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best moving companies in new jersey

Best Moving Companies in New Jersey (2024)

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We chose International Van Lines as the best moving company in New Jersey. Our guide explains why and offers other top picks.

Written by Stephanie Koncewicz Updated 12/11/2024

New Jersey has numerous local, long-distance, and international moving companies to choose from, so determining which one is right for you may feel overwhelming. Our team did the work for you by researching the best moving providers and ranking them based on customer reviews, service offerings, discounts, and more.

We selected International Van Lines as the best moving company in New Jersey for both local and long-distance moves. This full-service mover provides various services, including international moving, auto transportation, packing, and storage. American Van Lines is another recommended option for carefully handling and transporting fragile or expensive belongings. Additionally, Safeway Moving Inc. offers comprehensive insurance plans that protect your valuable possessions. Compare these providers and other recommended options in our review to determine the best mover for your needs.

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Best New Jersey Moving Companies of 2024

We evaluated New Jersey moving companies based on several factors, such as their range of services, insurance options, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports, and more. Here is our list of the best New Jersey movers for 2024.


What Should I Know About New Jersey Movers?

You should know New Jersey movers’ average costs, required insurance coverage, and different moving services to help you get a competitive offer.

How Much Does It Cost To Move to New Jersey?

Moving can be very expensive, and costs depend on several factors. According to our research, the average cost of a long-distance move to New Jersey is $6,903 for a three-bedroom home.

Moving companies typically charge by the distance traveled and your shipment’s weight. The number of rooms and furniture directly impacts your cost, with larger homes incurring higher expenses. Services such as packing, unpacking, appliance disconnection/reconnection, and storage can add substantial fees to your base moving cost. Increased demand in peak moving seasons, typically during summer, can lead to higher rates.

What Is Moving Insurance?

Moving insurance provides financial protection if your possessions are lost, damaged, or destroyed in a professional moving company’s care and custody. Base moving insurance includes released value protection. This insurance provides minimal coverage, usually around 60 cents per pound per item. For example, if a 20-pound item is lost or damaged, the maximum reimbursement would be $12.

Full-value protection is a more comprehensive coverage option that reimburses you for your belongings’ current market replacement value if they’re lost, damaged, or destroyed during your move. You pay an additional fee based on your shipment’s total value, ranging from $10–$15 per $1,000 worth of goods. Our 2024 survey of 1,000 moving customers revealed that 72% of consumers opt for full-value coverage to protect their belongings.

What Moving Services Are Available in New Jersey?

There are various moving services available in New Jersey to suit different needs and budgets. Full-service movers provide a convenient, hassle-free experience, whether for local or long-distance moves, including packing, loading, transportation, and unloading. Local movers specialize in short-distance moves within the same city or county, offering efficient and cost-effective solutions. Long-distance movers have experience transporting belongings in interstate and cross-country relocations.

Self-service options are budget-friendly and ideal for small moves. U-Pack and Budget offer different-sized truck and portable storage container rentals. You can load and unload the rental truck while the company handles the transportation between homes. Alternatively, you can choose to handle everything, including transportation.


Compare Moving Companies in New Jersey

You may find it challenging to choose from the many professional moving companies available for your local or long-distance move, but our tool below helps you compare the top companies in New Jersey. We highly recommend International Van Lines and American Van Lines for their comprehensive relocation services at competitive prices.

Our Pick
International Van Lines
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American Van Lines
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Safeway Moving Inc.
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Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
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Moving APT
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JK Moving Services
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Overall Rating

4.5 / 5 4.3 / 5 4.5 / 5 4 / 5 4.3 / 5 4.7 / 5

BBB Rating

A+ A+ B- B B+ A+

FMCSA Licensing

Carrier/Broker Carrier Carrier Broker Broker Carrier

Average Price*

$5,250 $5,625 $5,631 $5,054 $4,683 $7,171

Deposit Required

Up to 25% Up to 50% Up to 40% Up to 33% Varies $250

Pros

  • Flexible insurance plans
  • Free month of storage
  • Upfront pricing
  • Hires movers who average 10 years of experience
  • Provides fixed-rate quotes
  • Trains its employees regularly to efficiently handle special packing and crating
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Free month of storage for all customers
  • Light packing is available for long-distance moves
  • Offers a quick quote process for last-minute moves
  • Prescreens all third-party movers in its network
  • Provides full-service packing and crating for all moving customers
  • Offers an online cost estimator
  • Offers price-matching
  • Provides quick service
  • Background-checked movers
  • Financing available
  • Intuitive AI-assisted online quote tool

