U-Haul is our top choice for moving truck rentals due to its truck size options and widespread availability. Many top truck rental companies also sell moving and packing supplies and partner with local moving companies for moving labor. Booking a moving truck rental for your upcoming DIY move is the best way to save money.…

Organizing and having a yard sale should be the No. 1 step in moving, even before researching the best moving companies. If you want to have a yard sale that’s a success, start by treating it like a boutique in your backyard — complete with refreshments and good deals. Whether you’re decluttering before you pack…

Our No. 1 pick for luxury moving needs is JK Moving Services because its moving teams receive some of the most comprehensive training in the moving industry. Each background-checked mover it hires trains at a fully furnished two-story home at JK’s headquarters, mimicking real moving processes and scenarios. American Van Lines is a close second…

U.S. Census data shows more than 50,000 residents moved from California to Florida between 2021 and 2022, making it one of the most popular routes among American moving customers. Florida’s cost of living — which is 23.6% lower than California’s across all factors — and lack of state income tax have made relocating there a…

We recommend North American Van Lines and Allied Van Lines for long-distance relocation services in Missouri. Both operate under the global relocation service provider Sirva, enabling them to conduct moves of any size and distance via their highly rated locations in Missouri. North American Van Lines’ “bottom-line” and “not-to-exceed” pricing options make it a good…

We recommend Allied Van Lines for long-distance moves to or from Louisiana. If you’re booking within Louisiana, Allied’s Elmwood location near New Orleans offers highly rated service plus access to full-service packing, short- and long-term storage and dedicated small-move solutions via its Allied Express service plans. If you’re planning a local move, start your quote…

California’s numerous job opportunities in finance, manufacturing and information technology, plus its diverse landscape and unique climate zones, attract thousands of new residents each year. More than 31,000 residents moved from New York to California in 2022 despite the West Coast state’s slightly higher cost of living, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. When planning…

A DIY move can save you money on moving costs, but it can also be a pain in the back — quite literally. While decluttering and knowing how to pack up your house are pretty straightforward tasks, loading up the moving truck can be a hefty project. This is where hiring movers may be worth…

If you’re gearing up for a long-distance move, you’ll want to know about shipping furniture across the country.  “I always recommend full-service movers for a long-distance move,” said Winchester, Massachusetts-based Pamela Downs, real estate advisor at Compass New England. “But if you’re only shipping a few things or have a limited budget, you’ll want to…

We recommend Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines (NAVL) for long-distance moves to or from Kentucky. Allied offers a small-move package called Allied Express that provides expedited moving container assistance for two-bedroom and smaller homes, plus basic and specialty services for larger residences. NAVL offers long-distance service via multiple Kentucky locations and access…

We recommend North American Van Lines (NAVL) for long-distance moves to and from Nebraska. It offers “not-to-exceed” and “bottom-line” pricing, which can help you stay within your budget. For local Nebraska moves, we like College Hunks. In addition to loading and transportation, College Hunks offers junk removal, packing services and more. Each moving company we…

The surge in travel post-pandemic benefited short-term vacation rentals significantly. Thanks to local hosts opening doors to their properties, short-term rentals listed on Airbnb, Vrbo and Vacasa offer memorable experiences that replicate a flexible and convenient home-away-from-home stay. Investing in a short-term rental can quickly go from having a family getaway spot to profitable income…

Moving to a different state can be an adventure. Starting afresh with a change of scenery can bring opportunities for new experiences, professional and personal growth, expanded social networks, and overall, an improved quality of life. As a matter of fact, out-of-state moves have been growing in popularity in recent years. We’ve enlisted the help…

Relocating can be significantly challenging if you face financial constraints or unexpected circumstances. Fortunately, relocation assistance programs (RAPs) provide support and resources to those in need. These programs aim to alleviate the burdens associated with moving by offering financial aid and housing assistance.  Federal RAPs, nonprofits and local charities assist a diverse range of individuals.…

Do-it-yourself (DIY) or partial moving is the cheapest way to move locally. Partial moving could mean hiring professional packers, loading and driving the moving truck yourself, or hiring day laborers to pack a moving container. Local moves are inherently cheaper than cross-country moves. Because you’re not trekking long distances, you won’t have to spend as…

