Best Cheap Moving Companies
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If you’re on a budget and trying to find a moving company that won’t break the bank, it can be tough to sort through all the options. To make your search easier, we’ve ranked the best cheap moving companies by price, starting with the most budget-friendly. Whether you’re planning a local move or a long-distance relocation, our top picks offer low-cost solutions without sacrificing quality.
We spent over 4,800 hours digging into the details—interviewing industry pros, analyzing feedback from 1,000 moving customers, and comparing various companies’ services and protection plans to find the best moving companies for affordable moves without sacrificing quality. Our top choice for affordability is 1-800-PACK-RAT, with its container rentals starting as low as $2,547. U-Haul is a close second for its flexibility and DIY truck rental options.
Top Cheap Moving Companies
At the top of our rankings, 1-800-PACK-RAT and U-Haul stand out for their low upfront costs. PACK-RAT offers secure container rentals with multiple size options, while U-Haul’s DIY truck rentals are perfect for hands-on moving customers. PODS provides a balance of affordability and convenience with its flexible rental periods, while U-Pack offers unique pay-for-what-you-use pricing that’s ideal for long-distance moves. Finally, International Van Lines rounds out our rankings as a great choice for budget-friendly, full-service moving.
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: Best Self-Service Mover
- U-Haul: Most Flexible Moving Container Service
- PODS: Convenience
- U-Pack: Most Affordable
- International Van Lines: Best Full-Service Mover
Comparing Our Top Cheap Movers
Check out the table below for a quick comparison of the key details between our picks, including costs, deposit requirements, and licensing. To calculate average prices, we requested five quotes from each company for two-bedroom moves. These quotes helped us identify which companies provide the most cost-effective options for different types of moves.
| Provider | Logo | Our Score (Out of 5) | BBB Rating* | Average Price** | Deposit | FMCSA Licensing | Get a Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | A+ | $2,547 | Varies | Carrier/Broker | Get Quote | ||
 | A+ | $2,768 | Varies | Carrier | |||
 | A+ | $3,306 | None | Carrier/Broker | Read Our Review | ||
 | A+ | $3,705 | None | Carrier | Get Quote | ||
| A+ | $5,250 | Up to 25% | Carrier/Broker | Get Quote |
*The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of December 2024.
**Cost data was sourced from sample quotes we gathered from each provider for moves ranging between 500 and 800 miles.
Our list includes a mix of full-service, self-service, and DIY moving providers to help you find the best cheap option for your needs. This means each provider offers a mixture of services, although each of these movers offers packing, unpacking, loading, and unloading services. Get an idea of what each moving company offers in the table below.
| Specialty Services Offered | 1-800-PACK-RAT | U-Haul | PODS | U-Pack | International Van Lines |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle shipping | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Fragile-only packing | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Furniture disassembly/reassembly | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Crating | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Appliance and electronics handling | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Antique/specialty services | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Piano moving | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Office moves | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
Key Terms To Know When Hiring a Cheap Moving Company
Here’s a quick list of key moving terms to help you navigate the process, especially if you’re aiming for a cost-effective move. Knowing these terms can save you from hidden fees and help you make more informed decisions:
- Binding vs. nonbinding estimate: A binding estimate is a fixed quote that won’t change on moving day, which is great for staying on budget. A nonbinding estimate is an educated guess that could go up or down based on the actual weight of your shipment. Cheap movers sometimes offer nonbinding estimates to attract customers, so we recommend asking how close their initial quotes typically are to the final bill to help avoid surprises.
- Container move: This budget-friendly option, offered by companies like U-Pack and 1-800-PACK-RAT, gives you a hands-off transport option while still allowing you to pack and load yourself. Your container will be dropped off at your old home so you can pack it, and then it will be delivered to your new home. Containers can be less expensive than full-service moves, especially for long distances.
- DIY move: A DIY move involves options such as renting a U-Haul truck and handling the packing, loading, and driving, which saves you money compared to a full-service move.
- Fuel surcharge: With gas prices fluctuating, some companies add a fuel surcharge to cover their costs. Movers don’t always include this fee in your initial quote, so we recommend asking upfront if it’s part of the price.
