Written by


Alex is the founder of 9Kilo Moving, which he started to help people easily find and choose the right moving company to make their move as stress-free and seamless as possible. He has spent over 20 years working in the moving industry, so he knows every aspect of the business and uses his knowledge to write about the industry and give moving advice. More on about us page

Our Top Pick

Are you looking for a moving experience that’s a cut above the rest? Look no further than Midland Van Lines—our pick for the best national moving company.

From start to finish, their highly trained and experienced professionals provide nothing but the best. Midland Van Lines will handle your belongings with white-glove care to ensure safe and secure transportation. In the unlikely event of loss or damage, Midland Van Lines is licensed, bonded, and insured for up to $200,000.

Midland Van Lines stands out as a leading national moving company by utilizing innovative technology to offer customers the most straightforward and effective process for interstate moving.

While they may not be the cheapest option, the extra cost is worth it. When it comes to long-distance moving, Midland Van Lines’s expert coordination and execution will safely deliver your belongings to your new home, no matter the distance.

Get a quote today for a consistent, seamless, stress-free moving experience with Midland Van Lines.

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Top National Moving Companies Compared

Our Take Highest Quality Service
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4.5
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4.9
4.9
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4.3
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No Minimum 2 + bedrooms
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30 days of free & secured storage

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10%

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Cancellation Policy Free Up to 7 Days Free up to 72 Hrs
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Quoting Options Phone / Text / Video Phone / FaceTime / Text
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Senior / Same day Booking
 
Military
PriceRatingMinimum Shipment SizeStorageBooking DepositCancellation PolicyQuoting OptionsDiscounts

Highest Quality Service
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5
4.9

 

30 days of free & secured storage

 
Free Up to 7 Days Phone / Text / Video
Same Day Booking

Best Overall Value
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4
4.9

 

Free 30 Days

10%
Free up to 72 Hrs Phone / FaceTime / Text
Senior / Same day Booking

Good Customer Care
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3
4.6
No Minimum  
30%

72 Hours

Phone / Text
 

Largest Interstate Mover
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4.5
4.3
2 + bedrooms
30 days

30%
Free up to 72 hrs
On site Estimate

Military

How We Choose the Best National Moving Companies

At 9Kilo, we're more than just a moving service; we're your ally in navigating the world of long-distance moving services. We understand the personal nature of each move, so we dive deep to provide you with bespoke moving quotes that reflect your unique needs. 

We don't just pull numbers out of a hat. We’ve reviewed over 150 national movers and analyzed over 220 relocation estimates to find the best professional national movers in the U.S.

We roll up our sleeves and examine every corner of each moving company, looking at customer experiences, pricing structures, and service offerings, taking on the legwork so you don't have to.

It's a hands-on approach involving face-to-face meetings with moving company representatives and genuine customer reviews, ensuring the highest standards. We're committed to transparency and impartiality. 

Every bit of information we provide, from detailed reviews to transparent costs, is meticulously gathered and presented, arming you with the tools to make informed decisions. With 9Kilo, you're not just choosing full-service movers but discovering the best fit for your budget, timeframe, and specific needs.

National Moving Companies: Reviews

Midland Van Lines

4.9
Highest Quality Service
Intro

Midland Van Lines

Intro

Midland Van Lines is a family-owned and operated business, and moving long distances is their specialty. Every year they help thousands of families move across the U.S.

Experience and going the extra mile set them apart from other national moving services; Midland Van Lines boasts a highly skilled and knowledgeable team with 15+ years of experience in interstate moving.

Midland Van Lines is ideal if you want to spend a little more to enjoy a seamless moving experience. They offer comprehensive moving services to fit your unique needs. Don’t worry if you don’t have an unlimited budget. If you book early with Midlands, you can receive up to 40% off the price of your move.

They are also well known for their white-glove professional moving services, great customer service, and innovative use of technology; the company has garnered an excellent reputation as one of the best in the business.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing service
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Commercial moves
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability

Pros

  • Free Date Changes
  • Providing the Best Combination of Price and Service
  • Owns and Operates Their Own Fleet of Trucks & Semi-Trailers
  • Customer Service Support 7 Days Per Week
  • Experts in long-distance moves
  • Experts in moving high-value items

Cons

  • Must Request Quote to Learn About Pricing

Why we recommend Midland Van Lines

Customizable moving options

A one-size-fits-all approach may not work for everyone, as each individual or family has different requirements when it comes to moving. To go the extra mile for their customers, Midlands Van Lines provides personalized moving solutions.

