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5 Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in 2023 Review
By Nathan Mahr MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Residential, commercial, auto, interstate
Storage, packing, unpacking
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Residential, commercial, auto, interstate
Storage, re-delivery, packing, unpacking, online tracking
N/A
Local, long-distance, commercial
Packing, storage, piano moving
N/A
Residential, corporate, government/military
Full-service packing and unpacking, disassembly and reassembly, auto transportation, and storage in route
N/A
Just what defines a long-distance move varies by the professional mover. Some companies say long distances span more than 100 miles, while others define them as exceeding the 400-mile mark.
But whether you’re moving within your state, over state lines, across the country or around the globe, the best long-distance movers have certain elements in common. They’re registered to travel between states and offer services that are meant to make a long-distance move simpler, such as advanced logistical planning, customs coordination for international moves and vehicle transport.
The following guide features international, intrastate, interstate and international movers for all types of moves and relocations. Since interstate moves may be short- or long-distance, our guide to the best interstate moving companies can provide more options for those traveling across state lines. And for other good alternatives, read our guide to the best moving companies.
Our Picks as Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
- United Van Lines: Best for Full-Service International Moves
- U-Haul International: Best for DIY International Moves
- Atlas Van Lines: Best for Cross-Country Moves
- U-Pack: Best for DIY Long-Distance Moves
- Two Men and a Truck: Best for Smaller Moves
Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
Best for Full-Service International Moves: United Van Lines
Why we chose it: United Van Lines is a full-service interstate and long-distance mover with a fleet of over 4,000 vehicles. It’s also registered as a freight forwarder with headquarters in Europe and Asia, so it’s capable of coordinating moves to 150 countries around the globe.
- Offers moving services to over 150 countries
- Regional headquarters in North America, Asia and Europe
- One of the largest fleets in the industry
- Fewer FMCSA (federal) complaints than other carriers
- Doesn't offer instant quotes online
- Shipments of different customers may be loaded together
- Customer service ratings vary by partner/location
As a full-service moving company, United Van Lines provides ample services for customers moving internationally, including professional packing services, loading, global protection plan options, and long- and short-term storage solutions at origin or destination.
You schedule a pre-move consultation with United Van lines to get a customized international moving quote. Once you have selected the services you need, you’re assigned a moving coordinator who will be your single point of contact throughout the moving process. They will coordinate the logistics of the move and help with the documentation for customs clearance.
Besides international relocations, United Van Lines can move all types of customers locally or between state lines through its extensive network of agents in over 500 locations across the U.S. It also offers full-service moving packages for different budgets, binding or non-binding estimates, shipment tracking and auto transport. Those who opt for a moving package may select from several protection plan waivers that expand the company’s full-value coverage to include item repair or replacement due to natural disasters and mechanical malfunctions, among others.
United Van Lines doesn’t offer instant online estimates. Instead, the company provides personalized pricing quotes via phone consultation and in-person or virtual home walkthroughs. The cost of the move is determined by the size of the shipment and the distance traveled, with additional options like full-service packages and protection plans available for an extra fee. In some cases, shipments may be consolidated with other customers on the same truck or container, depending on the destination.
While customer ratings vary by location, United Van Lines maintains a satisfactory rating from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) based on the frequency of complaints filed against it (30 complaints in 2022) and its safety record.
Best for DIY International Moves: U-Haul International
Why we chose it: U-Haul International offers DIY international moves at an affordable price. Movers simply load their possessions into U-Haul containers, which the company then ships to your destination. For those moving internationally, the company provides guidance on custom clearance and the ability to store your loaded containers at U-Haul facilities for a flat rate until you’re ready to have them shipped.
- Interstate and international shipping container delivery
- Get step-by-step guidance for international shipping
- Reserve as many containers as you want, pay for what you use
- In-home assessments are not required
- Doesn't offer car shipping services
- No assistance with packing, unpacking or delivery
U-Haul truck rentals are often the most affordable moving option available to individuals willing and able to drive themselves, but that may not be viable cross-country moving, let alone internationally. Customers moving very long distances may be better off reserving a U-Haul moving container or U-Box, a smaller option. For both the containers and U-Boxes, you can reserve as many as you need and only pay to ship the ones you actually use.
While U-Box containers are modest in size compared with containers, they can fit up to a room-and-a-half’s worth of household goods that weigh up to 2,000 pounds. U-Boxes can be delivered to your new home or selected location, where you can pack at your speed. Once done, you’ll close up the container with your own lock and request a pickup of your shipment. You can rent U-Box containers by the month (average cost varies by market) and the cost remains the same whether they are stored at a U-Haul facility or shipped.
