Relocating to another state can be thrilling, but the logistics can be challenging. Having pro movers you trust to take care of the long-distance move makes life easier. But with so many choices, how do you pick the best interstate moving company for the job?
We’ve done the research to help you find the best interstate moving companies to make your move easier.
Our picks
Atlas Van Lines: Best for long-distance moves
North American Van Lines: Best for flexible pricing
Mayflower Transit: Best for large moves
United Van Lines: Best for insurance protection
Suddath Relocation Systems: Best for military moves
Solomon & Sons Relocation Services: Best for East Coast moves
Allied Van Lines: Best for full-service moves
Atlas Van Lines: Best for long-distance moves
Star rating: 4.5 out of 5
State availability: All 50 states, Washington, D.C. (not available in Puerto Rico)
No. of insurance options: 2
Online options: Virtual assessment, GPS tracking for shipments, inventory app
Why we picked Atlas Van Lines
Atlas Van Lines offers unmatched nationwide availability in all 50 states. AAA members get VIP treatment, such as free full-value protection on damaged items. Even without AAA perks, Atlas has competitive pricing, and no deposit is required to book. Its long-term storage options offer extra flexibility for those who need it.
Who should use Atlas Van Lines
Atlas’ giant network means seamless service wherever your move takes you — so we recommend it if you’re moving a long distance. AAA members can maximize perks like free full insurance coverage.
Pros
- Perks available for AAA members
- Extensive network for easy access
- Long-term storage solutions available
Cons
- Cancellation can be difficult
- Quote process can be unreliable
- Service quality differs at every branch
North American Van Lines: Best for flexible pricing
Star rating: 4.5 out of 5
State availability: All 50 states, Washington, D.C. (not available in Puerto Rico)
No. insurance options: 2
Online options: Virtual assessment, moving supply calculator, GPS tracking for shipments
Why we picked North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines’ flexible flat-rate pricing lets you tailor costs to your unique moving needs. Its “not-to-exceed” estimates provide price protection even if your belongings exceed their predicted weight. Customers can choose between standard binding rates or customize a plan allowing last-minute add-ons.
Who should use North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines is perfect if you want a customized moving experience. Its adaptable pricing plans allow you to guarantee specific rates while leaving room for specialty services like high-end appliance installation that other movers may not offer.
Pros
- Accommodates all 50 states
- Diverse pricing structure to accommodate all financial capacities
- Centralized coordination for all relocation activities
Cons
- Not all work is done in-house (it outsources some services)
- Claims process can be difficult
- Service quality differs at every branch
Mayflower Transit: Best for large moves
Star rating: 4.4 out of 5
State availability: 46 states, Washington, D.C. (not available in Delaware, Hawaii, Rhode Island, West Virginia, Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories)
No. of insurance options: 2
Online options: Virtual assessment, GPS tracking for shipments, inventory app
Why we picked Mayflower Transit
Mayflower includes full-value protection in all their moving estimates, while most companies only provide basic coverage. It also offers binding estimates, locking in costs upfront. Its customized moving packages allow customers to select only the services they need, helping to reduce their bottom line.
Who should use Mayflower Transit
Mayflower simplifies complex long-distance or international moves with stellar end-to-end support. Its auto transport, specialty packing and home tech setup services are ideal for large interstate relocations.
Pros
- Estimates include full-value insurance by default
- Provides binding estimates for every move
- Quick handling of smaller relocations through Snapmoves
Cons
- Must decline full-value insurance for your move if you don’t want it
- Not available in Delaware, Hawaii, Rhode Island and West Virginia
- Outsources some services to third-party companies
United Van Lines: Best for insurance protection
Star rating: 4.2 out of 5
State availability: 46 states, Washington, D.C. (not available in Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico)
No. of insurance options: 2
Online options: Virtual assessment, GPS tracking for shipments
Why we picked United Van Lines
United Van Lines builds full-value protection into the moving cost. This covers items at $6 per pound without extra insurance hassle. Customers can pay more to increase coverage or opt out of full-value protection for basic protection.
Who should use United Van Lines
Movers who want an all-in-one moving and protection solution will love United Van Lines. It handles damage claims directly, so you don’t have to coordinate with your home insurance.
Pros
- Offers insurance coverage for items of high value
- No need to file claims with your home insurance company
- Quick and easy online quotes
Cons
- Price can be higher compared to competitors
- Not available in Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia
- Customer service is inconsistent based on online reviews
Suddath Relocation Systems: Best for military moves
Star rating: 4.2 out of 5
State availability: 48 states, Washington, D.C. (not available in Hawaii and Alaska)
No. insurance options: 2
Online options: Virtual assessment, GPS tracking for shipments, inventory app
Why we picked Suddath Relocation Systems
Suddath Relocation Systems has more than a century of experience moving military families. As a partner of Atlas Van Lines, it shares a reputation for transparent pricing, expansive reach and excellent service capabilities, such as junk removal, storage, and shipping pianos, arts, antiques and collectibles.