- Full-service move: This is a pricier option, where the moving company handles everything from packing and loading to transporting and unpacking. While it’s the most convenient option, it’s also the most expensive. Full-service moves are great if you want a stress-free move and can afford a little extra.
- Line-haul charges: This is the cost of transporting your stuff from point A to point B, which is typically based on distance and weight. For cheap long-distance moves, look for companies with low line-haul charges or flexible pricing models, such as U-Pack’s pay-per-foot trailer option.
Our Reviews of the Best Cheap Moving Companies
The companies on our list are ranked in order of cheapest to most expensive rather than by our scoring system. That’s because cost is the most important part of a cheap move, although we also evaluated service offerings, customer satisfaction, ease of use, and unique money-saving features such as flexible payment options.
For example, a company like International Van Lines scores higher than some cheaper options because it offers full-service moves at a lower cost than other full-service providers, providing excellent value for those who need hands-off assistance. By factoring in cost and value, we aim to give you a well-rounded view of what each company brings to the table.
1-800-PACK-RAT
Best Self-Service Mover Company Overview
- Has three container sizes for you to choose from: 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot
- Offers price-matching for comparable services from competitors, like PODS
- Offers greater flexibility than other self-service movers like U-Pack or PODS
Keep in Mind
- Limits rental periods for containers to 30 days at a time, so you may pay for more time than you need
- Outsources some services to third parties, which can save money but add complexity to your move
Our Review
At just $2,547 on average for a two-bedroom move, 1-800-PACK-RAT offers the lowest prices on our list, making it our top choice for cheap moves. PACK-RAT is a partial-service mover—it offers portable containers that are weatherproof with steel frames, walls, and doors, so you can have peace of mind that your items won’t be affected by bad weather during your move.
1-800-PACK-RAT’s three container sizes (8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot) make it ideal for budget-conscious moving customers, as you can select the exact size they need and avoid paying for unused space. Smaller containers are perfect for small moves and reducing costs, while larger options offer flexibility for bigger loads.
Since PACK-RAT doesn’t handle packing or loading (it partners with HireAHelper), you need to outsource any extra assistance you might need. While coordinating services through a third party takes a little extra effort, it gives you the flexibility to save money by choosing only the services you want.
Similar to PODS, PACK-RAT also has a 30-day rental period cap, which could lead to additional charges if you need more time. Although it’s a bit more hands-on, PACK-RAT is still a great choice for a budget-friendly move that offers control and flexibility.
Customer Experiences
PACK-RAT has an A+ rating with the BBB, though its customer rating sits around 2.38 out of 5 stars, which is fairly average for the moving industry. On Google, the company’s headquarters holds a more solid 3.8 out of 5 stars. It’s worth keeping in mind that moving companies often get more negative reviews online—people tend to share feedback when something goes wrong rather than when everything goes smoothly.
Those who have had positive experiences with PACK-RAT mention its fair pricing, reliable deliveries, and friendly customer service. However, some reviewers have pointed out issues like forklift troubles or vehicle breakdowns during transit. We appreciate that PACK-RAT is responsive to these concerns and often compensates customers when things don’t go as planned.
“Pack Rat made our move so much easier! Their incredible flexibility and friendly staff helped us to make the best plans for our familys cross country move. They were so patient and helpful with our ever-changing plans. They even allowed us to change container sizes when we realized we needed a bit more. … . Seriously an amazing, real people-focused company. Everything arrived in great condition and on time. This was our 8th move and the first time with Pack Rat, we will never move again without them!” —Jessica V. via BBB, November 2024
“No callbacks, no delivery, and no customer service. We had a delivery prescheduled for Saturday. They said the truck had issues and would deliver on Saturday or Sunday. We texted as a follow-up on Saturday but received no reply. We texted again on Sunday, but there was still no reply. They lied repeatedly. They are closed on Sundays, so there was never any thought to deliver on Sunday. We lost money on a crew to unpack the unit.” —Jim P. via Google Reviews, August 2024
U-Haul
Most Flexible Moving Container Service Company Overview
- Provides flexibility through a large catalog of truck sizes
- Has over 23,000 locations nationwide, making it easy to find pickup and drop-off points
- Has convenient portable storage containers that are cheaper than full-service moves
Keep in Mind
- May require additional unforeseen costs over time, such as fuel and extra storage
- Has customer reviews mentioning reservation changes on short notice
Our Review
U-Haul ranks high on our list for its affordability and wide availability. With six van and truck sizes plus additional services to fit most moving needs, U-Haul is a great option for DIY movers who don’t mind doing the heavy lifting. U-Haul’s vehicles range in size from 8–26 feet, so you can move anything from a few pieces of furniture to a five-bedroom home. Plus, U-Haul offers a portable storage container called U-Box—another affordable moving option—if you prefer not to drive a large moving truck.
