Choosing the right interstate moving company is a crucial step toward ensuring a smooth and stress-free relocation. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a fresh start, a reliable interstate moving company can make the entire process easier. From affordable solutions to the best interstate moving companies known for dependable service, there are options to fit every need and budget.

With so many interstate moving companies appearing in search results, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Use the following checklist to avoid common mistakes and find the best-rated interstate moving companies that meet your needs.

1. Verify Licensing & Insurance

All Interstate movers must be licensed by the FMCSA and have a valid USDOT number. Only consider BBB-accredited interstate moving companies listed in the FMCSA’s database to ensure legal compliance and accountability.

2. Consider Experience and Reputation

Trust only experienced interstate moving companies with proven success. Look for strong interstate moving company reviews on Trustpilot, Yelp, and the BBB. Consistently positive interstate moving companies’ ratings and reviews reflect customer satisfaction and trustworthy service.

3. Compare Multiple Quotes

Request estimates from at least three top-rated interstate moving companies. Be cautious of cheap interstate moving companies that quote unusually low prices; they often come with hidden fees.

4. Request Binding Estimates

A binding or not-to-exceed estimate offers price protection. These quotes define exactly what’s included in your move, eliminating financial surprises.

5. Clarify Potential Hidden Charges

Ask upfront about extra fees like:

• Long carry charges
  
• Elevator/stair access fees
  
• Fuel surcharges
  
• Packing materials
  

Transparent interstate moving and storage companies will explain all costs clearly.

6. Decide Your Service Level

Options vary based on your budget and needs:

• Full-service interstate movers handle packing, loading, delivery, and unpacking.
  
• Partial services let you pack; movers handle transport.
  
• Hybrid options (like containers) combine flexibility with professional support.

When you hire one of the best full-service interstate moving companies, you’re getting more than just transportation. Top-rated interstate moving companies deliver a comprehensive relocation experience designed to reduce stress and protect your belongings every step of the way.

Here’s what most interstate moving companies include in a full-service package:

Packing & Unpacking

Professional, background-checked teams use high-quality materials to pack your belongings with care. The best interstate moving companies ensure everything is securely boxed, labeled, and ready for safe transport across state lines.

Loading & Unloading

Heavy lifting, furniture handling, and truck loading are managed by trained staff to prevent damage. The best moving companies interstate bring the equipment and experience needed to safely load and unload all types of household or office items.

Disassembly & Reassembly of Furniture

Top interstate moving companies offer furniture disassembly and reassembly, helping with beds, desks, shelving units, and gym equipment to ensure a smooth moving process from start to finish.

Storage Options

Many interstate moving and storage companies provide both short-term and long-term storage in climate-controlled facilities. These services are ideal if your new home isn’t move-in ready or you need temporary space during a staggered move.

Insurance & Valuation Protection

Reputable interstate moving companies offer two main coverage options:

• Released Value Protection (standard, limited coverage)
  
• Full Value Protection (comprehensive reimbursement for lost or damaged items)
  

Top-rated providers also include detailed interstate moving company reviews outlining their claims process and customer satisfaction with damage resolution.

Interstate moving costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $1,999 to $9,999, depending on the size, distance, and complexity of the move. Several key factors influence your total moving cost:

1. Distance & Shipment Weight
When hiring the best interstate moving companies, two of the biggest cost factors are the total distance and the weight of your shipment. Most moving interstate companies base their pricing on these variables. The farther you move and the heavier your belongings, the more you’ll pay, even the top-rated interstate moving companies can’t avoid it.

2. Season of the Year
Timing matters. Many interstate moving and storage companies charge premium rates during the peak season (April to September). If you’re looking for affordable interstate moving companies, consider relocating in the off-season when cheap interstate moving companies often offer lower prices.

3. When You Book
Booking your move early is key to saving. The highest-rated interstate moving companies typically offer better rates when you schedule in advance and avoid weekends. Full-service interstate moving companies alike may charge extra for last-minute or weekend moves.