Cons

  • Below-average customer reviews
  • Outsources some moves
  • Requires up to a 25% deposit
  • Charges higher average prices
  • Has limited customer service on weekends
  • Requires a deposit of up to 50% of the total cost
  • Can’t promise extra services, such as fragile packing and crating
  • No upfront pricing
  • Reputation for difficult communication during the first phase of a move
  • No customer service on the weekends
  • No refund on your deposit if it's more than 72 hours after booking
  • Not responsible for damage due to broker status
  • Not responsible for any damage due to broker status
  • Service varies by location according to reviews
  • Unwanted contact from partner companies may occur
  • Higher-than-average pricing
  • Long quote process
  • No refund on your deposit

Summary

We recommend International Van Lines (IVL) if you want the most moving service options possible. The company boasts one of the most extensive moving service catalogs at highly competitive rates.

We recommend American Van Lines if you’re moving high-end items or antiques because it focuses on training its staff to move difficult and valuable items.

We recommend Safeway Moving Inc. for condo or HOA residents. The company has a special focus and training on the regulations and problems that may arise with these moves.

We recommend Interstate Moving & Relocation Group as a reputable broker if you need to move quickly. The company’s customer service is prompt, and its broker network helps you find a vetted mover fast.

We recommend Moving APT because of its highly rated customer service and its ability to quickly provide you with multiple quotes for its partner companies.

We recommend JK Moving Services for its ability to offer financing options through its partnership with Enhancify and its high-end, white-glove packing services.

Rating Categories

International Van Lines American Van Lines Safeway Moving Inc. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group Moving APT JK Moving Services

Customer Service

5 / 5
4.4 / 5
4.3 / 5
3.8 / 5
4.3 / 5
4.4 / 5

Reputation

4.3 / 5
3.9 / 5
4.3 / 5
2.9 / 5
3.9 / 5
5 / 5

Value

2.8 / 5
3.3 / 5
3.3 / 5
4.2 / 5
4.2 / 5
3.1 / 5

Service Offerings

4.7 / 5
4.7 / 5
4.5 / 5
4.5 / 5
4.5 / 5
4.7 / 5

Item Protection

5 / 5
5 / 5
4.3 / 5
3.5 / 5
4.3 / 5
5 / 5

Scheduling

4.1 / 5
2.3 / 5
4.1 / 5
3.9 / 5
2.3 / 5
5 / 5

*Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of October 2024.


Top New Jersey Moving Companies

International Van Lines

Best Service Offerings
4.5

International Van Lines (IVL) (USDOT #: 2293832) has been in business since 2000, managing over 500,000 moves in the United States and over 2 million worldwide. These full-service movers offer services for local and interstate moving, international moving, air freight services, auto and car shipping, and warehouse and storage services. You can initiate the free quote process online, with the company striving to provide quotes within 15 minutes.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides a free quote within 15 minutes Operates in all 50 states and internationally Is licensed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Cons Has higher pricing than many competitors Requires an upfront deposit Doesn’t provide sample pricing online

New Jersey Moving Services

IVL provides tailored moving services to meet customers’ diverse needs and budgets. You can choose between partial or full-service moves. Partial moves let you handle tasks like packing while IVL manages transportation. Full-service moves put IVL’s team in charge of every detail, from packing to unpacking.

See extra services IVL offers below:  

  • Bulky item relocation
  • Large vehicle shipping
  • Motorcycle shipping
  • Temporary or permanent storage

Cost

We used IVL’s online cost calculator to provide a rough estimate of the potential costs. However, this initial calculation is not a comprehensive and binding quote. You must get an in-person consultation to receive a quote tailored to your moving requirements.  