Packing for a move is never easy, even when it comes to packing up your bathroom essentials. Clearing out a bathroom can be deceptive. On the one hand, bathrooms generally cover the smallest footprint of any space in a home, but on the other, the under-sink storage can surely be filled to the brim. Then,…

North American Van Lines and Gorilla Movers of Wisconsin are our picks for the best moving companies in Wisconsin. North American Van Lines’ not-to-exceed pricing model makes budgeting for your move easier. This national mover also has highly rated locations throughout the state. Gorilla Movers of Wisconsin has more than two decades of experience facilitating…

We recommend Mayflower and Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) for a long-distance Vermont move. Mayflower’s dedicated service packages for small and large moves make it a versatile option, and IMRG’s vast partner network allows clients in all locations to book local and long-distance services. For local moves within the state, we found that Grunts…

Ask any professional mover about your first strategic step when preparing for a move, and they’ll likely tell you: downsizing and decluttering. Whether you’re moving to a smaller home, making a long-distance move or moving locally, cutting down on excess belongings will minimize the hassle of packing and save you money on moving supplies. With…

Charming historic districts, picturesque coastal cities and famous golf courses attract millions of tourists to South Carolina every year. Visitors are not the only ones clamoring to South Carolina, however. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that this Lowcountry region saw the fastest-growing population of any state in 2023.  Charleston, Hilton Head Island and Myrtle Beach…

Nevada is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States; Las Vegas alone saw more than 3 million visitors in March 2024. If you’re planning a move around one of the state’s bustling urban centers, booking with an experienced mover will help you work around increased traffic and congested roadways. We recommend…

Indiana’s low housing costs and property taxes may attract movers seeking decreased living expenses — more than 149,000 new residents moved there in 2022 per Census data. Whether you’re a Hoosier State native moving to downtown Indianapolis or a newcomer entering the state’s fast-growing renewable energy field, our guide will help you find a reputable…

Reach out to your post office before you pack up your moving truck. If you’re considering a temporary move — 15 days to 12 months — you can file a temporary change of address (COA) order with the United States Postal Service (USPS). During this time, your mail and most other forms of correspondence will…

Sure, you can use plastic containers and suitcases to empty a closet space — just don’t complain when everything is wrinkled as you unpack. Whether clearing space or moving to a new home, wardrobe boxes should be part of your packing equation, especially if you don’t hire professional movers. But what are wardrobe boxes and…

Flat-rate movers help you stick to your budget because you know what you’re going to pay. When a full-service mover offers flat-rate quotes, you can count on receiving all agreed-upon services at that price unless your inventory or move distance meaningfully changes after receiving the quote.  Our research shows American Van Lines and Safeway Moving…

Packing your belongings in preparation for a move is tedious because it must be done carefully — particularly when handling fragile items. Furniture, appliances and large possessions such as pianos should all be properly wrapped with moving blankets, sometimes called furniture pads or furniture blankets. This protective padding prevents damage during transit. Moving blankets should…

Despite home renovation statistics and spending trends signaling a pending decline post-pandemic, many homeowners plan to invest in their home. The home renovation industry has quickly surpassed the $400 billion threshold within the last two years, according to reports from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University (JCHS) Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity…

When your lease approaches its expiration, your landlord will offer you the option to extend it or provide you with a move-out date. If you choose to relocate, you’ll want to provide proper notice to your landlord — and your lease agreement usually requires this. Tell your landlord you’re moving out with a written notice…

Storage units offer secure solutions when navigating transitional periods such as long-distance moves. With options available in small, medium and large sizes, your storage unit choice should depend on your specific storage requirements.  To select the appropriate storage unit size, assess the items you plan to store. Small storage units are perfect for accommodating the…

Summer temperatures peak at more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit in most parts of Arizona, with several regions reaching well over 80 degrees Fahrenheit through November. Moving to your new home in such heat could slow the process and pose safety risks. We recommend booking a pro mover in late fall, winter or early spring to…

