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Best Moving Companies in Washington (2024)

Author Image Written by Shane Sentelle + 1 other Reviewed by Kent Sisneros Updated 10/31/2024

Whether you find yourself drawn to Washington state’s hundreds of mountains, rivers, and access to the Pacific Ocean, or you want to join the explosion of tech startups in Seattle, you’ll want to rely on a quality moving company to help you relocate. Professional Washington movers ensure all your belongings arrive safely and provide value through protection plans and general peace of mind. International Van Lines (IVL) is our top choice due to their competitive rates and variety of services. This guide pulls from our research into more than 30 moving companies to provide an easy way to find the best moving companies in Washington State.


Top 7 Moving Companies in Washington

Here are the best moving companies in Washington State that you can contact today:


Compare The Top Moving Companies in Washington

The table below presents an easy way to compare the best moving companies in Washington state.

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

4.5 / 5 4.3 / 5 4.5 / 5 4 / 5 4.7 / 5 5 / 5 4.8 / 5

BBB Rating

A+ A+ B- B A+ A+ A+

FMCSA Licensing

Carrier/Broker Carrier Carrier Broker Carrier Carrier Carrier/Broker

Average Price*

$5,250 $5,625 $5,631 $5,054 $7,171 $5,370 $5,969

Deposit Required

Up to 25% Up to 50% Up to 40% Up to 33% $250 None None

Pros

  • Flexible insurance plans
  • Free month of storage
  • Upfront pricing
  • Hires movers who average 10 years of experience
  • Provides fixed-rate quotes
  • Trains its employees regularly to efficiently handle special packing and crating
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Free month of storage for all customers
  • Light packing is available for long-distance moves
  • Offers a quick quote process for last-minute moves
  • Prescreens all third-party movers in its network
  • Provides full-service packing and crating for all moving customers
  • Background-checked movers
  • Financing available
  • Intuitive AI-assisted online quote tool
  • Climate-controlled storage facilities
  • Expedited relocation services
  • In-house vehicle shipping
  • Budget-planning service
  • No deposit
  • Only provides binding estimates

Cons

  • Below-average customer reviews
  • Outsources some moves
  • Requires up to a 25% deposit
  • Charges higher average prices
  • Has limited customer service on weekends
  • Requires a deposit of up to 50% of the total cost
  • Can’t promise extra services, such as fragile packing and crating
  • No upfront pricing
  • Reputation for difficult communication during the first phase of a move
  • No customer service on the weekends
  • No refund on your deposit if it's more than 72 hours after booking
  • Not responsible for damage due to broker status
  • Higher-than-average pricing
  • Long quote process
  • No refund on your deposit
  • Misleading quote tool
  • No weekend support
  • Slow claims process
  • Items may take 10–14 days to arrive
  • Limited storage services according to zip code
  • Three-day requirement for cancellations

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

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.

Rating Categories

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

Customer Service

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

Reputation

4.3 / 5
3.9 / 5
4.3 / 5
2.9 / 5
5 / 5
3.9 / 5
3.6 / 5

Value

2.8 / 5
3.3 / 5
3.3 / 5
4.2 / 5
3.1 / 5
4.7 / 5
4.7 / 5

Service Offerings

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

Item Protection

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

Scheduling

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


Our Top Picks For Moving Companies In Washington

International Van Lines

Best Service Offerings
4.5
  • Deposit: 25% up-front
  • USDOT #: 2293832

International Van Lines (IVL) is our overall pick for long-distance moves into or out of Washington due to its experience, availability, and variety of services. The company handles local, long-distance, and international moves of all sizes but specializes in long-distance relocations. IVL owns and operates its own fleet of vehicles but will partner with local agents within its extensive network for areas outside of its immediate service area.

Our Take on International Van Lines

We recognized it as the moving company with the best service offerings. We gave the company high points for its extensive service profile, which includes full-service packing, crating, storage, and more. It lost points for its lack of self-service and financing options. However, we feel these drawbacks are offset by its quality of service in Washington.

Pros and Cons

Pros Includes all-risk insurance, which covers the full value of items at a 4% cost, with the purchase of packing services Offers a 15% discount for senior citizens Provides sample costs for insurance and a list of commonly associated moving fees to help you budget for your relocation Cons Requires a 25% deposit to schedule a moving date Working with local agents within a larger network means procedures, policies, and customer service could vary based on location and provider.

