Looking to relocate within the Sunshine State or move to Florida from elsewhere? Finding reliable movers can make all the difference between a smooth transition and a stressful one. After thoroughly researching dozens of the best movers operating in Florida, we’ve picked American Van Lines as our top recommendation. It stands out due to its high-quality services, competitive pricing, and excellent track record with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which regulates movers in the state.
Our evaluation considered factors uniquely important to Florida moves, including hurricane preparedness, handling of humidity-sensitive items, specialized services for senior relocations, and the ability to navigate the state’s diverse environments from crowded urban centers like Miami to retirement communities in Naples. Whether you’re moving to escape the snow, retiring to the coast, or relocating for work, our guide can help you find the perfect moving partner for your Florida transition.
Key Takeaways
- American Van Lines not only tops our list for the best Florida mover, but it was also the most used company in Florida (tied with Allied Van Lines) in our 2025 survey of 1,000 recent moving customers.
- Our survey also found that the average moving cost in Florida between both local and long-distance moves is $3,114.
- Out of the 80 respondents in our survey who had a Florida move, 41% of them found that full-service packing was a worthwhile service to add to their move. Of those, 70% still felt it was worth it, even for a local move within the state.
Top Moving Companies in Florida
Although we found American Van Lines to be the best overall mover for Florida moves, your specific moving needs might point to another mover as your best option, such as needing more specialized services or relocating to the state internationally. Here are our top recommendations for professional movers in the Sunshine State:
- American Van Lines: Best for Transparent Pricing
- Allied Van Lines: Best for Industry Experience
- International Van Lines: Best for International Moves
- JK Moving Services: Best Comprehensive Moving Services
- North American Van Lines: Best for Large Moves
Compare the Top Moving Companies in Florida
Before getting into the details on what makes a Florida mover better for you than another, check out some of the most significant factors, such as pricing and licensing, in the table below.
| Company | Our Score (Out of 5) | BBB Rating* | Average Price** | Deposit | FMCSA Licensing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A- | $3,218 | 10%–50% | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,520 | None | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,112 | Up to 25% | Carrier | ||
A+ | $2,273 | $250 | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,601 | None | Carrier/Broker |
Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of April 2025.
Note: Costs were calculated based on the 1,000 quotes we received for moves nationwide from previous moving customers within the last two years.
Our Top Picks For Moving Companies in Florida
Take a closer look at the best moving companies in Florida in the sections below.
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (AVL) stands out as our No. 1 recommendation for Florida relocations, earning this distinction by being the most frequently chosen moving company among Florida residents in our 2025 survey of 1,000 moving customers nationwide.
What sets American Van Lines apart is its investment in quality. The company exclusively employs full-time moving professionals who complete rigorous training at its dedicated Pompano Beach facility. This specialized training ensures its teams can expertly handle everything from valuable antiques and delicate artwork to bulky home appliances with the care Florida’s climate demands.
AVL offers a complete suite of moving services tailored to Florida residents’ needs, including custom crating for valuable items, furniture disassembly and reassembly, professional packing and unpacking, and flexible storage solutions for your in-between moving needs. As a direct carrier rather than a broker, American Van Lines maintains full control over your move from start to finish, meaning you’ll work with its trained teams throughout the process rather than having your services unexpectedly outsourced to unknown third-party providers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Works strictly as a moving carrier and doesn’t outsource services
- Offers price-matching if you find a lower price elsewhere
- Extends a guaranteed delivery option for an extra cost
Cons
- Doesn’t offer online moving quotes
- May require a large upfront deposit of up to 50%
Cost and Services
We found that American Van Lines costs $3,218 on average for both local and long-distance moves. However, we found that Florida moving customers with a two-bedroom home received average pricing closer to $2,324. This pricing is competitive compared to the national average cost to move at $3,020.
Here are the services that American Van Lines offers:
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Loading
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Office moves
- Unloading
- Unpacking
Allied Van Lines
Founded in 1928, Allied Van Lines stands out as the longest-established moving company among our recommended Florida movers. Its specialization in long-distance moves makes it particularly valuable for the many out-of-state transplants heading to the Sunshine State. Allied’s fragile-only packing service is great for protecting valuable items from Florida’s humidity, and its Allied Express moving container option is an excellent middle-ground solution for budget-conscious movers.