Booking pet transport services for your animal companion’s travel or permanent relocation can be a difficult proposition. You’ll have to choose a company whose hiring practices and shipping options provide you with peace of mind that your pet will be safe in transit. We’ve reviewed several of the best relocation services for furry friends, including…

You’ve scoured listings, toured several properties, filled out an application and finally landed your first apartment. Now it’s time to kick back and … not so fast.  Now it’s time to determine how to make the most of your new rental property. Before moving in, consider what you will pack, apartment decorating guidelines and just…

Whether you’re moving to the Peach State for its lower cost of living, positive environment for workers or the warm weather, hiring a qualified moving company to assist you is an important step. More than 300,000 new residents moved to Georgia between 2021 and 2022, making it one of the fastest-growing states in the country.…

Whether you’re looking forward to Alabama’s outdoor recreation and fisheries or its barbecue eateries, you’ll find many reasons to call it home. When you move in, you’ll undoubtedly be welcomed with classic Southern hospitality, too. We recommend North American Van Lines (NAVL) and Allied Van Lines for interstate moving services to and from Alabama. These…

After extensive research, we recommend North American Van Lines and Leaders Moving & Storage Co. as the best movers to consider for your Ohio move.  NAVL stands out for its bottom-line pricing for local and long-distance relocations. Leaders Moving & Storage is a local Ohio mover that scored 5 out of 5 stars on our…

Many new residents are attracted to Iowa’s job opportunities in manufacturing and green energy, as well as its low unemployment rate. Whether you’re moving to America’s Heartland for the wide open spaces or lower cost of living, you’ll want to book a qualified moving company to assist you. We’ve broken down the best moving companies…

We trust International Van Lines to handle your long-distance move and all of the challenges that come with it. The company’s wide availability, including in isolated states such as Hawaii, makes its customizable service options accessible to more people. We recommend Royal Hawaiian Movers and Island Movers for local moves in Hawaii. Royal Hawaiian Movers…

Minnesota was ranked as the fifth best state to live and work in 2023, according to CNBC’s America’s Top States for Business study. It’s not surprising, then, that Americans are flocking to the upper Midwest state in droves — 120,500 people moved to Minnesota in 2022. Luckily, moving companies in Minnesota are not lacking when…

The birthplace of blues music and the namesake of the longest river in North America,  Mississippi is a Southern state with lots of character. But its predominantly rural nature and humid subtropical climate can make moving difficult to do on your own. We recommend United Van Lines and International Van Lines as the first companies…

What can be more exhilarating than a fresh start as an expat in a foreign country? Many Americans — close to 9 million according to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs — have asked themselves that question and chose to move abroad.  Adding to the appeal, more people are working remotely, and…

When planning a move, getting quotes from several companies is a crucial part of the process. But did you know that moving companies have different service models that could affect the quality of your experience? While all moving companies must maintain a form of registration with the government, their authorizations will differ depending on their…

Moving to a new home can be exciting and overwhelming. Amid the chaos of packing boxes, switching schools and finding professional movers, you also have to pack your car. Your personal vehicle can be a valuable asset in transporting items movers won’t move, such as important documents and family heirlooms, while keeping you comfortable on…

New Hampshire is the fifth smallest state in the U.S. — clocking in at just 9,349 square miles — but it doesn’t lack quality providers for long-distance and local moves.  The USA TODAY Homefront team researched and shopped more than 15 popular national movers and found that Allied Van Lines, Gentle Giant Moving Company and…

PODS and U-Pack both feature nationwide availability and multiple container size options, but each provider is uniquely suited to different move types. PODS offers three container size options for local moves, while U-Pack provides more cost-effective options for larger long-distance moves. Neither provider requires a deposit to book, and both have transparent cancellation policies, ensuring…

Whether it’s your inherited fine china, vintage armoire or midcentury lighting accents, moving your antiques is as stressful as it gets. Not only are they fragile due to age, but they’re also highly valuable — in cost and sentiment. We recommend JK Moving Services and American Van Lines as the best antique moving companies. JK’s…

