Looking for the best long distance moving companies? Our shortlist features leaders like Colonial Van Lines, Safeway Moving, American Van Lines, Allied Van Lines, and International Van Lines.
Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased moving and car shipping information and company reviews.
We evaluated more than 4,000 pro movers across the U.S. using our in-house ranking system. Our ratings are based on key factors like cost, customer satisfaction, and services. We also analyze thousands of online reviews to determine companies’ most common strengths and potential downsides.
We strive to deliver the information that is most relevant to your needs. Our team of experts regularly fact-checks all articles to ensure what we give you is always accurate and up-to-date.
10 Best Long-Distance Movers
We ranked these companies using our data-driven methodology that analyzes licensing and insurance, nationwide reach, service breadth, pricing from in-house quotes, and complaint trends.
Based on our industry expertise and customer feedback, here are the top long-distance movers to consider in 2025.
Most Skilled Mover: Colonial Van Lines
Colonial Van Lines is a family-owned mover with more than 50 years of experience in long-distance relocations. Based in Florida, Colonial handles 12,000+ moves annually and specializes in interstate moves across the contiguous 48 states.
This company provides full-service packing, storage solutions, and cross-country transport with highly trained in-house crews. We like that Colonial's user-friendly mobile app lets you request virtual moving quotes and manage your inventory from home.
Most of the customer reviews we analyzed praise Colonial’s professional and reliable service, making it a top choice for cross-country moves.
- Online quotes: Yes – you can get a quote through their website or mobile app.
- Why choose Colonial Van Lines: Colonial offers end-to-end coordination for interstate moves, including packing/unpacking and furniture assembly. It’s fully licensed and has a strong track record for on-time, professional moves. If you’re looking for an experienced mover with modern conveniences like app-based estimates, Colonial is a trusted, full-service option.
Best Value: Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving is a veteran-owned long-distance mover known for its flat-rate pricing and charitable mission. Safeway operates nationwide, coordinating moves in all 50 states.
It stood out in our evaluation for its transparent pricing, offering binding quotes that lock in your rate and 30 days of free storage with every interstate move.
Safeway has also earned some of the highest customer review scores in the industry, reflecting its focus on customer satisfaction. We like that the company donates a portion of every move to St. Jude’s, too.
- Online quotes: Yes, you can request a quote on Safeway's website.
- Why choose Safeway Moving: Safeway's price-match pledge and included storage can save you money, and its 24/7 customer support provides peace of mind.
Most Reliable Mover: American Van Lines
American Van Lines (AVL) is a full-service moving carrier that has been in business since 1995. The company is also known for its flat-rate pricing model.
Its team features background-checked, uniformed movers with specialized expertise in handling high-value items like pianos, antiques, and fine art.
The company consistently earns praise for its outstanding customer service and professional crews. It also offers options like climate-controlled storage and furniture disassembly and reassembly to simplify your relocation.
- Online quotes: Yes. You can fill out a form on their website or call for a free quote.
- Why choose American Van Lines: American Van Lines is great for families seeking value and reliability. Its flat-rate quotes mean all standard services are included up front. And you can count on AVL's highly-rated and expertly trained crews to protect your most valuable belongings.
Most Flexible Moving Options: Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines is one of the world's largest and most established moving networks. Founded in 1928, Allied has 95+ years of experience in residential and corporate relocations and serves more than 130 countries.
The company is known for its full-service offerings, including GPS shipment tracking, appliance disconnection and reconnection, and extensive storage solutions.
It wins our vote for being the most flexible interstate mover, thanks to its moving container alternative, Allied Express. Unlike other moving container companies, Allied still lets you opt into a full-service move with this option, where a crew loads, transports, and unloads your belongings.
- Online quotes: Yes. You can request an in-home or virtual survey through Allied’s website.
- Why choose Allied Van Lines: Allied Van Lines is a well-established mover with a national presence in the U.S. and worldwide. Its addition of moving containers and lack of deposit required to book a move make it a top contender if you're looking for a flexible moving company.
Best for Personalized Service: Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation is a newer company that has rapidly built a strong reputation for offering 24/7 customer service and a full suite of moving services. In our evaluation, Mayzlin earns high marks for its competitive pricing and personalized service.
The company requires only a 25% deposit and even offers a full refund if you cancel up to 7 days before your move, which is a flexible policy compared to other movers.
- Online quotes: Yes – you can start with an online quote request and receive a binding estimate after a virtual or phone survey.
- Why choose Mayzlin Relocation: Mayzlin is ideal if you're looking for a hands-on, customer-focused mover with modern tech features. It offers a handful of discounts and will price-match other reputable movers. As a smaller company, it prides itself on attentive customer service.
