lines American Van Lines
A $3,200โ€“$3,500 VISIT SITE
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
B $2,800โ€“$4,000 VISIT SITE
Safeway Moving Inc. Safeway Moving Inc.
A+ $6,300โ€“$7,500 VISIT SITE
Moving APT Moving APT
B $2,968โ€“$5,668 VISIT SITE
JK Moving Services JK Moving Services
A+ $7,550 VISIT SITE
Allied Van Lines Allied Van Lines
A+ $4,730โ€“$5,380 VISIT SITE
North American Van Lines North American Van Lines
A+ $4,700โ€“$5,350 VISIT SITE
Mayflower Mayflower
A+ Contact for Pricing VISIT SITE
United Van Lines United Van Lines
A+ $5,169โ€“$7,003 VISIT SITE
International Van Lines
Logo International Van Lines
Star Rating
BBB Rating A
Estimate Info $2,500โ€“$4,300
VISIT SITE
American Van Lines
Logo American Van Lines
Star Rating
BBB Rating A
Estimate Info $3,200โ€“$3,500
VISIT SITE
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Logo Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Star Rating
BBB Rating B
Estimate Info $2,800โ€“$4,000
VISIT SITE
Safeway Moving Inc.
Logo Safeway Moving Inc.
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Estimate Info $6,300โ€“$7,500
VISIT SITE
Moving APT
Logo Moving APT
Star Rating
BBB Rating B
Estimate Info $2,968โ€“$5,668
VISIT SITE
JK Moving Services
Logo JK Moving Services
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Estimate Info $7,550
VISIT SITE
Allied Van Lines
Logo Allied Van Lines
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Estimate Info $4,730โ€“$5,380
VISIT SITE
North American Van Lines
Logo North American Van Lines
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Estimate Info $4,700โ€“$5,350
VISIT SITE
Mayflower
Logo Mayflower
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Estimate Info Contact for Pricing
VISIT SITE
United Van Lines
Logo United Van Lines
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
Estimate Info $5,169โ€“$7,003
VISIT SITE
Providers
Star Rating
BBB Rating
Estimate
A
$2,500-$4,300
A
$3,200-$3,500
B
$2,800-$4,000
A+
$6,300-$7,500
B
$2,968-$5,668
A+
$7,550
A+
$4,730-$5,380
A+
$4,700-$5,350
A+
not specified
A+
not specified

*Note: Estimate info above is for a two-bedroom move between Chicago, Illinois, and Atlanta, Georgia.
**Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of December 2023.


Our Picks for the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies

From pros and cons to customer reviews, we outline all the details of the best long-distance moving companies below.

International Van Lines

Best Service Offerings
4.8
  • Availability:ย 50 states
  • Deposit:ย 25% up-front
  • USDOT #:ย 2293832

International Van Lines (IVL) is a carrier and broker specializing in full-service long-distance relocations. It offers competitive rates and services moves in all 50 states and 180 other countries worldwide.

Our Rating

We rated International Van Lines 4.8 out of 5ย and recognized it as the best overall full-service mover. IVL specializes in long-distance and international moving. We gave the company points for its extensive service profile, which includes full-service packing, crating, storage, and more. It lost points for its lack of self-service and financing options. However, we feel this drawback is balanced by its quality of service across all 50 states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers one month of free storage at the point of origin for long-distance moves Offers shipment tracking options for long-distance moves, depending on the carrier Partners with carriers in all 50 states to make long-distance moving widely available Cons Outsources some moves to third-party carriers Has negative reviews that report difficult communication after moves are booked

Moving Services and Storage

International Van Lines provides full-service moves for those moving long distances. Our written estimate listed an option to self-pack or pay for professional packing. Customers also have access to the following services.

Moving Services:

  • Added insurance
  • Assembly and disassembly
  • Crating
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Vehicle shipping

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes, dependent on location
  • Discount:ย 30 days of free storage

Cost

Sample Quote: $2,500โ€“$4,300 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: 25% up-front

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Credit card (deposit only)
  • Money order
  • Cashierโ€™s check

To get a personalized estimate, you can fill out a quote form on IVLโ€™s website or call 877-647-1336 to talk to one of their representatives. Youโ€™ll provide basic information about your move, including your origin and destination addresses, inventory size, and preferred move date. Then, youโ€™ll have a personalized consultation in person or via video call. The quote we received was a ballpark estimate. International Van Lines doesnโ€™t provide binding estimates, but you can get cost estimates for all services to be rendered.