A representative from Midlands Van Lines will create a customized plan to tailor their services to match your specific needs, including packing, storage, or additional services.

This level of personalization can make the transition to your new home smoother, as you can trust that everything is being taken care of in a way that fits your lifestyle and budget.

White-glove moving services

With Midlands Van Lines; you can expect nothing but the best from start to finish. Their team of highly trained and experienced professionals will handle every aspect of your move with white-glove care, ensuring that your belongings are transported safely and securely.

Midland Van Lines can also take on more unique or complex large homes or commercial space relocations. They are well equipped to transport heavy and valuable items like large furniture, antiques, and even priceless art.

It doesn’t stop there. They offer secure packaging and complete crating solutions for your high-value items. Also, Midland Van Lines is insured for up to $200,000 in the unlikely event of property loss or damage.

Full-service moving option

If you're looking for a genuinely luxurious moving experience, Midlands Van Lines provides a full-service moving package.

With this comprehensive package, you can expect a team of highly trained professionals to take care of everything, from packing your belongings to unloading them at your new home.
Midlands’s experienced movers will care extra for your high-value items if needed.

In addition, they offer concierge services such as unpacking and setting up your new home, and arranging for storage solutions for any items you may not want to bring with you.

With a full-service package, you can relax and let Midlands Van Lines take care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free relocation.

🏆 Customer opinion 

“I thought moving would be a disaster because I hired a moving company that I had no knowledge about. I expected the worst and just went on with it. But I did not know this moving company would impress me instead. They were amazing! All the people were professional, efficient and caring. They moved all the furniture very nicely and gently. They returned everything the way it was. Plus, their rate was very low and reasonable. I ended up with a great moving company! I highly recommend Midland van lines to all.” 
Philip R.

VanLines Inc.

4.9
Best Overall Value
Intro

VanLines Inc.

Intro

Looking to move soon? Look no further than Van Lines Inc.! Van Lines Inc. is a nationwide moving broker based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Established in 2001 by owner Efraim Balila who has over 20 years of experience in the industry, they specialize in a wide range of moves, from residential to commercial and industrial equipment relocations.

No matter what you need moving, Van Lines Inc. has the people and equipment to get you there. They're about more than just getting your belongings from point A to point B. 

They go the extra mile to ensure your move is stress-free by providing a personal moving coordinator for each client, ensuring open communication. And with proper licensing and insurance, you can trust that your belongings are in good hands.

But what if you have fragile or high-value items that need extra care and protection? Van Lines Inc. offers exceptional white-glove moving services by highly trained professionals who have been thoroughly vetted. Yes, these services come at a premium price, but the extra care and protection they provide are well worth it.

Despite facilitating over 200 moves a week, Van Lines Inc. doesn't treat you like just another number. They take pride in providing personalized attention and care to each customer. So, whether you're moving across the state or the country, trust Van Lines Inc. and let them take care of the rest.

Services

  • ➡️ Long distance moving
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking services
  • ➡️ Specialized moving
  • ➡️ Vehicle shipping
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Short and long-term storage
  • ➡️ Moving supplies
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services

Pros

  • Free quotes
  • Holds its partner carriers to a high standard
  • Transparent about pricing
  • 24/7 customer support chat
  • Nationwide availability
  • Experience in moving high-value items
  • Highly trained movers
  • Moving supplies delivered to your door

Cons

  • Third-party movers used, so quality can vary
  • Deposit required
  • No ball-park estimates
  • Unaccredited with the BBB

Why We Recommend Van Lines Inc.

➡️ Great support during a stressful move

One of the reasons we recommend Van Lines Inc. is because they provide a lot of support for customers during what can be a stressful move.

From the start, a dedicated moving assistant supports you through the initial consultation to unpacking the last box. They’ll tell you what to expect throughout the process, so you’re never caught off guard.

Van Lines Inc. works hard to prevent the horror stories that are too common in the moving industry. Their team of experts serves as the go-between between you and the moving company, ensuring that your needs and expectations are always met. Customers are constantly kept informed and up to date on the progress of their move.

After your move is complete, Van Lines Inc. will continue to communicate with you to ensure that everything went smoothly and that you’re completely satisfied with the service provided.

➡️ A la carte moving packages

Van Lines Inc. offers a range of flexible moving packages that can be customized to handle as much or as little as you need. Whether you’re a senior citizen with priceless china that need to be carefully crated or a business that needs to move across the country, Van Lines Inc. has the resources to help you.