Who should use Suddath Relocation Systems
Military members should strongly consider Suddath Relocation Systems. Its staff is specially trained to smooth domestic and international military moves, and more than 38,000 service members use Suddath Relocation Services every year.
Pros
- Trusted background-checked movers since 1919
- Flexible moving and storage services available
- Experienced crew with 250+ hours of training
Cons
- Not available in Alaska and Hawaii
- Only military moves get tracking
Solomon & Sons Relocation Services: Best for East Coast moves
Star rating: 4.1 out of 5
State availability: 43 states, Washington, D.C. (not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming or Puerto Rico)
No. of insurance options: 2
Online options: Virtual assessment, GPS tracking for shipments
Why we picked Solomon & Sons
Solomon & Sons Relocation Services caught our attention with its family-owned approach and excellent customer service — moving crews are experienced and get the job done quickly. It’s grown its self-run network of movers from Florida to a coast-to-coast operation but remains East Coast specialists at heart.
Who should use Solomon & Sons
East Coasters wanting movers familiar with the region’s nuances should consider Solomon & Sons Relocation Services. The company offers deals for military, seniors, Miami-Fort Lauderdale movers and home/auto bundles.
Pros
- Senior and military discounts available
- Competent and screened in-house staff (no subcontractors)
- Storage solutions available (and if you book six months, you get the final month free)
Cons
- Charges by cubic foot and not weight like most others
- Not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming
- Requires a 20% deposit before moving, unlike many competitors
Allied Van Lines: Best for full-service moves
Star rating: 4.1 out of 5
State availability: All 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, other U.S. territories
No. of insurance options: 2
Online options: Virtual assessment, moving supply calculator, GPS tracking for shipments
Why we picked Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines handles everything from packing to unpacking. To top it off, it provides a personal relocation consultant to coordinate move details. You get many extra services like supplies, storage, portable containers, shipment tracking and furniture assembly.
Who should use Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines is a solid choice if you want a stress-free move with all the work done for you by pros. It doesn’t charge a deposit, so you don’t have to pay anything until after the move (within 48 hours).
Pros
- Storage facilities are climate-controlled
- Doesn’t outsource vehicle shipping, unlike many competitors
- Accommodates all 50 states and Puerto Rico, unlike our top competitor here
Cons
- No 24/7 customer support
- No instant online quotes for bigger homes
- More expensive than competitors
Our picks at a glance
|
Our rating (out of 5)
|
Availability
|
Deposit required
|
Specialty services available
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas Van Lines | 4.5 |
All 50 states, D.C., other U.S. territories |
No |
Full-service packing and unpacking, appliance disconnection/hookup, vehicle shipping, junk removal, storage, fragile-only packing, antique shipping, arts/collectibles shipping, piano shipping, oversized hauling |
| North American Van Lines | 4.5 |
All 50 states, D.C. |
No |
Full-service packing and unpacking, appliance disconnection/hookup, vehicle shipping, junk removal, storage, fragile-only packing, antique shipping, arts/collectibles shipping, piano shipping, oversized hauling |
| Mayflower Transit | 4.4 |
46 states, Washington, D.C. |
No |
Full-service packing and unpacking, limited appliance disconnection/hookup, vehicle shipping, junk removal, storage, fragile-only packing, antique shipping, arts/collectibles shipping, piano shipping, oversized hauling |
| United Van Lines | 4.2 |
46 states, Washington, D.C. |
No |
Full-service packing and unpacking, vehicle shipping, junk removal, storage, fragile-only packing, antique shipping, arts/collectibles shipping, piano shipping, oversized hauling |
| Suddath Relocation Systems | 4.2 |
48 states, Washington, D.C. |
No |
Full-service packing and unpacking, piano moving, antiques shipping, arts/collectibles crating, hot tub shipping, storage, shipment tracking |
| Solomon & Sons | 4.1 |
43 states, Washington, D.C. |
Yes |
Full-service packing and unpacking, furniture assembly, custom crating, car shipping, storage |
| Allied Van Lines | 4.1 |
All 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, other U.S. territories |
No |
Full-service packing and unpacking, fragile-only packing, portable storage containers, shipment tracking |
What didn’t make the cut
Good Greek Moving stood out for including junk removal services, which not all interstate movers offer. But its lack of appliance disconnection/hookup and oversized item services kept it out of the top picks.