Reputation and Reviews

International Van Lines has a B rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), along with a 3.47 out of 5 customer rating and 100% response rate. This is in line with industry leaders, as is IVLโ€™s safety record with the FMCSA. When pulling quotes, we noted that this provider offered a fairly easy shopping experience and a quick quote process. Hereโ€™s what previous clients said about their moves with IVL:

โ€œThe movers were fantastic! They moved quickly and carefully. I am very happy that I chose International Van Lines for the job as they were professional, on time, and very efficient. I am always concerned during moves with my electronics and fragile furniture. Highly Recommended.โ€ โ€”Jordyn via Trustpilot on April 4, 2022

โ€œI am very unhappy with the way my move has been handled, from a bad pack experience, to multiple emails and messages left with my rep unanswered, and now trying to schedule my drop off/unpack, I am on day 2 of no response to get it scheduled.โ€ โ€”Kevin via BBB on June 27, 2023

American Van Lines

Best Overall Moving Labor
4.5
  • Availability: 48 states
  • Deposit: Up to 50%
  • USDOT #:ย 614506

*American Van Lines is not available inย Alaskaย orย Hawaii

American Van Lines has decades of experience providing long-distance moving services. Its moving crews average a decade of experience, which enables it to offer premium packing and antique handling services. As a bonus, this provider offers binding flat-rate pricing for all moves.

Our Rating

We rated American Van Lines 4.5 out of 5 and recommend the company for its experienced moving crews. The company hires movers full-time, as opposed to the standard practice of contracting labor. It lost points for its lack of financing options and truck rentals. However, it gained points for requiring its crew members to routinely take certification courses. Its flat-rate long-distance moving options make it a top choice.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides fixed-rate quotes so you wonโ€™t have any surprise charges Hires movers who average 10 years of experience to ensure safe handling of your belongings and high-value goods Trains its employees regularly to efficiently handle special packing and crating Cons Offers limited customer service on weekends Requires a deposit of up to 50% of the total moving cost

Moving Services and Storage

American Van Linesโ€™ qualified crews provide a suite of services to long-distance moving clients. In addition to full-service packing and long-term storage in secure facilities, its services include the following.

Moving Services:

  • Custom crating
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Piano moving
  • Special item moving
  • Vehicle shipping

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes, dependent on location
  • Discount:ย Free first month with a standard move

Cost

Sample Quote: $3,200โ€“$3,500 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: Up to 50% up-front

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Credit card
  • Money order
  • Travelerโ€™s check
  • Cashierโ€™s check

Call American Van Lines or complete a contact form online to initiate your quote process. When we filled out the contact form, a company representative called us back a few hours later. All quotes from American Van Lines are transparent flat rates, which include all services and inventory to be handled.

Reputation and Reviews

American Van Lines holds an A rating with BBB and a 100% customer complaint response rate. Its flat-rate pricing and ability to provide direct service are mentioned in many positive reviews. We looked at AVLโ€™s FMCSA profile and discovered that its out-of-service ratio for trucks exceeded the national average, with 31% of its 65 trucks listed as inoperable.ย Below, weโ€™ve compiled two recent AVL customer reviews:

โ€œDelivers items without any problems. Made sure all my items were properly handled with care and put in their correct place. I would highly recommend.โ€ย  โ€”Kevin via BBB on March 15, 2023

โ€œI would avoid using this company. From the start they changed the price for the move and then charge you for pushing boxes down a hallway because not everyone lives right near the elevator. Items were broken and not handled with care. Find someone else.โ€ โ€”Dustin via Google Reviews in April 2023

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

Most Efficient
4.3
  • Availability: 50 states
  • Deposit: Up to 33%
  • USDOT #: 3034100

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is a moving broker with partners nationwide. Its partners offer excellent moving services with price-matching capabilities and speedy quote processes.

Our Rating

We rated Interstate Moving & Relocation Group 4.3 out of 5, noting the companyโ€™s efficient approach to hiring professional movers and its user-friendly quote process. It lost points due to storage availability and consistency of contents protection plans. However, its packing services and long-distance moving availability are nearly unmatched.

Its lack of available customer service on weekends may be concerning for clients who plan to move over a weekend. If youโ€™re planning a long-distance move, which spans multiple days, that includes weekend days, you may want to reconsider booking with this broker.

Pros and Cons

Pros Prescreens all third-party movers in its network Provides full-service packing and crating for all moving clients Offers a quick quote process for last-minute moves Cons Will not refund your deposit more than 72 hours after booking your move Has no customer service availability on the weekends

Moving Services and Storage

IMRG brokers long-distance moves to numerous partners across the country. We reviewed the partners listed on its website and found both full- and self-service providers. Its full and partial services include the following.