For a long-distance Delaware move, we recommend JK Moving Services. Its relatively close headquarters in Sterling, Virginia, offers warehousing space for long-term storage, and its movers are some of the best-trained in the industry. We trust Delaware’s Two Men and a Truck offices for a local move. Its Wilmington and Camden offices each provide speedy…

Maine is known as Vacationland for a reason — the northernmost U.S. state’s sandy beaches, picturesque mountains and plentiful lobster shacks attracted 15.3 million tourists in 2022. But moving in this New England state requires a few special considerations. First, aim to move during summer to avoid Maine’s cold and snowy winters. If you’re from…

Allied Van Lines and 6th Man Movers top our lists of the best moving companies in Tennessee. Allied’s expedited small-move packages make it a good choice for college students, empty nesters and customers with few belongings that need to be moved a long distance. Plus, its valuation coverage options cover clients with varied home inventories. …

Hiring the right moving company to do the heavy lifting isn’t a decision to take lightly. Before you hire a provider, consider the type of mover you plan to hire (carrier versus broker), add-on services and insurance.  To learn more about what drives consumer choice and understand the priorities of Americans who recently moved, USA…

Moving your belongings to begin a new chapter in your life can feel intimidating, yet an entire industry thrives on the prospect of new horizons. Use this guide as your reference for top moving statistics: why and where people move, types of moves, moving costs. You’ll also find tips to help you find peace of…

BLVD Moving is a California-based moving carrier that services local moves within the state and long-distance moves to anywhere else in the U.S. It operates solely as a carrier and employs full-time movers, which means you’ll never have to deal with potentially unreliable contracted labor. We like that BLVD features same-day quotes for local and…

Moving a piano requires considerable strength, skill and specialized equipment. While it may seem feasible to move a piano alone or with the help of a few friends, pianos are delicate and heavy musical instruments that are prone to damage if not transported properly. Even with some DIY know-how and a handful of helpers, moving…

Colorado has a lot to offer residents: stunning mountain landscapes, outdoor adventures, a strong economy and a solid job market. And it turns out, you don’t have to move to popular cities such as Denver or Colorado Springs to enjoy the benefits of colorful Colorado. According to USA TODAY Homefront findings, those cities don’t even…

We recommend Allied Van Lines and JK Moving Services for long-distance and interstate Pennsylvania moves. Allied Van Lines’ 500-plus branches nationwide mean it’s available in most areas, and its carrier-only status ensures you always know who’s handling your move. JK Moving is our next choice for Pennsylvania moves. Its mover training program enables its crews…

Rhode Island is a major tourist destination, especially during the summer months — a record 27.7 million tourists visited the state in 2022. This can make for crowded roadways and more work for movers, especially if you’re moving in or around a popular vacation spot along the state’s 400 miles of shoreline. To prepare, we…

Downsizing to a smaller home comes with perks: less upkeep, lowering utility bills and fewer rooms to clean. Data confirms that more Americans are embracing minimalism. The 2023 trend report by Taskrabbit, an online platform that connects people to home services providers, showed a 71% increase in decluttering services and a 13% year-over-year increase in…

Knowing how to pack clothes is a bit of an art. Whether you’re a Marie Kondo minimalist or a throw-it-all-in-and-hope-for-the-best packer, you must strategize on a method for packing clothes that’ll work for you.  Your approach will depend on your packing materials budget, time frame and how well you’ll tolerate wrinkles in your clothes. “You…

Utah saw the 13th-highest influx of new residents in 2023, making this western state a busy place for local and long-distance moves. We researched dozens of companies and requested multiple quotes to find the best moving companies in the state. After careful vetting, we trust North American Van Lines, Momentum Moving and Two Men and…

Planning a move can be mentally and physically taxing — and that’s before you factor in an annual average of 200 inches of rainfall in Oregon’s wettest regions. After deep research, we think Allied Van Lines, JK Moving Services and Portland Movers Company are the best professional movers to handle the stress of your moving…

With ample employment opportunities, highly rated universities and natural beauty from the mountains to the coast, North Carolina appeals to new residents, and the numbers show it. The Tar Heel State had the third-largest population gain between 2022 and 2023, behind only Texas and Florida. While North Carolina has seen population growth across the state,…