Their consultants will take the time to listen to your concerns and preferences and will work with you to build a personalized moving plan that meets your needs – ranging from a full-service moving experience to handling some aspects of the move yourself.

This customized service means you can have peace of mind knowing you’re working with a company that genuinely cares about your moving experience.

➡️ Nationwide availability

From New York to California, Florida to Alaska, and everywhere in between, Van Lines Inc. can handle moves of any distance.

Their extensive network of resources and partners ensures they can provide seamless and efficient moving services to customers nationwide.

With Van Lines Inc., you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re working with a company that truly understands the complexities of long-distance moving and has the resources to get you there, wherever “there” may be.

🏆 Customer opinion

“We were able to book them at the last minute to move from Boston to Miami when another moving company did not show up. The customer service was perfect. They arrived on time and gave me a call when they were heading over so I knew to be ready. They packed up my goods very carefully, disassembled my furniture quickly without breaking anything, and took safe care. They arrived at the new location 7 days after pickup and were able to unload my goods extremely fast as well. They put all the boxes where I asked them to, and they put my furniture back together extremely fast and arranged my room the way I wanted. I would recommend them to anyone who is moving.”

Yaron Baker

Perennial Van Lines

4.6
Good Customer Care
Intro

Perennial Van Lines

Intro

Based in Delray Beach, Florida, Perennial Van Lines is a trusted national moving broker connecting customers with professionals tailored to their specific moving needs.

They specialize in various moves, including residential, corporate, and commercial, and provide customized solutions to ensure a smooth and efficient relocation experience.

One of the key advantages of working with Perennial Van Lines is their personalized approach. Each customer is assigned a dedicated moving coordinator who will guide them through every step of the process and keep them informed from start to finish.

With their commitment to excellent customer service, Perennial Van Lines is a top choice for anyone seeking a stress-free moving experience.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking
  • ➡️ Short and long-term storage
  • ➡️ Car shipping
  • ➡️ Moving high-value items
  • ➡️ Custom crating
  • ➡️ Moving supplies
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability

Pros

  • Offers interstate moving services to destinations nationwide, except for Alaska and Hawaii
  • Competitive pricing
  • Customers are provided with a moving coordinator
  • Website offers a wide range of helpful resources
  • Instant quotes

Cons

  • No instant quotes
  • Third-party movers used in some cases, so quality can vary

Why we recommend Perennial Van Lines

Moving coordinators are provided to every customer

One of the main reasons we recommend Perennial Van Lines is because they provide clients with a dedicated moving coordinator.

These coordinators serve as the main point of contact for clients, keeping them informed and up to date on every aspect of the relocation process. From creating a customized plan to securing any necessary additional services, the experienced coordinators at Perennial Van Lines will handle all aspects of the move to ensure it is completed on schedule and within budget.

This service streamlines the moving experience and reduces the stress of a complex long-distance move.

Commercial movers

Perennial Van Lines understands that relocating your business involves more than transporting boxes and office furniture. And that's why they go above and beyond to ensure the safe and secure transportation of your office equipment and furniture.

With Perennial's full-service commercial moving options, you can minimize downtime and avoid disruptions to your business operations. They handle all aspects of the move, allowing you to focus on what matters—your business.

We highly recommend Perennial Van Lines for their commitment to providing top-notch commercial moving services that allow you to get back to work as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Flexible storage options

Storage can be important during a national move. Perennial Van Lines offers a comprehensive range of temporary storage solutions throughout the United States.

Their facilities are monitored around the clock to ensure the safety and security of your belongings. With options for temperature-controlled storage, you can be sure your items will remain protected from damage caused by moisture and dust.

United Vanlines

4.3
Largest Interstate Mover
Intro

United Vanlines

Intro

  • ➡️ Long-distance moves
  • ➡️ Local moves
  • ➡️ International moves
  • ➡️ Storage facilities
  • ➡️ Car shipping

United Van Lines is a renowned moving company with a proven track record. They offer various services—that include basic and full-service packages—to make your long-distance move as smooth as possible. 

Whether you are moving locally, interstate, or internationally, or if you're a military family with unique needs, United Van Lines has got you covered. 

Customers can pack their belongings or rely on experienced movers for full-service packing, moving, and unpacking. 