For those weighing traditional full-service moving against do-it-yourself (DIY) container options, Allied provides a compelling advantage: guaranteed delivery dates for its storage containers without the premium pricing typically associated with such commitments. In our 2025 moving survey, Allied was the only company consistently reported to honor its quoted prices without surprise additional charges, which is a big benefit in a state where moving costs can fluctuate seasonally. Unlike competitors who provide estimates over the phone, Allied requires an in-person inspection before quoting, resulting in more accurate pricing.
However, while Allied operates as both a carrier and a broker, moves outside its direct service territory may be outsourced to partner companies, which is something to discuss during your in-home assessment.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers a comprehensive online tracking system for moves
- Provides moving container services through Allied Express
- Has premium moving options for transporting vintage and antique vehicles
Cons
- Doesn’t offer 24/7 customer service
- May outsource your move to a partner company
Cost and Services
Allied has an overall average price of $3,520 across local and long-distance moves across the nation. The average cost of a Florida move based on the 100 quotes we received is $3,500, meaning you’ll most likely be quoted a price around this point. Here are the services Allied offers for its moves:
- Appliance/electronics disconnection
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Junk removal
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
International Van Lines
International Van Lines (IVL) has Florida roots, having established its operations in Coral Springs before expanding nationwide. This Florida mover brings local expertise to Sunshine State moves while offering impressive global capabilities. As one of the few Florida movers providing door-to-door international relocation services across more than 140 countries, IVL stands out for Florida residents planning overseas moves. Its international vehicle shipping service is a valuable option for snowbirds or permanent relocators who want their vehicles at their destination.
Operating as both a moving carrier and a broker, IVL maintains a vast network of moving partners throughout the country. While this means one of IVL’s local partners might handle your move in certain regions, it also means broader service availability and specialized expertise in different locations. IVL’s services cater to Florida’s unique moving needs, including climate-controlled options for humidity-sensitive items, specialty crating for valuable possessions, and special handling of antiques and fragile items. Professional packing and specialty packing supplies were the two most popular add-on services for Florida moves in our survey.
What truly distinguishes IVL from competitors is its inclusion of one month’s complimentary storage with every move, which is a valuable perk in Florida’s dynamic real estate market, where closing dates can shift unexpectedly due to financing contingencies or hurricane season complications.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Is a Florida-based moving company
- Is licensed as a carrier and broker
- Offers 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Doesn’t provide online quotes
- Requires you to pay 50% of your total cost upon pickup
Cost and Services
IVL costs an average of $3,112 across the U.S., and its average Florida move cost from the over 260 quotes we gathered is close to that same price at $3,041. However, we found that its two-bedroom average pricing in Florida is highly competitive at $1,980.
Below are the services IVL offers:
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Junk removal
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
JK Moving Services
JK Moving Services provides Florida residents with expert long-distance moving services with a personalized white-glove approach. The company doesn’t offer local moves in Florida, but it specializes in interstate relocations, assigning each client a dedicated coordinator to create a tailored moving plan that addresses specific logistics, costs, and seasonal timing to avoid hurricane season pricing.
JK Moving’s services are especially beneficial for Florida’s retiree population, offering specialized handling for pianos, antiques, and high-value items sensitive to humidity. It collaborates with Montway Auto Transport for seamless vehicle relocation, which is critical for snowbirds moving seasonally. Additionally, its mobile app allows real-time shipment tracking, which is helpful for navigating weather delays. While its climate-controlled storage facilities are in Maryland and Virginia, it provides robust insurance options for added peace of mind during Florida moves.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides experienced coordinators for planning relocations around Florida’s hurricane season
- Offers moisture-resistant materials to combat Florida’s humidity
- Has financing available through Enhancify
Cons
- Doesn’t feature Florida-based storage services
- Has limited availability during peak Florida moving season
Cost and Services
Although we found that JK Moving costs $2,273 on average, we didn’t have enough respondents in our survey to accurately gauge what the company costs in Florida. However, our own secret shopping experience with the company yielded a much higher quote to move a two-bedroom home from Atlanta, Georgia, to Chicago, Illinois, with furniture disassembly and wrapping, loading, unloading, and full value coverage at $7,520.