You can find U-Haul locations across all 50 states, and booking your truck or U-Box is a breeze. One standout feature is U-Haul’s $50 reservation guarantee. If the company doesn’t meet your selected time, location, or equipment size through no fault of your own, it’ll give you your $50 back. This is the only mover on our list that offers any sort of upfront refund policy for date and time changes. Always check your moving contract for any compensation policies.
That said, U-Haul’s affordability can come with trade-offs. Additional costs such as fuel, mileage, and insurance can add up, especially for long-distance moves, and you’ll get far less assistance compared to full-service moving companies. We ranked U-Haul below PACK-RAT because its total costs can be less predictable, but it’s still a solid choice for those who value low pricing and control over their move.
Customer Experiences
U-Haul holds an A+ rating and accreditation from the BBB, but its headquarters page has 1.1 out of 5 stars. Each U-Haul location’s customer rating varies greatly, so we recommend you focus on what branch you plan to use rather than this score. For example, a popular U-Haul location in Denver has 3 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews.
Most negative reviews focus on U-Haul’s rude customer service staff and indifference when issues arise, such as being charged twice for a service. Other reviews mention catching great deals from U-Haul and appreciate how cheap and effective truck rentals are for moving.
“I went to the broadway U-Haul in Sacramento where Marlis is the manager. The entire experience was great. No hiccups. I showed up just before the store closed to rent a 10ft box truck. The manager, Marlis, had me set up with a truck in minutes.” —Shannon O. via Trustpilot, May 2024
“Some of the most indifferent, unprofessional, and most discourteous customer service I’ve ever been subjected to. Horrible experience. Neither employee acted like they wanted to help me with my SCHEDULED appointment but they spent 20 minutes on personal phone calls before deciding to help me. They also didnt have the equipment for my install and, of course, didnt bother to call me to let me know this.” —Charles C. via BBB, November 2024
Company Overview
- Gives you a minimum of 30 days to pack and load a container at your own pace
- Features transparent pricing online and throughout the quote process
- Has ground-level containers that make loading simple
Keep in Mind
- Has varied unit availability across locations
- Doesn’t have a tracking app
Our Review
PODS secures the middle spot on our list for its transparent pricing and flexible rental periods. At an average cost of $3,306 for long-distance, two-bedroom moves, PODS offers an attractive mix of affordability and convenience, making it a great option if you need extra time to pack and load. We ranked PODS behind PACK-RAT and U-Haul because it is slightly pricier and has a smaller service area. However, it gives you as much time as you need to pack, which is great for larger moves. PODS containers lay flat on the ground and feature roll-up doors for easy loading.
PODS isn’t as widely available as some other movers on our list. If you’re planning on moving to or from Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, or Wyoming, you may want to partner with another company on our list, such as PACK-RAT. PODS can also be more expensive than U-Pack, but it frequently runs promotions on its website that can help bring costs down. As long as you’re comfortable not having a mobile app to track your container—PACK-RAT doesn’t have this either—PODS could be a great choice for your relocation.
Customer Experiences
PODS has an A+ rating with the BBB and a decent customer rating of 3.12 out of 5 stars. Its Google Reviews score at its popular Atlanta location is a bit better at 3.3 out of 5 stars.
Many customers like that PODS offers on-time delivery and a hassle-free experience. That said, some reviewers mention delays and less-than-helpful customer support, so keep this in mind if you’re considering PODS for your cheap move.
