Compare the best long-distance moving companies of the year

 

• International Van Lines – Best Overall 
• JK Moving Services – Quality Service
• Allied Van Lines – Best for customizable Service
• United Van Lines – Most Experience
• North American Van Lines – Budget Friendly

 

The best long-distance moving companies in the US are International Van Lines, JK Moving, Allied Van Lines, United Van Lines, and North American Van Lines.

We base our methodology on customer reviews, complaint history, year in business, and moving services offered. Each long-distance mover is a carrier that maintains an excellent reputation. Please don’t take our word for it, do your research.

Things to know about International Van Lines

About: International Van Lines is a lisenced moving company in business since 2000. Several third-party consumer groups, including Forbes, call International Van Lines the best long-distance moving company in the US. 

Service offers: International Van Lines offers long-distance moving services nationally. Whether you have a one-bedroom apartment or a large home, IVL can accommodate you with affordable pricing. Professional packing, loading, and storage are all services IVL offers. 

• Full-service movers
• Properly licensed
• Interstate moving services
• International moving services
• Packing services
• Storage services
• Cleaning services 
• Customizable moving services

Customer reviews: International Van Lines maintains a 4.8 average of 5 stars and has an excellent reputation. 

How to get a quote: You can fill out an online form or contact International Van Lines by phone. They will set up a virtual survey and ask a few questions about your move. It will take an average of 20 min to 2 hours to get a long-distance moving estimate. 

What to know about JK Moving

About: JK Moving Services has a long and storied history, dating back to its founding in 1981. From its humble beginnings as a local moving company in Virginia, JK has grown into one of North America’s largest and most respected professional moving services providers. Today, JK Moving Services helps customers move their homes and businesses locally, country, and worldwide.

Services offer: JK Moving is a national moving company that provides local and long-distance moving services 

• Long-distance moving services 
• Local moving services 
• Packing services
• Storage Services
• Specialty services
• Additional services
• Insurance coverage

Consumer reviews: JK Moving has an average rating of 4.5 out of five-star rating. They have excellent reviews and are known to provide quality customer service. 

How to get a quote: With JK Moving getting a long-distance moving quote is easy. You can fill out an online form or speak to a relocation coordinator. They will set up a virtual tour through software called Yembo.

More about Allied Van Lines moving services

About: Allied Van Lines is known for their orange trucks. They’re also one of the US’s oldest and largest long-distance movers. Allied Van Lines is an agent-based moving company with locations nationally. 

Services offered: Allied Van Lines provides local, long-distance, and international moving services. They also have a small move program for relocations under 3000lbs. 

• Long-distance moving services 
• Local moving services 
• International moving services
• Packing services
• Storage Services
• Specialty services
• Additional services
• Customizable moving services
• Add on services

Consumer reviews: Allied Van Lines maintains an excellent reputation with the Better Business Bureau and other third-party consumer groups. Their average rating is 4.4 out of 5 stars. 

How to get a moving quote: If you’re searching for a long-distance moving quote from Allied Van Lines, you can call them or fill out an online form. They offer visual surveys as well as virtual tours. 

Learn about United Van Lines long-distance moving services

About: United Van Lines is one of the largest moving companies in the United States. The company offers a variety of services, including long-distance moving services. United Van Lines is an agent-based mover with nationwide locations. 

Services offered: With locations nationwide, United Van Lines can provide a wealth of long-distance moving services. Additionally, they handle local and international moves. 

• Long-distance moving services 
• Local moving services 
• International moving services
• Packing services
• Storage Services
• Additional services
• Customizable moving services
• Add on services

Customer reviews: United Van Lines has an excellent reputation with the Better Business Bureau. They’re one of the oldest out-of-state moving companies around and maintain an excellent reputation across the board. 

How to get a moving quote: If you’re looking for long-distance moving quotes from United Van Lines, you can call them or fill out an online form. Their quoting process is easy to follow and may take up to 24 hours. 

What to know about North American Van Lines

About: North American Van Lines is one of the largest moving companies in the United States. The company was founded in 1933 and had its headquarters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. North American Van Lines has more than 500 agents across the country and offers various services, including local, long-distance, and international moves. 

Services offer: North American Van Lines is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a long-distance moving company. Additionally, they offer local and international moving services. 

• Long-distance moving services 
• Local moving services 
• International moving services
• Packing services
• Storage Services
• Additional services
• Customizable moving services
• Add on services

Customer reviews: North American Van Lines has been around for a while and maintain an excellent reputation. They have an A rating with the Better Business Bureau and other agencies. 

How to get a quote: If you’re in search of a long-distance moving quote, you can fill out an online quote form or give them a call. It may take 24/48 hours to get a moving quote. 

