Entrusting a company with everything you own for a journey of thousands of miles requires a huge leap of faith. We’ve all heard the horror stories about rogue movers, surprise fees, and damaged heirlooms. That’s why doing your homework is non-negotiable. The difference between a seamless move and a total nightmare often comes down to choosing a legitimate, professional team. This article will walk you through the essential steps for vetting cross country moving and storage companies. We’ll cover how to check for proper licensing, read reviews effectively, and understand your contract so you can avoid common pitfalls and protect your belongings.
Key Takeaways
- Do Your Homework Before Hiring: Protect yourself by choosing a legitimate mover. Always verify their U.S. DOT number, read recent customer reviews, and compare at least three detailed, written quotes to find the best partner for your move.
- Take Control of Your Moving Budget: You can directly influence the final cost of your move. Save money by decluttering to reduce the weight of your shipment, being flexible with your moving dates to avoid peak season rates, and asking about available discounts.
- Look for Features That Ensure a Smooth Move: A stress-free experience often comes down to the details. Prioritize companies that offer guaranteed pricing to avoid surprise fees, a personal move coordinator for clear communication, and full-value protection to properly insure your belongings.
What Do Cross-Country Movers Actually Do?
When you hire a cross-country moving company, you’re not just paying for a truck and a few strong people. You’re investing in a team of professionals whose entire job is to manage the complex logistics of getting your life from one side of the country to the other. Think of them as your project managers for the move. They handle the heavy lifting, the driving, the scheduling, and the problem-solving so you can focus on starting your new chapter. A reputable company aims to provide a reliable, hassle-free experience, drawing on years of experience to make your move as smooth as possible.
Moving Services to Expect
At its core, a cross-country moving company transports your belongings from your old home to your new one. But the best companies offer a wide range of moving services to make the process easier. This typically includes loading all your boxes and furniture onto the truck, driving it across the country, and unloading everything at your destination. Many movers also offer optional add-ons like professional packing and unpacking, where they’ll carefully box up your entire home for you. Some can even handle disassembly and reassembly of large furniture items. The goal is to provide a comprehensive solution that takes the stress out of your move.
How Storage Works for Long-Distance Moves
Sometimes, your moving timeline doesn’t line up perfectly. You might need to leave your old home before your new one is ready, which is where storage comes in. Most long-distance movers offer secure moving and storage solutions for this exact situation. You can choose short-term storage for a few days or weeks, or long-term options if you need more time. Your belongings are kept in a secure, often climate-controlled facility until you’re ready for delivery. Just be sure to ask about the cost upfront. Some companies charge a daily storage fee, which can sometimes be called a “delayed delivery fee,” so it’s important to understand how you’ll be billed.
The Best Cross-Country Moving and Storage Companies
Finding the right moving company can feel like a huge task, but it all comes down to finding a team that matches your needs, budget, and timeline. There are many great options out there, each with its own strengths. Some are known for their massive networks, while others focus on providing incredible value. To help you get started, I’ve put together a list of some of the most reliable and well-regarded companies that handle cross-country moves and storage. This will give you a solid starting point for your research so you can find the perfect partner for your big move.
Starving Students Movers
With a name you won’t forget and a reputation built over nearly fifty years, Starving Students Movers has been a trusted choice since 1973. We’ve helped over a million customers by focusing on one simple thing: providing the best move at the best value. We offer a full range of long-distance moving services designed to handle every detail of your relocation. Whether you need help with packing, require secure moving and storage solutions for the transition, or have specialty items that need extra care, our experienced team is ready to help. We pride ourselves on straightforward service without sacrificing quality, making us a go-to for families and individuals looking for a reliable move.
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines is a major player in the moving industry, known for its flexible and reliable services. They give you the choice between a full-service move, where they handle everything, or a more customized plan where you only select the services you need. One of their standout features is a commitment to clear pricing. Allied offers “Guaranteed Price Protection,” which means the price you see on your written quote is the final price you’ll pay, helping you avoid any surprise fees. This focus on transparent pricing makes budgeting for your move much more straightforward and less stressful.
