We've meticulously researched and selected the leading long-distance moving companies in the US.
Our guide showcases each company's unique strengths and authentic customer experiences. Whether you prefer a renowned national brand or a trusted regional mover, by the end of this article, we'll help you select the perfect partner for your moving journey.
» Check out these 10 things you should do before a long-distance move.
Our 10 Best Long Distance Moving Companies in 2024:
- Colonial Van Lines - Best long-distance moving company overall
- Safe Ship - Best for condos and Home Owner Associations (HOAs)
- American Van Lines - Best for competitive, straightforward pricing
- International Van Lines - Best for international corporate relocations
- Interstate Moving & Relocation Group - Best for home and business moves
- Native Van Lines - Best for personalized attention to detail
- New Start Relocation - Best for simplifying commercial transfers
- Allied Van Lines - Best for out-of-state and cross-country relocations
- Country Mile Moving - Best for packing and moving long-distance
- North American Moving Services - Best for fragile item packing
A Closer Look at Our Best Long Distance Moving Companies in {year}: Our Quick Reviews
1. Colonial Van Lines
Comprehensive and customer-centric long-distance moving services
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- Best for - Excellent customer support
- Participating states - 48
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, live chat, email
- Packing service - Yes
With over two decades of experience, Colonial Van Lines has established itself as a reliable long-distance and interstate moving services provider. Its offerings include full-service packing and unpacking, DIY loading with transportation, and secure storage facilities.
Why we chose Colonial Van Lines: The company's moving packers and loaders undergo thorough training in safety protocols and techniques to protect your belongings during the move. For instance, they use padded wrapping to shield your furniture and fragile items during transit.
What customers are saying: Jordan (34) from California praises the professionalism of the representative who assisted him, stating that the services and expectations they set were accurate. He adds, "Working with the team was a breeze."
Pros
- User-friendly website
- Flexible moving dates to meet your needs
- Damaged items are refunded $0.60 per pound
Cons
- Doesn’t typically provide moving services on weekends
- Colonial Cube solution only available in a limited number of states
2. Safe Ship
Licensed interstate moving brokerage company
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- Best for - Military families moving across states
- Participating states - 50
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, live chat, email
- Packing Service - Yes
Safe Ship tackles projects of any size with its full-service moving solutions. The company provides packing, unpacking, loading, transportation, and storage options to ensure a seamless experience, no matter where you're headed.
Why we chose Safe Ship: It goes the extra mile by supplying auto transport as an optional add-on to your long-distance move. This is particularly advantageous when relocating vast distances where flying is the most convenient option. Plus, your car is delivered straight to you after you land.
What customers are saying: Emily (25), an Oklahoma college grad, recently relocated cross-country for her dream job with the help of Safe Ship. She states that the company "provided affordable prices and arranged everything."
Pros
- Accommodates last-minute and next-day moves
- Can assist with corporate relocations
- Only works with bonded, licensed, and insured carriers
Cons
- Safe Ship is a moving broker, not the actual mover
- Must contact company for pricing
3. American Van Lines
Full white glove moving services for door-to-door relocation
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- Best for - Specialty moves involving antiques, fine art, and heirlooms
- Participating states - 48 states
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, email, fax, contact form
- Packing service - Yes
Since physically moving belongings is one of the most stressful parts of relocation, American Van Lines aims to simplify the process. It specializes in moving fragile, high-value items like pianos and has packing and unpacking services with protective padded wrapping for your furniture.
Why we chose American Van Lines: For added convenience, American Van Lines has state-of-the-art private holding facilities for both short-term and long-term use. Your stuff gets stored in climate-controlled units and personal vaults with 24/7 security.
What customers are saying: Olivia (34) from California says American Van Lines handled her belongings "with great care and attention to detail. The movers went above and beyond to make the process smooth and stress-free."
Pros
- Over 25 years of experience in long-distance moving
- Commercial moving, military moving, and corporate relocation
- Helpful moving cost outline and checklist on the website
Cons
- Higher prices than competitors
- Packing/unpacking services rely on local contractors
4. International Van Lines
Fast-growing mover with international logistics credentials
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- Best for - Cross-country corporate and residential moves
- Participating states - 50 + international
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, live chat, email
- Packing service - Yes
International Van Lines (IVL) boasts an impressive track record of handling over 20,000 relocations per year. Its customized long-distance moving service has one month of free storage, full packing and supplies, custom crating, and assembly/disassembly.
Why we chose International Van Lines: A key advantage of IVL is its licensed carrier status, granting full control over its fleet and crews for enhanced reliability and accountability. Additionally, it holds broker authority to handle national and international logistics across 150 countries.
What customers are saying: Joseph (39) from Montana was particularly impressed by how friendly and professional International Van Lines' movers were. "[IVL] wrapped everything and even finished packing for [her]! That was awesome!"
Pros
- Has helped over one million customers move successfully
- Virtual tour option for convenient estimates
- International moves comprise 80% of IVL's annual transports
Cons
- No military or student discounts available
- No mobile app
5. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
A brokerage connecting clients with reliable long-distance movers
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- Best for - Competitive long-distance moving quotes
- Participating states - 50
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, website contact page
- Packing service - Yes
Intestate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is a licensed moving broker connecting you with pre-approved US relocation specialists. It boasts long-distance, commercial, and military moves. It also discreetly transports military equipment, using only trustworthy companies due to the sensitivity involved.
Why we chose Interstate Moving & Relocation Group: IMRG's corporate moving services range from economical office relocations to the meticulous transport of high-value equipment. Its fees typically include costs like fuel, taxes, tolls, driving, loading, and unloading.
What customers are saying: Remus (32) from Utah says that IMRG "made [his] long-distance move as easy and stress-free as possible." The movers took care of his items, and nothing got scratched during a seven-hour trip.
Pros
- Provides car shipping services
- Has a helpful moving checklist and cost calculator on its site
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- Non-refundable deposit and booking fee after 72 hours of booking
- No online quotes available
6. Native Van Lines
Award-winning residential and commercial mover
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- Best for - Streamlined long-distance moves
- Participating states - 50 + international
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Live chat, phone, email, contact form
- Packing service - Yes
Native Van Lines, based out of Miami, FL, is a moving company specializing in residential and commercial relocations. It provides full packing and unpacking assistance, storage solutions, and car shipping services. Additionally, it boasts two Houzz awards for excellent customer support.
Why we chose Native Van Lines: Native Van Lines boasts an extensive network of over 300 global partners to ensure you get the best service available. Plus, getting the quote and setting the moving date is super simple.
What customers are saying: Nadine (44) from Florida had a wonderful time moving with Native Van Lines. "Native Van Lines was easy to work with and communicated frequently. The movers arrived on time and were very professional. [They] handled a huge 1400+ mile move smoothly."
Pros
- Vehicle transport services
- 24/7 customer service
- 30 days of free storage
Cons
- Quotes by phone only
- Higher costs for last-minute moves
7. New Start Relocation
Reliable commercial mover with competitive prices
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- Best for - A quick and professional relocation
- Participating states - 50
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, email, contact form
- Packing service - Yes
New Start Relocation is another moving brokerage company based in Florida that focuses on long-distance relocations. Its carriers are licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and will pack and unpack your belongings for you.
Why we chose New Start Relocation: New Start Relocation can negotiate favorable moving rates for your unique situations. In addition, the company responds to quote inquiries within 10 seconds.
What customers are saying: Kenny (46) from Maryland was pleased with New Start Relocation's service and happy to pay the price, which he considered a great deal. "The punctual crew packed the truck efficiently, and our stuff arrived undamaged."
Pros
- Handles belongings with care
- 5% senior discount
- Transparent and personalized service
Cons
- Cost varies seasonally due to third-party hauling model
- Possible lack of quote accuracy
8. Allied Van Lines
95-year long-distance mover with a nationwide presence
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- Best for - Comprehensive household moving services
- Participating states - 50
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, email, live chat
- Packing service - Yes
Allied Van Lines is the perfect choice for a seamless transition across states. Whether you're planning a household, office, or global relocation, its team has the equipment to handle any move.