There is a separate shipping charge for long-distance moves based on where you’re moving to and from. Online quotes will automatically include delivery and pickup fees. To reduce the cost of a long-distance move, you can opt for a do-it-yourself delivery (using a trailer) or load/unload your box at a neighborhood U-Haul location. If you’re worried about protecting your items while in transit, purchasing the Safestor mobile storage insurance from U-Haul will provide coverage for your items while in transit and storage (exclusions apply for high-value items such as jewelry, firearms, precious stones and antiques).
Best for Cross-Country Moves: Atlas Van Lines
Why we chose it: Atlas Van Lines is a full-service local and long-distance mover with a large fleet and relatively few complaints compared with other carriers. Besides offering a host of moving services from packing to auto transport, the company also operates as an international moving broker through a network of 300 global partners.
- A large fleet; over 2,000 moving trucks
- Offers full-service moving packages and protection plans
- Choose between binding or non-binding estimates
- Received only 13 (federal) FMCSA complaints in 2022
- Doesn't offer ballpark quotes online
- Customer service ratings vary by partner/location
Atlas Van Lines has a superb reputation compared to most other long-distance and interstate movers, with only 13 FMCSA complaints logged in 2022 (many other carriers of similar size have 30 or more). Like United Van Lines, Atlas is a cooperative that operates through a network of affiliated local carriers, so its fleet is exceptionally large and widely available.
As a full-service mover, Atlas offers a wide range of services, including auto transportation, shipment tracking, full-value protection plans, and binding or non-binding estimates. Like most large interstate carriers, Atlas has a moving quote tool on its website, but it doesn’t generate instant ballpark quotes. Prospective customers who complete the form online must wait to receive a call from an agent or contact a local carrier directly. Over the phone, the agent will require additional information before offering a ballpark figure. Actual estimates will require an in-home or virtual assessment of the goods to be transported.
With Atlas, the cost of your move will depend on the distance and the size of your shipment. If you opt for a non-binding estimate, your shipment will be weighed after it’s loaded into the moving truck to determine actual costs. One standout feature of Atlas Van Lines is that AAA members receive free Full Value Protection insurance, a coverage option that the company claims typically costs an average of $750.
Aside from a lack of instant online quotes, customer reviews of Atlas Van Lines vary somewhat depending on the local carrier involved. Nonetheless, the company maintains a strong overall reputation with relatively few FMCSA complaints compared to its competitors.
Best for DIY Long-Distance Moves: U-Pack
Why we chose it: U-Pack is another company offering long-distance moving services via shipping containers (or trailers). Unlike similar competitors, however, it will only transport the loaded containers for distances of 100 or more miles. The company offers instant online estimates and quotes lower prices than the competition.
- Offers long-distance moving services for all types of customers
- Quoted prices are more competitive than similar options
- Your choice of trailer or storage cube
- Average transit time is between 4-6 business days
- Long-distance only; minimum of 100 miles
- Secure storage locations aren't climate-controlled
- Shipments of different customers may be loaded together
U-Pack is another great option for those who don’t mind a DIY moving experience but still want their shipment to be delivered by professionals. Given its 100-mile minimum distance on moves, though, U-Pack is not an option for those moving locally.
Unlike other shipping container options, U-Pack lets you choose between a ReloCube — an aluminum and steel storage container — and a trailer. ReloCubes are more expensive than trailers but could be a better option for those who live in city centers and don’t have a lot of parking space for a full trailer.
While U-Pack doesn’t offer packing or unpacking services, the company does provide a local mover database for those looking to hire additional help with their move. If you need to store your items before, during or after the move, U-Pack also offers long- and short-term storage at most of its locations. Another thing to keep in mind is that its storage facilities are not climate-controlled, so U-Pack discourages customers from shipping fragile items that could become damaged by heat or cold. Transit times with U-Pack average between two and five business days; our quote for a 600+ mile move listed an average shipping time of four to six business days.
Prospective customers can get a quote online with U-Pack and reserve their truck or container for free. Depending on the location, you may be able to choose between door-to-door shipping or loading/unloading at a local U-Pack. Customers who opt for a trailer pay only for the linear feet they use (though there’s a minimum of five feet), while those who choose a ReloCube will pay for the number of containers they use (even if they reserve more). The price of the storage cube is higher than the price of the trailer, but both options include delivery, transportation and liability coverage.
