Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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Key Takeaways
Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
We created FreightWaves Checkpoint to be your go-to resource for honest, data-backed advice on moving and car shipping. Our team rates over 4,000 moving companies using key metrics like price, reliability, and customer experience.
We also sift through thousands of real reviews to find patterns that matter — so you get a full picture of what to expect. All our content is fact-checked and updated regularly, so it stays accurate and useful when you need it.
Top Local Movers in Alaska
Not all movers handle your goods with the same care and coordination. Our review of 8 companies in Alaska found Golden North Van Lines to be the top performer for transporting household goods.
Here’s our full list of top local movers in AK:
Golden North Van Lines
Golden North Van Lines (DOT: 163057) offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including full-service moves, interstate and international relocations, and specialized handling for items such as antiques, pianos, and pool tables. They provide additional services like unpacking and storage, making them a versatile choice for customers with diverse needs. Furthermore, Golden North Van Lines offers a military discount, which can be an attractive benefit for service members.
Despite their wide array of services, one downside is that they do not accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment, which may be an inconvenience for customers who prefer digital currency transactions. Overall, Golden North Van Lines stands out for their extensive service offerings and attention to detail in handling unique or delicate items.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Efficient service
- Helpful movers
Cons
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Inaccurate estimates
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- Heavy safes
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Royal Alaskan Movers
Royal Alaskan Movers offers a comprehensive range of services, including full-service and interstate moving, international relocation, and specialized packing for fragile items. They cater to seniors, making them a favorable option for elder moves. While they provide packing, unpacking, and crating services, they do not offer moving services for hot tubs, which could be a disadvantage for some customers. Nonetheless, their commitment to handling antiques and pianos with care ensures safe transportation of valuable items.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Good communication
- Helpful movers
Cons
- Lack of communication
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Labor-only
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Superman Moving & Storage Service
Superman Moving & Storage Service (DOT: 2949875) offers a comprehensive range of services to cater to various moving needs. The company provides full-service moves, including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, ensuring careful transport for your antiques, pianos, and artwork.
In addition to local and interstate relocations, they accommodate small moves and labor-only services, although they don't offer international moving services, which might be a drawback for some customers. While Superman Moving & Storage Service provides dedicated service to seniors, they do not offer senior or other discounts.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Cons
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Labor-only
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Green Gorilla Movers
Green Gorilla Movers (DOT: 3546000) offer a broad range of moving services tailored to meet various client needs. They excel in providing full-service moves, junk removal, and specialize in handling antiques, hot tubs, and pianos. Additionally, the company accommodates both small moves and unpacking services to ensure a comprehensive moving experience.
While Green Gorilla Movers provide numerous services, they do not offer interstate or international moving services, which could be a limitation for clients looking to relocate over long distances. On a positive note, they facilitate payments with credit cards and do not require a deposit, adding convenience to the customer experience.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Helpful movers
- Quick moving process
Cons
- Damage to home
- Unclear policies
- Misplaced or lost items
Services
- Full-service
- Junk hauling
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Debris clean-up
- Labor-only
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Sourdough Transfer Inc.
Sourdough Transfer Inc. (DOT: 1099784) offers comprehensive moving services, including interstate, international, and full-service options. They also specialize in handling delicate items such as antiques, art, and even pool tables, ensuring a wide range of capabilities for various moving needs.
While the company offers a significant breadth of services, including unpacking and storage, they do not handle junk removal, which might be a limitation for those requiring a full clean-out service. Additionally, their acceptance of credit card payments provides convenience, though they do not accept cryptocurrency.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Cons
- Misplaced or lost items
- Damage to items
- Poor complaint handling
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
How Much Does It Cost To Hire Local Movers in AK?
Local movers typically charge by the hour, and your final price depends on how many people are on the crew and how long the move takes. Local moves cost an average of $0 in Alaska. The more items you have — and the more help you need — the more you’ll pay.
Here’s a quick look at average crew sizes and hours based on the size of your home to help you plan your local move in AK:| Home Size | Crew Size | Move Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 BR | 2 movers | 3–4 hours | $0 – $0 |
| 2 BR | 3 movers | 4–5 hours | $0 – $0 |
| 3 BR | 4 movers | 6–7 hours | $0 – $0 |
| 4+ Bedroom | 4–5 movers | 8+ hours | $0 – $0 |
Best Long-Distance Movers in Alaska
After comparing hundreds of moving companies across Alaska, Colonial Van Lines emerged as the top choice. They strike the right balance between affordability, quality of service, and proven customer experience, making them a smart pick for interstate moves.
