The Best Interstate Moving Companies
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Moving across state lines requires careful coordination and planning, so it’s essential to find the right moving company for your needs. We recommend International Van Lines due to its extensive partner network, ample interstate moving services, and competitive prices. American Van Lines is our No. 2 choice, particularly for customers with unique, expensive items. Its movers are vetted and background-checked, making it easier to avoid confusion around licensing and certification.
We based our recommendations on more than 4,800 hours of research on the moving industry and individual companies. We also interviewed multiple industry experts, surveyed 1,000 moving customers, and analyzed moving companies’ service offerings and protection plans using our rigorous methodology. Learn more about the best moving companies and compare their offerings in our comprehensive guide.
Key Takeaways
- We conducted over 4,800 hours of research on 31 moving companies to find the best interstate moving companies. We recommend International Van Lines as our top recommendation for your state-to-state move.
- Based on the sample quotes we gathered, the average cost for an interstate move is around $4,802. However, your moving cost will vary depending on various factors.
Best Interstate Moving Companies
Our methodology scores movers out of 100 points based on service packages, insurance coverage, online reputation with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and more. Here’s our list of the best interstate moving companies of 2024:
- International Van Lines: Best Full-Service Mover
- American Van Lines: Best Overall Moving Labor
- Safeway Moving Inc.: Most Reliable Pricing
- Interstate Moving & Relocation Group: Most Efficient
- Allied Van Lines: Best for Vehicle Relocation
- North American Van Lines: Best for Claims
- Moving APT: Best Customer Service
- Mayflower Moving: Best for Large Moves
Compare the Top Interstate Movers
International Van Lines and American Van Lines are on our list because of their comprehensive service options and quality insurance coverage with full-value protection plans. See how our top interstate movers compare based on these important factors.
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| #1 out of 27 companies | #2 out of 27 companies | #3 out of 27 companies | #4 out of 27 companies | #5 out of 27 companies | #6 out of 27 companies | #7 out of 27 companies | #8 out of 27 companies | #9 out of 27 companies | |
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Carrier/Broker | Carrier | Carrier | Broker | Carrier | Carrier/Broker | Broker | Carrier/Broker | Carrier |
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Average Price* |
$5,250 | $5,625 | $5,631 | $5,054 | $5,370 | $5,969 | $4,683 | $5,100 | $7,171 |
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Deposit Required |
Up to 25% | Up to 50% | Up to 40% | Up to 33% | None | None | Varies | None | $250 |
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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 Allied if you want to ship a vehicle due to the company’s in-house vehicle relocation services. |
We recommend North American Van Lines (NAVL) as the best long-distance mover overall because of its customizable insurance packages, highly rated customer service, and extensive service options. |
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 Mayflower for moves with more than five bedrooms. Its fleet, service areas, and specialized large-home service options offer more flexibility than other movers. |
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. |
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Rating Categories |
International Van Lines | American Van Lines | Safeway Moving Inc. | Interstate Moving & Relocation Group | Allied Van Lines | North American Van Lines | Moving APT | Mayflower Moving | JK Moving Services |
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Note: Sample quotes are for a 2-bedroom move from Portland, Oregon, to San Francisco.
Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of October 2024.
Top Companies for Interstate Moves
International Van Lines
Best Service Offerings
American Van Lines
Best Overall Moving Labor
Safeway Moving Inc.
Most Reliable Pricing
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Most Efficient
Allied Van Lines
Best for Vehicle Relocation
North American Van Lines
Best for Claims
Moving APT
Best Customer Service
Mayflower
Best for Large Moves
United Van Lines
Best Base Moving Coverage
JK Moving Services
Best Specialized Packing
What Should I Know About Interstate Movers?
Understanding key details about interstate movers will help you determine which company best matches your move’s criteria. We recommend informing yourself about what goes into calculating an interstate move’s cost, what insurance coverage is available, and the different service models the moving industry currently provides.
How Much Does It Cost To Move to Another State
Interstate moving costs depend on distance, total item weight, and time of year. These moves cost around $4,802 or more, based on the quotes we gathered for this guide. We recommend you get at least three quotes to obtain the most competitive offer possible for your move.