Best for Smaller Moves: Two Men and a Truck
Why we chose it: Two Men and Truck is a moving company franchise with a presence in 46 states and over 350 locations worldwide. Its wide availability makes it a good option for long-distance interstate and intrastate moves, especially for those who require additional services like junk removal and disposal. Select Two Men and a Truck locations also offer a value option for smaller, long-distance moves.
- Offers local and long-distance moving, a value option and junk removal
- Full-service moving packages and storage options available
- Available in 46 states and has 350+ locations worldwide
- Many of its locations have positive customer service ratings
- Junk removal services available only in select locations
- Doesn't offer instant quotes
- Availability, services and customer service ratings vary by location
Two Men and a Truck is available in most states and offers full-service local and interstate moving, meaning its movers will help you pack, load, transport and unload your items. Select locations also offer junk removal and full cleanout services for businesses and individuals. The company also advertises furniture rearrangement as part of its local moving services. As for long-distance moves — defined by the company as distances of over 50 miles — Two Men and a Truck offers two options: expedited long-distance moving and a Value Flex option.
The expedited moving service promises quick delivery and guaranteed arrival times and includes GPS shipment tracking. The company also ensures it will only transport one shipment per truck. The Value Flex option, on the other hand, is only available in select locations and to customers needing relocation services for about a room’s worth of household goods (or up to 1,000 pounds). With Value Flex, items are transported in moving crates and packed along with other shipments, which makes prices more affordable.
You can complete an online quote form on Two Men and a Truck’s website, yet this form is considerably longer than others we have completed and doesn’t generate an instant ballpark estimate for long-distance moves. As with other professional movers, pricing for a long-distance move depends on the weight of items shipped, distance traveled and additional moving factors, such as the time it takes to unload, how many flights of stairs are involved and driving time.
Customer service ratings of Two Men and a Truck locations vary by location, so we recommend researching your local franchise before booking.
Other companies we considered
Aside from the services discussed above, we found a few other companies worth mentioning. Although these companies didn’t quite make our top picks, they are still worth considering.
PODS
PODS is a moving container company. The cost of moving with a PODS moving container is generally lower than with a full-service mover, but customers must be prepared to do much of the packing themselves. It offers weather- and impact-resistant containers in three sizes (eight, 12 or 16 feet), though the middle option isn’t available for long-distance moves. Containers feature rolling doors and provide ground-level access but will take up two parking spaces instead of one, so they might not be an option for everyone. Unlike U-Pack, PODS offers both local and long-distance moving services yet generally quotes higher prices.
- Offers local and long-distance moving services via containers
- Three different container sizes to choose from
- Costs are divided into three installments; no advanced payments required
- Protection plans and storage services are also available
- Its website doesn't offer many details
- Availability varies, so it's best to reserve well in advance
Mayflower
Mayflower is another full-service local and long-distance moving company with a very large fleet and a low number of FMCSA complaints. It offers binding estimates, full-value protection plans and several waiver options for enhanced item protection for those who opt for a full-service moving package. Mayflower and United Van Lines share a parent company, so their services and pricing are mostly comparable across the board. We ultimately didn’t feature Mayflower as a top pick due to its lack of availability in some states and a required in-person or video meeting for a final quote (as opposed to an over-the-phone process).
- Very large fleet and few FMCSA complaints
- Offers full-service packages, auto transport and shipment tracking
- Choose between binding and non-binding estimates
- Full-value protection plan may be enhanced through waivers
- Carrier availability and service ratings vary by region
- Requires a video or in-person meeting for quote
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving is another moving franchise available across the nation. While it services only 39 states, it has over 170 locations across the U.S. and Canada, and customer reviews for many of its locations are generally very positive. College Hunks offers local and long-distance moving, packing and unpacking, junk removal and donation pickup services, and a host of hourly services, perfect for those with more complex moving needs. While it offers great services other competitors do not, it also charges truck and travel fees. Costs can add up if you live in a state with few College HUNKS locations.
- Great customer service ratings in many locations
- Offers moving, junk removal and donation pickup services
- Hourly packing, staging and light demolition services available
- Only available in 39 states
- Charge truck and travel fees
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines is one of the oldest and most well-known moving companies in the U.S., with more than 500 agent locations throughout North America. It offers full-service local and long-distance moving services, including packing, storage and auto transport options.
Despite the company’s impressive history, instant online quotes are not available and some customer reviews indicate that the final price can end up being significantly higher than the original quote.