Pros

  • A wide choice of moving services
  • Personalized quotes
  • Debris removal
  • Online quoting and in-home evaluation for an accurate estimate
  • Great electronics packing

Cons

  • United Van Lines does not offer pricing estimates for self-service options.
  • Quality may vary, as United uses third-party carriers
  • Higher prices than the competition

Why we recommend United Van Lines

No list of the best full-service movers would be complete without United Van Lines! They offer a wide range of services for just about any move. Whatever household belongings you need to move, they can accommodate you. 

Additionally, United is one of the few nationwide moving companies that offers in-home tech assistance. This unique service includes installing and uninstalling home theater systems and computer networks, which adds another layer of convenience to their moving services.

Long-Distance National Movers - Runners-Up

FlatRate Moving

5
Best For: Transparent Pricing
Intro

FlatRate Moving

Intro

FlatRate Moving is a premier moving company that has been revolutionizing the industry since 1991. With a commitment to innovation and a focus on providing high-end white-glove service, FlatRate has become one of the leading long-distance moving companies trusted by more than 200,000 satisfied customers. 

FlatRate pioneered the flat rate formula pricing model, available in major US and international cities, ensuring that customers receive transparent and guaranteed pricing with no surprise costs or hidden fees. 

Their certification by the US Military, the UN, and the GSA underscores their reputation as a trustworthy, high-end moving company. It is our top pick for our long-distance movers in NYC edition! 

  • ➡️ Long-distance relocation
  • ➡️ Packing services
  • ➡️ White-glove moving services
  • ➡️ Storage solutions
  • ➡️ Custom crating
  • ➡️ Box delivery
  • ➡️ Storage

Pros

  • Local New York experts
  • Mobile app which includes GPS tracking
  • Can create custom crating for fine art and valuables
  • Cross-country express
  • Upcycling program
  • 1 month free storage

Cons

  • No instant quotes
  • No pricing information available on their website

Why we recommend FlatRate Moving

The FlatRate formula 

FlatRate Moving has taken the concept of flat rate pricing to the next level with their innovative "flat rate formula." This formula is as follows:

Volume ✖️ Mileage ✖️ Complexity 🟰 Guaranteed Flat Rate

How FlatRate calculates the cost of your move:

Mileage
The distance between your origin and destination, including any stops along the way.

Volume
To ensure that FlatRate Moving reserves an appropriately-sized truck for a customer's move and provides an accurate quote, they need to know the cubic footage of the items being transported, including furniture and any other belongings.

Complexity
Factors such as the items being moved (e.g. a wooden table from Ikea, glassware, or an antique wingback chair), as well as the presence of elevators or stairs, will impact the cost of your long-distance move. 

By using this formula, FlatRate has turned moving into a science, providing customers with a transparent and predictable pricing structure that considers all the factors that can impact the cost of a move.

With no hidden fees or surprise costs, customers can trust that the price they're quoted is the price they'll pay. This approach to moving has made the process simpler, more streamlined, and more accessible for customers who want to avoid the stress and uncertainty that can come with traditional moving pricing models.

🏆 Customer opinion
“I needed to move some large, fragile antique China cabinets and some China from upstate NY to Brooklyn. Flat Rate did a fabulous job -- arrived early, packed everything safely, and moved everything without issue!  
The Guys were friendly and kept me apprised of their progress throughout the day. I was very very happy with the work they did.” Melissa F.

North American Van Lines

4.1
Best for Complex Moves
Intro

North American Van Lines

Intro

North American Van Lines is a well-established moving broker that’s been operating in the United States for over 85 years. With a network of more than 500 agents throughout the country, North American Van Lines offers a comprehensive range of solutions for all types of relocations, including local, long-distance, interstate, international, and state-to-state moves. 

North American Van Lines goes above and beyond by offering specialized corporate relocation services, convenient storage solutions, packing services, vehicle transportation, and specialty moving services for fragile or oversized items. Last but not least, they offer a unique container-moving option called Blue Express.  

North American Van Lines is a trusted name in the moving industry with a reputation for providing high-quality service and reliable transportation.

Services

  • ➡️ Long-distance moving
  • ➡️ Corporate relocation services
  • ➡️ Packing and unpacking
  • ➡️ Storage services
  • ➡️ Nationwide availability
  • ➡️ Vehicle shipping
  • ➡️ Moving insurance
  • ➡️ Mobile storage containers

Pros

  • Not-to-Exceed Pricing ensures your moving cost will never be higher than your quote
  • No deposit is required
  • Website includes helpful moving-related resources for customers
  • GPS tracking

Cons

  • No instant quotes
  • Limited storage options
  • Your moving experience may vary depending on your location

Why we recommend North American Van Lines

Comprehensive moving services 

North American Van Lines is one of the best interstate moving companies because they offer a variety of moving services to meet the needs of all customers. Their full-service moving packages include:

🚚 Household moves are available for residences of all sizes, from small studio apartments to large multibedroom houses.

