Moving long distances can feel intimidating, especially when sticking to a budget. Between packing, logistics and figuring out who to trust with your belongings, the process quickly creates cost and stress. However, a smooth, affordable move is possible when you choose the right long-distance moving company.
Whether you’re relocating for work, family or a fresh start, the companies on this list offer reliable service without inflated pricing for all moves, from small apartments to complete home relocations. These service providers stand out for transparency, value and nationwide reach. Find the long-distance moving service that won’t empty your wallet.
Why Long-Distance Moves Become Expensive
The cost of a long-distance move depends on more than just mileage. Most companies calculate pricing based on shipment weight, total volume, truck space and the distance your belongings need to travel. The bigger your load, the more you will pay, especially if you have heavy furniture or fragile items.
Labor is another major factor in pricing. If you need help packing, dissembling furniture or moving up and down stairs, expect fees to add up. The distance the truck can park from your new home also factors in, as well as fuel surcharges, tolls and insurance coverage.
Timing also influences figures. Moving during peak seasons — typically summer months — usually means higher rates. Having some flexibility in your moving date can lead to reduced costs. Finding a provider willing to support you with price negotiations and insurance coverage can make your move much more affordable and stress-free.
What to Consider When Choosing Long-Distance Moving Companies
Not all movers were “crated” equally, and the wrong choice can cost you time, money and peace of mind. Start by checking the following:
- Reputation and reviews: Look for high ratings on Google, Yelp and the Better Business Bureau, and be mindful of red flags.
- Licensing and insurance: Ensure the company is licensed for interstate moves and offers valuation protection or additional insurance options.
- Services offered: Decide if you need complete packaging, storage or just transportation. Some companies specialize in small loads or white-glove delivery.
- Quote structure: Understand pricing, binding and non-binding or not-to-exceed and what your estimate includes.
- Cost and discounts: Ask about seasonal deals, senior and military discounts and whether the deposit is refundable.
Best National Long-Distance Movers at a Glance
Discover a side-by-side overview of the best moving options.
| Company | Type | Best For | Pricing Model | Unique Feature |
| TSI | Carrier and broker | Small-load moves, partial shipments | Variable, size-based | No weight minimums |
| International Van Lines | Carrier and freight forwarder | Domestic and international relocations | Flat-rate or custom quote | 150+ country reach, 24/7 support |
| Mayflower | Carrier | Full-service and midsized moves | Binding or non-binding | Snapmoves℠ for small moves |
| North American Van Lines | Carrier | Residential and corporate moves | Binding estimates | Appliance and specialty item handling |
| Colonial Van Lines | Carrier | Interstate full-service moves | Binding estimates | Real-time tracking via mobile app |
| United Van Lines | Carrier | Complex, nationwide moves | Flexible quote options | Custom crating and Snapmoves℠ program |
| Safeway Moving Systems | Broker | Budget-friendly, all-in-one packages | Flat-rate | 30 days of free storage included |
| American Van Lines | Carrier | High-value and specialty items | Flat-rate | Certified movers for pianos and antiques |
| Moving APT | Broker | Rate comparisons and fast scheduling | Binding estimates | Access to 2,500+ carriers for flexibility |
Top Affordable Long-Distance Movers
Partnering with a suitable moving company for your big move requires evaluating several options to find the one that best serves you. These companies are top of the line for affordable moving.
1. TSI
Transit Systems Inc., TSI, specializes in small-load, long-distance move, making it a go-to for individuals moving out a few larger items and boxes or light household goods. Unlike traditional movers with strict weight limits, TSI builds flexible plans around your actual shipment size. Whether you’re relocating a few pieces of furniture or coordinating multiple deliveries from different addresses, the logistics team can tailor the service to fit your needs.
TSI’s quote structure depends on shipment size, delivery timeline and service level. Options range from basic box shipping to full-service white glove and expedited delivery. You can add services like packing, custom crating and professional organizing to your plan. Request a quote online, and a logistics expert will follow up to finalize details. Deposits vary by service type.
Key features:
- No minimum weight requirement for shipments
- Economy and priority service levels available
- Specialty solutions for estate moves and senior relocations
- Online shipment tracking and digital documentation tools
- Personalized support through move coordinators
2. International Van Lines
International Van Lines is a full-service mover known for flexibility, nationwide coverage and transparent pricing. As a licensed carrier and freight forwarder, the company handles all load sizes, from basic interstate moves to international relocations across over 150 countries. The service scales from studio apartments to whole-home moving.