“The entire process was very smooth and efficient. The original customer service set up the entire process ordering the (2) PODs and scheduling. He was very helpful. PODs was in constant communication via text, email and phone calls. The PODs themselves were clean and sturdy. We had our [POD] on our driveway during a hurricane and it withstood the hurricane just fine and there was no water in [it] after. Our belongings shipped in the [POD] arrived intact just the way we originally packed them with no damage or load shift. Highly recommend.” —Andy N. via BBB, November 2024
“PODS did a horrible job when scheduling my pickup and drop off. PODS cost me additional moving expenses due to their logistics/scheduling mistakes and could care less about reimbursement of the additional expenses. My first experience with PODS about 2 years ago was great; however, this last experience….let’s just say it will be my last.” —Chandra F. via Google Reviews, August 2024
Company Overview
- Offers a unique pay-for-what-you-use option that decreases the overall cost to only how much space you need
- Has a U-Pack Guaranteed add-on that means you’ll know the exact day your belongings will be dropped off at your new home
- Offers trailers and portable moving containers
Keep in Mind
- Requires moves to exceed 150 miles
- Only gives you three days to load and unload your belongings, as opposed to 30 days from PODS and PACK-RAT
Our Review
U-Pack’s unique pay-for-what-you-use trailer pricing makes it a standout option for long-distance moves. At an average cost of $3,705 for a two-bedroom move, U-Pack is more expensive upfront than PACK-RAT, U-Haul, or PODS, but it provides significant savings for large shipments and long hauls. U-Pack’s trailers are great for customers looking to move without breaking the bank. In fact, this setup often yields lower costs for larger loads compared to its popular ReloCubes, which are storage containers similar to what’s offered by PACK-RAT, U-Haul, and Pods.
The company will bring the trailer to you and then deliver it to your final destination. Rates are based on how much space you use in the trailer rather than weight—so if you stack your belongings like a pro (or hire a pro for packing), you can save some cash.
While U-Pack has some great pros, it also has a few downsides. We ranked it lower because it’s only available for moves over 150 miles, and its three-day loading and unloading window is more restrictive than most. Compared to International Van Lines, U-Pack offers a more affordable alternative for those willing to handle their own packing and loading while still benefiting from professional transport services.
Customer Experiences
U-Pack has an A+ rating from the BBB and an impressive average of 4.54 out of 5 stars from customer reviews. Its popular Atlanta location even holds a 4.4 out of 5 rating across. We saw a few trends: Customers love the flexible, à la carte services that let you only pay for what you need. That said, reviewers also mention delayed deliveries and long delivery windows. While these delays are sometimes due to factors like weather, it’s good to keep timing in mind if you’re on a tight schedule.
“U-Pack service was flawless from beginning to end. Moved from Georgia to Santa Barbara. Price was the lowest and service provided was world class. Even when I called, reps were very helpful and knowledgeable. I will highly recommend U-Pack and will definitely use their service again in the future. Thanks a lot!” —Sonia G. via Google Reviews, October 2024
“The drivers were excellent, but that was it. I am in the military and opted for U-Pack to do my household goods move. We used 18′ of the trailer almost loaded to the ceiling except the last 3 feet, which were about half full. The empty and full weight tickets they provided said a full 3 bedroom house was less than 3,000 pounds. All the weight estimators I did online were at about 5,000 pounds, but U-Pack refuses to say that the same cab with the same tire pressure and same amount of gas were used in the weights. I will be disputing the charge on my credit card and have filed a claim on their website.” —Tina S. via BBB, August 2024
International Van Lines
Best Full-Service Mover Company Overview
- Offers some of the lowest prices we’ve encountered for full-service movers
- Includes 30 days of storage with all interstate moves
- Caters to domestic and international moves
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t offer upfront, flat-rate pricing or binding estimates
- Local branches are only available in five states
Our Review
International Van Lines (IVL) rounds out our list as the cheapest full-service mover. While most full-service moving companies run over $6,000 for long-distance moves, IVL came in at around $5,250 for a two-bedroom move. IVL provides comprehensive services—packing, unpacking, loading, unloading, storage, and even vehicle shipping—at a price significantly lower than other full-service providers. Its 30 days of free storage with interstate moves is a valuable perk—especially if you’re unsure what your final destination is or are moving on a complex timeline.
While its prices are competitive for full-service moves, they’re still significantly higher than the self-service and DIY options on this list. It also lacks flat-rate pricing—this can make budgeting difficult, so we recommend planning for possible increases. Compared to movers like U-Pack, IVL eliminates the need for hands-on labor, so it still offers excellent value if you’re looking for convenience and need help with every step of the moving process.