Here are the services JK Moving offers:
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines (NAVL) is a trusted name in the moving industry, offering a comprehensive selection of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of Florida movers. It was the third most picked company in our survey for Florida moves. Whether you’re relocating across the state or making a long-distance move from or to Florida, NAVL provides a wide range of full- and partial-service options, including expert packing and unpacking, careful loading and unloading, and flexible storage solutions. Its standout offerings, such as fragile-only packing, disassembly and reassembly of furniture and appliances, and specialized vehicle transport, are useful for Florida’s many retirees, families, and seasonal movers.
NAVL’s network means Floridians have access to short- or long-term storage facilities throughout the state, making it easier to manage staggered move-in schedules or temporary relocations. For those shipping vehicles like cars or even boats, NAVL offers open and enclosed carrier transport, with the latter providing extra protection for classic or luxury vehicles.
NAVL includes a generous contents protection plan that goes beyond the federally required minimum, offering reimbursement at $6 per pound with a minimum shipment value of $6,000. This level of care and coverage makes NAVL a smart and secure choice for anyone planning a move in or out of the Sunshine State.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has moving experience with local Florida regulations, flood-prone zones, and seasonal weather
- Offers a not-to-exceed pricing option to ensure you don’t pay more than your initial quote
- Provides a mobile app that tracks your Florida move
Cons
- Doesn’t offer any Florida-specific discounts
- May have varied agent availability across Florida locations
Cost and Services
NAVL features a typical average national price of $3,601, but our survey found its Florida prices to be highly competitive at an average of $1,321. Find NAVL’s service options below:
- Appliance/electronics disconnection
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Junk removal
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
How Much Does a Florida Move Cost?
The average moving costs in Florida are $3,114 and approximately $3.15 per mile for long-distance moves in the state. Local moves averaged around $1,319. These figures put Florida just above the national average cost to move of $3,020. Your moving price will change according to your home’s size, the total distance of the move, the services you pick, and the time of the year you move.
Get a better idea of what your move might cost by home size in Florida in the table below.
| House Size | Average Cost in Florida |
|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $2,761 |
| 2 bedrooms | $2,324 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,305 |
| 4 bedrooms | $7,132 |
How We Collected Moving Cost Data
To better estimate moving costs in Florida and nationwide, we gathered more than 2,000 quotes from 16 companies in all 50 U.S. states. We used sample addresses for single-family homes ranging from one-bedroom and studios to four-bedroom homes in each state to determine average pricing.
For Florida, this included requesting and obtaining quotes for moves to and around Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Key West, Cape Coral, West Palm Beach, Ocoee, Winter Haven, Fernandina Beach, Sarasota, and more. As a result, our state averages encompass various homeowner demographics by including both urban and rural areas. We then averaged together the cost of hiring a mover in each state to determine a national price range.
Additional Factors Affecting Move Costs
Here are some additional factors to know that influence the total cost to move in Florida:
- Time of year: Moving during Florida’s peak seasons, such as summer or during the snowbird migration in fall and spring, can drive up demand and rates. Hurricane season (June to November) may also lead to delays or limited availability, which can impact scheduling and costs.
- Services selected: Opting for full-service options like packing, unpacking, furniture assembly, or vehicle transport through NAVL will raise the overall price. In Florida, services like climate-sensitive packing or boat transport are more commonly requested, adding to the total cost.
- Home layout: Homes with multiple stories, tight staircases, or limited access (like condos in Miami Beach with strict HOA elevator rules) require more labor and time, increasing your final bill. Movers may charge extra for navigating long hallways, gated communities, or high-rise buildings.
- Total distance: The farther you move, whether within Florida or across state lines, the higher the transportation and fuel costs. Moves from remote or less accessible Florida areas (like the Keys or Panhandle) may also incur travel surcharges.
- Home size: Larger homes naturally involve more items, more time to pack/load, and possibly a larger crew. Florida’s mix of spacious suburban homes and downsized condos means that cost can vary widely depending on the property type and volume of belongings.