  • Sample quote: $5,250–$7,688 (three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Newark)
  • Deposit: 25%
  • Payment accepted: Cash, cashier’s check, credit card (deposit only), money order

Reputation and Reviews

IVL has an A rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) but is not accredited by the organization. Several previous customers gave positive feedback about IVL’s prompt service during the booking process. However, some customers reported that local franchises and affiliate companies provided inconsistent service quality. IVL has a local Bronx branch that services many of its New Jersey moves, and its Google Reviews reflect an overall positive reputation with a 4.1-star rating.

American Van Lines

Best Overall Moving Labor
4.3

American Van Lines (USDOT #: 614506) has been in business since 1995, making it one of the nation’s most experienced movers. The company provides local and long-distance moving services and storage services, with local moving services provided at an hourly rate. Services include discounted moving for transportation-only moving, full-service moving that includes packing and transporting your items, partial packing for fragile items, and specialty moving for high-value items such as art, pianos, and antiques.

Pros and Cons

Pros Doesn’t charge extra fees for weekend or last-minute moving services Offers sample pricing on its website Is ranked one of America’s Best Customer Service Companies by Newsweek Cons Doesn’t provide online quotes Requires an up-front deposit of up to 50% Isn’t always communicative during the moving process, according to some customer reviews

New Jersey Moving Services

American Van Lines offers comprehensive moving packages handled by skilled crews who perform all aspects of relocation. They can disassemble and reassemble furniture, pack and wrap belongings, load and unload the truck, and even unpack items at the new residence. Additionally, the company provides these services:

  • Corporate relocation
  • Military relocation 
  • Online shipment tracking
  • Temporary and permanent storage
  • White-glove relocation of artwork and antiques

Cost

American Van Lines doesn’t provide online quotes. However, we discovered some cost-related details on the company’s moving cost page. We used the estimate the company listed for a move from Dallas to Phoenix, which is 150 miles farther than the Atlanta-to-Newark move we used to gather other quotes for this guide.

The following quote includes loading services for a three-bedroom home (or 10,000 pounds).

  • Sample quote: $6,970 (three-bedroom home from Dallas to Phoenix)
  • Deposit: Up to 50% upfront\
  • Payment accepted: Cash, cashier’s check, credit card, money order, and traveler’s check

Reputation and Reviews

American Van Lines has an outstanding A+ rating with the BBB. Many customer reviews praise the company for its transparent pricing structures and straightforward binding quotes that do not have any hidden fees attached to them. However, some Yelp customers report experiencing unexpected price increases midway through the relocation process despite initially agreeing on binding estimates. Another common complaint was communication difficulty with moving crews. Older Reddit threads mention American Van Lines as a great option for interstate New Jersey moves.

Safeway Moving Inc.

Most Reliable Pricing
4.5

Safeway Moving Inc. (USDOT #: 237129) is a carrier that requires its moving partners to hold $1 million insurance policies. This enables Safeway to move clients in apartments and condos with even the most stringent requirements and regulations. Safeway requires large deposits to book but offers flat-rate pricing for all moves.

Pros and Cons

Pros Charges flat-rate prices for all moves Provides 30 days of free storage with all long-distance moves Requires moving partners to hold $1 million insurance policies Cons Brokers out all moves in New Jersey Offers no local moving option in New Jersey Has reviews that mention difficulty reaching customer service representatives

New Jersey Moving Services

Safeway specializes in full-service, long-distance moving options through industry partners. Here are other services Safeway offers within New Jersey. 

  • 24/7 customer service
  • Custom crating for fragile items
  • Moving assistance for senior citizens 
  • Temporary and permanent storage

Cost

Safeway provides moving services at a flat rate with binding estimates. Safeway requires a detailed evaluation of each move for a fixed-rate plan. Total weight, distance, services required, and insurance purchased through a partner carrier all affect the overall cost. 

The more rigorous process guarantees a more accurate quote. Our experience with a company representative was pleasant. We submitted an inventory sheet online and received the following quote:

  • Sample quote: $7,211 (three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Newark)
  • Deposit: Up to 40%
  • Payment accepted: Cash, credit card, certified check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

Safeway has a B- rating on the BBB with mixed customer reviews. While many customers praise Safeway’s high-quality service, thorough quote process, and wide range of insurance options, others criticize the company for using bait-and-switch tactics. Still, the company lists itself as a top moving company in New Jersey and highlights Google and Yelp customer testimonies on its website.