Moving Services:

  • Added coverage plans
  • Commercial moving
  • Crating
  • Disassembly and reassembly
  • Loading/unloading
  • Military moving
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Vehicle shipping

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes, dependent on location
  • Discount:ย No

Cost

Sample Quote: $2,800โ€“$4,000 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: Up to 33% up-front

Payment Accepted: Credit card and check

Submit a contact form online to start the IMRG quote process. After providing basic information about your move, youโ€™ll be contacted by a move coordinator to iron out the details and get a definitive estimate.

Reputation and Reviews

IMRG has a 3.59 out of 5 customer rating on BBB, which is high for a broker on this platform. Positive reviews mention honest pricing practices and efficiency, a testament to the quality of its partner companies. When getting quotes from this mover, we noted that its cost calculator gave fairly accurate price ranges and customized pricing was easy to obtain. Here is what some recent customers thought of their IMRG moves:

โ€œI had a great experience with this company. The price that they offered was the price I got charged. Great service at a great price. I will for sure use this service again.โ€ โ€”Samson via BBB on February 20, 2023

โ€œBE CAREFUL. When I first booked they told me the cost was going to be 3100 and some change which was fine but after they came and packed up the truck they changed the price to 5100..which knowing that I wouldn’t have booked. Just be careful that the price they give you will not be what you pay and they blind side you with it. delivery guys were amazing though and so nice! the company as a whole needs better communication.โ€ โ€”Alexis via Google Reviews in April 2023

Safeway Moving Inc.

Most Reliable Pricing
4.1
  • Availability: 50 states
  • Deposit: Up to 40%
  • USDOT #: 237129

Safeway Moving Inc. offers long-distance moving services nationwide. Its binding flat-rate pricing makes it a great option for those with a defined budget.

Our Rating

Safeway Moving earned a 4.4 out of 5ย on our rating scale. We noted Safewayโ€™s emphasis on customer service in our overall rating, as well as its provision of packing and crating for all long-distance moving clients. Safeway lost points because its website isnโ€™t functional and doesnโ€™t yield instant quotes. However, its longer in-state, interstate, and international moving service offerings compensate for this lack of functionality.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers one free month of storage in secure, climate-controlled facilities Has flat-rate pricing for all moves Provides light packing with all long-distance moving quotes, regardless of service needs Cons Works exclusively as a broker Has varied reviews by service area

Moving Services and Storage

Safewayโ€™s service options for long-distance moves include packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking as part of the base package. Its long-distance service offerings include the following.

Moving Services:

  • Assembly and disassembly
  • Crating
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Vehicle shipping

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option: Yes, dependent on location
  • Discount:ย 30 days of free storage

Cost

Sample Quote: $6,300โ€“$7,500 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: Up to 40% up-front

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Credit card
  • Money order
  • Certified check

Safeway provides personalized binding estimates, meaning your price shouldnโ€™t change unless your move inventory does. However, when we read customer reviews for Safeway, we noticed that many negative reviews reported pricing discrepancies. This is common among movers that operate primarily as brokers and important to keep in mind when signing a moving contract.

Reputation and Reviews

Safeway Moving Inc. has favorable reviews crediting its flat-rate pricing and availability throughout all 50 states. It is currently undergoing a company-wide rebranding effort and has acquired a fleet of 20 trucks and taken on duties as a carrier. We noted that quotes took a few days to receive when we requested pricing. Due to the recent rebrand, many of its old reviews are no longer available. However, weโ€™ve collected some recent testimonials:

โ€œThe crew was great! They showed up on time and worked very fast. They took great care with our items and wrapped/padded everything very well. I will definitely be calling Safeway Moving back for our next move.โ€ โ€”Juliette via Google Reviews in December 2022

โ€œWorst move ever from Virginia to California. Property arrived damaged/broken, no accountability. Only concerned about unloading and moving on to the next customer. Donโ€™t use Safeway Moving out of Ft Lauderdale, Fl.โ€ โ€”Clay via Google Reviews in August 2023

Moving APT

Best Customer Service
4.2
  • Availability: 50 states
  • Deposit: Varies
  • USDOT #: 2247863

Moving APT is a moving broker that partners with movers nationwide. It offers a full range of relocation services with price-matching guarantees and transparent rates.