- Offers short-term and long-term storage solutions
- Full-service local and long-distance moving services provided
- Packing, storage and auto transport options are available
- Online tracking and insurance options offered
- Instant online quotes are not available
- Limited customer support on the weekends
Moving APT
Moving APT acts as a broker for long-distance moving services, connecting customers with hundreds of carriers. To begin the process, customers provide basic information about their move, including the size of their home, destination, moving date and any special services needed. Moving APT then delivers a list of service providers with quotes and reviews, enabling customers to compare companies and services side-by-side.
Because Moving APT is a broker, customer experience can vary greatly depending on the service provider they choose. That’s why it’s best to read reviews carefully before committing. Additionally, deposits for moving services are not refundable within seven business days of the original pick-up window.
- Connects customers with hundreds of carriers for long-distance moves
- Quotes and reviews can be compared side-by-side
- Deposits are not refundable within seven business days of original pick-up window
- Experience can vary greatly depending on the service provider chosen
Best-Long Distance Moving Guide
Whether you’re looking for the cheapest way to move or trying to figure out how to find the best moving company, there are several factors to take into account before you make any commitments. The following guide outlines some of the most important tips and considerations to help you make the right choice and lower your long-distance move costs.
Main things to know before hiring a long-distance moving company
When selecting a long-distance moving company, make sure to:
- Confirm that the mover is registered with the FMCSA and lists its USDOT number on its website or elsewhere
- Understand whether your mover is a carrier or a broker that subcontracts to various carriers
- Ask whether the company offers binding or non-binding estimates
- Ensure your estimate is complete and has been signed and dated by the mover
- Get details about the different liability coverage options and understand what each entails
How does a long-distance moving company work?
Long-distance moving companies typically handle moves of at least 100 miles or more. Some companies offer full-service moving, which includes packing, unpacking and reassembling of items, while others may offer basic transportation services only. The process typically begins with an in-home estimate, for which a representative from the moving company will assess the size and scope of your move and provide an estimate of the cost.
How much does a long-distance moving company cost?
Long-distance moving costs will depend on the size and distance of your move, as well as the services you require. The main factors that often impact the cost of a move include:
- The distance of your move
- The weight and volume of goods being moved
- Services required, such as packing, unpacking and storage
- Any unique services requested, such as disassembly and reassembly of furniture
- The time of year (some companies have peak season rates that will affect the price)
- Any additional expenses, such as truck rentals or travel costs
Comparison of long-distance moving companies’ quotes
Due to the individualized nature of each move and many companies requiring an in-home or virtual estimate for cost determination, it can be time-consuming to compare quotes before making a decision, but it’s worth considering so you can get the best possible deal.
Before making the commitment to have multiple companies examine your goods, you should compare customer reviews to narrow down your list of possible providers. Additionally, you may be able to gather several loose estimates online or by phone for a more general idea of pricing. This can help you determine if one company is offering significantly higher or lower prices than the competition.
What kind of items are not allowed to be packed into a long-distance company?
Nearly all movers are prohibited from transporting certain items. Generally, movers will not transport explosives, flammable or corrosive substances or chemicals (including cleaning solvents, gasoline, car batteries and even nail polish), loaded weapons, live plants or animals, and perishable items.
Valuable or irreplaceable items like artwork, jewels and expensive equipment may be transported, but the mover will likely limit its responsibility to a maximum dollar amount per pound for repairs or replacement in case of damage or loss. Most long-distance and local movers will require a list of high-value items in advance of the moving day and may charge extra for full-value protection.
Long-Distance moving companies FAQ
What is the most reputable moving company?
While there are disreputable players in the moving industry, many other reputable movers offer legitimate services at different price points. The best way to avoid disappointments and scams is to become acquainted with the red flags of moving fraud and understand your rights as a consumer.
For example, there are different types of moving companies, including carriers and brokers. Carriers are licensed to perform moves and generally have fleets of moving trucks, while brokers do not have moving fleets and are not licensed to carry out moves; they simply arrange moves and relocations between customers and actual carriers. The FMCSA complaint data and online customer reviews suggest that consumers aren't always aware of whether their moving company is a broker or a carrier. This can lead to dissatisfaction when a different mover shows up on the customer's doorstep, or the service isn't up to their standards, and the communication between the carrier and the broker is slow or ineffective.
Another thing that can help you avoid surprises when hiring a long-distance mover is understanding the difference between types of estimates. The FMCSA explains there are two main types of estimates: binding and non-binding. Binding estimates guarantee that you cannot be charged more than the amount listed on your estimate, while under non-binding estimates, the amount may be higher or lower than quoted depending on the weight of your items after they've been loaded into the moving truck.
