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Best Interstate Moving Companies for Any Budget (September 2024 Reviews)
American Van Lines – Long distance moving experts
- Weekly shuttles to most US cities
- A family-owned business with over 25 yrs of experience.
- Newsweek 2023 Best Customer Service award.
U-Haul – Moving truck and storage rentals
- Low cost moving truck rentals.
- Over 20,000 locations.
- Self-storage solutions.
U-Pack – Load your container, they’ll take it from there
- 1 moving container size.
- 50-state availability.
- Pay only for the equipment space you use.
Castine- Commercial moving company
- Decades of service & commitment to their customers.
- International relocation.
- Commercial moving services.
Budd Van Lines – Corporate relocation services
- Employee relocation.
- Personalized service.
- Senior moving services.
How to spot a good moving company
Although there are many moving companies on the market, finding a good one can be somewhat challenging to say the least. Many startup companies seem to think that as long as they have the trucks and manpower needed, that’s all it takes to be a successful moving company. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Let’s take a look at some of the characteristics that the best moving companies have in common.
– Experience
While experience isn’t everything, it certainly counts for something. If you find that a company has been in business for more than a decade, it not only means that it should be easy to find reviews and check their track record, but it usually means they have experienced it all at one point or another. Sure, we are all for giving startup companies a chance. But do you really want to be a test dummy when your most valued belongings are on the line? When seeking interstate or long distance movers, search for a company that has the experience needed to get the job done and put your mind at ease. You can find more information about it with our list of the best long distance movers.
– Variety
It is often said that variety is the spice of life. A quality moving company usually isn’t a one-trick pony. While personal residential moves are most common, there are many other options that a moving company can help with. With corporate moves, employees arrange to relocate employees to new jobs in other cities, states or even countries. This brings us to international moves. If you think moving to another state is tough, relocating to another country provides a whole new set of challenges. A moving company that has experience with everything from a military move to a large residential relocation, usually has good structure.
Other services offered by moving companies include:
- Custom crating
- Storage facility options
- Basic and full value insurance coverage
- Packing and unpacking services
- Moving supplies and boxes
- Car relocation services
- Home cleaning services
- Large/Specialty item relocation (pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, etc.)
– Customer Service
A moving company with excellent customer service is an absolute must. Most people only move a few times in their lives and more many, it can be an incredibly stressful experience. The customer service team that you work with should be one that’s knowledgeable, kind and adept at answering all moving related questions.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when evaluating a customer service department for a moving company:
- Did they clearly state what services they offer?
- Was there a clear distinction between being a broker and a moving company?
- Were the agents respectful and kind or seemed rude and rushed?
- Was the quote process thorough and detailed?
- Did you get a clarification on pricing to ease your mind?
- Did they offer you information on tracking your shipment?
- Was the claim/damage process clearly explained?
- Did they clearly explain your insurance coverage options?
- Did they make you feel comfortable and appreciated?
In any business, a quality customer service department is invaluable. The moving industry is absolutely no different.
Is Hiring a Moving Company Worth It?
Ah, the age old question. Should you hire a moving company or do it yourself? While renting a moving truck and handling a move on your own may seem like a good idea, there are several reasons why you may want to reconsider.
– Labor
Simply put, moving is hard work. Imagine packing all of your belongings into boxes and then loading them into a truck before driving across the country only to unload them and try to get settled into a new place. See, you probably got tired just reading that. From the aches and pains that comes with lifting couches and heavy furniture to the hours required to transport all of your belongings, moving is labor intensive. With a professional moving company, you can ease the stress and worry of moving while you sit back and relax.
– Save Money
Did you know that hiring a professional moving company can actually end up being cheaper than moving on your own? When you factor in the cost of moving supplies, renting a truck, gas money for your long distance move and paying family or friends to help you lift your heavy pieces of furniture, you could very well end up way over budget. While long distance moving companies have a perception as being expensive, there are many affordable interstate movers on the market. Simply get some quotes, do your research and compare prices to find the best deal with a reputable company.
– Save Time
It is often said that time is money. Well, when it comes to moving, both are equally as important. Regardless of whether you need to tie up loose ends at a job before moving or just catch up with family and friends, moving on your own will make it more difficult to get these things done. By hiring professional interstate movers, you will give yourself the flexibility to enjoy life.
Frequently asked questions about interstate movers
– What’s the difference between a van line and a broker
A van line is a glorified term for moving company. Unlike a moving broker, a van line is a company that owns trucks and hires movers on their own. It is like any other business with employees of their own. In essence, a moving broker usually doesn’t have moving trucks or movers of their own. Instead, they have a network of moving companies that they hire to carry out your move. They simply “broker” the deal for you using their trusted network.