Services

International Van Lines has an extensive list of services that customers can choose from to create a customized full- or partial-service move. Those who want a full-service experience can opt for packing, which also comes with full-value protection of your items at a 4% cost of the items’ declared value. Customers who plan to box up their belongings can still add fragile-only packing, and IVL crews will wrap and pad breakables and place them in the moving truck in such a way as to prevent damage.

Cost

International Van Lines doesn’t provide instant online quotes; you must speak with a customer service representative and/or complete a home assessment to get an estimate.

However, we obtained a quote from IVL to move a three-bedroom home approximately 1,400 miles from Spokane, Washington, to Minneapolis in early summer. IVL quoted us a range of $4,200 to $6,150 for that relocation. The estimate includes mileage, fuel, and any applicable toll charges.

International Van Lines is transparent with its associated moving fees, listing the cost and frequency of each fee broken down to a per-item cost on its website. For example, IVL has industry-standard elevator and stair fees, applied when crews use either or both to transport items from your home or apartment. The elevator fee is a one-time charge of $75, whereas the stair fee is $75 per flight of stairs.

American Van Lines

Best Overall Moving Labor
4.3
  • Deposit: Up to 50%
  • USDOT #: 614506

American Van Lines is an experienced full-service mover that specializes in long-distance relocation. The company is equipped for international and commercial moving, as well as corporate relocations, and offers special handling of large and high-value items, such as pianos and antiques. It currently doesn’t provide local moving services in Washington.

Our Take on American Van Lines

We recommend the company for its experienced moving crews and its convenient flat-rate pricing for long-distance moves. The company hires movers full-time, as opposed to the standard practice of contracting labor. It lost points for its lack of financing options and truck rentals. However, we reward more points for the company requiring its crew members to routinely take certification courses.

Pros and Cons

Pros Movers are certified to handle pianos and antiques Will match competitor pricing Follows green business practices in packing materials Cons Doesn’t accommodate local moves in Washington Doesn’t provide online instant quotes

Services

American Van Lines offers full-service and partial-packing options, as well as moving supplies, storage, and custom crating for local, long-distance, and international relocations in every state but Hawaii and Alaska. American Van Lines can meet the needs of those seeking full-service options, such as packing and unpacking, crating electronics, and those seeking partial assistance with tasks such as loading, transport, and unloading.

Cost

American Van Lines provides flat-rate pricing, ensuring moving costs will not change after you sign a contract or schedule your move. It doesn’t provide an instant quote online or by phone. The company will first conduct a virtual or in-person assessment of your home, review your detailed inventory, and calculate the cost of moving your items to their new location before giving you a detailed binding estimate, meaning your rate will be locked in at that price.

American Van Lines did provide a ballpark estimate of a $6,000 starting price to move a three-bedroom apartment approximately 1,300 miles, or roughly the distance from Santa Fe to Tacoma, Washington.

This fixed-rate pricing approach greatly reduces the risk of surprise fees and helps customers stick to a moving budget. Remember that a fixed rate will lock you into the moving inventory you provide the company. Any items added after the cost estimate will be moved at an extra charge, so it’s important to be thorough during the quote process.

American Van Lines requires an up-front deposit of 10%–50% of your total moving cost.

Safeway Moving Inc.

Most Reliable Pricing
4.5
  • Deposit: Up to 40%
  • USDOT #: 3756000

Safeway Moving Inc. is a moving broker based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Its customer service team books moves across all 50 states to Washington. Though it only provides long-distance moving services, its partners offer comprehensive service ranges to customers in Washington.

Our Take on Safeway Moving Inc.

We applaud Safeway’s customer service and its provision of packing and crating for all long-distance moving clients. Safeway lost points because its website isn’t functional and doesn’t yield instant quotes. However, its in-state and interstate moving service offerings compensate for this lack of functionality.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers flat-rate pricing Operates in all 50 states Has stringent insurance requirements for partner companies Cons Offers no local moving service in Washington Requires up to 40% of payment for a deposit

Services

Safeway provides full-service moving options to all clients. Services include loading, unloading, packing, unpacking, crating, vehicle shipping and more. These service options vary depending on location, but all Safeway moves come with 30 days of free storage and light packing.

Cost

Safeway offered us the most thorough quote process of any mover on our list. The company representative walked us through our full inventory and talked over every detail of our move. They noted that all deposits are fully refundable and that all quotes are binding rates.

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

Most Efficient
4
  • Deposit: Up to 33%
  • USDOT #: 3034100

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is a moving broker with partner companies in all 50 states. These partner carriers can provide local and long-distance moving assistance and some international moving services. IMRG offers speedy moving quotes and comprehensive service ranges throughout its Washington state service areas.

