Long Distance Moving
When you’re looking for a long distance moving company, two qualities stand above everything else: reliability and customer service. A reliable mover with excellent customer service will have the proper certifications, show up on time and offer a reasonable estimate for your move.
Because everyone’s move is different, we cannot guarantee the actual service you receive. What we can do, however, is recommend movers based on our interactions with them and their certifications.
Long distance moving truck
Long Distance Moving Company Reviews
After looking at 33 long-distance moving companies and talking with 13 of those companies’ customer service professionals, here are the four long-distance moving companies we recommend along with a review of the popular American Van Lines.
Our Search For The Best Long Distance Moving Companies
1. We searched for a comprehensive list of moving companies
2. We evaluated these moving companies based on our expert-guided moving company criteria: overall reliability, reputation and customer service
3. We brought you the best moving companies for your consideration
We make our moving recommendations based on our understanding that your individual experience with your move is something we cannot predict. We can, however, go through the process of setting up a move and telling you which company was the easiest to work with. Here’s how we did it.
1. Start with a large selection
We started our selection with 33 moving companies. We began by going straight to their websites, checking for usability. We clicked around these websites and looked for basic signs that they were a legitimate business: company history, customer reviews, clear pricing models, free quotes, etc. If the company website made it difficult to find this information, it was cut immediately.
2. We checked credentials
To make sure that you can trust our recommendation, we looked to make sure each company had the proper registration and certification. If the company was not registered with the Department of Transportation, we cut them immediately. We looked up each company in the DOT database to verify registration.
We also looked for special certifications from the FMSCA and AMSA. If they did not have any documentation from these institutions, they were not immediately cut, but they did lose preference to other companies with these credits.
3. We read reviews
We then looked at user reviews on various websites to make sure the companies had a decent online reputation. Yelp, MyMovingReviews and ConsumerAffairs all provided valuable insight into consumer experiences. Each company with an average rating below 60 percent approval (or about 3 stars, depending on the rating system), were thrown out.
4. We applied for quotes
Next, we applied for quotes at several different services. To narrow our search, we only went with companies that could start our quotes based on the information we gave them online. If a website didn’t have a place to apply for a free quote online, we left them behind.
5. We spoke to representatives
Most companies responded to us via email, while others contacted us directly over the phone. Those who called us first were given preference. We contacted 24 out of our starting 33 moving companies. Each of them sent us an email. Here’s how quickly they responded with a phone call.
- 11 companies called us within less than 24 hours
- 6 called us within 2-3 days
- 4 called us within a week
- 2 never called; we had to call them
After talking to representatives, we further narrowed our search by rating them according to how helpful the representatives were. If they were unclear about what went into their estimates or if they wanted us to commit to a certain price without learning the specifics of our move, we cut them from our list.
6. We compared prices
The last task we performed was to compare prices. To get an accurate picture, we compared quotes for the same size move across the same distance (from Oklahoma to Florida). Once we had the quotes, we were ready to make our recommendation.
Solomon and Sons Relocation Services Review
Great Ratings by Consumers |
Solomon and Sons Relocation Services is a full-service moving company based in South Florida. It operates its own moving trucks within South Florida and uses a trusted network of movers to cover long-distance and international moves.
What do they offer?
- Local, Interstate, Long-Distance, International moves: Whether you’re relocating across town, the state or the country, Solomon and Sons provides tailored moving services to fit your specific circumstances.
- Commercial moves: If you’re relocating your office, Solomon and Sons can put together a custom relocation package based on what your company needs.
- Storage: Short- or long-term storage is available through Solomon and Sons. If you’re moving across the country, the first 14 days of storage are free.
Getting a quote
It’s easy to get a quote from Solomon and Sons. You can call and speak with a representative at 855-368-7374 and he or she will take down the specifics of your move over the phone.
You can also get a quote by entering the specifics of your move their website. What consumers say- Yelp: 4 out 5 stars
- ConsumerAffairs: 4 out 5 stars
- BBB: “A-” rating
Read our full Solomon and Sons review.
American Van Lines Review
Great Flat Rate Pricing |
American Van Lines has been moving clients since 1995. The company facilitates local, cross-country and international moves. They offer moving and storage services with a claim to focus on customer service. Here’s how we review their customer service:
What struck us immediately about American Van Lines was how easy to use the website is. Putting customer accessibility front-and-center, American Van Lines makes it easy to set up a free quote.
We decided to apply for a quote for a move from Oklahoma to Florida.
After we filled this out, they called us with a quote and the opportunity to set up a time to meet us for an in-person quote.
What’s their reputation like?American Van Lines has several reviews profiles. We checked their profiles on the United States Department of Transportation website. We looked at consumer reviews at various places across the internet. Here are some of the basic ratings.
- Yelp.com: 4 out 5 stars
- ConsumerAffairs.com: 4.5 out 5 stars
- MyMovingReviews.com: 3 out 5 stars
- Movers.com: 3.3 out 5 stars
They are also committed to community service, devoting an entire page of their website to their community service work.
American Van Lines is also certified by the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). AMSA certifies only those movers dedicated to superior customer service and reliability. Companies that are certified by AMSA show this badge on their site.
AMSA Certification. Source: American Van Lines
Again, we cannot guarantee a 100 percent worry-free move with any company; individual moves are different for everyone. We can guarantee, however, that out of all those we tried, American Van Lines gave us the best customer experience. To get a personalized moving quote from American Van Lines, call (888) 278-1135.
We-Pack Moving Review
Great on a BudgetWe-Pack Moving is a moving broker. You send We-Pack your moving schedule and inventory list, and their professionals match you with the best moving company to fit your schedule and needs. We-Pack focuses on keeping moving affordable, no matter the distance.
How we found themAccording to AMSA, the average cost of interstate move is around $4,000. Due to that high price, we wanted to recommend a company that could get the job done at a rate that won’t hurt your bank account. We decided to look at reputable brokers in the industry.
A moving broker connects their customers with available movers to get the work done. They are essentially middlemen who do all the work of finding the mover and negotiating a quote for you. They are often a cheaper option than working directly with a company.
However, brokers get a bit of a bad rap in the moving industry, and many deserve it. Brokers that do not check a mover’s qualifications can set up their customers with unlicensed movers, so when it came to finding the right broker, we had to do some extra work.
Out of all the moving brokers we contacted, We-Pack gave us the best customer experience. Like many other moving companies, We-Pack allows you to apply for a free quote right on the site.
Unlike other moving brokers, We-Pack contacted us quickly and knew about our proposed route. Within a day, I had talked to a senior moving coordinator who knew what we needed and our price range. We had an estimated quote after a single conversation.
What’s their reputation like?After we requested a quote, We-Pack confirmed our email and attached a list of favorable reviews that the company has collected. We looked at third-party review sites to get a bigger picture of the company. Here are some highlights.
- TrustPilot.com: 3 out 5 stars
- ConsumerAffairs.com: 4 out 5 stars
- ConsumerAdvocate: 4 out 5 stars
DOT Number. Source: We-Pack
There are fewer reviews out there for We-Pack than other companies, but as we explained above, brokers are harder to rate accurately than moving companies. The brokers are the ones who find the company to help you move, so many negative reviews were more focused on the individuals We-Pack set them up with. That’s a chance you should consider if you’re thinking of hiring a movie company through a broker.
Still, all of We-Pack’s certifications are in order. They list their Department of Transportation and Motor Carrier certification numbers at the bottom of their front page.
Why we think they’re the bestOut of all the brokers we looked at, We-Pack seems the least risky. Remember, brokers set you up with a mover, so you’ll want to carefully make sure the movers they set you up with have proper certificates. Still, with the customer service they provide, We-Pack is your best bet to set up a long-distance move for a lower rate.
Additional Companies
Moving Help connects customers with local contractors that can help move furniture and pack boxes to make DIY moving easier. Read our comprehensive Moving Help Review.
Logistic Pro Moving is a local mover based in Aurora, CO that offers local and long-distance moving options. Read our comprehensive Logistic Pro Review.
Mayflower is a moving company that is something of a household name. Read our Mayflower review.
Likewise, United Van Lines has been in business for over 100 years and offers more than eight moving services. Check out our comprehensive United Van Lines review.
Allied Van Lines is a full-service mover offering local, cross-country and international moving services. Read our full Allied Van Lines review.
Atlas Van Lines is the second largest moving company in North America offering local, interstate and international moving services. Read our full Atlas Van Lines review.
Related Long-Distance Moving Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions about Long Distance Movers
What should I know about quotes?
When you receive a quote for your move, understand that the first price you receive will rarely be the exact amount of the full price. Remember, these quotes are rough estimates meant to attract your service. Here are a few ways to ensure you get an accurate estimate:
- Get an in-person quote: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires all long-distance movers to offer an in-person quote. If you live within 50 miles of your mover’s local office, they will walk through your home and give you the most accurate quote possible.
- Talk with your moving agent: If you do not live close to your movers, talk with the people handling your move. That way, you can communicate more clearly the belongings you need moved and arrive at a more accurate quote.
- Binding estimates: When you get a quote, you will often have the option of a binding or nonbinding estimate. In a binding estimate, you will pay the the estimated amount regardless of how much you’re shipping. If the mover underestimates how much you need to move, they cannot charge you extra. Likewise, if they overcharge you (which is the more likely outcome), you’ll need to pay.
- Nonbinding estimates: A nonbinding estimate is simply a quote to give you an idea of shipping cost; the actual amount you owe will be agreed upon in a contract. This is the more common type of estimate.
How do I know if my mover is certified?
Before you sign any paperwork or even proceed with a moving quote, check to make sure your company is licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). FMCSA makes sure the moving company follows safety regulations when they transport your belongings over long distances. If you ask to see your mover’s FMCSA license, and they don’t provide it, look somewhere else.
You can check this licensure at the Department of Transportation’s website. Search their database to make sure your movers are safe.
Other credits, like safety and reliability ratings from AMSA are also strong indicators of reliability. Essentially, the more certifications from reputable sources a company has, the more likely you are to find a company that puts you first.
Any other tips for finding the right moving company?
Keeping all the above information in mind, we still have some final pieces of advice while you look for your movers. Here are some helpful tips for making your choice:
- Be careful with brokers: A broker will find you a good deal, but keep in mind the movers will be from a different company. If you go with a broker, research the moving company they recommend to make sure they are certified.
- Get your quotes in writing: Movers are required by law to provide you with a written estimate. If they only offer a rough estimate while promising a more complete bill after the move, you should find someone else.
- Double-check certifications: Make sure the mover has an FMSCA license and they’re registered with the Department of Transportation. Check and see if their licenses are current by reading it from their website or asking an employee. An established moving company will have a license that’s at least three years old.
- Know their reputation: Check their company history by seeing what others have said about them. Also, check their record with the Better Business Bureau. See if they have a history of complaints.
- Don’t sign until you’re sure: Do not let movers pressure you to sign a contract until you’re sure you’re making the right choice. Don’t sign anything that’s incomplete, and keep copies for your personal records.
Concluding thoughts on Long Distance Moving
Bottom Line:
When moving across the country and setting down new roots, you want to make sure your move is safe and easy.
While we can’t guarantee that your move will go off without a hitch, we can tell you that the companies we chose are helpful, expedient and clear with their quotes. Good luck, and safe travels!
The Best Long Distance Moving Companies
| Company | Best for | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Solomon & Sons Relocation Services | Great Ratings from Consumers |
| 2 | Allegiance Moving & Storage | One-step Service |
| 3 | American Van Lines | Great Choice for Safe Delivery |
| 4 | United Regions Van Lines | Great Moving Coordinators |
| 5 | Moving APT | Great Interstate Movers |
| 6 | 24/7 Logistics | Great Technology |
| 7 | National Van Lines | Great Storage Options |