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

Most Efficient
4

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) (USDOT #: 3034100) is a moving broker operating in New Jersey and all other states. It provides local and long-distance moving services to clients needing self- and full-service relocation assistance. IMRG provides an online guide to the best movers in the New York metropolitan area. It operates through area-specific partners to facilitate moves within the Garden State.

Pros and Cons

Pros Has a price-match program Offers last-minute moving service Partners with full- and self-service movers Cons Charges a 4% fee for move cancellations Brokers out all of its moves Has no weekend customer support

New Jersey Moving Services

IMRG has two types of moving assistance options: full-service and self-service. A qualified professional handles everything with a full-service move, including packing, loading, unloading, and transportation. Self-service moves allow you to  handle packing and other tasks independently. IMRG offers the following additional services for New Jersey customers:

  • Cleaning
  • Junk removal 
  • Piano moving
  • Temporary and permanent storage
  • Vehicle shipping

Cost

We contacted IMRG and spoke with one of their representatives to determine interstate moving costs. The representative said we should connect with an affiliated company and complete a virtual survey for a more precise quote. 

  • Sample quote: $5,700–$6,700 (three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Newark) 
  • Deposit: Up to 33%
  • Payment accepted: Cash, credit card, certified check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

IMRG has a B rating on the BBB and receives mixed customer reviews. Customers praise the company’s efficiency and careful handling of belongings. However, some customers report instances of bait-and-switch pricing tactics.

Moving APT

Best Customer Service
4.3

Moving APT (USDOT #: 2247863) is an excellent option for anyone looking for a concierge approach to moving. This moving broker connects customers with professional movers in their area who can fulfill their relocation requirements. The company has a vast national network of prescreened movers and can handle full- and partial-service relocation requests of any size, locally in New Jersey and nationwide. Moving APT manages your moving process from start to finish, keeping in touch with the moving labor provider to ensure everything is going according to plan. The company also offers 24/7 customer service.

Pros and Cons

Pros Maintains a network of more than 2,500 independent moving companies Will work on your behalf to negotiate lower moving estimates Offers discounts for seniors, veterans, certain disabilities, short-distance moves, and early reservations Cons Won’t refund deposits for moves canceled within less than seven days of your planned relocation Has customer reviews claiming that some moving partners changed the estimate provided by Moving APT Has frequent pop-up chat boxes on its website, which can make navigation tedious

New Jersey Moving Services

Moving APT offers full- and partial-service relocations, including local, long-distance, and international. It also provides the following additional services to meet your specific needs:

  • Appliance disconnection and reconnection
  • Custom crating
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Packing
  • Piano moving
  • Storage

Cost

We used Moving APT’s online calculator to get an estimate. We recommend contacting the company directly for more accurate and precise pricing information. After reviewing your moving inventory and conducting a virtual home tour, Moving APT will provide a binding estimate.

  • Sample quote: $1,575–$4,650 (three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Newark)
  • Deposit: Varies
  • Payment accepted: Cash, check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

Moving APT has a B+ rating on the BBB but is not accredited. Positive reviews mention Moving APT’s efficient resources and quick quote turnaround times. Negative reviews report communication difficulties, lack of responsiveness, and problems with the assigned moving crews.

JK Moving Services

Best Specialized Packing
4.7

JK Moving Services (USDOT #: 1065394) offers residential and commercial moving services, including local, long-distance, and storage services. Customers can select full-service moving, full-pack moving, furniture-only moving, fragile-only packing, DIY packing, and more. JK Moving employees receive extensive ongoing training and are drug-tested and background-checked, ensuring customers that their belongings are in good hands. The company also offers 24/7 live voice customer service, and its mobile app allows customers to access all of their move documentation and files.

Pros and Cons

Pros Has received safety awards from the American Moving and Storage Association and Fleet Solutions Offers storage facilities with 24/7 video surveillance and climate-controlled units Has high employee safety and training standards Cons Only provides local moves in Maryland and Virginia Doesn’t offer binding estimates, which means you may pay more than initially quoted Requires a nonrefundable deposit

New Jersey Moving Services

JK Moving only offers packing services for Maryland moves. Additional available services for New Jersey customers include the following: 

  • Government moves
  • International moves 
  • Office moves and IT removal
  • Shipment tracking 
  • Temporary and permanent storage

Cost

We contacted a JK Moving sales representative for a quote. However, the company said we needed a virtual consultation to receive pricing details. Although this seems like a drawback, it demonstrates the company’s commitment to precise pricing. The following information is for a different move from our previous research.