Customer Experiences
IVL has a somewhat mixed reputation on review sites. The BBB averages the company at 3 out of 5 stars. It does better on Google, with a star rating of 4.2 out of 5. Many customers appreciate how friendly and professional the movers are, making the process feel smooth and manageable. That said, reviews also mention communication and scheduling hiccups—one international customer noted some long gaps in responses, sometimes stretching over months.
“The IVL team was efficient and professional. All of my possessions were perfectly packed. All of the large pieces of furniture were placed where I wanted them, with adjustments made when I changed my mind. I could not have been more pleased. I would totally recommend this company.” —Brooks Z. via BBB, May 2024
“Pick up went well. But, once our items arrived, it was clear they were handled roughly, and even mishandled. Many boxes were crushed, even when marked ‘Fragile’ or ‘Do Not Stack’. The plate box was clearly dropped, had several broken plates. Long box for fishing poles was compressed enough to break the tips of two poles. … At pickup load charge was increased by $1,000, even though I had updated the inventory prior to pick up. I expected some additional charge, but that was a big increase. Overall, I wouldn’t give my household to these folks. Rough handling and overcharges.” —Herb S. via Google Reviews, October 2024
How Much Does a Move Cost?
Many factors determine a move’s cost, including whether you book a local move to a nearby city or a long-distance move to another state. Hiring a full-service moving company near you will typically come with higher costs than a container company with portable storage units that you load and unload unassisted. A DIY move is a cheaper but more stressful option, and many providers have partial packing services that establish a middle ground in terms of costs.
“Moving distance is going to be the biggest factor in addition to the actual locations for the move,” says Nicholas B. Irwin, Ph.D., research director at the Lied Center at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. “If the move is between two larger cities, the quotes will generally be much lower than a similar distance move between two small towns due to the fact the mover will likely need to return the equipment and staff back to a bigger city to position itself for the next move.”
Carter Murdoch, Ph.D., executive director of the Henderson Real Estate Institute at Drexel University, discusses an unexpected factor: “Home accessibility is one factor many folks don’t think of, but it can significantly increase your move’s price tag. Additional factors include the delicacy of furniture requiring special packing, wardrobe packing services, and the distance items must be carried from the house to the truck,” he says.
Below is a breakdown of how cost factors vary depending on whether your move is a single-day or a multiday move, along with how costs can vary based on the length of your move.
Cost by Company
We gathered five quotes from each provider for a two-bedroom move of 500–800 miles. Compared to our 2024 survey of 1,000 moving customers, these quotes are much lower for two-bedroom moves across state lines, which averaged around $6,157. However, most of the survey respondents used a full-service mover for their moves. Due to this insight and data, we believe you’d get an excellent deal with these providers.
Cost by Distance
Moving costs can vary depending on whether you are moving locally or long distance. The table below provides a breakdown of costs based on move length.
| Move Length | Move Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Local (less than 50 miles) | Two-bedroom | $750–$1,250 |
| Intermediate (100 miles) | Two-bedroom | $2,000–$2,750 |
| Long-distance (500 miles) | Two-bedroom | $3,000–$3,750 |
Single-Day vs. Multiday Moves
If your move is local and you can get everything done in one day, you’re already on track to save. A single-day move often costs less because you’re only paying for a few hours of labor and a short truck rental. For instance, if you’re moving to a one-bedroom apartment, you might only need 3–5 hours of work, which can cost as little as $200–$500 with a budget-friendly moving company.
On the other hand, multiday moves can quickly add up. These typically involve long-distance transportation, potential storage fees, and more time spent by the movers. If your move spans multiple days, plan for additional expenses such as truck rentals and overnight costs.
Tipping
Tipping movers is customary, but the amount is flexible based on your satisfaction and budget. For a small, local move, tipping $20–$40 per mover is typical. For a longer or more complex move, $50–$100 per mover is standard. You can also calculate tips as a percentage of the total cost—10–20% is a good rule of thumb. If your movers go the extra mile (such as assembling furniture or navigating tricky stairs), tipping a little extra is a great way to show your appreciation.