United Van Lines
With over 90 years of experience, United Van Lines has a long history of helping people move across the country. What sets them apart is their emphasis on personalized support. When you book a move with United, you’re assigned a personal move coordinator who acts as your single point of contact, guiding you through the entire process. They also provide an online portal called MyUnited, where you can track your shipment and manage your move from start to finish. This combination of personal assistance and digital tools helps keep your long-distance relocation organized and on track.
Mayflower Transit
Mayflower has built a reputation as one of America’s most trusted movers over its nearly 100-year history. They have an extensive network of over 400 local moving offices, giving them a strong presence across the country. This wide reach allows them to offer comprehensive, full-service moving packages that can be tailored to fit your specific needs. Whether you’re moving from a small apartment or a large family home, Mayflower’s experience and vast network make them a dependable choice for a coast-to-coast move. Their long-standing presence in the industry speaks to their reliability and commitment to customer service.
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines is another industry veteran known for its customizable moving plans and global reach. They offer a wide array of services, from self-pack options to full-service packing and unpacking. A key feature is their advanced shipment tracking, which gives you peace of mind by allowing you to monitor your belongings in real-time as they travel across the country. They also provide “not-to-exceed” pricing options, which ensures your final cost won’t go over the initial estimate. This flexibility and transparency make them a strong contender for anyone planning a cross-country move.
Atlas Van Lines
Atlas Van Lines operates through a large network of independent moving agents, which allows them to provide localized service with the backing of a national brand. They are known for their high standards and were the first to require background checks for all their employees, a practice that is now an industry standard. Atlas is also a certified ProMover by the American Trucking Associations’ Moving & Storage Conference, a mark of quality and ethical business practices. Their commitment to safety and professionalism makes them a solid choice for anyone looking for a secure and reliable move.
How to Choose the Right Cross-Country Mover
Picking a mover for a cross-country trip can feel like a huge decision, because it is! You’re trusting a company with everything you own. The good news is that a little research goes a long way. By focusing on a few key areas, you can confidently choose a reliable partner for your move and avoid common pitfalls. Let’s walk through the essential steps to find the right moving company for you.
Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance
First things first: legitimacy. Any company that moves your belongings across state lines must have a special license from the U.S. Department of Transportation. This isn’t just red tape; it means the company is held to federal standards for safety and carries the right insurance to protect your items. Before you even ask for a quote, confirm the mover has a USDOT number. You can easily verify a company’s license and complaint history through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database. Don’t skip this step—it’s the quickest way to weed out rogue operators and ensure you’re working with a professional.
Read Reviews and Ask for References
What are other people saying? Online reviews can give you a real-world look at a company’s performance. While a few negative comments are normal for any business, look for patterns. Are customers consistently complaining about surprise fees, damaged furniture, or poor communication? That’s a major red flag. Check sources like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau. A trustworthy company will also be happy to provide references from past customers. We’re proud of the feedback we’ve received over the years, and you can read some of our customer testimonials to see what people have to say about their experience with us.
Get Quotes from Multiple Companies
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. The best way to ensure you’re getting a fair price is to get estimates from at least three different reputable movers. This allows you to compare not just the cost, but also the services included. When you request a quote, make sure it’s a binding estimate based on an in-home or virtual survey of your belongings. Vague quotes over the phone are often inaccurate. Comparing multiple detailed estimates gives you a clear picture of the market rate and helps you find the best value for your specific long-distance move.
Understand Your Moving Contract
The moving contract, or bill of lading, is your legal agreement with the mover, so it pays to read it carefully. This document should outline all the services, costs, pickup and delivery dates, and liability coverage. Pay close attention to the fine print. Ask about potential extra charges for things like stairs, long carries, or shuttle services if a large truck can’t access your home. Also, clarify the company’s policy on changing your moving date or canceling. Understanding these details upfront prevents hidden fees and ensures there are no surprises on moving day.
How Much Does a Cross-Country Move Cost?
Let’s get straight to it: a typical cross-country move with a professional company usually falls somewhere between $2,400 and $5,000. Of course, this is just a ballpark figure. Think of it as a starting point, because the final cost of your move will depend entirely on your specific situation. Every move is unique, and factors like the size of your home, the distance you’re traveling, and the services you need will all play a role in your final bill. Moving from a one-bedroom apartment in San Diego to a new place in Austin will have a very different price tag than moving a four-bedroom family home from Boston to Seattle.
The best way to get a clear picture of your expenses is to get a personalized quote. Reputable moving companies will assess your needs and provide a detailed estimate so you can budget accordingly. Don’t be shy about asking for a breakdown of costs—a good mover will be transparent about what you’re paying for. This initial step is crucial for planning a move that fits your budget and avoids any last-minute financial stress. Understanding the potential costs upfront allows you to make informed decisions and choose a moving partner that offers the best value for your needs.
What Determines Your Moving Quote?
Your moving quote isn’t just a random number; it’s calculated based on a few key details. The primary factors are the weight of your belongings and the distance of your move. Simply put, the more stuff you have and the farther it needs to go, the higher the cost will be. Companies will also factor in any additional moving services you choose. Do you want the movers to handle all the packing and unpacking? Do you have specialty items like a piano or a piece of fine art that requires extra care? These add-ons will be reflected in your quote. To get the most accurate estimate, be as detailed as possible when you speak with the moving company about what your move entails.
Watch Out for Hidden Fees
No one likes surprise charges, especially during an already expensive process like moving. While most professional movers are upfront about their pricing, it’s smart to know what potential extra fees could look like. The most common ones are access-related fees. For example, if your apartment is on the fifth floor of a building with no elevator, or if the moving truck can’t park close to your front door, you might see charges for stairs or a long carry. You could also face fees for packing materials or last-minute packing labor if you need more help than originally planned. The best way to avoid these surprises is to ask your moving company directly about any potential additional costs before you sign the contract.
How Storage Costs Are Calculated
Sometimes, your moving-out and moving-in dates don’t line up perfectly. This is where moving and storage services become incredibly helpful. If you need to store your belongings for a few days, weeks, or even months, this will be an additional cost to factor into your budget. Storage fees are typically calculated based on two things: the amount of stuff you’re storing (the volume) and the length of time you need the storage unit. If you think there’s a chance you’ll need storage, bring it up with your moving coordinator early on. They can walk you through the options and provide clear pricing so you can plan ahead and keep your belongings safe until you’re ready for them.
Key Services and Features to Look For
When you start comparing cross-country moving companies, the quotes and services can feel overwhelming. How do you know you’re making the right choice? It helps to focus on a few key features that signal a reliable and customer-focused company. Looking for these specific services will help you cut through the noise, compare your options fairly, and find a mover who will make your long-distance transition as smooth as possible.
Guaranteed Pricing
Nothing sours a moving experience faster than unexpected fees on your final bill. That’s why you should look for a company that offers guaranteed pricing. This means the quote you receive in writing is the final price you’ll pay, as long as the details of your move don’t change. It provides incredible peace of mind and makes budgeting for your move much more straightforward. A company confident enough to guarantee its price is also one that’s transparent about its process, which is always a good sign.
A Personal Move Coordinator
A cross-country move has a lot of moving parts. Having a single point of contact can make a world of difference. Many top-tier moving companies assign you a personal move coordinator to guide you through the entire process. This person is your go-to for answering questions, scheduling logistics, and ensuring all your specific needs are met. Instead of being passed from department to department, you have a dedicated professional who understands your unique situation, which helps eliminate stress and keep everything on track from start to finish.
Full-Value Protection Insurance
While movers take great care of your belongings, it’s smart to be prepared for the unexpected. Full-value protection is an essential feature to look for in a moving company. This is a type of insurance that provides more comprehensive coverage than the basic liability required by law. If an item is lost or damaged, full-value protection covers the cost to replace it at its current market value. This added security is especially important for long-distance moves where your items will be in transit for an extended period.
Customizable Plans
Your move is unique, so your moving plan should be too. The best moving companies don’t offer a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, they provide customizable plans that allow you to tailor their services to your exact needs and budget. Whether you need full-service packing services, help with specialty items, or just the basics of loading and transport, you should be able to build a plan that works for you. This flexibility ensures you’re only paying for the services you actually need, giving you more control over your moving experience.
