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Best Moving Companies in Michigan (August 2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

We analyzed 85 moving companies throughout Michigan and highlighted the ones that combine strong value with straightforward pricing and solid reputations. Use the list below to compare estimates, see what each company offers, and choose with confidence.

Colonial Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty services
  • Highly trained crews
  • In-app booking

Safeway Moving

4.5 / 5
  • Veteran-owned
  • Price matching
  • Verified accurate quotes

American Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty moves
  • Trained & certified crews
  • Flat-rate quotes

Hi, I'm Michael Marshall from FreightWaves

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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?

At FreightWaves Checkpoint, we routinely evaluate more than 4,000 moving companies across the country using a data-driven scoring system built around performance, accountability, and overall customer experience. Our editorial team assigns weighted scores to the factors that matter most to consumers planning a move.

Here’s how we rank movers:

Customer feedback (40%): Verified consumer reviews carry the most weight in our methodology. We evaluate overall ratings, review volume, consistency across platforms, and patterns in customer experiences to measure satisfaction and service reliability.

Complaint track record (20%): While issues can arise in any move, resolution matters. We review complaint history through public consumer databases, focusing on frequency, severity, and how proactively a company works to address and resolve disputes.

Pricing transparency (15%): Clear estimates, well-defined deposits, and straightforward contracts score higher in our system. We prioritize movers that make it easy to understand what you’ll pay — without hidden fees or vague pricing language.

Service offerings (12%): Companies that provide a wide range of services — including full packing, specialty item handling, storage solutions, and interstate moving — earn stronger marks for flexibility and convenience.

Online experience (8%): We look at how easy a company makes it to get information, request a quote, and understand its services online. Up-to-date websites, clear contact details, and responsive review engagement all factor into the score.

Company track record (5%): Longevity, proper licensing, and overall business stability also play a role. Movers with a consistent operating history and verified credentials receive higher marks.

Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect new data, evolving consumer feedback, and shifts in company performance — helping you compare movers with confidence.

Top Local Movers in Michigan

Not all movers handle your goods with the same care and coordination. Our review of 85 companies in Michigan found College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving to be the top performer for transporting household goods.

Here’s our full list of top local movers in MI:

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

2927 Millcork St, Kalamazoo, MI, 49001
4.84 / 5.0

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (DOT: 3014914) offers a comprehensive range of services, including full-service moving, junk and debris removal, and unpacking. They provide storage solutions and cater to small moves with professionalism and ease.

While they don't offer interstate or international moving services, which may be a limitation for some, they do provide additional services such as labor-only assistance and estate moving. Unfortunately, they do not currently accept cryptocurrency as a payment method, but they do make payment convenient by accepting credit cards. Their focus on local moves ensures quality service to clients within the state.

"Ridge and Brett did an excellent job. They took great care with all my furniture and belongings. When scheduling, Jasmine was very informative and was able to answer all my questions. The phone calls and emails before arrival were informative and helpful. I highly recommend."

Get a Quote (269) 215-8000

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items

Services

  • Full-service
  • Junk hauling
  • Full unpacking
  • Debris clean-up
  • Labor-only
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

Handle With Care Moving

4260 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108
4.84 / 5.0

Handle With Care Moving (DOT: 808976) offers a range of services including full-service moving, junk removal, and fragile-only packing. They also provide climate-controlled storage, making them a versatile choice for comprehensive relocation needs.

While they offer various services, potential customers might be disappointed to know that they do not handle international moves or transportation of grand pianos and pool tables. Additionally, the company does not provide certain discounts such as those for seniors or teachers, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious clients.

"The team was very efficient, took great care with my furniture, and were very professional and accommodating. Would definitely recommend them to anyone."

Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
  • Unexpected charges

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Junk hauling
  • Senior moving
  • Full unpacking
  • Debris clean-up
  • Labor-only
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

O'Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.

2020 Bellaire Avenue, Royal Oak, MI, 48067
4.82 / 5.0

O'Sullivan Moving & Storage CO. (DOT: 1660642) provides a comprehensive range of moving services including full-service options, interstate and intrastate moves, and labor-only assistance. Customers will appreciate their climate-controlled storage solutions and the availability of packing materials, making moving with O'Sullivan stress-free. While they do offer specialized services such as piano moving and small moves, they do not accommodate international relocations, which could be a limitation for some clients.

"Ryan, Larry and Corneil did an excellent job of moving our household. They were on time, careful with our things, and very professional. Everything arrived safely and on schedule. Highly recommend."