Here are the best long-distance movers serving AK residents:
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Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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Colonial Van Lines
Colonial Van Lines (USDOT: 1434373) is a trusted full-service moving company based in Pompano Beach, Florida, handling long-distance moves across 48 states. With more than 50 years of experience and 12,000+ moves annually, they offer expert packing, storage, and interstate transport throughout the continental US. Moving crews are highly trained Their user-friendly mobile app makes getting a quote fast and easy, and customers consistently praise their friendly, professional, and reliable customer service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Expert in-house crews
- Home electronics setup
- Trash & debris removal
Cons
- No local or international moves
- Not available in AK or HI
Services
- Long-distance moving (nationwide service across contiguous 48 states; excludes Alaska & Hawaii)
- Cross-country & interstate moving (full-service coordination from packing to delivery)
- Professional packing & unpacking (trained packers, specialty blankets, shrink-wrap, custom crating)
- Moving storage services (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled storage options)
- Corporate & commercial relocation (efficient packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
- Full-service moving (end-to-end handling by CVLU-trained professionals)
- Customizable quotes via moving app or specialist (accurate, transparent estimates with virtual inventory)
- Colonial Moving App (virtual estimates, inventory updates, checklists, and box ordering)
- Colonial Van Lines University training (movers with 2–4 week curriculum and ~10-year average experience)
- Family-owned national service (50+ years, 250k+ moves, 4.6 Trustpilot rating)
Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving, (USDOT: 3756000), is a veteran-owned moving company with the mission to offer military precision relocation. Safeway offers very competitive pricing because they have access to a huge network of truck capacity across the country. Their multi-stage quality assurance process also ensures moves go smoothly from pickup to delivery. This focus on quality and accurate pricing is a huge reason why Safeway made our list.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
- Long distance and cross country moves only
- A portion of every move is donated to charity
- Verification process to guarantee pricing and quality of service
- High level of customer service and support
- Veteran owned company
Cons
- Require a deposit at booking
- No local moving services offered
Services
- Long-distance moving (all 50 states, GPS tracking, barcode-scanned inventory)
- Flat-rate pricing (virtual walk-throughs, no hidden fees)
- Price matching (meets or beats quotes from qualified competitors)
- Comprehensive insurance ($6/lb full-value protection option)
- Packing and unpacking services (includes last-minute packing for an extra charge)
- Custom crating (for fragile, heavy, or high-value items like art and electronics)
- Storage options (30 days free, climate-controlled, long-term available, prorated billing)
- International moving (limited info online, contact customer service)
- 24/7 customer service (available by phone at all times)
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (USDOT: 614506) started in 1995 with only two trucks and a single location. The company has grown to become a nationwide mover with over 70 trucks servicing all 48 states. Despite their rapid growth, AVL still feels like a family-owned business. Their focus on customer service and affordable pricing put them at the top of our list!
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent customer service
- Last-minute moves
- Private storage options
- Handles antiques, pianos & fine art
- Flat-rate pricing
Cons
- May require a deposit at booking
- Automated calls may be overwhelming
Services
- Local moving (affordable hourly rates, packing, custom crating)
- Long-distance moving (nationwide service, excludes Alaska and Hawaii)
- Packing services (upgrade to include professional wrapping, packing, inventorying)
- Antique and piano moving (specialized handling of fragile/oversized items, custom crating available)
- Military moves (in-home estimates, discounts, packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
- Corporate relocation (commercial moving, furniture disassembly/reassembly, storage)
- Storage options (secure, private units with surveillance, climate control, fire/storm protection)
- Moving boxes and supplies (available for purchase from AVL)
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines, (USDOT# 076235), is one of the largest and most well-known moving networks globally. With agent locations in all 50 states, as well as worldwide, and over 80 years in business, the company comes well-equipped for just about any type of move. The only drawback to Allied is they're known as a premium brand in the industry and their pricing can often come in above the competition.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Specialty packing services
- Short- and long-term storage
- Appliance disconnection & reconnection
- International shipping
Cons
- Pricing is generally higher than other van lines
- Pricing estimates can take 3-5 days
Services
- Household moving (local, long-distance, cross-country — packing, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking)
- Long-distance & interstate moving (contiguous U.S.; full-service options)
- International moving (130+ countries; online tracking, customs clearance, destination services)
- Military moves (PCS, deployment; temporary/in-transit storage; compliance with DoD regulations)
- Corporate & office relocation (employee moves, office packing, furniture disassembly/reassembly)
- Packing & unpacking services (professional crews, specialty materials, custom crating for fragile/odd items)
- Moving supplies & kits (boxes, shrink-wrap, moving kits available)
- Storage solutions (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled units with security)
- Portable storage containers (rentable containers for packing/storing during move)
- Full-service moving coordinators & 24/7 support (dedicated move coordinator, transparent pricing, no hidden fees)
Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation, (USDOT# 3182355), was founded seven years ago by Semen Mayzlin. Semen began his career as a moving company driver but got frustrated with the existing companies in the industry and decided to start his own premier long distance moving company. The company has grown over the past 7 years and now has 10 tractor trailers servicing moves all over the country.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
- 24/7 customer support
- Residential, corporate & military moves
Cons
- Only service moves originating on the east coast
- Deposit required at booking
Services
- Local moves (residential service with professional teams and packing assistance)
- Long-distance & out-of-state moves (nationwide across all contiguous states with online quotes, price-match guarantee, and real-time GPS tracking)
- Corporate moves (commercial & office relocation, employee moves, furniture disassembly/reassembly)
- Military moves (compliant with regulations, trained crews, full-service support)
- Packing & unpacking services (trained packers, durable materials, wrapping for fragile items like antiques, pianos, fine arts)
- Storage solutions (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled units, 30 days free storage included)
- Small moves (efficient handling of smaller load requirements)
- Price match guarantee (ensures competitive pricing)
- Deposit & cancellation policy (25% deposit, full refund if canceled within 7 days)
- Online estimates & booking (virtual inventory, transparent pricing, no hidden fees)
- Furniture disassembly & reassembly (handled by crew as part of full-service)
- Dedicated move coordinator & customer support (personalized planning, 24/7 assistance throughout)
How Alaska Movers Stack Up
- Total movers: Of the 3,180 total professional moving companies in the U.S., 8 are located in AK.