🚚 Corporate relocation services are also available for businesses looking to move domestically or abroad.

🚚 Long-distance moves: North American Van Lines has agents who can handle long-distance moves, including cross-country and interstate moves. 

North American Van Lines’s services include loading and unloading, basic liability coverage, and shipment tracking—all at no additional cost. In addition, North American Van Lines offers premium services for an extra fee to make your move even more straightforward. 

These premium options include:

📦 Packing assistance that includes different options such as full-service, fragile-only, or partial packing.

📦 Temporary storage for when your move-in and move-out dates don't align

📦 Installation and assembly of furniture and appliances

📦 Specialized care for heavy or fragile items such as pianos and antiques

📦 North American Van Lines also offers full valuation coverage, which provides more extensive protection if goods are damaged or lost during the move

How to Choose and Hire the Right National Moving Services

national moving companies animated image

➡️ Experience matters

Reputation matters when it comes to finding the right national moving companies. After all, you are trusting them to move your belongings over long distances. Choosing the cheaper local mover who just got into nationwide moves may be tempting, but in this game, experience is everything. 

Moving clients across the country or just one state away requires considerable knowledge, so finding a company with a good reputation and more than five years of experience in national moves is essential. 

Additionally, an experienced moving company with a good reputation is more likely to provide high-quality service due to its industry knowledge, which can help reduce stress and anxiety during the moving process. 

Choosing a reputable moving company can also help you avoid falling prey to scams that exploit unsuspecting customers. 

➡️ Personal referrals

While online customer reviews are valuable when searching for the best national moving companies, nothing beats word-of-mouth advertising, especially from someone you trust.

Before relying solely on online reviews, take the time to pick the brains of friends and family members about their experience with moving companies. 

By gathering personal referrals in addition to online reviews, you can make a more informed decision when choosing a national moving company.

➡️ Speaking of reviews

Don’t worry if you can't find anyone to give you a thumbs up for a nationwide moving company. Platforms like Yelp and Google are useful in helping you choose the right national mover.

When reading reviews, look for common themes like customers praising a mover for friendly customer service or exceeding their expectations. These patterns can give you an idea of the overall quality of service provided by the moving company. 

Also keep in mind that in the moving industry, not all reviews are genuine, so it's essential to read a variety of reviews and consider the overall picture before making a decision.

➡️ Ensure your national moving company is licensed and insured

When choosing national moving services, it's crucial to ensure they are properly licensed and insured. 

Look for a mover registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and assigned a unique USDOT number. 

You can verify their credentials and insurance by checking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration database. To do this, search for the mover's USDOT number, and if you find it you can rest assured that you are working with a licensed and insured company. 

Checking the database can provide peace of mind and help ensure a smooth and stress-free move.

➡️ Leading national moving companies offer in-home estimates

A long-distance move is a complex and expensive process, so we recommend finding moving services that provide in-person estimates for your move. In-home estimates are more accurate and reliable.

Firstly, an in-home estimate allows the moving company to conduct a personalized evaluation of your belongings, giving them a better understanding of the scope of your move. 

This customized assessment can help you avoid unpleasant surprises on moving day by giving you a more accurate estimate.

Secondly, during an in-home estimate, the moving company can identify any potential issues that may affect the move—such as narrow doorways or staircases—allowing them to plan ahead and avoid unexpected challenges on moving day.

Finally, an in-home estimate also lets you clarify your expectations with the moving company and ask any questions. This ensures that both parties are on the same page and helps to avoid misunderstandings or complications during the move. 

➡️ Be aware of common red flags.

There are a couple of red flags to watch out for when choosing national moving services. Here are some of the most common ones:

🚚 Lack of licensing and insurance: Legitimate moving companies should have proper licensing and insurance, so be wary of any company that cannot provide proof of these essential credentials.

💡Tip: To check the licensing of your chosen long-distance mover, search for their USDOT number. Not sure how? Find out here.

🚚 Suspiciously low estimates: If the price is low, it's usually too good to be true. A much lower estimate could indicate a moving company is cutting corners or engaging in shady practices, such as bait-and-switch pricing.