There’s no use crying over spilled milk, but a boxful of broken china or glassware might elicit more than a few tears. The contents of your kitchen cabinets are more than useful and pretty — they are often expensive. Dishes can also hold sentimental value. Packing fragile tableware correctly will help you avoid boxes full…

As the sixth-most-populated state in the country, Illinois is a busy place for local and long-distance moving companies. After researching dozens of companies and gathering multiple quotes, we trust Allied Van Lines, North American Van Lines and Pack-Men Movers LLC to handle your Illinois move. Allied and NAVL have highly rated locations within the state…

We recommend Allied Van Lines and American Van Lines for a long-distance or interstate move to or from South Carolina. We like Allied’s carrier-only status — meaning your move won’t be handled by third parties — and its expedited moving options for small homes. American Van Lines’ movers averaging a decade of experience and flat-rate…

We recommend starting with quotes from JK Moving Services and Allied Van Lines for long-distance moves to or from North Carolina. Both providers feature nationwide service areas and trained moving teams that can offer basic and specialized assistance for anything from modern furniture to antiques, fragile items and more.  For a local move, we recommend…

When moving out of an apartment, your best bet is a moving company with experience handling lengthy walkups or high-rise elevators. We recommend starting with quotes from Allied Van Lines and Mayflower. Both providers offer widespread availability and specialized small-move service plans that can streamline your apartment move. Allied Express and Mayflower’s Snapmoves are among…

Planning a move as a senior often comes with unique challenges, such as debris or junk removal due to downsizing, insurance requirements for moving into an assisted living facility, and a fixed relocation budget.  To find the best moving companies for seniors, we evaluated the top movers nationwide based on offered services, reputation and customer…

Moving is a daunting task — organizationally, emotionally and physically. But what if you’re in a time crunch? Knowing how to pack your house in under a week might be the key to a successful relocation. The minute you know you’re going to relocate, even if it’s a last-minute move, start decluttering. “Edit ruthlessly,” advised…

Whether you’re rearranging your living space, relocating to a new home or simply moving your couch across the room, learning the proper way to move furniture will limit the risk of injury to yourself and damage to your belongings. Moving heavy items requires strategy, technique and, above all, safety. While moving a bulky dresser or…

If you’re gearing up for a move and feeling guilty about the environmental impact, you’re not alone. Moving can generate a lot of waste with all the boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap and tape needed to secure your belongings for transport, especially if you’re planning an interstate move. The good news? With a bit of…

United Van Lines (United) is a well-established moving company with a vast network of agents in the United States and headquarters around the world. United’s extensive reach allows the mover to offer a range of services, including local, long-distance and international moves. Its highly customizable service options make it a top contender in the best…

We’ve reviewed the top moving companies in Colorado for local and interstate moves. Each provider offers comprehensive and basic service and has a proven customer service record with positive reviews. We recommend starting with quotes from Allied Van Lines, Mayflower Moving and Local Moving LLC for your Colorado move. Allied and Mayflower have locations within…

Books can metaphorically transport you to faraway destinations, but when you’re actually relocating to a new hub, you need to learn how to pack them up properly.  Bibliophiles know that novels are more than entertainment. Books can also liven up your spaces — whether a home or office — and inject warmth into your surroundings.…

North American Van Lines (NAVL) has established itself as one of the top companies for a variety of move types. With over 90 years of experience and a global service area, this moving company has the expertise and connections to help get you where you need to go. Experience and availability are just a few…

Between the cost of living increase and high mortgage rates, Americans are feeling the brunt of the economy. Whether you’re renting or buying a home, it pays to know the most affordable states. To determine which states are the most affordable, the research team at USA TODAY Homefront looked at the cost of living by…

We rated JK Moving Services as the best moving company for military members and their families. It employs rigorously trained moving crews and offers specialized military moving packages to streamline your permanent change of station (PCS).  We also recommend United Van Lines and Allied Van Lines. Both offer specially catered military relocation packages, with United…