Moving companies typically charge based on estimated weight. Summer is peak season for movers and is thus more expensive, and some companies will also offer 10%–25% discounts during off-peak times in early spring, late fall, or winter.
Additional services such as packing, unpacking, and storage increase the cost. Our research showed that national movers charge more than independent ones, so getting multiple quotes and balancing your options helps yield a cost-effective result.
What Is Moving Insurance?
Moving insurance protects your belongings while a company transports them from one location to another. This insurance shields your possessions from potential damage or loss during transit. Our 2024 survey showed that 7% of consumers didn’t know what moving insurance they actually received.
The most basic coverage required by federal law is called released value protection. It provides minimal protection at no extra charge, compensating items based on their weight rather than their value.
All providers on our list also offer full-value protection. This is a comprehensive option in which the moving company is responsible for repairing, replacing, or reimbursing the full value of damaged or lost items. The price you pay for this option will depend on the value of your items. If you want even more protection, you can buy additional coverage from an insurance provider separate from the moving company, which usually adds another $200–$300. Our survey also showed that 72% of customers opted for full-value coverage, finding the extra peace of mind worth the cost.
What Interstate Moving Services Are Available?
There are three main service models for interstate moving. The most comprehensive and expensive option is a full-pack service in which you pay a moving company to pack, load, transport, unload, and unpack your belongings. You can also opt for a partial pack, in which you pack some of your belongings but hire movers to deal with more difficult items, such as bulky furniture, large mirrors, or televisions.
More budget-friendly services include a self-move and container move. A self-move involves renting a moving truck and moving everything yourself without additional moving services. A container move has a mover deliver a storage container to your original home, return to pick it up, transport it to your new home, and deliver the container there for you to unload.
What Other Moving Regulations or Logistics Should You Know?
Moving can involve many regulations and logistics you may not know, especially when moving to a new place where you will have to change state residency. One thing to note is that moving companies may add the weight of packing materials, furniture blankets, and dollies to your total shipment weight. Additionally, if the truck can’t park directly at the pickup or delivery location due to narrow streets or restricted access, a shuttle service may be required, which can result in additional fees.
If you need to store your goods temporarily during the move, moving companies must provide Storage-in-Transit (SIT) services. This involves storing your belongings in a secure, climate-controlled facility until you’re ready for delivery. However, it’s crucial to understand that specific regulations govern the maximum storage duration, liability, and charges associated with SIT.
Certain items such as gasoline, propane tanks, ammonia, paint thinners, fireworks, perishable food items, firearms, ammunition, and pool chemicals are prohibited due to safety and legal concerns.
What Determines An Interstate Move’s Cost?
Your interstate move’s cost will primarily depend on the distance, weight of your items, and time of year. Below, we’ve also outlined two basic pricing structures for interstate moves.
Single-Day Interstate Moves
You’ll typically pay hourly for shorter, single-day interstate moves. This is similar to the cost structure for local moves. Additional services, such as packing, will be accounted for in your final total based on the number of hours worked, so you can save money by packing as much as you can yourself before your moving day.
- You may also incur material costs for packing supplies or crating or pay flat fees for specialty services such as moving a piano or pool table. You can save money on standard packing supplies by getting boxes from grocery or liquor stores. Regardless, you’ll receive an estimate that includes all the services provided, an hourly rate based on the movers’ demand, and an approximate estimate of the total time it will take to complete your move.
Multiday Interstate Moves
Longer interstate moves are where costs get more complicated. You’ll pay flat rates or ballpark estimates based on the following factors:
- Move distance and shipping weight: These factors help calculate “line-haul fees,” which account for most of any long-distance move’s cost. Movers should have defined weigh-in processes for their trucks and stable per-mile rates to determine these fees.
- Add-on services: Added services, such as packing, crating, vehicle shipping, and more, will inflate your cost. These may have flat fees attached or be part of your line-haul fee. This will depend on the mover you use.