– How do I check if the moving company is licensed?
Check for the following:
- Accreditation by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
- Accreditation by the AMSA (American Moving and Storage Association)
- Verified and rated by the DOT (Department of Transportation)
Remember that you should also research a moving company the way you do other businesses. Are there many real reviews online from customers? If there is a social media page, reach out to people who actually used their moving services and ask advice. Also remember to shop around a bit and compare prices and offers before making a decision.
– What are the Different Types of Moving Estimates?
Moving companies are required to issue written estimates as either “binding” or “non-binding”. Moving companies does not have a provision for any type of estimate other than “binding” or “non-binding”.
– Is a deposit required to book a move?
Moving companies are allowed to set their own rules for deposits and terms of payment. Deposits and terms of payment must be disclosed to all customers in writing.
– What items am I not allowed to move?
If you are moving interstate, you may not ship and movers may not transport items which are perishable, dangerous, or hazardous materials. A customer who packs such items without the moving company’s knowledge may be subject to criminal and civil penalties.
– What are some red flags I should look for in a moving company?
Avoid long distance movers who:
- Constantly change the price of the move
- Attempt to rush you to sign paperwork without reading carefully
- Are too new and have no track record of successful long distance moves
- Have poor customer service professionals (sign of a frustrating move ahead)
Whether you are looking for dependable interstate movers or international or local movers with specialized moving service, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve researched the best movers and rated them by what matters most when looking planning your next move.
American Van Lines – Best Overall Value
Since 1995, American Van Lines has been regarded as one of the best rated national movers for good reason. As a family owned and operated business, it ranks highly in most major moving companies reviews due to its core values and excellent service.
To be clear, American Van Lines is a nationwide moving company – not a broker or a broker/carrier blend like most of modern moving industry. Regardless of whether you’re seeking interstate moving services, storage help, auto shipment or full-service moving, American Van Lines has a well-trained staff to help you each and every step of the way.
One of the major benefits of choosing American Van Lines is their flat-rate pricing system and dedication to fair pricing. When researching the top long 5 long distance movers, pricing issues seemed to be a major concern among customers. With a company like AVL, you can alleviate that stress and take advantage of one of the highest rated long distance movers.
In 2023, Newsweek Magazine commissioned an independent survey and found American Van Lines ranks as one of America’s Best Customer Service 2023 in the Moving Services category.
American Van Lines’ Licenses & Certificates
Top 3 Benefits of Choosing American Van Lines
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Flat-Rate Pricing and Binding Estimates
With AVL’s flat-rate pricing system, you can avoid moving companies that charge an hourly rate and extra money for mileage or fuel. Basically, once your move is set and the company has a full list of all of your belongings as well as the distance of your move, a price will be calculated based on the weight of your shipment and the amount of time your move will take. While flat-rate pricing is great, American Van Lines does not have online quotes. Some people may see this as a con, but only quotes can be inaccurate and AVL eliminates rework by eliminating it all together.
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Motivated, Professional Movers
Whether you’re seeking local interstate movers or one of the best long distance moving companies, AVL shines with some of the hardest working movers on the market. American Van Lines is licensed and insured and registered with the Department of Transportation. All of its movers are coached to reassure customers that the move will be professional by operating at the highest standards of quality.
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Top-Notch Customer Service
No matter how great the movers are, all of the highest rated moving companies have one thing in common – excellent customer service. The team at American Van Lines stuns with customer service professionals who exhibit the kind and courteous family values that the company was built on. By being responsive and knowledgeable, the professionals at AVL contribute easily to AVL being heralded as one of the best long distance moving companies.
American Van Lines offers unmatched customer service and a comprehensive selection of moving services, to learn more visit American Van Lines
U-Pack – Best moving containers
While the conventional moving companies on our list are incredible in their own right, U-Pack is a thrilling alternative for those looking to move in a more creative/affordable way. Quick, convenient and unique, U-Pack is one of our top 5 long distance moving solutions thanks to their rapid growth and success.
How does it work? Basically, with U-Pack, you only pay for the space that you use. This takes the guess work out of pricing and eliminates all of the concerns of you may have of being overcharged.
However, keep in mind that with U-Pack, you will have to do the loading and unloading yourself (thus the name “you pack). First, they deliver your empty moving equipment and give you 3 business days to load up your belongings. Next, they drive it to your new city to save you the stress and worry and all that’s left for you to do is unpack.
U-Pack’s Licenses & Certificates
Top 3 Benefits of Choosing U-Pack
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Stick to Your Budget
According to U-Pack an impressive 78% of their customers chose them because of price. Because you only pay for the space you use, you will know your moving costs as soon as you’re done loading your belongings. Why wouldn’t you want to use one of the highest rated moving companies with absolutely no hidden fees? U-Pack gives you that option.