4. Level of Service
If you’re only looking for basic loading and unloading, many moving interstate companies offer cost-effective options. But for those who prefer full packing, unpacking, and furniture disassembly, the best interstate moving and storage companies will provide comprehensive solutions, at a higher cost.

We used a strict methodology to rank and recommend only the best providers. Here’s what we looked for:

1. FMCSA Licensing & USDOT Verification

Every recommended mover is licensed for interstate transport and registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

2. Customer Satisfaction & Online Reviews

We analyzed thousands of verified reviews from sources like Yelp, Trustpilot, BBB, and Google. Companies with repeat complaints for damage, delays, or hidden charges were excluded.

3. Service Offerings

Top movers provide:

• Full packing/unpacking
  
• Fragile item handling (e.g., pianos, antiques)
  
• Climate-controlled storage
  

4. Transparent Pricing

We prioritized movers that offer:

• Binding or not-to-exceed quotes
  
• In-home or virtual surveys
  
• No surprise fees
  

5. Flexibility & On-Time Performance

Most reliable interstate moving companies show up on time, honor delivery windows, and adjust when needed. Last-minute bookings, weather delays, and closing changes are all handled professionally.

6. Insurance & Damage Resolution

All companies offer valuation coverage and responsive claims departments. Many provide additional protection plans or third-party coverage options.

We selected only the best interstate moving companies near you with verified customer reviews, FMCSA licensing, and proven track records across key U.S. regions. These top-rated providers offer professional interstate moving services in high-demand metro areas and smaller markets alike.

Midwest Coverage

In the Midwest, many top interstate moving companies in Chicago are known for their reliability and range of services. We also included trusted interstate moving companies in Illinois, Minnesota, and high-performing ones in Denver, CO. These movers are ideal for both residential and commercial relocations within and beyond the region.

West Coast Coverage

On the West Coast, California interstate moving companies dominate the market, with a strong showing from the best interstate moving companies in California. If you’re relocating from the Bay Area, consider a trusted interstate moving company in San Jose. 

Northeast & East Coast Coverage

The East Coast is home to some of the best interstate moving companies in NYC. We’ve highlighted several interstate moving companies in New York City that offer both full-service and budget-friendly options. Connecticut is also covered, with top-rated interstate moving companies in CT delivering reliable solutions throughout the region.

Choosing a moving company is a big decision, and we take that seriously. Here’s why you can rely on our recommendations:

• Independent Research: Our rankings are based on verified data, customer reviews, and service quality, not advertising or sponsorships.
• Verified Movers Only: Every mover we list is fully licensed, insured, and registered with the FMCSA for moves.
• Customer-First Focus: We prioritize your needs, affordability, transparency, and reliability, and only recommend movers that deliver on those promises.
• Regular Updates: We continuously update our content to reflect current industry standards, pricing trends, and customer feedback.
  

Our mission is simple: to help you find a trusted, stress-free moving experience with no guesswork involved.

Many cheap interstate moving companies offer low initial quotes, only to hit customers with unexpected fees. Here’s a breakdown of typical add-ons to watch out for:

• Packing Materials
  If the movers supply boxes, bubble wrap, tape, or specialty containers (like wardrobe or TV boxes), expect additional fees. These materials can add up quickly, especially for large or fragile items.
• Stairs or Elevator Access
  If movers have to navigate multiple flights of stairs or use an elevator (especially in high-rise apartments), additional labor and time may be required. Movers in urban areas like Chicago or San Jose may charge per stair flight or elevator trip.
• Expedited Delivery
  If you request a faster-than-normal delivery window, especially for interstate moves, you may incur an expedited delivery surcharge. This prioritizes your shipment over others and requires special scheduling.
• Storage Fees
  If there’s a delay in your move-in date, you might need temporary storage for your items. Most moving companies offer storage solutions, but these come at an added cost, especially for climate-controlled or long-term options. Most interstate moving companies offer climate-controlled short-term or long-term storage for a fee.
• Crating, Disassembly, or Labor Charges
  Special handling of items like artwork, glass tables, or antiques may require custom crating. Movers may also charge to disassemble or reassemble furniture, gym equipment, or electronics setups. These labor-based services often carry hourly rates.