Our Rating

We gave Moving APT 4.2 out of 5 on our proprietary grading scale. Its breadth of services helps it rank competitively among our top movers. It loses points due to not offering full quotes online and having varied insurance coverage offerings. However, its moving calculator and moving checklists are a bonus.ย Many of its partner companies provide excellent long-distance and interstate service.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides quick service after quote requests Offers price-matching for clients who obtain a lower competing quote Has an online cost estimator to help you understand the potential price range for your move Cons Has varied reviews, depending on location Has reviews citing unwanted contact from partner companies after moves have already been booked

Moving Services and Storage

Moving APTโ€™s partners provide full- and self-service moving assistance for all long-distance relocations. Your options will include the following.

Moving Services:

  • Crating
  • Commercial moving
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Piano moving
  • Specialty packing for antiques

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes, dependent on location
  • Discount:ย No

Cost

Sample Quote: $2,968โ€“$5,688 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: Varies by partner

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Money order

Moving APT provides a cost estimator tool to give quick quotes. However, youโ€™ll have to call to get your own optimized pricing estimate. One benefit of Moving APT is that it offers price matching if you can get a competing lower price.

That said, price-matching guarantees should be taken with a grain of salt. Depending on your locale, such guarantees could be in violation of statewide tariff regulations. This could be the underlying reason for many โ€œprice switchingโ€ and โ€œbait-and-switchโ€ remarks in negative reviews, as movers may have their hands tied by local moving regulations. The high end of the estimate above accounts for heavy packing and protection services.

Reputation and Reviews

Moving APT gets high marks for quick quotes, which we experienced firsthand when vetting this moving broker. Many of its partner companies are top providers within their respective service areas, with many reviews remarking on the professional conduct and timeliness of the movers. Negative reviews mentioned common issues among brokers, including shoddy packing practices and miscommunication. Here are a couple of recent reviews for Moving APT:

โ€œWe were moving from a condo into a new house and selecting Moving APT to help us with that move was a great choice. I would not hesitate to recommend this company to anyone. Thank you and your staff for making the move a great one.โ€ โ€”Ivan via Google Reviews in May 2022

My belongings were picked up 7 weeks ago and are 2 weeks past the promised delivery date. Customer service has been unresponsive and unhelpful, refusing to take responsibility for getting me my things. So frustrating.โ€ โ€”Bettina via Google Reviews in August 2023

JK Moving Services

Best Specialized Packing
4.6
  • Availability: 50 states
  • Deposit: $250
  • USDOT #: 1065394

JK Moving Services operates as a carrier and broker and provides a la carte services to long-distance moving clients in all 50 states. It offers financing as low as 0% to help customers afford full-service moves and rates highly for customer service.

Our Rating

We gave JK Moving Services a score of 4.6 out of 5ย and believe it’s the most customizable full-service mover. JK Moving stands out for its full- and partial-service packages, both of which can be complemented by an extensive menu of add-ons. JK Moving trains its employees on-site in a live training environment, which includes a furnished two-story home, at its headquarters. Here, employees learn how to properly care for all furniture and household goods. This bolsters its add-on offerings and should give clients more peace of mind during their moves.

JK Moving lost points for its lack of online pricing transparency. We could not locate sample quotes, standard moving rates, or a moving calculator on its website. However, its packing supplies, moving checklists, and quote flexibility make it a top mover on our list.

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes GPS shipment tracking Offers financing options as low as 0% Utilizes an AI-assisted online quote tool to provide accurate estimates to remote clients Cons Doesn’t provide sample pricing online Has a spotty record of communication after booking

Moving Services and Storage

JK Moving Services offers access to premium long-distance moving services to clients across all 50 states. Its offerings include the following.

Moving Services:

  • Antique moving
  • Crating
  • GPS tracking
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Piano moving

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option: Yes
  • Discount:ย No

Cost

Sample Quote: $7,521 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: $250 up-front

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Credit card

We received the ballpark estimate below for a move of 10,400 pounds between Atlanta and Chicago. JK Moving gives non-binding estimates, which are subject to change after your quote day. Move size and distance will be the key determining factors for cost. We saved our estimate in JK Movingโ€™s convenient mobile app, where you can also pay your deposit.