Summary: The 5 best long-distance moving companies in the US

Long-distance moving can feel like a daunting task requiring much attention. With everything to think about, finding a reputable long-distance moving company should be a stress-free experience. 

We’ve compiled a list of the best long-distance moving companies based on many factors, including years in business, service offers, and consumer reviews. 

When looking for a moving company, it’s always best to research and choose a mover with whom you feel comfortable. 

 

What is a long-distance move? 

A long-distance move, also known as an interstate move, is a relocation across state lines. If a moving company provides out-of-state moving services, they must have a valid lisenced with the Department of Transportation (DOT). 

If you’re moving within the same state, even 300 miles away, it would be considered a local move, also known as an intrastate move. Checking company license information is essential to ensure you aren’t in a messy situation. 

 

How to check long-distance moving company reviews

The best sources to check online reviews for moving companies are Forbes, US News, Google, and Mymovingreviews.com. However, it would be best to consider a few things when looking up moving company reviews. 

Online research: First, you will want to start with a Google search. Take a closer look at complaints and how the moving company responds. 

Company history: When looking for the best long-distance moving companies, you should also look into company histories, such as years in business and company size. A company that has been on business for a while may have more complaints than a new moving company. 

Knowledge of service: When searching for long-distance moving companies, they must answer all your questions. You should move on if you don’t feel comfortable with a mover. 

Check the price: We all want to find the best deals, and moving is no different. However, searching for cheap moving companies can end up costing you. Make sure you compare at least three moving estimates before making a decision. 

Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to finding the best long-distance moving companies out there. 

How to prepare for a long-distance move

Making a long-distance move can be a daunting task. There are many things to consider and plan for, from packing and shipping your belongings to finding a new place to live. But with a bit of preparation, you can ensure everything goes smoothly.

Here are a few things to do when preparing for a long-distance move:

1. Make a list of everything you need to do. It will help you stay organized and on track.

2. Start packing early. Don’t wait until the last minute to pack up your belongings. Begin several weeks in advance, so you have plenty of time.

3. Get rid of anything you don’t need. Moving is an excellent opportunity to declutter your home. Get rid of anything you don’t use or need anymore.

4. Make sure your belongings are insured. Speak to your long-distance moving company about their insurance options.

5. Arrange for transportation. If you’re driving to your new home, start planning your route and make sure your vehicle is in good condition for the trip. If you’re flying, book your tickets as early as possible to get the best rates.

6. Find a place to live. Start looking for a new home several weeks before your move date. It will give you plenty of time to find the perfect place.

7. Set up utilities and services. transferredSet up your utilities and other services at your new home before you move in. This way, you’ll be all set up and ready to go when you arrive.

By following these tips, you can ensure your long-distance move goes smoothly without any stressful surprises.

 

How much do long distance movers cost? 

Hiring long-distance movers average $1500 to $9000. The size of your move, mileage, and service will be the most significant cost factors. Additionally, the time of year and moving company can also affect the cost of your move. 

The most significant cost factor is the size of your move. Long-distance movers charge on weight or cubic feet, so the more you have, the higher the cost. 

Mileage will also play a role in the cost of your move. A cross-country move from Los Angeles to New York will be more expensive than a move from Florida to Atlanta. 

Last, the service you request can also affect your move’s cost. If you ask for professional packing and need storage, the cost of your long-distance move will be higher. 

Try our long-distance moving calculator to budget

Use our long-distance moving calculator to get moving cost averages. It’s always best to speak with your mover directly regarding moving costs. 

How can I reduce my long-distance moving cost? 

There are several ways to reduce the cost of a long-distance move. Follow the tips below to save money on your move: 

Purge: Moving out of state is excellent for eliminating unused or unwanted stuff. Go room by room and create a list of things you can live without. You can consider donating them or selling them online.

Self-pack: If you’re on a tight budget or want to save money, you can consider self-packing for your move. However, you should always check your mover’s insurance requirements. 

Move off-season: The peak moving season is between May and August, with rates increasing by about 25%. If you can move during the winter months, you will save money. 

Pick the right mover: Don’t automatically go with the lowest price. Look for the “best long-distance moving companies near me” and do some research. 

Follow these steps and reduce the cost of your cross-country move!

What are possible moving-related charges that can come up? 

Below is a list of accessorials that you should ask your mover about. 

How long do long-distance moves take? 

You can use the below transit time to help you plan your move. However, it would be best if you spoke with the long-distance mover of your choice for accurate shipping times.

 

• 200 Miles: 1-3 days 
• 500 Miles: 2-8 days 
• 1000 Miles: 12-16 days
• 2000 Miles: 14-21 days

 

What’s a binding and non-binding estimate? 