🚚 Lack of transparency: A trustworthy national moving company should be transparent about all aspects of the moving process, including their pricing, services, and policies. Avoid companies that seem evasive or unresponsive when you ask questions.

🚚 Demands for large upfront deposits: Reputable national moving services typically only require a small deposit up front, with the remainder of the payment due after the move has been completed. A company asking for a large deposit upfront could be a sign of a scam.

🚚 Unprofessional behavior: If a moving company behaves unprofessionally, such as showing up late to meetings, being rude, or treating your belongings with disrespect, it's a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies are respectful to clients and take care of their stuff. 

🚚 No physical address or poor online presence: Be cautious of companies with no physical address or a poor online presence, such as no website or negative reviews. These companies may be fly-by-night operations or scams.

What Are The Benefits of Hiring a National Moving Company?

national moving companies truck animated image

➡️ Save money

While top national moving companies may seem expensive at first glance, you will save money in the long run. Most long-distance moving companies offer various services to fit your specific needs. If you were to pay for all of these services individually, it would cost way more. 

Another reason national movers are cheaper is that they often move a large volume of items across long distances, which results in discounts from their providers. These discounts can be passed on to customers, leading to lower costs.

➡️ Excellent full-service packing 

National movers have experience with various moves, including long-distance and international moves. They have the expertise to pack and transport your items efficiently, reducing the risk of damage and minimizing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

It’s important to go with a trusted national moving company that has earned a sterling reputation for organizing and packing their clients’ possessions. Nationwide movers will have the resources and the experienced moving team members to get the packing and storage parts of the move done right the first time.

➡️ State-of-the-art tracking systems

Leading national moving companies that operate across the country typically install the most advanced tracking systems to ensure every move remains on track for timely completion.

National moving companies who offer state-of-the-art tracking systems can use tech to provide real-time updates, improved communication, and enhanced security, and they can facilitate better planning, too: 

🚚 Real-time location tracking: With GPS tracking, you can monitor the exact location of your belongings in real-time during the moving process. This can provide peace of mind and help you track the progress of your move.

🚚 Improved communication: GPS tracking allows you to communicate more effectively with the moving company. You can get updates on the status of your move, confirm the delivery time, and provide any necessary instructions.

🚚 Enhanced security: GPS tracking can help prevent theft or loss of your belongings during moving. If a moving truck carrying your items is stolen or goes missing, the GPS tracking system can quickly locate it.

🚚 Better planning: GPS tracking can help you estimate the arrival time more accurately and ensure everything is on schedule.

➡️ Knowledge of the national road and highway system

Let’s assume you want to save money by hiring a local mover to perform an interstate move. Can you be confident that the moving service knows the roads and highways that run through the multiple states your belongings must travel through? 

It is highly doubtful that a local moving company located in, for example Delaware, understands how to navigate Los Angeles roads and highways at the height of rush hour. 

National movers can use their experience and expertise to plan the most efficient routes for transporting your items. This helps reduce costs and cut down delivery times.

➡️ Peace of mind moving insurance

Despite the best intentions of the national moving company you’ve hired, there is a chance one or more of your things may be lost or damaged. It's part and parcel of long-distance moving. 

Moving is stressful, and having moving insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are protected. That's why finding a long-distance moving company with good insurance coverage is vital.

Larger long-distance moving companies operating across the nation have the financial resources to provide full protection for your belongings if they are lost, damaged, or destroyed during the move.  

➡️ Great customer service

The best interstate moving companies provide a higher level of service to their customers, thanks to advantages like these:

🚚 Resources: Nationwide movers typically have more staff, better technology, and more efficient processes to handle customer inquiries and concerns.

🚚 Training:  A professional moving company can provide better training for their customer service staff, which means better customer service. Also, national moving companies may have more experienced staff better equipped to handle complex customer issues.

🚚 Availability: Nationwide moving companies may have more flexible hours and be available to assist customers around the clock. This availability is essential for customers moving long distances who may need assistance at odd hours.

Tips to Save Money on Your Moving Expenses

national moving companies coin image

Pack like a pro

Did you know that packing accounts for around 25% of your moving company cost? The cost of packing supplies and full-service packing can eat away a significant part of your moving budget. The best way to save money during long-distance moving is to do your own packing.