The mover is suited to long-distance customers who want options like packing, loading, storage and autotransport with insurance coverage. While more focused on larger loads, the brand also accommodates small loads. It offers competitive rates for minor moves like a few boxes and some furniture items — perfect for students moving to college. Get a free online quote, but remember that you’ll need to pay a deposit to secure the booking. You can expect strong customer service and clear communication throughout the process.
Key features:
- Licensed to handle international ocean and air freight
- 24/7 phone and email customer support
- Secure warehouses for short- and long-term storage options
- Fragile-only packing for select items
- Military and corporate relocation services available
- Awarded Newsweek’s “Best in Customer Service” in 2021
3. Mayflower
Mayflower is a century-old trusted name in long-distance moving. It’s backed by more than 500 U.S. locations, and offers a wide, customizable range of services designed to make moves of any size efficient and hassle-free. The company combines national reach with personalized care.
Every quote includes Full Value Protection by default, which covers repairs or replacements for lost or damaged items. Add-on services such as packing, unpacking, debris removal and short — or long-term storage are available. The company also offers the unique Snapmoves℠ program, which is tailored to small and midsized shipments and has date-specific options. Complete a virtual survey for an online quote, and a dedicated agent will coordinate your move.
Key features:
- More than 90 years of moving experience
- Built-in tracking through the Mayflower Move portal
- Optional add-ons like electronics setup and cleaning services
- Customized moving checklists and planning tools
- Service packages tailored for seniors and first-time movers
- Certified ProMover through the American Trucking Association
4. North American Van Lines, Inc.
North American Van Lines, Inc. brings more than 90 years of long-distance moving experience to each load. The company has over 500 agent locations and offers reliable support no matter your destination. It’s a full-service provider with residential, corporate and international relocation solutions. The company’s transparent approach and customizable packages make it a strong choice for those with budget constraints and full-service customers.
The mover’s services include packing, unpacking, temporary storage and vehicle shipping. You can do your own packing or the professionals can handle it. Dedicated specialists coordinate each move, with quotes determined by shipment size, distance and add-ons. The team offers virtual walkthroughs and issues binding estimates to ensure surprise-free pricing.
Key features:
- Specialized handling for appliances, electronics and high-value items
- Online shipment tracking and move status updates
- Moving assistance for corporate transferees and employees
- Full suite of relocation resources and checklists
- Climate-controlled storage facilities nationwide
5. Colonial Van Lines Inc.
Colonial Van Lines Inc. is a family-owned moving company focusing on long-distance relocations across the continental U.S. The brand has completed over 250,000 moves and specializes in full-service options, including packing, storage and furniture disassembly. It’s a strong fit for households that want a straightforward, all-inclusive moving experience — particularly those relocating interstate out of state.
The mover offers binding estimates based on virtual surveys, which helps prevent surprise charges. The company also provides packing supplies, long- and short-term storage and insurance options. The customer-focused mobile app manages estimates, move management and load progress tracking.
Key features:
- In-house customer support seven days a week
- Specialized moving plans for military and commercial clients
- Climate-controlled storage available upon request
- Background-checked moving crews for added trust
- Resources for planning, budgeting and scheduling moves
6. United Van Lines
United Van Lines is one of the largest and most established long-distance moving companies in the U.S., with a reputation built on nearly a century of experience. It’s known for its vast service area and range of offerings. The mover is ideal for customers who want flexibility, control and peace of mind during a complex move.
It offers full-service packing and storage with self-packing and custom crating options available. Like Mayflower, it participates in the Snapmoves℠ program, which is tailored for smaller moves, while the larger-scale services accommodate households of any size. Choose between binding and nonbinding estimates, with each move including a dedicated coordinator to manage logistics. Each booking ensures access to the user-friendly app for easy scheduling, document management and location tracking on the carriers.
Key features:
- Real-time tracking through the United Move Portal
- Add-on services for debris removal and installation
- Short-term storage included in select packages
- Custom solutions for corporate and military moves
- Easy-to-navigate app for move coordination
7. Safeway Moving Inc.
Safeway Moving Inc. is a veteran-owned moving broker that partners with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration-authorized carriers to provide affordable, long-distance moving solutions across the U.S. The company focuses on transparency, flat-rate pricing and reliable service, making it perfect for customers who want predictable costs and efficient logistics without upsells or surprises.