Moving Factors To Consider in Florida
Florida’s popularity as a relocation destination is having a surge, with United Van Lines’ 48th Annual National Movers Study revealing that Florida ranks among the top inbound states, with approximately 55% of moves being into rather than out of the state. According to U.S. Census Bureau State-to-State Migration Flows data, Florida gained over 400,000 new residents in 2023 alone, with significant numbers coming from New York, New Jersey, and California.
This migration pattern creates unique considerations for movers. Florida’s high humidity, hurricane season (June through November), and year-round heat require specialized moving expertise. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), which regulates moving companies, advises residents to verify that movers have proper insurance for Florida’s weather risks. The FDACS also notes that summer moves typically cost more than winter relocations due to the peak moving season coinciding with hurricane season.
Below is a variety of moving factors to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Florida:
- Change your address and register your car: New Florida residents must update their address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) and apply for a Florida driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency. You’ll also need to purchase Florida auto insurance before registering your car, so it’s smart to schedule Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) appointments early.
- Flood zones and home insurance: Many areas in Florida are designated flood zones. Before moving, verify whether your new home requires flood insurance and understand the implications for homeowners’ or renters’ insurance coverage. This factor is especially important for coastal or low-lying properties.
- Local utility setup and HVAC considerations: Don’t underestimate Florida’s heat. Central air conditioning is a necessity, not a luxury. Set up utilities early and confirm that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is functional before you move in. Some areas may also have unique energy providers or water restrictions, so be sure to review local utility services.
- Moving pets into the state: Florida requires a certificate of veterinary inspection for most pets entering the state. Dogs and cats must be up to date on rabies vaccinations, and exotic animals may need special permits. Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) guidelines if you’re bringing unique pets.
- Moving truck or container parking regulations: Many Florida cities, especially those with HOAs or in urban areas like Miami, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale, have restrictions on where and how long moving trucks or containers can be parked. Check with local municipalities and property managers in advance to avoid fines or complications on move-in day.
- Pest control and lawn care regulations: Florida has strict environmental regulations related to invasive species and lawn treatments. If you’re moving gardening equipment or plants, consult with the FDACS to check compliance and avoid bringing non-native pests or diseases into your new neighborhood.
- State licensing requirements: In-state movers must register with the FDACS. Always verify that your chosen moving company meets state requirements, especially if you aren’t working with a nationally recognized provider.
- Weather: Florida’s tropical and subtropical climate means hot, humid summers and a hurricane season that runs from June through November. High heat and sudden storms can impact both scheduling and safety during your move. It’s wise to book moves early in the day during summer months and to avoid peak hurricane season if flexibility allows.
How Does Florida Regulate Moving Companies
Moving regulations vary significantly from state to state, and Florida is no exception. While interstate movers are governed by federal law and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), local and in-state (intrastate) moves within Florida are regulated at the state level by the FDACS. Whether you’re hiring movers for a short trip across town or relocating from Pensacola to Miami, it’s essential to understand your rights, the required licenses, and how to protect yourself from unlicensed or fraudulent operators.
- All intrastate movers must be registered with FDACS: Any moving company performing in-state moves within Florida must be registered with the FDACS. You can verify a mover’s registration or file a complaint through the FDACS official website. Legitimate movers must display their license number (referred to as the IM number) on all marketing and moving vehicles.
- Filing a complaint in Florida: If you’ve experienced issues with a moving company, such as delays, overcharges, or property damage, you can file a formal complaint with FDACS through its online consumer complaint portal. The state investigates valid claims and may take enforcement action against noncompliant companies.
- Permit requirements in certain cities: Some Florida cities, particularly those with dense downtown areas or strict homeowners’ association rules, require special permits to park moving trucks or containers on public roads or within gated communities. Cities like Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale may issue citations if you fail to obtain one, so check with your city or neighborhood’s parking authority in advance.
- Procedure for lost or damaged items: Under Florida law, moving companies must provide written estimates and contracts that include details on liability and coverage for damaged or lost goods. You must file a claim directly with the moving company if you receive damaged items. FDACS requires movers to maintain a minimum level of insurance, and consumers may also purchase additional valuation coverage for higher protection.
- Binding vs. non-binding estimates: Florida law requires movers to provide either a binding estimate (a guaranteed price based on inventory) or a non-binding estimate (final price based on actual weight or volume). These must be clearly identified in your moving agreement, helping you avoid surprise charges.