Reputation and Reviews

JK Moving Services has more than 1,000 reviews on Google with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. Positive reviews praised JK Moving for packing practices and professionalism. Some negative reviews mentioned spam calls after submitting contact information through JK Movingโ€™s quote portal. While we didnโ€™t experience spam calls during the quote process, itโ€™s worth noting. Here, weโ€™ve included a couple of reviews for JKโ€™s moving services:

โ€œJK Moving handled my move yesterday. They were extremely efficient and professional. They made a stressful day a lot less stressful. They treated all of my items with care and did a wonderful job. I highly recommend them!โ€ โ€”Jessica via Google Reviews in March 2023

โ€œMoved from VA to IA $6,000 + dollars nothing but a hassle even tackier I had (4) 5 gallon water jugs for our stand alone water dispenser with caps on them prior to packing when they arrived at the IA location they were all missing. That alone should tell you STAY AWAY! Not worth the headache for your money.โ€ โ€”Christopher via Google Reviews in April 2023

Allied Van Lines

Best for Vehicle Relocation
4.7
  • Availability: 50 states
  • Deposit: None
  • USDOT #: 076235

Allied Van Lines operates in all 50 states via 500-plus locations. It offers premium moving services and a wide range of vehicle-shipping options to ease the process for long-distance moving clients.

Our Rating

Allied Van Lines is among our highest-rated movers with a score of 4.7 out of 5. Alliedโ€™s standout service is vehicle relocation. Many long-distance movers outsource vehicle shipping, but Allied can ship your car, motorcycle, truck, RV, boat, or other vehicle using its own fleet of open and enclosed carriers. The company lost points for its lack of online pricing information. However, its availability and breadth of service offerings solidify Alliedโ€™s place on our list.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides in-house vehicle relocation services Offers instant pricing for some long-distance moves on its site via InstaQuote Has climate-controlled storage facilities Cons Does not offer its instant quote option for large homes Has negative reviews that mention difficulty when filing damage claims

Moving Services and Storage

Allied uses its 500+ locations to offer full-service moving assistance across the United States, including the following services.

Moving Services:

  • Assembly and disassembly
  • Crating
  • Expedited small moves via its Allied Express program
  • Installation of appliances
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Vehicle shipping for cars, boats, trucks, RVs, and more

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes
  • Discount: No

Cost

Sample Quote: $4,730โ€“$5,375 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: None required

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Certified check
  • Money order
  • Check

We used Alliedโ€™s InstaQuote feature to generate the price range below. We entered the starting and ending residencesโ€™ addresses, the move date, the number of bedrooms in the current home, and basic contact information. To get a full personalized estimate, call Allied or fill out a contact form. Youโ€™ll provide your full inventory and can set up an in-person or visual consultation. Allied does not provide binding estimates, unlike many competitors.

Reputation and Reviews

Allied has thousands of reviews across the United States. However, feedback quality is highly dependent on location. With more than 500 individual partners and carriers in all 50 states, your experience will vary. Our quote process with Allied was streamlined, which customers also noted in reviews. Here, weโ€™ve collected two Allied reviews:

โ€œWe used Allied for our recent move from Maryland to Arizona. They were professional, quick and very efficient on both ends. Would highly recommend them.โ€ โ€”Barbara via Google Reviews in November 2022

โ€œBroke or damaged many items and lost some items. Insurance company is not adequately compensating us, even alleging that some of the items were damaged by climate change.โ€ โ€”J Bradford via Trustpilot on May 29, 2023

North American Van Lines

Best for Claims
4.6

North American Van Lines (NAVL) serves all 50 states and offers premium packing, crating, and protection services for moves. It also offers added insurance options and a straightforward claims process for furniture protection.

Our Rating

We gave North American Van Lines a 4.6 out of 5ย as the best moving provider for claims. Its straightforward claims process takes the headache out of filing for damages. We deducted points for its omission of online resources, such as a moving cost calculator, and because it does not provide ballpark estimates over the phone. However, NAVL offers nearly unmatched reach for long-distance service and maintains a high rating with the BBB.

Pros and Cons

Pros Has no deposit requirement for long-distance moves Provides a detailed and transparent claims process Offers binding estimates through virtual surveys Cons Requires three daysโ€™ notice on cancellations Has limited storage options, depending on location

Moving Services and Storage

North American Van Lines provides full-service moving solutions to clients in all 50 states, including the following services.

Moving Services:

  • Added insurance coverage
  • Appliance installation
  • Crating
  • Furniture assembly
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Vehicle shipping

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes
  • Discount:ย No

Cost

Sample Quote: $4,708โ€“$5,350 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)

Deposit: None

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Certified check
  • Money order
  • Check

North American Van Lines offers binding estimates to clients if they require them. This pricing model is labeled as either a โ€œbottom-lineโ€ or โ€œnot-to-exceedโ€ estimate. This is reassuring for clients moving across state lines, as long-distance moving costs can quickly spiral.