Best Protection Plans: International Van Lines
International Van Lines (IVL) is a top long-distance mover and one of our top picks for international moving companies. Founded in 2000, IVL now handles over 20,000 moves per year, both domestic and global.
IVL operates as a licensed carrier and broker, using its own trucks and crews in many areas. It has received numerous accolades and provides services like full packing, storage, vehicle shipping, and specialty crating. It also offers one month of free storage and a 5% discount when you call to get a quote.
IVL stands out the most for its protection plans, offering not only the industry-standard released liability and full-value protection but also optional all-risk insurance and third-party coverage.
- Online quotes: Yes. You can get a quick quote or schedule a virtual home survey.
- Why choose International Van Lines: IVL is excellent for international or complex long-distance moves. Its insurance options give you more comprehensive coverage than most competitors, earning our vote for best protection plans.
Best for Complex Moves: North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines (NAVL) has helped families move since 1933. With a vast agent network and large fleet, NAVL operates as both a carrier and broker. The company is fully licensed and conducts interstate moves in all 50 states.
NAVL offers binding not-to-exceed estimates, so you can count on accurate pricing. The mover is our pick for complex moves thanks to its customizable services, accurate in-home estimates, and specialty relocation support, including help with international paperwork, custom crating, and vehicle shipping.
- Online quotes: Yes – through online forms and follow-up virtual or in-home estimates.
- Why choose North American Van Lines: NAVL is ideal if you have a complex move that requires extensive services with precise pricing. With solid customer reviews praising its trained drivers, packers, and large truck fleet, it's an excellent pick for challenging long-distance moves.
Best for Cross-Country Moves: United Van Lines
United Van Lines is the largest U.S. moving company by market share, operating since 1928. It includes full-value protection on long-distance moves, and like Allied Van Lines, it doesn't require deposits.
UVL's services include packing, storage, car shipping, and partnerships for house cleaning and tech setup. Its Snapmoves program is ideal for small relocations. United has strong military moving credentials and a vast agent network as well.
- Online quotes: Partially – you can start online and follow up with a call or virtual survey to receive your quotes.
- Why choose United Van Lines: United offers scale, comprehensive services, and full-value protection. Based on the bulk of positive customer reviews we uncovered, UVL is our top choice for extensive cross-country moves.
Best for High-Tech Tools: Atlas Van Lines
Atlas Van Lines has been in business for over 75 years and operates a large network across the U.S. and 17 countries. Known for trust and safety, Atlas is a pro when it comes to services like electronics assembly, high-value item transport, and global relocation.
Atlas provides shipment tracking, personal move coordinators, and full packing services, giving you added peace of mind from the time the crew arrives to when you receive your items at your new home.
- Online quotes: Yes. Quotes are available on the website with virtual estimate tools.
- Why choose Atlas Van Lines: Atlas is great for tech-savvy customers who will appreciate their digital inventory list, GPS tracking, and electronics setup.
Most Transparent Pricing: Mayflower Transit
Mayflower Transit has nearly 100 years of experience and is part of UniGroup, like United Van Lines. Mayflower earns our vote for the most transparent pricing by including full-value protection with every move and offering clearly outlined protection packages that range from identity theft coverage to debris removal for flat fees.
With both in-home and virtual surveys required before quoting, customers benefit from personalized, accurate estimates they can trust more than generic ballpark figures. Backed by close to a century of experience and a large nationwide agent network, Mayflower blends comprehensive service with straightforward, reliable pricing.
- Online quotes: Yes – a rep will follow up after your initial online request.
- Why choose Mayflower Transit: Mayflower combines tradition with modern tools. With no upfront deposit, airtight binding estimates, and transparent coverage options, it's a solid choice for your interstate move.
Best Moving Companies by State
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How to Choose the Right Long-Distance Moving Company
Finding the right long-distance mover for your family is about more than just moving costs. It’s about trust, transparency, and the services that fit your needs. Here are five key tips to guide your decision:
1. Verify Licensing and Credentials
Always check that the company is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can search a company’s DOT number on the FMCSA website.
Pro Tip: All companies listed in this article are FMCSA-compliant and licensed for interstate moves.
2. Get a Binding or Not-To-Exceed Estimate
Avoid vague “ballpark” quotes. A binding estimate means the price won’t change unless you add more items or services. A Not-To-Exceed estimate ensures the final cost won’t go over the quoted amount, even if your move ends up being heavier.
Use our free moving cost calculator to help gather quotes to compare your options easily.