- Company size: Comparing quotes between national van lines, local movers, and truck rental options can reveal major pricing differences. Well-known brands typically charge more than smaller independent movers but may provide better service, reliability, and claims handling.
- Move date: If possible, try to avoid moving between May and September. These are movers’ busiest months and often come with higher rates, which companies raise in response to heightened demand.
- Insurance: Replacement value protection plans and other moving insurance options protect your items but contribute to the overall price. Higher-value plans cost more. Going without protection saves money but carries financial risks if items are damaged.
- Advance booking: Book your move at least six weeks to a month in advance to avoid higher rates. Some movers charge more when you book within a week of your move date.
We requested sample quotes for an interstate, two-bedroom move as part of our moving provider research, and the average cost landed around $4,802. We’ve included a quick quote comparison in the table below to help you prepare for your own interstate moving quote process.
| Moving Company | Sample Quote* | Deposit Required |
|---|---|---|
| International Van Lines | $2,519–$4,306 | 25% |
| American Van Lines | $4,544 | Up to 50% up-front |
| Safeway Moving Inc. | $4,000–$5,000 | Up to 40% |
| Interstate Moving & Relocation Group | $3,823–$4,824 | Up to 33% |
| JK Moving Services | $5,600–$6,622 | $250 up-front |
| Allied Van Lines | $5,442 – $6,312 | None |
| North American Van Lines | $4,700–$5,540 | None |
| Moving APT | $3,566–$6,266 | Varies between partners |
| Mayflower | $3,500–$4,500 | None |
| United Van Lines | Call for a quote | None |
*Sample quotes are for a 2-bedroom move from Portland, Oregon, to San Francisco.
What Are My Interstate Moving Options?
Interstate moving companies offer different service models based on your requirements and budget. Understanding the differences will help you choose the best option for your move.
Full-service Moves
This guide mainly explores full-service moves, which includes complete packing and handling of all your household contents by trained moving crews. The movers will bring packing materials, carefully pack boxes with your items, load the truck, drive to your new home, unpack, and often even provide basic furniture setup. Full-service interstate moves offer convenience and involve less physical work but come at a premium cost, averaging around $4,802 based on quotes we collected.
Local Movers
If your interstate move is a quick, one-day journey across state borders, you might be able to hire a local mover rather than a big, national company. However, you must check that the mover holds the proper licenses in both states through the FMCSA.
DIY Moves
Alternatively, affordable truck rental services such as U-Haul allow you to pack yourself and drive a moving truck across states on your own. This is a budget-friendly option, costing closer to $1,000–$2,000, but it entails substantial effort, including buying packing supplies, packing/lifting furniture safely, getting the right vehicle, and driving it long-distance. Damage risks are also higher without professionals.
Container Shipping
Container shipping puts your items in a secure crate driven across the country and delivered to your new address. Containers work well for partial, long-distance moves since they can be loaded/unloaded in stages. You’d still need to handle packing. Flexible container pickups accommodate timing needs.
Freight
Freight transport providers can prove ideal for those moving specialty items such as vehicles, oversized furniture, or heavy machinery. These providers have the right equipment, such as flatbeds, car haulers, or box trucks, to transport large, awkward items securely.
- Our 2024 survey showed that 94% of consumers opted for a full-service provider, finding the extra cost worth the efficiency and convenience. However, it also showed a breakdown in understanding of what a full-service vs. self-service provider means. Approximately 5% reported opting for a “portable storage container move,” yet more than 22% reported using a self-service mover. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the moving options above to know what you’re paying for.
Full-Service vs. Self-Service
When planning to move, you have two main options: hiring a full-service moving company or choosing a self-service option. This means you can hire a company to do most or all of your move or do it yourself.
Below is a breakdown of the two options.
Full-Service Moving Companies
Full-service moving companies offer a complete solution to meet all your relocation needs. They take care of every aspect of the move, including packing, loading, transportation, and unloading at your new home. These companies employ teams of professionally trained movers skilled in safely handling and transporting your possessions. Full-service moving companies offer convenience by handling all the heavy lifting and providing the necessary equipment. However, their services come with a higher cost.