- Average rating: 4.26 stars — compared to the national average rating of 4.3 stars.
- Mover associations: Alaska has 2 in-state mover associations — a strong indicator of quality standards and coordination in the local moving industry.
Specialty Services Offered
| Service | AK Movers | AK % | National Movers | National % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antiques | 7 | 87.5% | 1,465 | 46.07% |
| Art | 6 | 75.0% | 1,449 | 45.57% |
| Climate-Controlled Storage | 0 | 0.0% | 1,035 | 32.55% |
| Debris Removal | 1 | 12.5% | 821 | 25.82% |
| Fragile-Only Packing | 3 | 37.5% | 748 | 23.52% |
| Labor-Only | 5 | 62.5% | 1,728 | 54.34% |
| Office Moving | 8 | 100.0% | 2,710 | 85.22% |
| Small Moves | 3 | 37.5% | 1,555 | 48.9% |
| Total Movers | 8 | 100% | 3,180 | 100% |
Discounts Offered
| Discount Type | AK Movers | AK % | National Movers | National % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA Discount | 0 | 0.0% | 36 | 1.13% |
| Military Discount | 0 | 0.0% | 130 | 4.09% |
| Senior Discount | 0 | 0.0% | 141 | 4.43% |
| Student Discount | 0 | 0.0% | 37 | 1.16% |
| Teacher Discount | 0 | 0.0% | 11 | 0.35% |
| Total Movers | 8 | 100% | 3,180 | 100% |
What Impacts the Cost of Alaska Long-Distance Moves?
- Optional add-ons: Want help with packing? In Alaska, 100.0% of movers offer it. Need storage? 7 providers can help. These extras will be reflected in your final quote.
- Moving destination: The farther the shipment, the more you’ll pay for fuel, labor, and wear-and-tear on the truck.
- Home size: A larger home means more goods to load and haul — and higher pricing for both labor and transport.
- The season: Moving during peak season — especially summer — can significantly increase your costs due to tight trucking availability.
How To Choose the Right Alaska Mover
When you’re planning a move in Alaska, it’s not just about loading boxes — it’s about choosing a reliable partner to manage your shipment. A little research can help you avoid major headaches.
Make sure your mover checks these boxes:
- Licensing and credentials: Ensure they’re fully licensed for household goods shipments and insured through the FMCSA.
- Pricing and estimates: Request walkthrough-based estimates — they’re more accurate and often binding. Aim for three quotes to compare.
- Discounts and price matching: Ask about special pricing — 0 movers in AK offer military discounts and 0 give breaks for seniors.
- Service and reviews: Movers with a proven record of reliable service tend to have strong customer ratings — don’t ignore the reviews.
- Booking and flexibility: Check their policy for changes or cancellations in case your timeline shifts.
FAQs
How are long-distance moves scheduled?
Movers schedule long-distance routes based on geography, demand, and truck availability. Once your window is set, they'll coordinate pickup and delivery accordingly.
Can I ship a vehicle with my household items?
Some full-service movers offer auto transport alongside household goods, but it’s often a separate service with its own carrier and delivery timeline.
What kind of moving truck will transport my items?
Most long-distance moves use 26-foot box trucks or tractor-trailers. Smaller moves may be loaded onto shared trucks or containerized for efficiency.
Is there a weight limit on my move?
Technically, yes. Residential moves must comply with federal weight limits for trucks. Large or heavy moves may require multiple trips or special permits.
Thinking About Moving to Alaska?
Whether you're relocating for work, family, or a change of scenery, Alaska has a lot to offer. From cost of living considerations to entertainment, career options, and climate, here's a quick overview of how to prepare for your AK relocation and what to expect once you arrive.
Life in Alaska: What To Expect
- Alaska's cost of living is 22% above the national average, with average rent around $1,345 and homes valued at $362,098.
- The job market in Alaska is more competitive, with an unemployment rate of 4.6%. Top industries include Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction ($9.3 billion), Transportation and warehousing ($7.4 billion), and Real estate and rental and leasing ($5.2 billion).
- Recreation options in Alaska include attractions like Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park, outdoor escapes such as Mendenhall Glacier and Hubbard Glacier, and museums like University of Alaska Museum of the North and Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum.
- Sports lovers can cheer on teams like Anchorage Wolverines and Anchorage Bucs (Alaskan Baseball League), which draw fans from across the state.