To get started, you will need the following moving supplies:

  • 📦 Tissue paper
  • 📦 Packing paper (newspaper works, too)
  • 📦 2" packing tape
  • 📦 Permanent markers
  • 📦 Professional quality boxes
  • 📦 Utility knife and scissors
💡 Tip: You can usually get moving supplies and high-quality boxes in various sizes from most interstate moving companies. Contact a representative to discuss your options before sourcing boxes elsewhere.

Here are some tips for stress-free packing:

  • ➡️ Create a timetable that gives you enough time to pack.
  • ➡️ Begin by packing your least-needed items in the basement, garage, or attic.
  • ➡️ Stay organized by packing items from one room at a time.
  • ➡️ Assign specific work areas in each room.
  • ➡️ Once a room is finished, categorize the boxes into light, medium, and heavy groups, with a maximum weight of 50 pounds for the heaviest boxes.
  • ➡️ Mark any boxes or objects you do not want to be transported on the moving truck.

Some items may need to be packed by a professional

Some items are best left to your professional movers to pack, such as:

  • 📦 Marble or glass tabletops, heavy wall ornaments, and mirrors 40" x 60" or larger
  • 📦 Pool tables
  • 📦 Bulky, fragile items like large trophies, statues, chandeliers, etc.
  • 📦 Large appliances and bulky furniture
  • 📦 Pianos

What to avoid packing 

Moving long distances can be more complex than local moves, as it may take multiple days to cover the extensive distance. Most professional movers will not move hazardous materials and don't recommend you put your valuables or sentimental items into a moving truck. 

The following are examples of items that cannot be moved:

  • ⚠️ Nail polish remover
  • ⚠️ Paints and paint thinners
  • ⚠️ Propane cylinders
  • ⚠️ Automotive repair and maintenance chemicals
  • ⚠️ Matches
  • ⚠️ Lighter fluid
  • ⚠️ Gasoline
  • ⚠️ Fireworks
  • ⚠️ Oxygen bottles

Valuables

Nationwide moving companies suggest that customers should keep valuable items or documents with them during cross-country moving. 

Valuables can include: 

  • 💎 Family photos
  • 💎 Jewelry
  • 💎 Heirlooms
  • 💎 Collections (coins, stamps, etc.)
  • 💎 Cash
  • 💎 Important documents (deeds, wills, bonds, stocks, etc.)
💡 Tip: Most companies recommend that you don’t pack any food that can go off in transit. Also, avoid packing perishable food in glass jars as they can crack, leak, or mold before arrival. Food items that are safe to pack include boxed or canned items, dried fruits, spices, or cooking oils.

Packing tips from professionals 

Most national moving companies offer excellent full-service packing. Below, we’ll go through some of their packing tips: 

  • ➡️ Keep all parts or pairs of things together—for example, a mirror and its bolts. Be sure to secure the bolts using plastic bags and tape.
  • ➡️ Wind electrical cords and fasten them to prevent dangling.
  • ➡️ Wrap delicate items individually in clean paper, using tissue paper, paper towels, or facial tissue for fine china and crystal. Use colored wrapping paper for small items that might get lost.
  • ➡️ Use a layer of crushed paper in the bottom of cartons for cushioning.
  • ➡️ Place the heaviest items at the bottom, medium-weight in the middle, and the lightest on top. Fill empty spaces with crushed paper or cardboard dividers.
  • ➡️ Cushion items with crushed paper, towels, or lightweight blankets. The more fragile the item, the more cushioning is needed.
  • ➡️ Pack small, fragile items separately in small boxes, then place those boxes in a larger container filled with crushed paper.
  • ➡️ Avoid overloading cartons and seal them tightly with tape, except for items that require inspection by the moving company.

Need more tips? Check out our top tips on how to prepare for a nationwide relocation

How Much Does It Cost to Hire National Movers?

national moving companies piggy bank image

National moving companies typically charge an average of $2,500 to $7,000—depending on the size of the move, total distance, and other factors, which we will touch on below. 

To get an estimate of how much your move may cost, refer to the chart below:

Distance1 Bedroom2 – 3 Bedroom4 – 5 Bedroom
100 miles$1,100 – $1,400$1,150 – $1,600$1,400 – $3,200
250 miles$1,300 – $1,900$1,400 – $3,400$2,000 – $4,600
1000 miles+$1,500 – $2,900$2,000 – $7,000$5,400 – $7,800
2500 miles+$1,700 – $3,700$3,800 – $7,600$8,600+
⚠️Its important to note that additional moving services will increase the final cost. 