Tips for Moving on a Budget
Finding a good deal with a moving company isn’t just about picking the cheapest option—it’s about being smart with your choices. Here are our top tips and tricks to help keep costs down:
- Ask about discounts and deals: Moving companies often have discounts that aren’t advertised, so don’t be shy about asking. Many movers offer reduced rates for active-duty personnel and veterans, students, and AAA members. A quick phone call can uncover savings you might otherwise miss.
- Book early: The earlier you book, the more likely you are to lock in lower rates—especially during busy seasons like summer or end-of-month moves. To save even more, choose midweek or midmonth dates, which are typically less expensive. If possible, schedule your move during the offseason (October–March), when demand and prices are lower.
- Compare quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you get. We recommend reaching out to at least three companies for estimates. Some providers, like U-Pack, make it easy to get quick online quotes. Comparing prices ensures you’re getting the best deal.
- Downsize: If you plan your move far enough in advance, you’ll have enough time to downsize before your move date. Start by compiling a full inventory of your home. Break this list down room by room, and note which items you’ll take with you and which you’ll get rid of. Make appropriate plans to dispose of unwanted items. This may mean making regular trips to a town dump or organizing a yard sale, but downsizing will be less costly than having your movers transport unwanted goods. Barry Hersh, clinical professor at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate, offers practical advice for downsizing: “One rule of thumb is that if you have not used or worn an item (clothing or other) for a full calendar year, it may be time to dispose of it. A garage or yard sale, pass along of outgrown children’s clothing, or tax-deductible gifts to charity are all options.”
- Look for small-load or shared-load options: If you’re only moving a few items or a small apartment, look for small-load pricing or shared-load options. These services combine your belongings with other shipments heading in the same direction to lower your costs. Companies like U-Pack automatically offer pay-for-what-you-use pricing, which is perfect for smaller moves.
When considering cost-saving strategies, Murdoch says, “Pack your own items, especially books and personal belongings. Consider moving valuable or irreplaceable antiques yourself, as they may require special care beyond standard moving services. Schedule moves midweek rather than on weekends when labor costs are higher and availability is limited. Shop between different movers, as quotes can vary by up to 25% for the same job.”
Moving Regulations To Know
When you’re looking for a cheap moving company, understanding the rules and regulations can save you time, money, and headaches. Moving companies are required to follow certain laws to protect customers, but knowing what to look out for will help you make smart choices—and avoid scams or surprise fees. Here’s what to look out for:
- Licensing: For interstate moves, companies must have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. Verify this on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to check that your mover is licensed. Licensing requirements for local moves vary, so check with your state’s transportation or consumer affairs department for specifics.
- Weight tickets: For long-distance moves, you’re usually charged based on the weight of your shipment. If your move is priced by weight, the moving company must weigh the truck before and after loading your belongings and then provide a certified weight ticket for transparency. Ask for a copy of the weight ticket if your final cost seems off—it’s your right.
- “Your rights and responsibilities” booklet: For interstate moves, moving companies are required by law to provide you with a booklet called Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move. This outlines your rights as a customer, including details about estimates, liability, and dispute resolution. Reviewing this booklet before signing a contract can save you from surprises.
- The 110% rule for interstate moves: The FMCSA has established a rule that states moving companies can only charge up to 110% of a nonbinding estimate. This means that the final cost of your move should not 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 moving companies from significantly increasing the cost of a move beyond the initial estimate, which could cause financial difficulties.
Quick Tip
- Before signing any contract, Sue Lawless, executive director and chief safety officer for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, emphasizes the importance of understanding the 110% rule. “Under the 110% rule, a mover cannot require payment above 110% of the original nonbinding estimate before they deliver a customer’s belongings. A nonbinding estimate is not a guarantee of final costs, but it should be reasonably accurate,” she says.
Nailing Down Your Moving Timeline
“Moving is one of the most psychologically stressful events that any of us experience in our lives,” says Karen McGrath, Ph.D., assistant professor of finance at Bucknell University. “Not only is it typically with a major life change, such as a new job, marriage, or divorce, but the upheaval and additional work associated with finding a new home, packing, and living in a state of relative chaos for a period of time can be extremely challenging emotionally,” she says.
During this stressful time, having a good timeline can help things go smoothly—without feeling like you’re juggling too much. While you may not have a ton to move, it’s still easy to get overwhelmed if you don’t plan ahead.