NAVL doesnโ€™t explicitly require a deposit but does charge fees for late cancellations. This fee typically amounts to what your deposit would have been. Most moving companies reserve the right to retain any deposits in the event of a last-minute cancellation.

Reputation and Reviews

North American Van Linesโ€™ service quality will vary from place to place. We encourage you to thoroughly review all recent customer testimonials for your local branch before you book a move with NAVL. In our customer review analysis, we read many NAVL testimonials citing positive experiences from start to finish for local and long-distance moves. Strong points included its breadth of service availability and quick quote process. Here are some recent NAVL reviews:

โ€œI cannot say enough! [T]he best moving driver hands down. Personable, professional, expediate, and a pleasure to work with. He made moving our things easy and stress free.โ€ โ€”Pat via Google Reviews in February 2023

โ€œWhat a nightmare working with this company! The movers were unprepared and careless…almost all of our big furniture, including our couch, arrived broken due to poor packing and no wrapping or protective measures. The driver never called to tell us when he would arrive for loading or delivery, and was three days late. Customer service was completely unhelpful.โ€ โ€”Sarah via Google Reviews in April 2023

Mayflower

Best for Large Moves
4.6
  • Availability: 46 states
  • Deposit: None required
  • USDOT #: 125563

*Mayflower is not available in Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont, or West Virginia.

Mayflower Moving is a moving company that has provided local and long-distance relocation assistance since 1927. It currently operates a fleet of more than 800 trucks across all 50 states and provides dedicated service for small moves and relocations for large homes.

Our Rating

Mayflower earned a 4.8 out of 5 rating on our scale due to its comprehensive service profile and solid customer service impressions. It provides local, long-distance, and international moving assistance to commercial, residential, and military clients, and it offers binding estimates for all moves.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers GPS tracking for long-distance moves Allows clients to customize their moving packages Provides binding estimates for all moves Cons Has a slow damage claims process, according to some customers Features varied reviews across its service area

Moving Services and Storage

Mayflower Moving offers a range of services for clients with varying move sizes and needs.

Moving Services:

  • Crating
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Military moving
  • Packing
  • Residential and commercial relocationย 
  • Storage
  • Unpacking
  • Vehicle shipping

Storage:

  • Available:ย Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes, dependent on location
  • Discount:ย No

Cost

Sample Quote: Call for a quote

Deposit: None required

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Cashierโ€™s check
  • Money order
  • Travelerโ€™s check

Mayflowerโ€™s quote process is similar to many other moving companies. Have an inventory list ready when you call for a quote. Your move coordinator will take down all relevant information ahead of your move and yield a binding estimate. Mayflower doesnโ€™t require a deposit to book.

Reputation and Reviews

We read customer reviews from Mayflower clients and noted that overall quality varies depending on location. However, many positive reviews mentioned the efficiency and professionalism of Mayflower moving crews.

โ€œIf you’re looking for professional, courteous and hard working movers, Roan’s (Mayflower agent) is it. I’ve moved 12 times in my life and they are hands down the best movers I have ever used!โ€ โ€”Mary via Google Reviews in April 2023

โ€œSeveral pieces of furniture arrived with cracks. Pieces of expensive furniture had marks on top on the wood! Back leg of end table was broken off. When I called they said I was too late.โ€ โ€”Hannah via BBB on September 11, 2023

United Van Lines

Best Base Moving Coverage
4.8
  • Availability: 46 states
  • Deposit: None
  • USDOT #: 077949

*United Van Lines is not available in Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont, or West Virginia.

United Van Lines has been in business since 1928 and offers residential, commercial, and international moves alongside its long-distance options. It provides tech breakdown and setup services for commercial and home office moves.

Our Rating

United Van Lines scored 4.8 out of 5 on our rating scale. Its specialty offerings for home theaters, computers, and electronics helped it measure up against the other companies on this list, while inconsistencies across its service area led to point deductions. Its full suite of services makes this provider a solid option for moves that involve more complex tech items or special packing for local and long-distance moves.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides easy-to-access valuation coverage for valuable items Offers shipment tracking for all moves Has special crating and protection options for computers and electronics to simplify home office and commercial moves Cons Receives poor marks for communication with local agents Has received negative reviews related to unclear packing and unpacking procedures

Moving Services and Storage

United Van Lines offers full-service packing to accommodate customers with varying moving needs.