Self-Service Moving Companies
Self-service moving companies are a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly way to move. These companies provide rental trucks or trailers, as well as moving equipment such as dollies and furniture pads, allowing you to handle the move yourself. Self-service moving companies can save you money but require more physical labor and time on your part. You’ll be responsible for packing and securing your belongings, loading and unloading the truck or trailer, and potentially driving a bigger vehicle than you’re used to. You may need to hire additional help for heavy lifting.
Why Should You Read the Fine Print in a Moving Contract?
Having a copy of your moving contract and understanding its terms is crucial for a positive moving experience. The language used in these contracts can be confusing, so we’ve defined some key terms below.
What Is a Bill of Lading?
A bill of lading is a legal moving contract that contains all the important information about your shipment, including the description, condition, quantity, and destination of your goods. It also includes a receipt and can function as a document of ownership.
Carrier vs. Broker
A carrier is a type of moving company that handles moves using its own trucks and employees. A moving broker is an intermediary that outsources your move to third-party carriers. The services you receive will depend on the broker’s partners in your area.
What Is the 110% Rule for Interstate Moves?
The FMCSA has established a regulation that moving companies can only charge up to 110% of a nonbinding estimate. This means that the final cost of your move shouldn’t exceed 110% of the initial nonbinding quote provided to you at the time of the initial estimate. The purpose of this rule is to prevent movers from significantly increasing the cost of a move beyond the initial estimate.
Binding vs. Nonbinding Estimates
A nonbinding estimate is subject to change due to market fluctuations between the day you receive it and the moving day.
If you want a more accurate estimate that won’t change, you’ll need to get a binding estimate. This involves an in-person consultation or a video call where a representative assesses your inventory and service requirements.
How Do I Plan and Prepare for an Interstate Move?
An interstate moving company streamlines your move to a new home across state lines, but you still need to prepare ahead of moving day for a successful experience.
Here’s how you should plan and prepare to move out of state move:
- Downsize: The less you have, the less your move will cost. Create a home inventory list that keeps track of the items you plan to sell, donate, or throw away.
- Create an inventory list: Write up an inventory list by room. You should also estimate how many boxes you’ll need for each room’s items.
- Research moving companies: Start assembling a list of reputable companies serving your area. The FMCSA is a great government resource to find a company’s insurance information and see whether it has any active red flags, such as revoked licensing.
- Get quotes and book your move: Get quotes from all of the moving companies you’re considering six weeks to one month ahead of your move date. Aim to book your move at least a month in advance. Get copies of your moving contract when you confirm your move date. Also, read the FMCSA’s Rights and Responsibilities documentation; your mover should provide you with a copy.
- File a change of address: File change-of-address forms with your local post office two weeks in advance of your move date. Then, change your contact information with your bank, place of employment, and any other relevant institution.
What Timeline Should You Follow To Prepare for Your Interstate Move?
Adhering to a timeline for your interstate move can make a difference. We’ve broken down an out-of-state moving checklist and an average timeline to help you book on time and stay on track with packing for your interstate move.
Eight Weeks
Take a full inventory of your home. Write lists of what you plan to take and what you plan to get rid of. Use these lists when you request quotes from movers. Begin researching movers near you.
Six Weeks
Field quotes from movers near you and begin packing your belongings. Start with out-of-season items and work toward more essential items at a measured packing pace (a few boxes per day).
Four Weeks
Aim to book your move around a month before your move date. Continue packing your items, and arrange shut-off and turn-on dates for all utility services at your current and new addresses.
Two Weeks
Continue packing. You’ll be packing some semi-essential items at this point. File a change of address form at your local post office or online.
Moving Week
Finish your move preparations by packing your kitchen items and some of your essential clothing. Leave just enough clothing and kitchenware until the day before the move to ensure you can cook and have access to essential goods during your road trip to a new state.
How Do I Choose the Best Interstate Moving Company?