What is the most inexpensive way to travel long distances?
Most sources say a professional long-distance move costs upwards of $2,000 and may even exceed the $5,000 mark. With that in mind, the most inexpensive way to move long-distance will depend on your needs and resources. Some people may choose to downsize their homes, load their belongings into their car and drive themselves to their new location. If you have family or friends who can help, that might also be an option for you.
If, on the other hand, you want or need to move a considerable amount of household goods, renting a moving truck or trailer could be much more affordable than hiring a mover. For very long-distances and out-of-state moves, however, you might be better off renting a moving container. That way you can save on packing and unpacking services without having to drive a truck or tow a trailer across state lines.
What is the best way to move long-distance?
The best way to move long distances depends on what you need and how much you're willing and able to pay. Renting a moving truck or trailer is often one of the most affordable options, but it will entail driving a large vehicle or towing a trailer, and that could be stressful if the move can span several days.
If you're willing to pack and unpack yourself but want your items to be delivered to your destination, a moving container can be a great option — especially if you need to keep your belongings in storage for some time before or after the move.
Lastly, if you're comfortable with the price, hiring a full service-mover to pack and unpack your belongings and take care of the logistics can help you have a relatively stress-free (and injury-free) move.
What things should you note when choosing a long-distance moving company?
When selecting a long-distance moving company, make sure to:
- Confirm whether the mover is registered with the FMCSA and lists their USDOT number on their website or elsewhere
- Understand whether your mover is a carrier or a broker (a company that merely subcontracts to various carriers)
- Ask whether the company offers binding or non-binding estimates, and what the difference between them is under company policies
- Your estimate is complete and has been signed and dated by the mover
- Get an order of service and a bill of lading with the details of the move and services
- Get an inventory of your items and sign each page with your mover
- Get details about the different liability coverage options and understand what each entails
What items shouldn't be moved long-distance?
Generally, movers will not transport explosives, flammable or corrosive substances or chemicals (including cleaning solvents, gasoline, car batteries and even nail polish), loaded weapons, live plants or animals, and perishable items. Valuable or irreplaceable items like artwork, jewels and expensive equipment may be transported, but the mover will likely limit its responsibility to a maximum dollar amount per pound for repairs or replacement in case of damage or loss. Most movers will require a list of high-value items in advance of the move and charge extra for moving insurance, called full-value protection.
How many miles is considered a long-distance move?
Moving companies define what a long-distance move is for them. Some of the best long-distance moving companies may say that's anywhere over 50 miles from their headquarters, while others may say a long distance is over 100 miles or 400 or more miles. Regardless of mileage, if you're looking to move across state lines, make sure your mover is duly licensed and registered as an interstate carrier.
Does a long-distance moving company offer insurance?
Federal law requires moving companies to provide valuations for the goods they are moving. If your possessions are damaged during transit with the moving company, the valuation is the dollar amount the moving company must reimburse you. However, there are different types of valuation, and the most common (released-value protection) offers a certain dollar value per pound damaged, no matter what the damaged good is. While this provides some basic coverage, it may not be enough protection, especially if you are transporting high-value goods.
Full-value protection, on the other hand, requires the moving company to cover the cost to repair or replace the damaged item. This protection costs more upfront. Moving insurance coverage from another insurance provider is also a good option for those that need extra peace of mind.
How We Found the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
To select the best long-distance movers, we took into account many of the same factors we considered when evaluating interstate carriers, including:
- Types of services offered: Customers moving long-distance will have different needs. For this guide, we chose to provide readers with a more diverse selection of companies from which to choose. We selected several full-service and international movers, but also more affordable DIY options and even intrastate carriers for those moving over longer distances but within state lines.
- Complaint data: We used complaint data from the Federal Motor Carrier and Safety Administration and the Better Business Bureau to vet companies and provide readers a more accurate picture of what to expect when booking a long-distance move.
- Responsiveness: When it comes to coordinating a long-distance move, a lot can go wrong. While a high number of complaints against a company can be a red flag, complaint data should also be evaluated in the context of the industry. With that in mind, we chose to include companies that are highly responsive to customer feedback and seek to provide resolutions to issues that arise through no fault of the customer.
Summary of the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in 2023
- United Van Lines: Best for Full-Service International Moves
- U-Haul International: Best for DIY International Moves
- Atlas Van Lines: Best for Cross-Country Moves
- U-Pack: Best for DIY Long-Distance Moves
- Two Men and a Truck: Best for Smaller Moves