  • Sample quote: $8,196 (three-bedroom home from Chicago to Hartford)
  • Deposit: $250 upfront
  • Payment accepted: Cash, credit card, certified check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

JK Moving has an A+ rating on its BBB profile and is accredited. It stands out from its competitors, with customer reviews praising its professional and highly trained movers. Many customers commend the company’s attention to detail and the movers’ expertise in properly packing and transporting delicate items, such as antiques. We noticed a similar pattern while analyzing JK Moving’s Yelp profile.  


What Determines a New Jersey Move’s Cost?

A New Jersey move’s cost is typically determined by distance, the weight of your items, and the time of year. Below are two pricing structures for different types of moves.

Single-Day Moves

Several factors impact the price of a local, single-day move in New Jersey. Knowing these cost drivers can help you budget appropriately and avoid sticker shock.

Your current home and bedroom’s square footage are arguably the biggest cost factors for a local move. Larger residences require more labor and resources to pack, load, and transport belongings. A three-bedroom house, for instance, will typically cost more to relocate than a one-bedroom apartment, as the company will need more movers and trucks. While these intrastate moves don’t involve hauling belongings across the country, the distance between your origin and destination matters. Longer moves within New Jersey mean higher transportation costs in labor hours and fuel expenses for the moving company. A move from Newark to Cape May will understandably cost more than a local move across town.

Most reputable New Jersey moving companies price intrastate jobs using hourly labor rates for the moving team. Factors such as stairs, disassembling furniture, and bulky or specialty items such as pianos can increase labor time and costs. Opting for full-service packing, unpacking, and insurance coverage adds even more fees.

Multiday Moves

Enlisting an experienced moving company provides convenience and peace of mind but comes at a considerable cost when relocating across multiple states for a long-distance move. Understand the key factors that impact pricing for an interstate move to the Garden State.

  • Distance and weight:  Your shipment’s total weight and your travel distance are the make-or-break expenses for long-haul moves. The greater the mileage, the higher the transportation charges due to increased fuel, labor hours, and travel days for the moving crew. For example, a move from California to New Jersey will cost significantly more than relocating from a neighboring state like Pennsylvania.
  • Insurance: We highly recommend getting adequate valuation protection from your moving company. Basic coverage is legally mandated, and comprehensive insurance policies safeguarding against damages, losses, or delays can significantly increase costs. However, the financial protection is often worth the added expense.
  • Logistics: Long-distance New Jersey moves commonly involve hurdles such as narrow streets, apartment complexes requiring long carries, multilevel homes with stairs, or bulky items such as pianos. Moving companies typically charge extra for these logistical challenges to account for increased labor and equipment needs.
  • Seasonality: Movers face peak demand periods, which drive up pricing. Late spring through summer is widely considered the busiest moving season. Weekends and holidays also see surges. Customers can sometimes save by booking a midweek move during slower periods.
  • Specialty services: Long-distance relocations may require additional services beyond the basic loading and transporting of household goods. According to our survey of moving consumers, between 60% and 75% of customers include these services in their moving package. Moving companies or third-party providers charge separately for auto shipping, appliance disconnection/reconnection, and short- or long-term storage needs. Travel fees covering crew lodging and meals for multiday journeys also factor into the total costs.

The sample quotes we gathered for this article show the average cost to move a three-bedroom home to New Jersey is around $6,903. Our table below further breaks down each quote.

Moving CompanySample QuoteDeposit Required
International Van Lines$5,250–$7,68825%
American Van Lines$6,970Up to 50% up front
Safeway Moving Inc.$7,211Up to 40%
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group$5,700–$6,700Up to 33%
Moving APT$1,575–$4,650Varies
JK Moving Services$8,196Up to 50% upfront

How Do I Plan and Prepare for a New Jersey Move?