We’ve reviewed the best international moving companies, including International Van Lines and Allied Van Lines, to help you select a quality international relocation expert. Each company we reviewed offers international relocation help to more than 100 countries. The moving companies that help with moving long distances can provide logistics management services to help you at…

U-Pack tops our list of the best moving containers. Its 27-foot moving trailer is a streamlined option for clients with three- to four-bedroom homes, while its ReloCubes are convenient for small apartment or dorm room moves. If you opt for a trailer, we like U-Pack’s pay-for-what-you-use pricing structure that guarantees you only pay for the…

Moving can be daunting, especially when it involves crossing state lines. The best way to safeguard your belongings and peace of mind is to hire reputable professionals to manage the job. “Interstate moving is not local moving. It’s an entirely different animal,” said Nancy Zafrani, General Manager at Oz Moving and Storage. While a local…

Corrections & Clarifications: An earlier version of this story incorrectly reported FEMA and NOAA statistics for four Virginia cities (Richmond, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk). The city scores and rankings have been adjusted to reflect the correction. Boise, Idaho, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina, switched spots between No. 4 and No. 5. Everyone deserves to feel safe…

We’ve reviewed the best moving companies in Michigan for local and long-distance moves. We recommend starting with quotes from Allied Van Lines and Two Men and a Truck’s Detroit location to get an idea of how much your move will cost from our two top picks. Here, you’ll find full breakdowns of many of the…

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is a Florida-based moving broker with operational ability throughout the United States. It works with qualified and registered moving partners in all 50 states to provide everything from basic moving labor to large-scale cross-country relocations.  While IMRG does not provide moving help on its own, many of the moving…

Budget Truck Rental is the cheapest moving truck option due to its all-inclusive rates. It gave us the lowest quote of the truck rental options we reviewed here. U-Haul is a close second for affordability and offers more truck size options than Budget. Renting a moving truck is the cheapest — but not the most…

If you’re not opposed to getting your hands a little dirty, renting and shipping moving containers is the most affordable relocation method.  We rated U-Pack and U-Haul as the best options for cheap moving containers. Each offered us the lowest quotes for service, with three-bedroom moves between Philadelphia and Boston costing between $1,405 and $1,787.…

We’ve reviewed the best moving companies in New York, from Brooklyn to the Adirondacks and beyond. Based on our in-depth research and proprietary methodology, we suggest starting with quotes from International Van Lines and Piece of Cake Moving.  International Van Lines conducts moves in all 50 states and has a location in New York City;…

A moving estimate is a detailed calculation top rated movers provide to prospective clients that indicates how much the requested moving services will cost. Estimates typically factor in your total inventory or the weight of your belongings, the time it will take to complete your move and the distance of your relocation, plus additional services…

We reviewed JK Moving Services, Treasure Moving Company and more of the best movers with a local presence in Maryland. All of the moving companies listed rate well on our grading scale and provide a full range of services for local and long-distance relocations. JK Moving Services’ nationwide reach, trained moving crews and direct service…

While metropolitan hubs such as Austin or Dallas may come to mind when you think of the Lone Star State, you don’t have to go big when it comes to choosing the best cities in Texas. Smaller cities such as Cedar Park offer plenty and at a more affordable price point to boot. The research…

Moving into a new home is a thrilling milestone. But let’s face it, amid the excitement, the whirlwind of tasks and decisions can weigh down on you. Hiring movers, changing your address and remembering to buy toilet paper for the bathroom is a lot. “It can be hard to remember everything on your mental to-do…

Moving is more than packing boxes — it’s an exciting but complex journey involving serious financial decisions beyond hunting for bubble wrap and tape deals. New homeowners often budget for a top moving company and insurance but miss more nuanced financial implications, such as the burden of property taxes in their destination cities. High property…

We rated United Van Lines as the best option for long-distance and interstate moves in Massachusetts. Its Canton-based affiliate, Humboldt Storage & Moving, offers comprehensive service packages and receives primarily positive customer reviews.  For local relocation assistance, A-Plus Moving & Storage is our top-rated option. Its trained professional movers, decade-plus of industry experience and ample…