- Unique local rules and HOA restrictions: Many Florida neighborhoods, particularly in South Florida and retirement communities, enforce strict homeowners association (HOA) rules about move-in hours, elevator usage, and moving company access. Some HOAs require that movers be licensed and insured specifically in Florida, so always check these requirements with your building management or HOA board before scheduling your move.
Insights From Movers in Florida
We surveyed 1,000 recent moving customers in 2025, with 80 respondents having a Florida move. Out of these 80 respondents, most (58%) used a local Florida mover, while the second most popular choice was American Van Lines. Many Florida movers found packing (35%) and packing supplies (35%) worth it as an add-on service, and 32% of those who received packing services reported it cost an extra $500.
Most Florida movers also experienced an overall positive experience with hiring a professional moving company. 87% shared that they received the same price they were initially quoted and avoided any surprise fees or hidden costs, leading to 89% saying they would willingly hire professional Florida movers again.
Frequently Asked Questions about Florida Moving Companies
Is it cheaper to use moving containers or a moving company?
It depends on your needs, but in many cases, moving container companies are cheaper. Companies like PODS or U-Pack can be more budget-friendly for DIY or flexible moves, especially for smaller households or long-distance relocations. However, full-service moving companies, like American Van Lines, offer professional labor, packing, and handling expertise that can save you time and reduce risk, particularly in Florida’s heat and humidity. If you’re moving during hurricane season or from a high-rise condo, professional movers may offer greater peace of mind, even if they cost a bit more.
What is the hourly rate for movers in Florida?
Hourly rates for movers in Florida typically range from $90 to $150 per hour for a two-person crew, depending on the city, season, and level of service. Urban areas like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa may have higher labor rates due to demand and traffic logistics. Premium services such as packing, furniture disassembly, or fragile-only handling will raise that rate. For full-service providers like NAVL, you may receive a flat-rate quote instead of hourly pricing, which can be more predictable for larger or longer moves.
What day is the cheapest to hire movers?
Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be the most affordable days to hire movers in Florida. Demand is lower than on weekends or month-end move-outs, which are popular times for leases to turn over. If you have flexibility, booking mid-week and mid-month during non-peak seasons (outside of summer and snowbird migration months) can help you secure lower rates and better availability with reputable companies.
How We Ranked the Best Moving Companies in Florida
To fairly and thoroughly evaluate moving companies operating in Florida, we developed a 100-point rating system grounded in real customer experiences, state-specific regulations, and hands-on testing. We gathered quotes from moves originating in Florida’s major metro areas, verified licensing with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and reviewed safety records and insurance compliance for intrastate movers.
Our team analyzed thousands of customer reviews from Florida residents and conducted secret-shopping calls to companies serving both coastal and inland regions. Each mover was scored across six essential categories, such as pricing transparency, reliability in Florida’s climate, and service quality in local markets, and assigned a final rating out of 5 stars.
Here’s how we broke down our review:
- Customer service (18%): We looked at reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot, surveyed more than 3,000 recent customers, and tested each company’s website and support team ourselves. Companies earned higher marks for having clear communication, being responsive, and providing a helpful, user-friendly online experience.
- Reputation (14%): We verified that each mover has proper licensing through the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and checked Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) safety records, specifically truck maintenance data. We also gave extra credit to companies that publicly commit to background-checking their crews, showing they prioritize customer safety.
- Value (18%): Using real quotes for 3-bedroom moves ranging from 500–800 miles, we compared average prices across providers. We also considered whether companies offer flat-rate or binding estimates and if they have a clear and simple billing process.
- Service offerings (19%): We evaluated the range of services available, from packing and unpacking to piano moving and junk removal. Movers that offer more options, including do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions like portable storage, scored higher for flexibility and convenience.
- Item protection (20%): We reviewed each company’s insurance offerings and how well it prevents damage during the move. Higher scores went to movers that offer full-value protection and use best practices like shrink wrap, padding, and floor guards.
- Scheduling (11%): We assessed how easy it is to request a quote, speak to a representative, and manage a move from start to finish. Companies with multiple contact options, digital tools like apps or customer portals, and streamlined booking processes stood out from the rest.