Choosing the right interstate moving company requires thorough research and evaluation. The best mover should have plenty of experience moving household goods across state borders, offer services that align with your schedule and financial constraints, and employ skilled professionals who will handle your belongings with utmost care.
- Research customer reviews: Research location-specific reviews to ensure the quality of service in your area. Even the best national moving companies have locations in areas that provide subpar service. Google Reviews, Yelp, the BBB, and social media are great sources for customer feedback. Note positive and negative trends to discern how each company treats its customers.
- Investigate reputability: Interstate movers must provide a booklet called “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) if you book an interstate household move. This will help signify you’re hiring a reputable company that works in accordance with laws and regulations.
- Check for proper licensing and credentials: Choose a mover registered with the FMCSA with all required state-level licenses and permits to operate where you’re moving from and to. Confirm that the company and its drivers have valid operating authority records and insurance to cover accidents or damages. This protects you against rogue or fraudulent movers.
- Get multiple quotes: Compare a minimum of three binding moving estimates from different highly rated companies, examining their costs, reputation, services, transit time guarantees, and insurance/valuation coverage. Reputable interstate moving companies offer binding or not-to-exceed estimates after an at-home visit to review your belongings. Be wary of extremely lowball estimates that may indicate a lack of experience or attempts to raise the price later.
- Ensure it will meet your service needs: Make a list of all services you’ll need your movers to handle before getting a quote. For example, decide if you want full packing or only loading and unloading service. If you plan to fly to your new state, you may need to consider vehicle shipping. Reference your list of required services and inquire about the accompanying rates during your in-person consultation.
- Evaluate your movers’ quote processes: Ask about deposit requirements and whether a mover provides flat-rate or binding estimates during the quote process. You can also ask about moving insurance options during the quote process.
- Confirm all logistics: Confirm logistics around pickup/delivery dates that work with your timeline and destination readiness. Established interstate moving companies with modern processes often provide online calendars and portals for convenient booking and tracking. Partnering with the right mover makes navigating an interstate relocation much less stressful.
Watch the video below for a quick guide to vetting and booking a mover:
Our Conclusion
International Van Lines gets our vote as the best mover for anyone crossing state lines, as its ample service profile should make for an easy move in any situation. The company also maintains a favorable reputation despite operating at such a large scale.
American Van Lines is another excellent option if you need to transport difficult items, such as antiques, and want highly experienced interstate movers. Safeway Moving Inc. is our pick if you want unmatched customer service and communication for your interstate move. The company may only operate as a broker, but it provides seven-day customer support and shipment tracking and features some of the highest customer review scores.
Quick Tip
- We suggest getting at least three quotes from professional interstate movers before booking. This will help you evaluate and compare the providers and ensure you get the best price for the job. We recommend obtaining quotes at least six to eight weeks before your move and booking a month in advance. This will enable you to lock in a lower rate and ensure all necessary services are taken care of.
FAQ About Interstate Movers
What are the cheapest days to hire a moving company?
The cheapest days to hire a moving company are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in the fall or spring season. Moving companies may raise rates in the summer months and on weekends to cope with higher demand. We also recommend booking your move during the week in the fall or spring to avoid paying higher rates.
What is an interstate move?
An interstate move is when you move from one state to another. It’s regulated primarily by the FMCSA.
What is an intrastate move?
An intrastate move is a move that takes place within the borders of one state, such as moving within California from Sacramento to Los Angeles.
Is it cheaper to buy new furniture or pack it for an interstate move?
It’s typically better to keep your furniture if you’re moving locally or a shorter distance. If you’re moving cross-country, selling your old furniture and buying new furniture for your new home can be more cost-effective. You’ll cut down on the size and weight of your move and reduce your overall cost with the moving company.
What should I not pack in a portable moving container for an interstate move?
You shouldn’t place the following items in a portable moving container or a moving truck:
- Acids
- Aerosols
- Batteries
- Fertilizer
- Fire extinguishers
- Gasoline
- Loaded guns
- Nail polish remover
- Paints
- Perishable foods
- Pesticides
- Poisons
- Pool chemicals
- Propane tanks
- Vehicle oil
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 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.