Florida checks off a lot of boxes: year-round warm weather, sunshine and palm trees. It’s no surprise then, that from 2010 to 2022, Florida’s population increased by 18%, making it the third largest state by population in the United States.  While the Sunshine State has mass appeal, each region has its own perks and downside.…

Bubble wrap may not be enough to protect a delicate succulent on a bumpy moving truck. As any plant lover can attest, these leafy companions are not merely decorative items but living organisms with specific needs. If you want to bring your beloved fiddle-leaf fig tree with you, you need to understand how to move…

If there’s one thing that can sneak up on you during a move, it’s the cost. That’s why you need to create a realistic moving budget before you start packing. Track major expenses that come with hiring a professional moving company, as well as secondary expenses including packing materials, cleaning fees and extra take-out meals…

Perhaps you’ve experienced the stress that can come with disorganized moving or, less likely, the bliss that accompanies an uncomplicated move. More often than not, a chaotic relocation results from improper planning or failure to create a moving checklist. What makes a breezy move? Proper planning is the key to a low-stress relocation. Ideally, you…

The Zillow Observed Rent Index shows what any renter can already tell you: Signing a lease is more expensive than ever. Typical rent prices, defined in the Zillow index as changes in asking rents over time, increased by 35.7% from December 2018 to December 2023, far outpacing overall inflation. Rent prices increased by 3.3% between…

Signing the paperwork on your new home is just the first step, then comes the hard part — planning your move. Before you can lounge in your new living room, you need to consider whether movers are worth it.   “When moving locally, you can skip the professionals if you’re strong, have lots of time to…

We’ve reviewed the top national and local moving companies for relocations of any size in the state of New Jersey. Whether you’re planning an in-town or interstate move, this information will help you throughout your moving process. Mayflower provides the best options for long-distance or cross-country moves on our list. Its expedited small-move options and…

We’ve reviewed the best Virginia moving companies for local and interstate moves. Each one offers comprehensive service to make your next move more caring than chaotic.  JK Moving Services is our pick for any interstate or long-distance moving needs because of its depth of experience, which includes thousands of individual moves. Its headquarters in Sterling,…

Moving can be fun — fresh walls to paint, new rooms to decorate and, of course, a chance to start fresh. But the cost of moving can be a buzzkill. Fortunately, if you plan ahead and stick to a budget, you can save money while moving and settling into your new place. I spoke to…

If you’re looking for a long-haul mover in Florida, we recommend International Van Lines (IVL). IVL’s wide geographical reach and nationwide broker partners can make your long-distance move easier. Its straightforward quote process and posted rates online for add-on services enable clients to book moves within a set budget. For local moving needs in the…

Whether you’re planning a local move or an interstate relocation, the best moving companies can make the transition less stressful. But there are dozens of moving companies in Connecticut. We’ve rounded up the top movers in the state and country to help you get started with the oft-intimidating quote process. Our research shows that Allied…

Allied Van Lines and Einstein Movers top our list of the best moving companies in Texas. According to U-Haul’s growth index, Texas is the No. 1 state in the country where people are moving, so the Lone Star state doesn’t lack moving company options. We’ve done the research to help you cut through the noise…

We recommend International Van Lines (IVL) and Allied Van Lines for long-distance and interstate California moves. Both movers provide long-distance service in all 50 states and international relocations in more than 100 countries. IVL has a wide range of specialty services, including white-glove service, while Allied employs its own moving crews and offers vehicle shipping…

As a project manager for a professional moving company, I know how vulnerable hiring movers can make you feel. Not only are you inviting virtual strangers into your home to interact with you and your family, but you’re entrusting them with all of your belongings. For expert insight on how to hire movers, I spoke…

The final walk-through of your soon-to-be home is more than a ceremonial stroll through empty rooms — it’s one of the last steps toward homeownership and your opportunity to identify and address any issues before taking possession of the property and moving in because even the best moving companies won’t help if you make a…