JK Moving provides premium white-glove service, but its steep estimate exceeds $7,000, much higher than competitors like Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines, averaging around $5,000. This puts it out of budget for many interstate movers.
We loved International Van Lines’ transparent pricing estimates. Unfortunately, it required a 25% booking deposit to book a move — a notable drawback considering our top four, Atlas Van Lines, North American Van Lines, Mayflower Moving and United Van Lines, don’t require any.
What is an interstate move?
An interstate move involves relocating your belongings from one U.S. state to another. In addition to crossing state lines, interstate moves:
- Often require professional movers and trucks to transport your belongings (doing it yourself with a rental truck can be difficult)
- Can be complicated by varying state regulations, taxes and registration
- Cost more than local moves due to increased mileage and time
- Involve more planning to coordinate logistics and storage
How to choose the best interstate moving company
Choosing a trustworthy, experienced interstate mover is imperative to reduce stress and ensure a smooth transition. The best companies go beyond transporting your stuff. They offer a range of services and benefits that make the whole process easier.
When evaluating interstate moving companies, consider these factors:
Availability
Look for a company that can accommodate your preferred moving dates and provide guaranteed delivery windows. The best movers have the capacity when you need it.
Insurance
Reputable companies offer valuation coverage and protection for your items in case of damage or loss. Make sure you understand the insurance options and costs.
Pricing
Get in-home estimates from multiple companies to compare costs. Beware of lowball bids and ensure there are no hidden fees. Good prices balance affordability and quality service.
Reputation
Read online reviews on sites like Yelp and Google and check ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). An established company with a solid reputation provides peace of mind.
Services
Every move is unique — so ultimately, you’ll want to look for movers who offer the services you need:
- Will you be handling the packing before the move?
- Are you looking for an affordable option/open to DIYing parts of the move? Or do you need a full-service move where the pros handle it all?
- Do you need storage services during any stage of the move?
- Can you take care of junk removal, or would you want your mover to do that?
Knowing the answers to questions like these will help you determine the best mover for you.
How much does an interstate move cost?
The cost of moving interstate is different for everyone. According to moving.com, the average investment is $4,890 for a 2 to 3-bedroom home (approximately 7,500 pounds). The total amount depends on several key factors.
Factors that impact the cost of an interstate move
Many elements influence your overall price when moving out of state. Being aware of these can help you budget and compare estimates with accuracy.
Fuel costs
Gas prices affect the rates moving companies charge. The further you need to move your belongings, the bigger role fuel costs play.
Moving date
Peak moving season in summer has a higher demand, so prices are higher. Off-season moves in fall or winter often offer cost savings of up to 30% off.
Moving distance
Longer distances mean more mileage plus more driving and labor hours. This drives up the price. Cross-country moves are more expensive than moves to neighboring states.
Size of move
The more belongings you need moved, the higher the cost. Small moves are cheaper than cramming a whole houseful of stuff into a truck.
Type of move
Full-service moves with packing help are pricier than hiring movers to load and drive a truck you pack yourself. Extra services like crating and storage add costs, too.
Types of interstate moving companies
When prepping for an out-of-state move, you must decide — hire pros or DIY? The movers you pick impact cost, convenience and control.
Full-service
These guys handle everything, including packing, loading, hauling, and unloading. Full-service movers provide the most help but are the priciest option. They’re ideal for complex moves.
Moving containers
With this option, you’re responsible for packing the containers. Once filled, the company transports them to your new address. This could be a viable option if you want to pack your belongings yourself but have a professional driver handle long-distance transportation.
Self-service DIY
Going with a self-service DIY moving company is a great way to save some cash. You’d be responsible for renting a truck, packing, driving and unpacking. This requires the most physical effort but gives you maximum control.
Truck rental
Pick between a variety of truck sizes to suit your budget. With a truck rental, you pack, load, drive and unload everything yourself — or hire independent help. Remember that you’ll need to figure out how many days you’ll need the truck for your move and where to return it after unloading.
How to prepare for an interstate move
Gearing up for an interstate move takes careful planning and organization. The logistics involved in moving between states can be complex, so give yourself plenty of time.
- Determine your moving budget.
- Research moving companies.
- Book a moving company that fits your timeline and budget.
- Begin by packing non-essential items, like seasonal goods and rarely-used items
- Make arrangements to ship your vehicles separately.
- Have utilities disconnected and reconnected at the proper times.
- Get copies of medical records and prescriptions to bring along.
- Pack a “first-day” bag of essentials you’ll immediately need.
- Notify the post office of your new address and when it should start forwarding mail.
Methodology
To determine the rankings for moving companies, the CNN Underscored Home editorial team analyzed 52 companies, with each company’s star rating determined by a variety of factors, including:
