Moving to a new home is a major life event filled with excitement, anticipation, and often, a fair share of stress. Whether you’re relocating across town or moving to a different state, the process of packing up your belongings, coordinating logistics, and making sure everything arrives safely can feel overwhelming. One of the most important decisions you’ll make during this transition is selecting the right moving company. The choice you make can greatly impact how smooth or stressful your move turns out to be.
With so many moving companies available, it’s easy to feel lost or unsure about which one to trust with your cherished belongings. The truth is, not all movers offer the same quality of service, pricing, or professionalism.
Some companies specialize in local moves, others focus on long-distance or international relocations, and some provide full-service options including packing, storage, and specialty item handling. On the other hand, there are also self-service or DIY moving options where you handle the packing and loading, and the company takes care of transportation.
To find the best moving company for your specific situation, it’s important to consider several key factors. These factors will help you narrow down your options and ensure you choose a mover that matches your needs, budget, and timeline. While many of these considerations apply mainly to full-service moving companies, many are relevant even if you’re opting for a self-service or container-based move.
One of the first things to evaluate is the service area of the moving company. Some movers only operate locally, handling moves within a certain radius or city, while others have a national or even international reach. Knowing whether the company covers your moving route is essential, especially if you’re planning a long-distance or out-of-state move.
Another key consideration is whether the company offers pricing transparency. Moving can be expensive, and you want to avoid surprise fees or unclear estimates. The best companies provide detailed quotes upfront, explaining what’s included and what might cost extra. This transparency helps you plan your budget better and avoid unexpected charges on moving day.
Checking a company’s license and insurance is also crucial. Licensed movers meet government standards for safety and professionalism, and insurance protects your belongings in case of damage or loss during the move. Don’t hesitate to ask for proof of both before hiring a mover.
If you have a vehicle to move, find out if the company offers auto transportation services. Similarly, for fragile or specialty items such as pianos, antiques, or artwork, verify that the mover has experience and the right equipment to handle them safely.
Other important factors include the company’s cancellation policy and whether they require a deposit. Understanding these policies upfront can save you from unnecessary fees or headaches if your plans change.
Finally, reading customer reviews and complaints provides valuable insight into a company’s reputation and how they handle issues. Look for patterns of positive feedback as well as how the company responds to negative reviews.
In summary, moving a household requires careful planning and choosing the right moving company is a critical step. By considering service area, pricing, licensing, specialty services, and customer feedback, you can confidently select a mover that fits your unique needs. Whether you want a full-service move or prefer a more hands-on approach, these guidelines will help make your moving experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
| Category | Company | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | United Van Lines | Top choice for local and long-distance moves with nationwide presence. Known for reliability, full-service packing, storage options, and careful handling. |
| Runner-Up | International Van Lines | Excels in international moves but also strong domestically. Offers flexible scheduling, competitive pricing, and personalized move coordinators for smooth moves. |
| Best Bang for the Buck | American Van Lines | Great service at reasonable rates. Popular with budget movers for excellent packing and moving services, straightforward pricing, and transparency. |
What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Moving Companies
Moving a household can be a complicated process. As customers focus on the details that fit their unique situation, they can more easily find the right residential moving company for their needs. Whether someone is searching for a local mover or a company that handles out-of-state moves, the following factors will help guide their choice. While most of these points apply to full-service moving companies, many are also important when considering self-service moving options.
Service Area
Check if the company services your specific route, whether local, interstate, or international. Not all movers operate everywhere, so confirming service coverage is key.
Local, Interstate, or International Moves
Make sure the company specializes in your type of move. Interstate and international moves often require additional licensing and expertise.
Pricing Transparency
Look for companies that offer clear, upfront quotes without hidden fees. Avoid surprises by asking about all costs involved.
License and Insurance
A reputable mover should be properly licensed and insured to protect your belongings and your investment. Verify their credentials before hiring.
Auto Transportation
If you need to move a car, check if the company offers auto transport services, either as part of the move or separately.
Specialty Item Moving
For delicate or bulky items like pianos, antiques, or artwork, confirm that the mover has experience and equipment to handle them safely.
Cancellation Policy
Understand the cancellation terms in case your plans change. Some movers charge hefty fees for last-minute cancellations.
Deposit
Find out if a deposit is required and how much. Legitimate companies usually require minimal upfront payment.
Reviews and Complaints
Read recent reviews to get a feel for customer satisfaction and how the company handles issues or complaints.
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Company | Best For | Price Range | Service Type | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Van Lines | Best Overall | $$$ | Local, Interstate, International | Full service, storage |
| International Van Lines | Runner-Up | $$ – $$$ | Domestic & International | Personalized moves |
| American Van Lines | Best Bang for the Buck | $ – $$ | Local & Interstate | Transparent pricing |
| Mayflower Transit | Best Moving Packages | $$$ | Full-service moves | Comprehensive packages |
| PODS | Best Moving Container | $$ | Container moves | Flexible storage |
| U-Haul | Best Moving Truck Rental | $ | Truck rental | DIY moving |
| U-Pack | Also Consider | $$ | Container & trailer rental | Affordable, flexible |
1. Best Overall- United Van Lines
United Van Lines earns the top spot thanks to their nationwide coverage, excellent customer service, and variety of moving options. Whether you need help packing, storing, or moving specialty items, United has you covered.
Pros
- Extensive network covering all 50 states
- Full-service packing and unpacking available
- Secure storage options
- Good handling of specialty items
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to budget movers
- Some reports of delayed deliveries during peak seasons
Specs
- Licensed by FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
- Offers local, interstate, and international moves
- Provides insurance options
2. Runner-Up- International Van Lines
International Van Lines offers excellent value for international and domestic moves. Their team is praised for communication and handling of complicated moves.
Pros
- Strong international moving expertise
- Personalized customer service with move coordinators
- Competitive pricing for long-distance moves
Cons
- Limited availability for small local moves
- Additional charges can apply for special services
Specs
- Licensed and insured
- International and domestic moving services
- Packing, storage, and vehicle transport available
3. Best Bang for the Buck- American Van Lines
If you want solid service on a budget, American Van Lines is a great pick. They deliver reliable moving with clear pricing and good customer support.
Pros
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Great for both local and interstate moves
- Friendly and professional staff
Cons
- Fewer specialty services compared to bigger companies
- Limited storage options
Specs
- Licensed and insured
- Full packing and moving services
- Local and long-distance moves
4. Best Moving Packages- Mayflower Transit
Mayflower Transit is known for their comprehensive moving packages that include everything from packing to storage. Perfect if you want a hassle-free full-service move.
Pros
- Wide range of moving services and packages
- Excellent storage facilities
- Trusted brand with decades of experience
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Some complaints about communication delays
Specs
- Nationwide and international moves
- Full packing, unpacking, and storage services
5. Best Moving Container- PODS
PODS offers the flexibility of container moves that you can pack at your own pace. Great for those who want more control over the move.
Pros
- Flexible timing for loading and unloading
- Containers stored securely until delivery
- Good for local and long-distance moves
Cons
- You handle your own packing
- May be more expensive than truck rental for short moves
Specs
- Container delivery and storage
- Nationwide service
- Insurance options available
6. Best Moving Truck Rental- U-Haul
U-Haul is the go-to for DIY movers who want to save money by driving the truck themselves. It’s affordable and has a vast network of rental locations.
Pros
- Affordable rental rates
- Wide availability of trucks and trailers
- Flexible rental terms
Cons
- You handle all packing and driving
- Customer service varies by location
Specs
- Nationwide truck rental
- Variety of truck sizes and trailers
- No moving labor included
7. Also Consider- U-Pack
U-Pack offers a hybrid service where you load your belongings, and they handle the driving. It’s a great middle ground between full-service and DIY.
Pros
- Cost-effective for long-distance moves
- You pack, they drive
- No upfront deposit required
Cons
- Limited local moving services
- You’re responsible for packing and loading
Specs
- Interstate moves only
- Trailer rental and container options
Our Verdict
Choosing the right moving company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a move. After carefully reviewing numerous companies based on customer feedback, service offerings, pricing transparency, and overall reputation, a few clear winners stand out as the best moving companies in America.
At the top of our list is United Van Lines. They offer a comprehensive range of services that cater to both local and long-distance moves. Their nationwide presence means they can handle moves virtually anywhere in the U.S., and their reputation for professionalism and reliability is hard to beat.
Customers consistently praise United Van Lines for their careful handling of belongings, timely deliveries, and helpful customer service. Whether you need full-service packing or specialty item moving, United Van Lines delivers peace of mind for those who want a smooth, hassle-free move.
Coming in as our runner-up is International Van Lines, a company that shines especially when it comes to international moves. Their expertise in overseas relocation combined with flexible scheduling and competitive pricing makes them a favorite among those moving abroad or across states. What sets them apart is their personalized customer service.
Every customer gets a dedicated move coordinator who guides them through the process, helping to reduce the stress often associated with moving. For domestic moves, they are also a reliable choice, although their specialty remains international services.
For budget-conscious movers, American Van Lines stands out as the best bang for the buck. They offer solid, reliable moving services at affordable rates without compromising on quality. Many customers appreciate their transparent pricing model and no-hidden-fees approach, which is a relief when trying to stay within a budget. While they may not offer as many specialty services as larger companies, they cover all the basics well — packing, loading, and unloading — making them an excellent option for straightforward local and interstate moves.
Ultimately, your choice depends on what you value most: a full-service experience, budget-friendly pricing, or international expertise. Each of these companies brings unique strengths, but all three have earned strong reputations for customer satisfaction, professionalism, and trustworthy service. By selecting any of these top movers, you can feel confident your belongings will be handled with care, and your move will go as smoothly as possible.
How We Chose the Best Moving Companies
We analyzed hundreds of verified customer reviews from sites like Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Google. We also looked at licensing, insurance coverage, pricing transparency, and range of services offered. Companies that consistently delivered good customer experiences, handled specialty moves well, and provided clear communication scored highest.
Before You Hire One of the Best Moving Companies
- Get at least three written quotes
- Verify licensing and insurance
- Read recent customer reviews
- Ask about hidden fees and cancellation policies
- Understand what services are included
Cost of Hiring One of the Best Moving Companies
Costs vary widely based on distance, volume, and services. Local moves can start around $300-$1,000, while long-distance and international moves often cost $2,000 or more. Full-service packing and specialty item handling increase costs but provide convenience and peace of mind.
The Advantages of Using One of the Best Moving Companies
- Professional handling reduces damage risk
- Experienced staff save you time and stress
- Access to storage and specialty services
- Insurance options protect your belongings
FAQs
How far in advance should I book a mover?
Ideally 4-8 weeks ahead, especially during peak moving season.
Can I pack my own boxes?
Yes, many companies allow this to save money. Full packing services are optional.
What happens if my belongings get damaged?
Most movers offer valuation coverage; check your contract and consider extra insurance if needed.
Are there fees for moving specialty items?
Often yes. Pianos, pool tables, and antiques may require additional fees.
How do I avoid moving scams?
Verify licensing, avoid large upfront deposits, and check reviews carefully.