- Three to four weeks out: Start by making a list of everything you’re planning to move—and try to keep it minimal. Can you sell or donate some things? The less you have to move, the less you’ll spend. Look into your transportation options early, such as renting a small moving van or a U-Haul. They book up fast, especially during busy moving seasons, so it’s a good idea to lock that down early. If you’re thinking of hiring a moving company, it’s also best to secure them now, even for a smaller load.
- Two weeks out: This is when the packing should kick into high gear, but start with the stuff you rarely use. For a smaller move, it’s easiest to pack by room or by category (such as books or kitchen items). Label your boxes with the basics—a simple “Books” or “Kitchen” will do. Set aside things that you’ll need immediately after the move, including chargers, toiletries, or a few cleaning supplies. It’s also a good time to make sure everything is sorted and ready so that you’re not left scrambling at the last minute.
- One week out: Double-check the things you’ve set aside and make sure everything is packed in an organized way. Also, handle the final details—such as notifying the utilities and forwarding your mail. Confirm your transport plans, whether it’s the rental van or a moving company, so there are no surprises. If you’ve enlisted friends or family to help, we recommend confirming with them, too.
- Moving day: Keep things organized. When loading the van, be strategic—pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top to make unloading easier. Keep a few boxes of essentials with you so you can easily find things once you’re settled in.
“Plan your move as far in advance as possible,” says McGrath. “Taking the time to get multiple quotes from moving companies may involve in-home visits for the most accurate pricing. Allowing the moving company to plan in advance if you will be sharing a truck with other movers will help make the process as efficient as possible. Having all of these things worked out in advance will help you reduce your stress in advance of packing and the actual upheaval of the move itself.”
Advice From Real Moving Customers
We interviewed previous moving customers to learn more about their experiences with using moving companies. However, one individual we talked to did his best to save as much money as possible by not using any moving company and relying on personal vehicles and his family for help. Max shared that he went through a local move in the Twin Cities area. He relied on the support he had from his family for both moving labor and vehicles, and he also had to take a week off from work. Max described himself as a young, single man with pretty minimal belongings, so he felt this approach could work well to save him money.
However, he shared that if he had a significant other, a larger home, or had to move a great distance, hiring a mover would be on the table. Without these stipulations, Max mentioned that burnout could quickly destroy this process for him. If you are in a similar situation, it’s best to take the time to find a moving company that meets your budget and needs.
Expert Insights and Tips
How We Evaluated Moving Providers
To review moving companies, our team analyzed websites, spoke to customer service representatives, requested numerous quotes, and surveyed 1,000 moving customers.
Our Rating System
To rank moving providers, we created a rating system based on six factors that reflect the overall quality and reliability of each company. Here’s what we looked at:
- Item protection (20%): All movers are required to offer two insurance options, but many offer additional options to maximize the protection of your belongings. We scored companies offering three or more options the highest. We also awarded more points to movers offering additional protections such as antique and specialty services, custom crating, and GPS tracking.
- Service offerings (19%): Top providers offer comprehensive moving services, including local and long-distance moves, packing/unpacking, and custom options tailored to specific needs. Poor providers offer limited or restrictive services. The more services a company offered, the higher we scored it.
- Customer service (18%): Companies with high BBB ratings and customer response rates received more points. We also awarded more points to movers who offered easy access to moving calculators, checklists, and contact information on their website.
- Value (18%): We gathered five quotes from each mover to create an average price for a two-bedroom move between 500 and 800 miles. The lower the price, the higher we rated the company. We also awarded more points to providers that offered binding estimates rather than ballpark quotes, as well as those that offered more financial flexibility through portable storage container moves.
- Reputation (14%): We analyzed a company’s overall industry reputation. We checked each provider’s licensing status and awarded more points to those that operated as carriers—meaning they performed the work themselves—since that yields a more streamlined user experience. We also rewarded providers with transparent background-checking processes, and we compared their inspection rate to the average Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) fail rate.
- Scheduling (11%): The best movers are easy to work with, flexible, and accommodating of tight schedules, while less reliable companies may overpromise and underdeliver. We gave more points to companies that offered at least two contact options, had a mobile app for tracking, and offered virtual surveys for quotes for added convenience.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