Our Take on Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

We note the company’s efficient approach to hiring professional movers and its user-friendly quote process. It lost points due to storage availability and consistency of contents protection plans. However, its packing services and long-distance moving availability make it an excellent option for Washington customers. Be aware that IMRG lacks available customer service on weekends.

Pros and Cons

Pros Features a cost calculator tool online for speedy quotes Has partners in all 50 states Offers local and long-distance service Cons Brokers out all moves Offers no binding estimate

Services

IMRG’s moving partners offer similar service ranges. Services include packing, crating, storage, vehicle shipping, and moving checklists. Exact service capabilities depend on your booking location, however.

Cost

We used IMRG’s online cost calculator tool to request a preliminary estimate for a move between Los Angeles and Olympia, Washington. The $3,900–$7,000 cost range we received reflects a three-bedroom move with potential added services. We recommend calling to receive a more accurate quote.

JK Moving Services

Best Specialized Packing
4.7
  • Deposit: Up to 40%
  • USDOT #: 1065394

JK Moving Services is a full-service moving company that focuses on allowing customers to create a fully customized moving package. JK Moving’s user-friendly website, mobile app, and 24/7 support make it easier for customers to find the services that best fit their needs and budget. We also recommend it for those looking to spread out moving costs because JK Moving offers in-house financing with rates as low as 0%*.

* Subject to credit approval.

Our Take on JK Moving Services

We find it to be the most customizable full-service mover. JK Moving stands out for its full- and partial-service packages, both of which you can fully customize with an extensive menu of add-ons. JK Moving lost points for its lack of online pricing transparency. We couldn’t locate sample quotes, standard moving rates, or a moving calculator on its website. However, JK Moving trains its employees on-site in a live training environment, which includes a furnished two-story home at its headquarters.

Pros and Cons

Pros Has live 24/7 customer support Offers an app for convenient scheduling of home assessments Provides in-house financing Cons Only handles local moves in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Doesn’t offer an instant quote online or by phone

Services

JK Moving offers packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, and more specialized services like vehicle relocation, storage options, and handling of difficult items for long-distance, international and interstate moves to or from Washington.

Through the company’s app, customers can review estimates and provide updates, make payments, add coverage, check the status of their move and receive notifications for important steps in the moving process. JK Moving also has short- and long-term storage solutions and full-replacement insurance coverage at a rate adjusted to fit your specific belongings’ actual value.

Cost

JK Moving customers can create a moving package that fits their specific needs and budget, assisted through the process by a personal moving coordinator. Standard factors impacting price with JK Moving include how far you’re moving, the time of year you plan to move, the size and weight, and how many crew members will be needed to complete your move.

The company doesn’t provide instant quotes online or by phone, but we were able to get a ballpark estimate of $8,000 to move a three-bedroom home 750 miles, roughly the distance from Spokane, Washington, to Sacramento, California. That estimate included furniture disassembly, wrapping, padding, loading and unloading all household items, and full-replacement valuation coverage.

Allied Van Lines

Best for Vehicle Relocation
5
  • Deposit: None
  • USDOT #: 76235

With more than 90 years of experience in the moving industry, Allied Van Lines is one of our top picks for moving into or out of Washington. The company may be a particularly good fit for those who need to relocate a car, truck, SUV, van, or boat. The company uses two transport methods for vehicle shipping: open car carrier and enclosed car carrier. Open car carriers are essentially like the trucks you’ve seen on the highway carrying stacks of new cars from auto manufacturers to dealerships. In contrast, enclosed carriers protect vehicles completely from exposure to outdoor elements or roadway hazards. The enclosed carrier method is a smart option for moving a high-value vehicle, such as a classic car.

Our Take on Allied Van Lines

Allied Van Lines is among our highest-rated movers. We scored it high in part due to its standout vehicle relocation service. Allied can ship your car, motorcycle, truck, RV, boat, or other vehicle using its own fleet of open and enclosed carriers rather than outsourcing the job. We did take away some points for its lack of online pricing information, but its availability and breadth of service offerings in Washington made us place Allied on our list.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides vehicle coverage of up to $100,000 with no deductible Offers mobile storage containers through Allied Express, an alternative solution to metal move containers that includes loading and unloading Includes a personal moving consultant with all packages Cons Doesn’t give instant quotes for local moves Doesn’t have 24/7 claims support

Services

While Allied Van Lines is a full-service company, it can accommodate partial moves through services like fragile-only packing and moving kits. Basic-price moves include an assigned relocation consultant, loading, transporting, and unloading your items, and minimum protection coverage. Services like full-valuation coverage and packing and unpacking are available at an additional cost.