Moving Services:

  • Debris removal
  • Loading/unloading
  • Packing/unpacking
  • Tech breakdown and installation
  • Vehicle shipping

Storage:

  • Available?: Yes
  • Climate-controlled option:ย Yes, dependent on location
  • Discount:ย No

Cost

Sample Quote: $5,169โ€“$7,003 (2-bedroom move from Chicago to Atlanta)

Deposit: None required

Payment Accepted:

  • Cash
  • Travelerโ€™s check
  • Cashierโ€™s check
  • Money order

United Van Lines will provide a moving quote after conducting an in-home estimate. Cost factors include move size, distance, and services to be provided. The low end of the sample quote we requested and listed below includes minimal add-on services. You wonโ€™t have to pay a deposit to book your move with United. However, its estimates are non-binding. This means your move price could potentially shift between quote day and moving day.

Reputation and Reviews

United Van Lines offers packing and protection for all furniture and tech items. As is the case with any nationwide mover, service quality will depend on location. We found several negative reviews that cited unresponsiveness. On the other hand, positive reviews noted responsiveness and professionalism. Here are two recent United reviews:

โ€œTruck and crew arrived on time, applied protective covering to all furniture, loaded up quickly with no issues. Crew Leader was responsive to our concerns. Delivery and unloading was prompt. The crew was professional, courteous and able.โ€ โ€”Robert via Google Reviews in November 2023

โ€œExpensive and careless with belongings. Items lost and damaged. Look elsewhere for moving services.โ€ โ€”Kristine via BBB on December 22, 2022

⬆ Jump to Top


To find helpful information on moving, select an article below.


What Impacts Long-Distance Moving Costs?

The main factors impacting the total cost of a long-distance move are the distance traveled and the size of the move. A 700-mile, two-bedroom move typically costs between $2,015 and $7,500. The initial quote process calculates your move distance based on your current and destination addresses. Remember that shipment weight is determined after loading the truck, and the cost can change if your inventory weighs more than estimated.

Other factors like service requirements for packing and crating and the move date also impact the cost. For budget-friendly options, consult our guide on moving costs. For moves with high-value items or antiques, see our guide on moving insurance. Here are the primary cost factors to consider when getting quotes:

  • Shipping weight: Long-distance shipping costs are determined by weight, while local moving costs are determined by hourly charges. Regardless, your total inventory is a primary cost factor.
  • Move distance: Your move distance from origin to destination address determines your base price.
  • Added services: Add-ons such as packing, crating, and vehicle shipping can inflate your cost by a substantial amount. Disclose add-on service needs during the moving quote process.
  • Insurance coverage: Valuation coverage costs extra—typically between 3% and 5% of the total dollar amount of your coverage. Consider this during the quote process if you’re moving high-value items.
  • Booking date: Summer moves or last-minute booking could cost you extra money. Some movers increase their rates for the warmer months or charge higher rates for clients who book within a week of their moving dates.

Review the quotes below to help inform your moving budget:

Mover

Move Size

Cost*

International Van Lines

Two-bedroom house

$2,500โ€“$4,300

American Van Lines

Two-bedroom house

$3,200โ€“$3,500

IMRG

Two-bedroom house

$2,800โ€“$4,000

Safeway Moving Inc.

Two-bedroom house

$6,300โ€“$7,500

Moving APT

Two-bedroom house

$2,968โ€“$5,688

JK Moving Services

Two-bedroom house

$7,521

Allied Van Lines

Two-bedroom house

$4,730โ€“$5,375

NAVL

Two-bedroom house

$4,708โ€“$5,350

Mayflower

Two-bedroom house

Call for a quote

United Van Lines

Two-bedroom house

$5,169โ€“$7,003

*For a move between Chicago and Atlanta


How To Choose the Best Long-Distance Moving Company for You

We’ve listed steps below to consider when vetting a moving company.

  • Check each mover’s service offerings: Determine if a given moving company provides the services you need for a seamless move.
  • Ensure movers are fully licensed: Use a mover’s U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number to look up its licensing status via this FMCSA link.
  • Understand customer reviews: Read customer reviews on multiple sources, including Google Reviews and Yelp. Look for positive and negative trends in service, including miscommunications regarding cost and add-ons, punctuality, and customer service quality. Note that quality could vary significantly depending on location. Some movers operate via independently owned franchises, which can lead to service variance.
  • Request quotes: Get customized pricing estimates from each moving company you consider for your move.

Not sure how to parse through these different steps? We’ve created a guide on questions to ask long-distance movers to give you more guidance. Watch the video below for a breakdown of how to choose the best moving company for your needs:


How To Simplify Your Long-Distance Move

Moving is one of the more stressful life events you’ll undergo. Here, we’ve listed some steps you can take to make it go more smoothly.