Calculate the cost of national moving companies 

Do you want to figure out how much your national move will cost? Use our free moving cost calculator to find out.

Let us know where you're moving from and the destination of your new home. Use the drop-down function to select the number of bedrooms and supply your contact details. We’ll email you the best quotes from top movers. 

Which factors affect moving costs?

💸 Timing: Moves during peak season or high-demand times, such as summer and weekends, typically incur higher costs than off-peak periods when demand is lower.

💸 Additional services: A full-service national moving company can provide customers with extra services such as packing, storage, and debris removal, which are usually not included in the initial quote. Be sure to ask about any additional services and the costs beforehand.

💸 Special items: Some items, like pianos or bulky furniture, may require extra care and special packaging, resulting in additional fees.

💸 Stairs and elevators: For apartment moves, extra fees may apply if there is a long walk to and from the elevator, or if items need to be moved up multiple flights of stairs.

💸 Long carry: If the movers need to carry items a significant distance from the truck to your front door (or vice versa), an additional fee may apply based on the actual distance covered.

How Long Does It Take to Move Nationwide?

How long your nationwide move takes depends on the distance you need to travel. Most nationwide (i.e., cross-country) moves will take anywhere from 10 to 14 days, but that can vary. See the table below for an estimate: 

Miles Days 
0-500 miles1-7 days
500-1,500 miles3-14 days
1,500-2,500 miles5-21 days
2,500+ miles7-21 days
💡 Tip: It is important to note that there are certain restrictions and regulations that drivers and movers must comply with in terms of driving hours. Typically, they are limited to driving a maximum of 650 miles each day. These regulations ensure the safety of both the drivers and your belongings, so it is best to plan accordingly and work with a reputable moving company that can provide a realistic timeline for your specific relocation needs.

What FAQs Should I Ask a Nationwide Moving Company?

What makes a good national moving company?

Reputable movers will have the following qualities: 

🚚 Experience: Look for a moving company with a proven track record of success. 

🚚 Licensing and insurance: A good moving company should have all the necessary licenses and insurance to operate legally and protect your belongings in case of damage or loss.

🚚 Transparency: The company should be upfront about its services, fees, and policies. They should be willing to provide a written estimate and answer any questions you may have.

🚚 Customized services: Interstate movers should offer customized services to meet your needs. They should be able to handle different types of moves—such as residential, commercial, and long-distance—and provide additional services such as packing, storage, and furniture assembly.

🚚 Customer service: High-quality moving services offer excellent customer service. They should be responsive, communicative, and available to address any concerns you may have throughout the moving process. 

Is my moving quote binding or nonbinding?

Always ask your provider for a binding estimate when planning your national move. A binding quote guarantees that your move's price won’t change once you have received your quote. Unless, of course, you add or remove items from your inventory.

Does the moving company use third-party carriers?

When researching moving options, hire a reputable moving company that has established partnerships with cross-country van lines. These van lines typically have a network of carriers and trucks that can handle long-distance moves efficiently and reliably.

One way to ensure that you are working with a legitimate national moving company is to verify that they work as an agent for a van line. 

This means that they are authorized to act on behalf of the van line and have agreed to follow their standards and regulations. It also means they have access to the van line's network of resources, which can be crucial when coordinating a long-distance move.

By choosing a national moving company that partners with long-distance movers, you can have peace of mind knowing that your move is being handled by professionals dedicated to providing quality service. Plus, you may have access to additional services and resources only available through the van line's network.

How much do you tip movers?

The amount you should tip movers depends on various factors, like the complexity of the move, how long it takes, and how satisfied you are with their service. However, a general guideline is to tip around 20% of the overall moving expense.

What is the cheapest day to hire movers? 

Typically, the least expensive days to hire movers are during the week (Monday to Thursday) This is when demand for moving services is generally lower. 

Weekends, holidays, and the beginning or end of the month are usually the busiest times for movers, as this is when most leases begin or end, so prices tend to be higher during these periods.

How 9Kilo Can Help You Choose a Nationwide Mover

Experience a stress-free and seamless cross-country move with 9Kilo Moving—the premier choice to help you find the right long-distance moving service. 

Our unparalleled network of top-rated national movers and long-distance moving companies is designed to provide you with a moving experience tailored to your specific needs and budget. 

Our team of expert moving industry veterans is backed by years of experience and knowledge, ensuring a smooth and efficient move—no matter the distance or complexity.

Ready to find a national moving company?