If you’ve been speaking with the best long-distance moving companies, you’ve come across a binding and non-binding estimates. Below is the difference between the two estimates: 

Binding estimate: An estimate that is a legally binding contract between you and your interstate movers. This estimate ensures that you will not pay more than the amount specified in the estimate, no matter your move’s cost unless you add additional items or moving services. 

Non-binding estimate: A non-binding estimate, on the other hand, is not a legally binding contract. It means that your mover can charge you more than the amount specified in the estimate if the actual cost of your move is higher than what was estimated.

Understanding these two types of estimates is crucial before you sign anything with your mover. Otherwise, you could end up paying more than you expected or even getting into legal trouble. Be sure to ask your mover which type of estimate they provide before you agree to anything.

What’s the difference between a mover and a moving broker?

Knowing the difference between a moving broker and long-distance movers is essential. Below are the definitions: 

Moving Company: A professional moving company will handle all aspects of your move, including the packing, loading, and transporting of your household goods. They will be responsible in case of any insurance claims or issues regarding your move.

Moving broker: A moving broker is a company that organizes the shipping of your household goods through carriers that own trucks. They are not responsible in case of damage, and you would need to speak with the long-distance moving company that transported your household goods.

What should I look for in a corporate moving company? 

When it comes to corporate moving services, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you want to ensure that your chosen company is experienced in handling corporate moves. It means they should have a good understanding of the logistics involved and be able to provide a smooth, efficient move.

Second, you’ll want to inquire about the company’s insurance coverage. It’s important if any damage occurs to your belongings during the move. Be sure to get a copy of their insurance policy so that you can review it before making your final decision.

Finally, get quotes from multiple companies before making your final choice. It will ensure you get the best possible price for your corporate move. When you have all of these factors in mind, you can be sure that you’ll be able to find a corporate moving company that meets all of your needs.

 

Long-Distance FAQ

 

What makes up a long-distance moving cost? 

The weight or volume, mileage, and services make up long-distance moving costs. There are several ways to reduce the cost of your move, but it’s always best to speak with the moving company regarding cost reductions. 

Can I use my own moving supplies? 

If you’re self-packing, you can use your own moving supplies. You can also purchase packing materials from stores like Walmart or Home Depot. 

What if my delivery is late? 

The best long-distance moving companies will compensate you for each day they’re late. 

What is the moving process? 

Movers will show up and start packing. Once the packing is completed, your goods will be loaded and brought to a warehouse for staging. A tractor-trailer will then deliver your household goods to your door.

What is shuttle service? 

A shuttle service is when a semi can’t fit in your location. The moving company will shuttle your household goods to a smaller truck for delivery.

What is the payment process?  

Some long-distance moving companies require a deposit, and others don’t. It’s up to the company to handle payment, but credit cards and checks are the typical payments accepted. 

What if a moving company damages my property? 

Long-distance moving companies must maintain a minimum of $750,000 in property and casualty insurance, but most have at least $1,000,000. A moving company is responsible for any property damage. 

How far in advance should I schedule long-distance movers? 

During the slow season, you should give your move at least 2 weeks’ notice. However, if you’re moving during peak season, you should provide your long-distance mover at least a month. 

People Also Ask:

 

Who are the best long-distance movers from California to Texas? 

International Van Lines and Allied Van Lines have locations in California and Texas. They offer a direct moving service which makes the transit times more competitive. 

Do the best long-distance moving companies also offer local moves? 

Yes, the long-distance movers listed here also offer local moves. However, some moving companies may not provide local moving in specific states. 

Who are the best international moving companies? 

The best international moving companies are International Van Lines, Allied Van Lines, JK Moving Services, Atlas Van Lines, North American Van Lines, and United Van Lines. Each company maintains an excellent reputation online and with the Better Business Bureau. 

Is truck rental cheaper than hiring movers? 

In some cases renting a truck can be less expensive. However, if you’re moving cross country or out of state, you may want to check both costs. In many cases cross, country moving companies are less expensive. 

Are PODs less expensive than a long-distance moving company? 

In most cases, PODs are more expensive than a long-distance moving company. However, some customers like packing their own containers. It gives them a sense of comfort. 

Conclusion:

There is a lot of planning and prepping when moving to a new state. We’ve compiled a list of the best long-distance moving companies to make your search easier. We do not get compensation from any of the moving companies listed here. 

It’s always best to conduct your own research, find ways to reduce the cost of your move and go with a long-distance moving company that makes you feel comfortable. 

You will find what you’re looking for with some research and planning. Ask the right questions, and you will have a smooth relocation experience!