  • Book early: Booking a move at least a month ahead of time is the best way to ensure you book with your first choice of mover and get the lowest possible rate for your move.
  • Downsize: Planning a long-distance move gives you the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need. Since the weight of your belongings impacts the cost of your move, you should declutter before contacting a moving company for an estimate. If you know you will have bigger items such as furniture in your move, check out our guide on shipping furniture across the country
  • Pack yourself: Full-service packing can add thousands to your final move bill. Packing on your own can save you money and make for more efficient loading on moving day.

Long-Distance Moving Checklist

It can be a challenge to keep everything in order leading up to moving day. Below is a quick checklist to help you get started and prepare for some of the major steps in the moving process.

Choose between a DIY or full-service move: First, decide whether to hire professionals or take a do-it-yourself approach. If you’re able to pay the higher cost of full-service movers and need all of the help you can get, a full-service moving company may be the right option for you. However, if you prefer doing things yourself and have a tight budget, then self-service may be a better option.

Hire a moving company: Do some research on moving companies near you and read customer reviews to vet the company. It’s best to start the process of hiring a mover three months before your anticipated move date. Some movers will give discounts for early reservations, so the sooner you get started, the better.

Create a detailed inventory: While you create an inventory of your belongings, make note of the condition of your items and take pictures of them. These photos and notes will come in handy if you have to file a damage claim for reimbursement.

Start packing: Start packing around six to eight weeks before your move. Read about packing tips beforehand to get ideas for streamlining the process, and use your inventory list to determine the boxes you’ll need. To make the unpacking process easier, label your boxes and consider using specialty boxes, such as wardrobe boxes.

Inform key entities of your move: Be sure to inform insurance companies, tax agencies, utility companies, the post office, the Social Security Administration, and your internet service provider about your move. By notifying these parties of your upcoming move, you can avoid potential issues and help ensure a smooth transition to your new home.


Do I Need Moving Insurance?

Purchasing moving insurance will help to pay for or replace your items if the moving company damages them during your move. If you plan on moving a long distance and have valuable items in transport, we recommend looking into moving insurance options.

light bulb

In our recent survey,

we found that 65% of people who have moved within the last five years hired a full-service mover. Of those who hired movers, half purchased additional liability coverage, and nearly 66% ended up filing a claim for damage. However, most were satisfied with the outcome of those claims.


How Are Moving Companies Regulated?

Long distance moving companies are regulated by the FMCSA* and a state-level governing body, depending on the state. State regulatory bodies range from independent agencies to suboffices of a state’s Department of Transportation (DOT). Texas and Illinois are examples of states with such regulatory bodies. You can search a company’s federal registration status using its U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers on this database.

*The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates interstate moves, ensuring that all companies adhere to safety standards, and it provides a dedicated database of moving company complaint history.


How Far in Advance Should You Schedule Long-Distance Movers?

You should book your move four to six weeks ahead of your move date. Begin researching movers near you eight weeks ahead of time, and request quotes from all providers whose service offerings match your needs. Evaluate your options after getting quotes and viewing your possible price points. Obtain copies of your contract and estimate once you’ve booked.


Our Conclusion

Get quotes from at least three professional movers before you book. This allows you to survey your options and book at the lowest rate for your upcoming long-distance relocation.

We found International Van Lines to be a reputable provider, conducting full-service moves nationwide and offering a broader range of contents coverage plans than is customary. American Van Lines stands out for its moving teams that average 10 years or more of moving industry experience. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group is another top pick, using vetted carriers for its services and providing helpful online resources.


FAQ About Long-Distance Moving

What is considered a long-distance move?

Typically, a moving distance of 100 miles or more will be considered a long-distance move.

What is the average cost of a long-distance move?

On average, long-distance moves cost around $4,000.

What's the cheapest time and way to move long-distance move?

The cheapest time to move long distance is between September and April. The cheapest way to move long distances is using a moving truck rental.

What can you not ship in a long-distance move?

Moving companies won’t move hazardous materials, including toxic chemicals and firearms.


Infographic showing time and effort put into this article's research

Our Rating Methodology

The This Old House Reviews Team backs up our moving company ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each company. We conduct research by reading through the company websites, analyzing customer reviews, conducting consumer surveys, requesting quotes, and speaking with customer representatives. We then score each moving company against our review standards for services, contents coverage, scheduling options, additional benefits and custom service options, and reputation among customers to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.