Get a Quote (800) 430-7881

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Senior moving
  • Full unpacking
  • Labor-only
  • Piano
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Full packing

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

1115 Taylor Avenue North, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
4.8 / 5.0

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (DOT: 2527384) offers a range of moving services, including full-service local and interstate moves. Their offerings include specialized services like piano and safe moving, and they provide packing and unpacking services. While they offer a 5% discount on local moving services, they may not be ideal for customers seeking international moving services, as this is not part of their offerings. Additionally, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK caters to seniors but does not offer a senior discount.

"Kyle was communicative about the process and what to expect, and he and Sid treated us kindly and with respect. They were careful with our belongings, taking care to wrap fragile and important items."

Get a Quote (616) 221-4896

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
  • Unexpected charges

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Junk hauling
  • Senior moving
  • Full unpacking
  • Debris clean-up
  • Labor-only
  • Piano
  • Offsite storage
  • Heavy safes
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

Kingsley Moving Systems LLC

610 Detroit Street, Lansing, MI, 48912
4.7 / 5.0

Kingsley Moving Systems LLC (DOT: 1890987) offers a variety of comprehensive moving services including full-service moves, interstate relocation, and intrastate moves. They excel in packing and unpacking services, catering to clients looking for stress-free transitions. While they provide storage solutions, some might find it disappointing that Kingsley Moving Systems does not handle international moves or fragile-only packing. Additionally, the company facilitates transactions with credit card payments, but does not accept cryptocurrency or money orders.

"Had a fantastic experience with Kingsley. The guys moved me efficiently, helped place things thoughtfully, and wrapped delicate items. Super personable with a can-do attitude—really efficient."

Get a Quote (517) 372-7200

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unfriendly or rude staff

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Full unpacking
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

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How Much Does It Cost To Hire Local Movers in MI?

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 $139 per hour in Michigan. The more items you have — and the more help you need — the more you’ll pay. Want a full breakdown of costs? Read our complete guide on how much Michigan movers cost. 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 MI:

Home Size Crew Size Move Time Estimated Cost
Studio/1 BR 2 movers 3–4 hours $833 – $1,110
2 BR 3 movers 4–5 hours $1,665 – $2,081
3 BR 4 movers 6–7 hours $3,330 – $3,885
4+ Bedroom 4–5 movers 8+ hours $4,440 – $6,244
 

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Best Long-Distance Movers in Michigan

After comparing hundreds of moving companies across Michigan, 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 MI residents:

Colonial Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty services
  • Highly trained crews
  • In-app booking

Safeway Moving

4.5 / 5
  • Veteran-owned
  • Price matching
  • Verified accurate quotes

American Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty moves
  • Trained & certified crews
  • Flat-rate quotes

Colonial Van Lines

Our Score:
5.0 / 5.0

Colonial Van Lines (USDOT: 1434373) is a full-service moving company based in Pompano Beach, Florida, that handles long-distance moves across 48 states. With more than 50 years in the business and over 12,000 moves completed each year, they know their way around an interstate move. Colonial offers packing, storage, and long-distance transport throughout the continental US, all handled by highly trained crews. Their easy-to-use mobile app makes getting a quote quick, and customers often highlight the company’s friendly, professional, and reliable customer service.

Get A Quote (866) 377-8209

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

Our Score:
4.5 / 5.0

Safeway Moving (USDOT: 3756000) is a veteran-owned moving company built around the idea of military-level precision. Thanks to its nationwide network of truck capacity, Safeway is able to offer very competitive pricing without cutting corners. The company also uses a multi-stage quality assurance process to keep moves on track from pickup through delivery. That combination of accurate pricing and consistent quality is a big reason Safeway earned a spot on our list.

Get A Quote (866) 989-1425

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

Our Score:
5.0 / 5.0

American Van Lines (USDOT: 614506) is a long-distance moving company known for its hands-on approach and experienced crews. Based in Florida, the company handles interstate moves nationwide and stands out for using full-time, background-checked movers rather than temporary labor. American Van Lines offers packing, storage, and specialty services for items like antiques and pianos, with a strong focus on careful handling. Customers often point to the company’s professionalism and attention to detail as key reasons it earns high marks.