3. Ask About Insurance and Protection Plans
Long-distance moves come with risks. Look for companies that offer Full Value Protection or let you declare a value for your shipment. Read the fine print on coverage, deductibles, and claim processes.
4. Look for Flexibility in Scheduling and Deposits
Some of the top movers offer flexible cancellation policies, no upfront deposits, or storage-in-transit options. These can be lifesavers when your plans change or your closing dates get delayed.
5. Read Reviews and Compare Services
Use trusted review sources like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and ConsumerAffairs. Pay attention to how companies respond to negative feedback. It’s a good indicator of customer service.
Factors that affect long-distance moving costs
Several variables will affect the final price of your long-distance move, no matter which company you choose. Keep these in mind as you compare quotes and timelines:
- Home size and shipment weight: Movers price primarily by total pounds or cubic feet; bringing fewer items lowers the bill.
- Distance and route complexity: More miles, tolls, and detours increase costs; remote or hard-to-reach addresses add surcharges.
- Season and booking window: Summer and dates at the end of the month are peak; off-season or mid-week moves typically cost less.
- Service level: Full-service packing, loading, and unpacking are convenient but pricier than hybrid or partial DIY options.
- Access and labor conditions: Stairs, long carries, elevators, and tricky parking raise labor time and access fees.
- Extra services and special handling: Packing, crating, storage-in-transit, and bulky items (pianos, safes, hot tubs) add line-item charges.
- Protection plans and valuation: Upgrading from released liability to full-value/all-risk coverage increases your total cost.
- Delivery timing and flexibility: Guaranteed windows, expedited delivery, or split shipments usually carry premiums.
How to prepare for a long-distance move
Preparing the right way for your move reduces surprises, protects your belongings, and helps you lock in better pricing:
- Declutter early: Sell, donate, or recycle what you don’t need; lighter shipments mean lower costs and simpler logistics.
- Get multiple surveys: Request at least three in-home or virtual walk-throughs for accurate, binding estimates and apples-to-apples comparisons.
- Verify credentials: Confirm USDOT/MC numbers, insurance, and complaint history, and choose established carriers with transparent terms.
- Book ahead: Reserve your preferred dates 4–8 weeks out (longer for summer) to avoid peak premiums and limited capacity.
- Plan access and permits: Arrange elevator reservations, loading zones, and any required street or building permits at both ends.
- Protect high-value items: Take pictures showing the condition of your belongings, set aside essentials, and discuss valuation coverage and exclusions with your mover.
- Label and inventory: Use room-based labels and a simple inventory to streamline delivery, claims, and placement at your new home.
Methodology
Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased moving and car shipping information and company reviews.
We evaluated more than 4,000 pro movers across the U.S. using our in-house ranking system. Our ratings are based on key factors like cost, customer satisfaction, and services. We also analyze thousands of online reviews to determine companies’ most common strengths and potential downsides.
We strive to deliver the information that is most relevant to your needs. Our team of experts regularly fact-checks all articles to ensure what we give you is always accurate and up-to-date.
Long-Distance Moving FAQs
What is considered a long-distance move?
A long-distance move typically involves relocating 100 miles or more, often across state lines. A move from one state to another is called an interstate move, and it requires movers to be licensed by the FMCSA.
How much does a long-distance move cost?
Costs vary widely based on distance, weight, home size, and extra services like packing or storage. On average:
- 1-bedroom home: $1,500–$4,800
- 3-bedroom home: $5,000–$8,500
- Cross-country move (2,000+ miles): $6,000+
Always get multiple binding estimates for the most accurate pricing.
Are online moving quotes accurate?
Online quotes are a good starting point, but the most accurate quotes come from a virtual or in-home survey. Reputable movers will inventory your belongings before giving a binding estimate.
What licenses should a long-distance mover have?
For interstate moves, companies must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This ensures they’re legally allowed to transport household goods across state lines.
When should I book a long-distance moving company?
It’s best to book 6–8 weeks in advance, especially during the busy summer months (May–September). Booking early ensures better pricing and availability.
Do all moving companies provide insurance?
All licensed movers must provide basic liability coverage (about 60 cents per pound), which may not cover high-value items. Ask about Full Value Protection or consider buying third-party insurance.
Bottom Line
All these long-distance moving companies are top performers with proper licensing, solid reputations, and services to cover every aspect of your move. When choosing a mover, consider what matters most to you, whether it's pricing transparency, decades of experience, premium full-service options, or personalized attention.
By starting with a free quote from a few of these recommended movers, you can compare and find the best fit for your family’s long-distance relocation. Each of these companies has proven itself to be the best in the business, so you can move cross-country with confidence.