Why we chose Allied: Allied has facilities available should you need storage for your stuff during the move. You can also enjoy customizable coverage with the company's Extra Care Protection, which includes a smooth claims process if something gets damaged.
What customers are saying: Mary (27) says Allied easily handled her move from Texas to Illinois. "[They] were always on schedule for packing, pick up, and drop off. The movers protected the floors, and no walls were damaged. I am so satisfied."
Pros
- Provides exclusive full truckload service without shared loads or stops
- Online shipment tracking feature
- All moving personnel are background-checked
Cons
- Lacks 24/7 claims support
- Local moves can be pricey
9. Country Mile Moving
Transparent, nationwide long-distance moving specialist
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- Best for - Handling last-minute changes efficiently
- Participating states - Varies by partner
- Insurance - Varies by partner
- Contact options - Phone, email, mail, online contact form
- Packing service - Yes
Country Mile Moving is a long-distance moving company that assists with both commercial and residential relocations. Its virtual visual estimates use video and pictures to create accurate, binding quotes. This means no hidden fees—what you see is what you pay.
Why we chose Country Mile Moving: As a customer, you'll be assigned a dedicated team of relocation professionals to support you from the initial quote to pickup and final delivery. Its reps will even assist you for weeks after the relocation if any issues arise.
What customers are saying: Michael (48) from Virginia enjoyed Country Mile's efficient reservation process. "[They] ask plenty of questions and tell you things you don't even know you should know. They are into details, making it easier on the day of the move. Definitely call them if you need to move."
Pros
- Provides climate-controlled, weatherproof storage units
- Responsive customer service
- Storage, packing, and unpacking services
Cons
- Need to buy insurance directly from mover
- Estimates aren't always accurate
10. North American Moving Services
Satellite shipment tracking to ease your move 
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- Best for - Long-distance moves with in-transit storage
- Participating states - 50 + international
- Insurance - Yes
- Contact options - Phone, email
- Packing service - Yes
North American Van Lines is a moving company that provides hassle-free relocation services tailored to your needs and budgets. It has packing and unpacking, temperature-controlled storage, auto shipments, and 24/7 customer support.
Why we chose North American Moving Services: The company prioritizes efficient and safe delivery so you can start settling into your new space. In addition to complimentary stretch wrapping and custom crating for valuables, its movers will set everything up quickly after unpacking.
What customers are saying: Mark (54) from Arizona hired North American Van Lines to move from Pennsylvania to Minnesota and says the company provided "A+ service. Pickup was on time, as was the delivery of [his] furniture. [His] delivery was actually delivered earlier than [he] expected."
Pros
- Provides free online moving resources
- Free shipment tracking feature
- Specialized fragile-only services
Cons
- Shared truck transport for belongings
- Mixed Yelp reviews for multiple locations
How We Reviewed the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
We meticulously examined various long-distance moving companies to find our 10 best options. Our streamlined methodology focused on essential services and features, ensuring a thorough assessment.
Evaluation Criteria
Experience and reliability in long-distance moves: We examined each company's track record in long-distance relocations, considering their years of experience and success rate. We looked at their capability to navigate interstate regulations and handle logistical complexities.
Comprehensive moving services: We evaluated the services provided, including packing, loading, transportation, unloading, unpacking, and added benefits like storage solutions and fragile item handling.
Licensing and insurance: We've ensured that each moving company has the proper licensing for interstate moves (such as a USDOT number) and offers various insurance options to protect your belongings.
Transparent pricing and estimates: We evaluated estimation processes, highlighting in-home or virtual assessments for precise pricing. Additionally, we reviewed pricing structure transparency and potential hidden fees.
Customer support and communication: We focused on the quality of customer support. This includes the availability of a personal move coordinator, responsiveness, and effectiveness in providing updates throughout the relocation.