Moving is a stressful endeavor, and the challenges can multiply when you have furry friends in tow. When moving with pets, it’s up to you to prepare them for the move, secure their safe relocation and help them adjust to their new surroundings, all while keeping abreast of health and licensing requirements. We spoke to…

Hiring a full-service moving company saves you time and energy but is notoriously expensive. Luckily, there are ways to save on your upcoming local or long-distance relocation, even with a pro mover. Moving APT and International Van Lines are the cheapest moving companies for full-service moves of the seven companies from which we requested quotes.…

Long-distance movers need to have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number, and you should only hire a company that has one.  The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is an agency within the USDOT. It’s the operating authority that oversees commercial vehicles across the country. The FMCSA assigns USDOT numbers to transportation companies that…

To ensure the care of your belongings and the welfare of the moving team, professional movers may refuse to transport certain items for safety, legal or logistical reasons. While you may know some things movers won’t move, such as hazardous chemicals and fireworks, what about succulents and your grandma’s antique armoire? Know which items your…

Whether you’re planning a local move or embarking on a cross-country relocation, one thing’s certain: You’ll need moving boxes.  The cost of cardboard boxes can add up quickly, not to mention send you in a panic if you have to find them last minute. Some more moving companies can provide boxes, but check in advance…

Safeway Moving Systems Inc. is a moving carrier and broker based in Florida that offers long-distance and interstate moves to all 50 states. My research found that its dedicated customer service teams provide concise and accurate pricing information, which features binding estimates for all relocation services. When I called for pricing, the Safeway Moving representative…

Moving services and do-it-yourself (DIY) rental rates fluctuate throughout the year based on demand, which homeowners and renters can use to their advantage to plan more affordable moves. However, depending on where you live, the most affordable times of year may not coincide with the safest or most convenient time for you and your family.…

Effective packing is key to a successful move, and you can achieve this through proper planning and organization. Some of the best packing tips for moving include getting started early, using your items as packing materials and keeping itemized lists of your boxes to track what you packed and where it goes.  This guide explores…

Whether planning a move across town or hiring cross-country movers, we recommend tipping your professional movers for their hard work. While it’s customary to tip for most services in the United States, tipping etiquette across industries isn’t consistent. Technically, tipping isn’t required, and how much to tip your movers is at your discretion, but reliable…

Mayflower has provided local and interstate moving services since its founding in 1927. The company is a large part of UniGroup Worldwide, which owns United Van Lines. United and Mayflower are nationwide moving carriers that offer international moving services to most countries. This includes both military moves and corporate relocations. The moving company’s packages and…

Moving long distances can be challenging because few companies have a nationwide service area without relying on third parties. Moving APT is a moving broker that aims to add credibility to this formula by providing visibility into its moving partners via detailed company bios on its website. Moving APT partners with more than 2,500 individual…

Allied Van Lines is a nationwide moving carrier with offices in all 50 states and a wide suite of premium services. The company’s 500-plus offices book local and long-distance moves in nearly all locations, including Alaska and Hawaii. It also focuses on shipping vehicles without relying on third-party carriers, which improves an often complicated moving…

American Van Lines (AVL) is among our highest-rated providers due to its straightforward pricing and extensive services. AVL offers flat-rate pricing that provides transparency ahead of moving day. If you’re on a fixed budget and worried about price fluctuations, AVL can be a great choice. AVL is a carrier, meaning it services all moves it…

Although it doesn’t enjoy the same name recognition as PODS, U-Pack and its partner carrier ABF Freight aim to make DIY moving more accessible. You rent and load U-Pack containers, and then it transports them to your destination — charging only for the space your cargo requires on the trailer. Notable downsides include its lack…

JK Moving is our No. 1 pick for the best moving companies overall. The company stands out for its best-in-class mobile app and well-trained crews.  The app assists with virtual inventory logging during remote estimates and features an easy customer portal for payment and shipment tracking. JK Moving’s crew members are trained on-site to handle…

Moving is a stressful and expensive life event. Bad movers make it worse. We research, review and rate professional movers to help you find a reputable and reliable company for your next move. Research Our research practices include understanding the moving industry and customer needs plus learning about and interacting with each company we rate.…