Get A Quote (866) 264-7086

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

Our Score:
5.0 / 5.0

Allied Van Lines (USDOT: 076235) is one of the most recognizable names in the moving industry, with a nationwide and global network backed by more than 80 years of experience. Alongside full-service local, long-distance, and international moves, Allied offers Allied Express, a portable container option that includes professional loading and unloading. With packing, storage, and specialty services also available, Allied provides flexible solutions for a wide range of moving needs.

Get A Quote (866) 377-8153

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)

BLVD Moving

Our Score:
4.2 / 5.0

BLVD Moving (USDOT: 3342827) is a long-distance moving company that puts a strong emphasis on clear pricing and customer communication. The company coordinates interstate moves nationwide and is known for assigning a dedicated move coordinator to guide customers through each step of the process. With professional packing, storage options, and a focus on consistency from pickup to delivery, BLVD Moving is a solid choice for customers who want a more organized, transparent moving experience.

Get A Quote (844) 794-6004

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Full-time professional crews
  • Flexible rescheduling
  • Last-minute services

Cons

  • Limited insurance options
  • Limited pricing on website

Services

  • Long-distance moving (nationwide interstate relocations coordinated across the contiguous US), Cross-country & interstate moving (full-service coordination from packing through delivery), Professional packing & unpacking (trained crews, high-quality materials, specialty packing for fragile items), Moving storage services (short- and long-term storage options through partner facilities), Dedicated move coordinator (single point of contact from quote to delivery), Transparent pricing model (detailed estimates based on virtual or phone inventory reviews), Carrier-vetted moving network (licensed and insured interstate carriers meeting BLVD’s service standards), Specialty item moving (oversized furniture, antiques, and delicate household goods), Customer support throughout the move (proactive communication and scheduling updates from pickup to drop-off)

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How Michigan Movers Stack Up

  • Total movers: Of the 3,185 total professional moving companies in the U.S., 85 are located in MI.
  • Average rating: 4.28 stars — compared to the national average rating of 4.32 stars.
  • Mover associations: Michigan has one in-state mover association, Michigan Movers Association, providing centralized support for industry standards and advocacy.

Specialty Services Offered

Service MI Movers MI % National Movers National %
Antiques 19 22.35% 1,453 45.62%
Art 18 21.18% 1,441 45.24%
Climate-Controlled Storage 24 28.24% 1,051 33.0%
Debris Removal 35 41.18% 851 26.72%
Fragile-Only Packing 13 15.29% 748 23.49%
Labor-Only 55 64.71% 1,758 55.2%
Office Moving 66 77.65% 2,724 85.53%
Small Moves 42 49.41% 1,586 49.8%
Total Movers 85 100% 3,185 100%

Discounts Offered

Discount Type MI Movers MI % National Movers National %
AAA Discount 1 1.18% 36 1.13%
Military Discount 6 7.06% 135 4.24%
Senior Discount 7 8.24% 157 4.93%
Student Discount 1 1.18% 36 1.13%
Teacher Discount n/a n/a 9 0.28%
Total Movers 85 100% 3,185 100%

Find Movers That Offer Your Discount

Some Michigan movers offer special pricing. See which ones match your move.

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What Impacts the Cost of Michigan Long-Distance Moves?

  • Optional add-ons: Want help with packing? In Michigan, 97.62% of movers offer it. Need storage? 74 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 Michigan Mover

When you’re planning a move in Michigan, 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, as they’re more accurate and often binding. Aim for three quotes to compare.
  • Discounts and price matching: Ask about special pricing — 6 movers in MI offer military discounts and 7 give breaks for seniors.
  • Service and reviews: Movers with a proven record of reliable service tend to have strong customer ratings.
  • Booking and flexibility: Check their policy for changes or cancellations in case your timeline shifts.

You Know What to Look For, Now Find Them

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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 Michigan?

Whether you're relocating for work, family, or a change of scenery, Michigan 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 MI relocation and what to expect once you arrive.

Life in Michigan: What To Expect

  • Michigan is 8% cheaper than the national average, with average rent near $1,037 and home values around $245,716.
  • The job market in Michigan is more competitive, with an unemployment rate of 4.7%. Top industries include Manufacturing ($99.2 billion), Professional and business services ($70.5 billion), and Real estate and rental and leasing ($63.3 billion).
  • Recreation options in Michigan include attractions like Mackinac Island and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, outdoor escapes such as 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and 2. Pere Marquette Park, and museums like Detroit Institute of Arts and Motown Museum.
  • Sports lovers can cheer on teams like Detroit Lions (NFL) and Detroit Pistons (NBA), which draw fans from across the state.
Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.