Safeway offers full-service packing, furniture disassembly and reassembly, storage and long-distance transport. All quotes are flat-rate and include 30 days of storage at no extra charge, which is helpful for staggered moves or uncertain move-in dates. While the broker doesn’t directly handle local or international moves and contracts authorized independent movers, its customer service team is known for regular check-ins and clear expectations from start to finish. Deposits secure your place on a carrier and confirm the booking.
Key features:
- Streamlined coordination with vetted moving carriers
- Dedicated relocation specialists throughout the move
- Household goods protection for most packages
- Volume-based pricing options for larger shipments
- No surprise fees or hidden surcharges
8. American Van Lines
American Van Lines is a family-owned moving company with highly trained staff and flat-rate pricing on its full-service offerings. Unlike brokers, the mover owns and operates its main fleet, which means more control over scheduling and fewer third-party handoffs. This makes it a great choice if you want consistency and professionalism throughout the move.
It specializes in long-distance and cross-country moves, offering services like full or partial packing, storage and handling of specialty items such as antiques, pianos and artwork. The mover’s subcontractors are background-checked and trained to handle high-value shipments. Receive binding quotes based on in-home or virtual surveys. The company maintains competitive, flat-rate pricing.
Key features:
- Direct management of fleet and equipment
- Uniformed movers with specialty item certifications
- Storage-in-transit available for flexible delivery
- Certified piano and fine art moving services
- Award-winning customer satisfaction ratings
9. Moving APT
Moving APT is a licensed moving broker that partners with over 2,500 carriers across the U.S. to provide tailored long-distance moving solutions. Its biggest strength is flexibility — by comparing rates and availability across its partner network, Moving APT can match you with a mover that fits your timeline, budget and service needs.
Services include full packing and unpacking, storage, appliance disconnection, and furniture disassembly. Because Moving APT operates as a broker, the actual moving company you’ll work with depends on your location and move details. Still, the broker manages the quote process and handles customer support throughout. It offers binding estimates and may secure discounted rates for early bookings. Lock down the quote with your deposit.
Key features:
- Same-day booking on select routes
- Rate comparisons from multiple licensed carriers
- Relocation services for seniors and military families
- 24/7 live chat and phone support
- Custom move planning through APT’s centralized dashboard
How to Cut Costs on Your Long-Distance Move
Long-distance moves don’t have to be expensive, especially if you plan ahead and know where to trim expenses. Here are practical ways to save without sacrificing reliability.
Declutter Before You Pack
The less you move, the less you’ll pay. Sell, donate or recycle anything you don’t need — especially heavy items like books, furniture or gym equipment.
Be Flexible With Dates
Moving in the off-season — fall or winter — or midweek can lead to lower rates. If possible, avoid weekends and the summer rush.
Pack It Yourself
Full-service packing adds hundreds to your final bill. DIY packing with recycled boxes and smart labeling can make a big difference.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Always get estimates from at least three companies, and ensure you’re comparing the same level of service.
Use a Moving Broker
Brokers can help you find competitive pricing across multiple carriers, though you’ll want to research the actual mover they assign.
Ask About Discounts
Many companies offer savings for military members, students, seniors or early bookings, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Skip What You Don’t Need
If you’re not moving valuables, you might not need extra insurance. If you don’t need storage, ensure your quote doesn’t include it.
FAQ
How Much Does a Long-Distance Move Usually Cost?
The average cost of a long-distance move ranges from $2,500 to $7,000, depending on distance, weight and services needed. Small moves or partial loads may be less, especially with companies like TSI or Mayflower.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Long-Distance Mover?
Ideally, book your move at least four to six weeks in advance. Eight weeks is recommended for the peak summer season to secure availability and better pricing.
What’s the Difference Between a Moving Company and a Moving Broker?
A moving company owns its trucks with its own crew, while a broker connects you with third-party movers. Brokers often offer more flexibility and competitive rates, but it’s essential to research the actual carrier they assign.
Do I Need Moving Insurance?
Most movers include basic valuation coverage but may not fully protect high-value items. Consider purchasing additional insurance if you move valuable furniture, electronics or artwork.
Where Can I Find Affordable Long-Distance Moving Services?
You can find affordable interstate movers by searching online and asking around for recommendations from others who have used reliable service providers before. Always investigate several options and ask questions to ensure you get professionals from loading to unboxing.