New Jersey residents can follow these steps to streamline the moving process and reduce stress.

  1. Create a timeline: Start preparations at least six to eight weeks before your target move date. Develop a checklist that includes researching and booking reputable intrastate New Jersey moving companies, decluttering possessions, gathering supplies, scheduling utility transfers, and submitting address changes.
  2. Downsize: Go through every room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Eliminating excess belongings reduces volume/weight and associated moving costs. It also simplifies packing. Hold a garage sale or donate gently used items to lighten your load.
  3. Gather supplies: Gather essential equipment such as boxes, tape, labeling markers, padding, and furniture covers. Many New Jersey moving companies sell convenient packing kits or offer supply rentals.
  4. Obtain moving quotes: Contact at least three licensed and insured New Jersey moving companies for in-home estimates. Compare services, pricing, insurance options, mover reputations, and any fees for travel time, stairs, bulky items, or other logistical challenges. Verify registration and complaint histories with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs’ Public Movers and Warehousemen.
  5. Transfer utilities and change address: Schedule utility disconnections and new activations at each residence to avoid lapses. Update your address with employers, banks, and subscriptions. Visit USPS.com to file an official Change of Address and start mail forwarding.
  6. Pack strategically: Label boxes by room and contents for easy unpacking. Keep essentials such as changes of clothes, medications, and documents separate for quick access after the move. Move cash, jewelry, and family heirlooms yourself rather than including them in the shipment to prevent potential loss or damage during transit.
  7. Make pet arrangements: Make pet-friendly lodging and transportation arrangements if you’re moving with pets. Discuss protocols with your mover to ensure a smooth relocation for furry family members.

What Timeline Should You Follow To Prepare for Your Move?

Creating a detailed timeline is crucial for an organized local move. According to our 2024 survey of moving consumers, nearly half reported their entire moving process took less than six weeks from start to finish. Here’s a recommended eight-week timeline to help you stay on track:

  • Eight weeks before: Start a dedicated moving binder to store estimates, receipts, and other important information. Research licensed and insured intrastate and long-distance moving companies in your area and obtain at least three in-home estimates. Verify company credentials through the state’s Public Movers and Warehousemen unit. Declutter and sort possessions into “keep,” “donate,” and “discard” piles room by room.
  • Six weeks before: Book your preferred New Jersey mover and get a binding estimate in writing. Confirm requested move dates and discuss any special logistical needs, such as stairs or bulky items. Initiate the process of transferring children’s school records, if applicable. Order packing supplies such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Many New Jersey movers sell convenient packing kits. Begin packing nonessentials such as books, decor, and out-of-season items.
  • Four weeks before: Submit an official Change of Address with USPS to start mail forwarding to your New Jersey home. Notify employers, banks, subscription services, and insurance companies of your updated address. Make travel arrangements if your move requires an overnight stay. Schedule utility disconnections and reactivations through your future home’s service providers.
  • Two weeks before: Finish packing all rooms, labeling boxes by content and room. Designate an “essentials” box with the basics needed in the first few days. Confirm parking for the moving truck and any required neighborhood permits if moving into a house. For local moves, ask USPS to hold mail during the transition.
  • One week before: Pack luggage with personal items needed in the first few days, such as clothes and toiletries. Reconfirm moving day details with your New Jersey moving company, including the arrival window and final pricing.
  • Moving day: Do a final walkthrough, checking closets, basements, and attics for forgotten belongings. Have cash on hand for approved payments and to tip your crew for satisfactory service. Personally transport valuables such as jewelry, money, and documents. Take inventory as movers load items onto the truck.

How Do I Choose the Best Moving Company in New Jersey?

Choosing the right moving company is paramount for a smooth, stress-free experience for New Jersey residents preparing for an intrastate move. Do thorough research upfront to protect your belongings and ensure top-quality service. Here are some essential tips:

  • Verify licensing and insurance: The Public Movers and Warehousemen unit licenses all legitimate New Jersey moving companies. You can request active licensing documentation and adequate cargo insurance coverage. Licensing and insurance protect you from liability should any accidents, damages, or issues arise during relocation.
  • Check company reputation: Online customer reviews provide invaluable insight into a mover’s professionalism, service quality, and satisfaction rates. Check rating platforms such as the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Google to gauge a company’s reputation and identify any recurring complaints. Look for moving companies that are responsive, communicative, and flexible. Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, inquire about policies for changes or delays, access to customer service on nights/weekends, and their process for resolving any issues.
  • Compare estimates: Reputable New Jersey movers should provide free in-home or virtual estimates to accurately assess your belongings and moving needs. Be wary of companies quoting prices based solely on a verbal description or an online form, as final costs may be much higher. Experienced estimators evaluate factors such as stairs, bulky items, and travel distance.
  • Ask about experience: Well-trained, experienced crews are less likely to cause property damage or injuries during a move. Ask prospective companies about hiring standards, employee training programs, and experience levels, especially for specialized relocations involving pianos, antiques, or delicate items.
  • Understand the claims process: Accidents can happen even with consummate professionals. Before booking, inquire about the company’s claims process and options for releasing higher valuation coverage on your shipment. Supplemental insurance provides more protection for high-value belongings.

Watch our video below to learn more about how to vet and book a high-quality mover:


What Are My Moving Options in New Jersey?

New Jersey residents can choose from several professional moving service models based on their needs, budget, and move distance. Understanding the pros and cons of each option is key to a smooth transition.

  • Container shipping: An increasingly popular choice, companies such as PODS and 1-800-PACK-RAT deliver a secure, weatherproof container to your driveway. You can take your time loading belongings, and then the company transports the container to your new home. Container moves minimize hassle, allow flexibility for loading/unloading over multiple days, and are ideal for smaller relocations.
  • Truck rentals: Cost-conscious residents can opt for the DIY approach by renting a moving truck from national companies such as U-Haul or Budget. While a DIY move requires handling all packing, loading, and driving duties yourself, it provides maximum flexibility and control. Expect to pay $1,000–$2,000 on average for in-state moves. This option is best if you have friends or family to help with labor. 
  • Freight shipping: When relocating oversized furniture, heavy equipment, vehicles, antiques, or delicate belongings, dedicated freight shipping services provide specialized expertise and equipment such as flatbeds and car haulers. Freight companies have experience properly packaging and transporting high-value, awkward items safely.
  • Full-service moves: Many New Jersey residents hire reputable full-service moving companies for local and long-distance moves, such as IVL or American Van Lines for a truly seamless moving experience. These providers handle everything, including supplying packing materials, disassembling furniture, carefully wrapping and loading the truck, and transporting, unloading, and reassembling items in your new home. Though costly, full-service moves minimize effort and liability.

Our Conclusion

Before hiring a moving company for your local or long-distance move, consider whether you prefer to pack and load your belongings independently or have professionals handle everything from start to finish. In the latter case, we recommend International Van Lines. This company provides comprehensive moving services, including long-distance and international moving options. Its adjustable and customizable insurance plan is one of the company’s best features, as you can tailor it to protect your valuable items during the move. 

If you plan to move closer to the New York metropolitan area, check out our top picks for moving companies in New York.

We suggest getting a quote from at least three moving companies to compare pricing before hiring. We also recommend reading customer reviews to see what others have reported.


FAQ About New Jersey Moving Companies

Is it normal to pay movers in advance?

It is not normal to pay movers in advance, aside from a deposit. Trustworthy companies collect payment after the move.

What is the cheapest way to move in New Jersey?

The cheapest way to move within New Jersey or long-distance is to handle the move yourself. For example, it’s less expensive to choose a self-service moving company, where you load your belongings into a container and transport them yourself, than to hire movers to pack, move, transport, and store your belongings for you.

Are moving costs negotiable?

Yes, moving companies are often willing to negotiate their rates. It’s important to have other quotes and be knowledgeable about any special circumstances that can impact the cost when negotiating rates with moving companies.

What are the cheapest days to hire movers?

It’s cheapest to move on a weekday. Moving on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday is more expensive due to high weekend demand. 


Our Rating Methodology

We back 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, trailer and container options, additional benefits, and reputation to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.

Why Trust Us? We conducted 4,800+ hours of research on moving companies and crafted a ranking system based on the following research
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Companies Considered
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Homeowners Surveyed
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Reviews Analyzed
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Providers Compared

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