Through Allied Express, the company’s container-like moving option, Allied Van Lines offers mobile storage containers that come with loading and unloading assistance, a service that many self-service companies do not currently provide. However, short- and long-term storage options can be limited, as they are based on local availability.

Cost

We received an online estimate of $7,898–$8,728 to move a three-bedroom home from Las Vegas to Olympia, Washington.

After completing an in-person or virtual home assessment, Allied will provide a binding estimate—the exact amount you can expect to pay on moving day. As part of the assessment, you must provide Allied with a detailed list of items you’re moving. It’s important to be as thorough as possible during this stage of the moving process since miscalculating the size of your move or adding major items after your binding estimate could increase overall costs.

North American Van Lines

Best for Claims
4.8
  • Deposit: None
  • USDOT #: 70851

North American Van Lines (NAVL) has an extensive network of providers for local, long-distance, and international moving. Customers can file claims online or through a dedicated support line. However, it’s important to note that customer experiences may vary depending on which provider handles the relocation, as the company acts as a carrier and a broker.

Our Take on North American Van Lines

Its simple claims process takes the headache out of filing for damages. However, we deducted points because it lacks online resources, such as a moving cost calculator, and because it doesn’t provide ballpark estimates over the phone. NAVL offers nearly unmatched reach for long-distance services and maintains a positive customer reputation with a high rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers a wealth of free moving resources through its online library of videos, blogs, FAQs, tip sheets, and checklists Provides a Not-to-Exceed Pricing package that ensures actual cost will never be higher than your detailed personalized quote Has a MoovScout app that allows customers who are relocating internationally to track the workflow of their move from their phone Cons Storage options are based on local availability Receives varied customer feedback depending on location and the local moving contractor in NAVL’s network

Services

As an experienced long-distance and international mover, North American Van Lines provides services such as crating, short- and long-term storage, and vehicle transport. Customers can create customized moving packages with full-service options like disconnection and reconnection of major appliances and long- and short-term storage. However, storage is based on local availability and, as such, can sometimes be limited.

The addition of individual service options can also drive total moving prices above that of NAVL competitors. For those making a small, local move, NAVL’s customizable packages and partial-assistance options, such as fragile-only packing, could prove to be a cost-effective alternative to a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach.

Cost

The cost to move a three-bedroom home from Los Angeles to Olympia, Washington, in early April would be approximately $4,494–$5,361, according to NAVL’s online moving calculator.

Cost estimates with North American Van Lines are based on the distance of your move, the size of your move, and the time of year you plan to relocate. The special handling of any items is also factored into your quote. Other factors that can affect your total moving cost include the number of bedrooms in your home, the layout of your home, including any access issues, any items that need special handling services, such as crating, the time of year of your move, and the addition of any optional services.

The company’s discount program for American Legion members provides up to $100,000 in replacement coverage protection on household items while in transit for a bottom-line savings of $850. Discount program members also receive exclusive moving and storage discounts, annual non-peak rates, and guaranteed quotes. A similar program for union members and their families includes up to $50,000 in replacement coverage (a savings of $560) and all perks provided to Legion members, including packing discounts.


How To Choose the Best Washington Moving Company for You

A big part of ensuring a moving provider is right for you is vetting the company. Here are the steps to take when vetting movers in Washington:

Check customer reviews

Read customer reviews on multiple sites, including Google Reviews and Yelp. Look for positive and negative trends in service, including miscommunications regarding cost and add-ons, punctuality, and customer service quality. Note that quality could vary significantly depending on location. Some movers operate via independently owned franchises, which can lead to service variance.

Check each mover’s service offerings

Determine if a given moving company provides the services you want and need.

Ensure movers are fully licensed

Use a mover’s U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number to look up its licensing status via this FMCSA link. You should check with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission for more local companies.

Request quotes

We recommend getting customized pricing estimates from three movers. This approach lets you compare and contrast all offerings and pricing.


Washington Relocation Considerations

Here are some things to consider if you’re moving to Washington:

Cost of living

The cost of living, especially housing, is quite high in urban areas like Seattle. However, some rural areas are more affordable. Overall, be prepared for the high cost of living changes when you relocate and budget accordingly.

Moving logistics

Factor in the costs and paperwork involved in establishing residency, getting a new driver’s license, registering vehicles, etc. Hire movers if needed.

Taxes

You should also budget for the changes in taxes your move might bring. Washington has no state income tax but has high sales, property, and gas taxes.