Reviews and customer satisfaction: We analyzed customer reviews, identifying patterns that indicate reliability and professionalism.
Flexibility and customization: We assessed the companies' capacity to tailor the moving process, factoring in flexible scheduling, custom crating for valuables, and accommodating unique requests.
Compare the Best Long Distance Moving Companies:
What to Look for in a Long-Distance Moving Company
Packing Services
Full packing services ensure your belongings are loaded carefully and safely. Professional packers use the right materials and techniques to protect your items. Although this service may cost extra, it can be invaluable for delicate possessions.
If you're on a budget, consider partial packing. This is when you pack some items yourself while the movers handle others. Also, it's wise to educate yourself about what the moving company will and won't move to help plan your own packing strategies.
This is especially useful if you're relocating to college and want an easy transition.
Vehicle Shipping
Another vital consideration is whether the moving company offers auto shipping services. If you need to transport your car to your new location, combining this option with your household move can save you money and help you have a stress-free experience with car shipping providers.
Insurance Coverage
Finally, you should discuss the insurance coverage with potential moving companies. Reputable providers should offer various options to protect your belongings in case of loss, damage, or theft during the move.
Inquire about their insurance offers, such as individual item coverage or total loss insurance. Also, make sure you understand the terms, limitations, and deductibles involved.
Long-Distance Moving Costs
On average, a long-distance move can cost around $4,600, but the actual cost can range from $2,400 to $15,000 or more. The main factors that affect the cost are:
- Distance covered: The further you move, the more it'll cost.
- Amount of belongings: The more stuff you have, the higher the price.
- Service level: Additional services like packing/unpacking can increase prices depending on the provider.
While the average moving cost might seem high, you can save money by doing some of the work yourself. For example, pack and load your belongings, then hire movers like these U-Haul Alternatives only for transportation.
This option saves money without requiring you to handle the entire move alone. After the job, you can consult our guide to find out how much to tip movers.
» Find out how to save money when using a moving company.
How to Manage a Long-Distance Move
- Adopt a mindset of adventure: Rather than viewing the move as a stressful ordeal, reframe it as an exciting adventure. This positive mindset will help you navigate challenges mindfully.
- Cultivate a support network: Surround yourself with a supportive circle of friends, family, and professionals who can provide emotional and practical assistance.
- Remain flexible and adaptable: Unexpected challenges and unforeseen circumstances are inevitable during a long-distance move. So, cultivate a mindset of flexibility and adaptability, allowing yourself to pivot and adjust as needed.
- Stay connected: Maintain open communication with the movers, family, and friends. Confirm pickup and delivery dates, addresses, and special instructions for seamless transition.
5 Expert Packing Tips for Long-Distance Moving
1. Embrace Organization
Use a moving checklist to stay organized. Label each box with its destination room and keep an inventory of the contents. This system can help you track your belongings and ensure a smooth unpacking process. Consider using color-coded labels or a numbering system for added efficiency.
2. Declutter and Donate
Before packing, sort through your belongings and donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need. Set aside gently used items that others could use. Plus, several charities will pick up your furniture for free.
3. Use Quality Packing Materials
Use quality packing materials to ensure your belongings are well-protected during long-distance travel. Many moving companies provide sturdy boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing tape for purchase or free. Alternatively, you can get these supplies from local stores or online retailers.
4. Protect Fragile Items
Wrap delicate items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper and place them in boxes with additional cushioning. Mark these boxes as "Fragile" to ensure careful handling.
You could also request additional fragile-item packing services from your chosen moving service.
5. Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a box or suitcase with items you'll need immediately at your new home. This includes toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and chargers. Keep this box with you during the move.
Prepare for the Long Haul
Research is essential when choosing a long-distance moving company. Gather quotes from multiple providers and compare their services. You may need a cost-effective option or specialized packing assistance.
With the right expertise, resources, and commitment to quality, you can feel confident that your belongings will be handled with care and transported safely to your new home or office.
» Discover the top smart city destinations people are moving to in 2024.