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Unlimited Moving Services
While U-Pack is known as one of the top 5 long distance movers, the company also specializes in everything from local interstate movers to all things moving and storage. Are you downsizing to a smaller home? U-Pack is perfect for you. Are you a senior who is looking to move into a senior living facility? Give U-Pack a try. The company even offers moving supplies and loading and unloading help if needed. The great versatility that comes with U-Pack is one of the main reasons it made our list of the best moving companies.
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Minimize/Eliminate Damages
Did you know that 99% of U-Pack customers moved claim-free in 2019? Yes, you read that correctly. 99% of their customers who moved in 2019 did NOT file a claim for damages. With damage claims being such a huge and agonizing part of the moving industry, this is an incredible advantage of using a service like this. As one of the most reliable long distance moving services in the country, U-pack saves you time, money and stress.
Castine Moving and Storage – Best commercial mover
After being in business for 95 years, it makes perfect sense that Castine Moving and Storage is one of the most recognizable long distance moving companies. Known for top quality moving services, the family oriented company started from humble beginnings in Athol, Massachusetts and grew into a powerhouse after years of hard work.
Whether you are looking to make a personal move into a small apartment or a corporate move to your dream home in another country, no job is too big or small for Castine Movers. With their commitment to excellence and dedicated employees, it was regarded as one of the best moving companies of 2019 for good reason.
Here are some of the reasons why Castine Movers stands out as one of the top 5 moving companies.
Castine Moving and Storage’s Licenses & Certificates
Top 3 Benefits of Choosing Castine Moving and Storage
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Versatility
If you’re looking for something beyond your standard residential move, Castine Movers has the variety of interstate moving services that may fit your needs. As one of the top 5 long distance movers, Castine also specializes in corporate relocation (employers looking to relocate employees for work purposes) and international relocation as well. Their versatility and diverse moving options keep them among the best rated moving companies.
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Storage Facilities
If you’re in need of short or long term storage options, Castine is an excellent way to go. Interstate moving and storage companies don’t always go hand-in-hand. However, with Castine you can get the best of both worlds at a fraction of the price without getting other companies involved. By having storage options in the Pennsylvania and Massachusetts areas, it is a great way to save time, money and eliminate stress.
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Customer Service
It’s not every day you find a moving company that has been in business for 95 years. This level of experience means that Castine is proven and dedicated beyond measure. By combining great customer service with well-trained best movers, it’s hard to argue with Castine’s claim as the best moving company in the business. No matter what field you’re in, great customer service goes a long way. The moving industry is no exception.
Budd Van Lines – Best corporate mover
Specializing in both corporate and residential moves, Budd Van Lines has over 40 years of moving experience. As one of the best rated interstate moving companies in the industry, it takes great pride in helping people relocate with a family owned and operated feel. As one of the top rated moving companies, Budd Van Lines prides itself in being home to hard working moving professionals who truly understand the ins and outs of the evolving business landscape.
With such a great wealth of experience, a friendly team and affordable offers, it should come as no surprise that Budd Van Lines made our list of the top 5 moving companies. Regardless of whether you’re looking to help an employee relocate to run a new branch in a different city or you’re moving your entire family to a bigger home in another state, using the right long distance moving company can make the process remarkably easier.
Budd Van Lines’ Licenses & Certificates
Top 3 Benefits of Choosing Budd Van Lines
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Great Customer Service
When you check out the top long distance moving companies reviews, you will quickly find that a lot of them offer similar moving services and have lots of supporters. Often what separates one company from another is the quality of customer service that is offered. Budd Van Lines is one of the most reliable moving companies because its customer service team is extremely knowledgeable, professional and honest. It is impossible to provide long distance moving services without having great customer service. These are the people who will guide you through the moving process, provide you with updates and help to reassure you that everything will be okay.
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Thorough Long Distance Moving Quotes
While having the ability to get a quote online is convenient and easy, it can also lead to difficulties down the line if not done properly. If a quote isn’t thorough and asks the right questions, it could be inaccurate and lead to you paying way more than you bargained for initially. Luckily, with Budd Van Lines you won’t have this issue. Requesting a quote from Budd Van Lines includes a detailed inventory of your belongings, building type and all vital details pertaining to your move.
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Unique Van Line Approach
Typically, Van Lines have numerous agents around the country. While this can save a company money, it can lead to difficulty for the customer. With various communication touch points and a fragmented field staff, figuring out the specifics of your move and understanding who is doing what can be challenging. At Budd Van Lines, one driver and one team will see your move through from start to finish. Their “100%” Team Pack, and Team Haul Approach”, your entire move will be executed by a small team that you’ll be able to contact at all times.