Traffic

The Seattle metro area struggles with heavy traffic congestion. If you’re moving near Seattle, traffic may slow down your moving schedule, so plan accordingly.

Weather

Western Washington has a very mild, temperate climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Eastern Washington is drier and has more extreme temperatures. Make sure you’re prepared for rain if moving west of the Cascades.


Comparing the Top Moving Companies’ Services in Washington State

Whatever your reason for wanting to call Washington home, you’ll need a reliable, professional moving company to get you there. But with all the options out there, how do you know if you’re picking a reputable mover that can accommodate your relocation at the price that meets your budget?

We recommend that you gather at least three quotes from the best moving companies in Washington before you choose your mover.

ProviderFree EstimateLocalLong-DistanceLabor Included
IVLGet Estimate✔✔✔
IMRGGet Estimate✔✔✔
AmericanGet Estimate✔✔✔
Safeway Moving Inc.Get Estimate✘✔✔
JK MovingGet Estimate✘✔✔
AlliedGet Estimate✔✔✔
NAVLGet Estimate✔✔✔

Other Considerations When Moving in Washington

We encourage you to read some of our other guides and lists to make your move to Washington seamless. Here are some of our other guides on important aspects of relocation in Washington state:


Our Conclusion

The moving company that is best for you will ultimately depend on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a full-service moving experience, International Van Lines may be a good place to start. We recommend American Van Lines for its moving teams that average 10 years or more of moving industry experience. You might also want to check out Interstate Moving & Relocation Group if you want helpful online resources and customer service. If you are moving within the Spokane area but across the state border into Idaho, check out our top moving company recommendations in Idaho.


FAQ About Moving Companies in Washington

How much are movers in Washington state?

After receiving ballpark estimates from the top movers in Washington State, your move could range between $2,800 to $8,800 depending on the distance and size of your move.

What do I need to do before moving cross country?

If you are planning a long-distance relocation, there is a lot to consider and take care of long before moving day. It is best to get at least a three-month head start on moving day by deciding on a budget and beginning the search for a moving company. It’s also good to determine how you and your family will be traveling to your new destination. If you’re flying, you may need to pick a mover that can handle transporting your vehicles.

In the weeks leading up to moving day, you should be packing up the items you don’t need and selling or giving away items you no longer want, as well as contacting physicians for copies of any records needed and your homeowners insurance provider to confirm your coverage will transfer to your new location.

Is renting a moving truck in Washington a good idea?

If you’re undergoing a simple, local move within the same town or city, renting a moving truck might be a good, budget-friendly option if you can gather enough help. If so, read our guide on the best moving truck rental companies.

On the other hand, if you have a longer move or interstate move involving Washington, it’s often better to hire an interstate moving professional. A professional mover ensures your belongings arrive safely, backs them with a protection plan, and can handle any complications due to traffic and difficult roads.

If I pack all of my belongings, will the mover still be responsible if something is broken in transit?

Moving companies are liable for losses and damage caused during transit unless a loss or damage is due to an act of nature—such as a lightning strike, tornado, or earthquake—or other scenarios involving extenuating circumstances, such as a piece of furniture being dropped down the stairs due to a pre-existing loose handrail or a broken floorboard causing a crew member to stumble and knock over a fragile item. To ensure safe transport of a customer’s belongings, movers often operate under a tariff provision that allows them to repack improperly or unsafely packed boxes.

It’s important to note that movers are also exempt from liability if the loss or damage was caused by an act of omission on the shipper’s part. Improper packing falls under that act of omission category, so it’s crucial that you follow professional moving tips on proper packing and notify your movers of any questions or potential issues you may have concerning the items you packed.

What should I do if my bill is higher on moving day than previously estimated?

If the moving cost is higher on moving day, you are not necessarily obligated to pay the additional charges at that time. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), you are not required to pay more than 100% of a binding estimate (or 110% of a non-binding estimate) for any price increases after the moving truck has been loaded. The mover is required to bill any additional charges 30 days after delivery of your goods. A company cannot refuse to deliver your items due to non-payment of any added charges, which can be incurred if the inventory you provided ahead of moving day is incomplete or inaccurate. If you feel you have been hit with extra fees unfairly or a company will not deliver your possessions, you can file an online complaint with the FMCSA or contact the organization at 1-888-368-7238.


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.

Why Trust Us? We conducted 4,800+ hours of research on moving companies and crafted a ranking system based on the following research
31
Companies Considered
1000
Homeowners Surveyed
21000
Reviews Analyzed
22
Providers Compared

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.