Secure Storage
Sometimes your timelines don’t perfectly align. You might need to be out of your old home before your new one is ready. That’s where secure storage comes in. Look for a moving company that offers integrated moving and storage solutions. This simplifies your logistics immensely, as you won’t have to coordinate with a separate storage facility. Reputable movers provide clean, secure, and often climate-controlled storage units to keep your belongings safe for as long as you need, whether it’s for a few days or a few months.
Common Problems with Cross-Country Moves (And How to Avoid Them)
A cross-country move is a huge undertaking, and while it’s exciting, it can also come with its share of headaches. Knowing the common pitfalls ahead of time is the best way to ensure your move goes smoothly. From surprise costs to frustrating delays, a little preparation can help you sidestep the biggest stressors. Let’s walk through the most frequent issues people face during a long-distance move and, more importantly, how you can avoid them. By being proactive, you can turn a potentially chaotic experience into a seamless transition to your new home.
Unclear Pricing
Nothing sours a move faster than a final bill that’s way higher than the initial quote. Unfortunately, some moving companies have a reputation for tacking on hidden fees for things like stairs, long carries, or fuel surcharges that weren’t discussed upfront. This can throw your entire budget off track.
How to avoid it: Always ask for a detailed, itemized quote in writing. Don’t be shy about questioning any line item you don’t understand. A reputable mover will be transparent about all potential charges. Before you sign anything, make sure the contract clearly outlines what is and isn’t included in the price.
Poor Communication and Delays
When your entire life is packed in a truck, the last thing you want is radio silence from your moving company. Poor communication can lead to major anxiety, especially when you’re left wondering where your belongings are or when they’ll arrive. Delays happen, but a lack of timely updates is a common complaint that can make a stressful situation even worse.
How to avoid it: Choose a company with a strong reputation for customer service. Read recent reviews and see what past clients say about the company’s communication. Ask potential movers how they keep customers updated during transit. Having a dedicated move coordinator you can contact directly is a huge plus.
Damaged Belongings
It’s heartbreaking to unbox your favorite vase or a family heirloom only to find it in pieces. Damage can occur due to improper packing, rough handling, or shifting during the long journey. While accidents can happen, many instances of damage are preventable. Protecting your items is a shared responsibility between you and your movers, so it’s important to be prepared.
How to avoid it: If you’re packing yourself, use the right materials and techniques. For fragile or valuable items, consider using professional packing services. Before the movers arrive, take photos of your most valuable possessions to document their condition. Also, talk to your moving company about their liability coverage and consider purchasing full-value protection for added peace of mind.
Logistical Mix-Ups
A cross-country move involves a lot of moving parts, and logistical errors can cause major disruptions. This can range from the truck showing up on the wrong day to, in worst-case scenarios, falling for a moving scam where a dishonest company holds your belongings hostage for more money. These mix-ups are not just inconvenient; they can be costly and emotionally draining.
How to avoid it: Do your homework. Thoroughly research any company you’re considering and verify they have the proper licensing and insurance. A legitimate moving company will have a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number. Get everything in writing, including pickup and delivery windows, and never pay a large deposit upfront. A clear, detailed contract is your best defense against logistical nightmares.
How to Save Money on Your Cross-Country Move
A cross-country move is a significant investment, but it doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With some strategic planning and a bit of flexibility, you can keep your costs manageable. It’s all about knowing where you can save and making smart choices before the moving truck ever arrives. From timing your move just right to lightening your load, here are some practical ways to save money on your long-distance relocation.
Ask About Discounts and Promotions
Don’t be shy about asking for a better price. Moving companies often have discounts available, but you might not know about them unless you ask. When you request a quote, inquire about any current promotions. For example, if you’re moving during a less busy time of year, you could ask, “I notice my moving date falls during your slower season. Do you offer any special discounts for that?”
Many companies also offer discounts for students, seniors, or military members. It never hurts to mention your affiliation to see if you qualify for a reduced rate. The worst they can say is no, but a simple question could lead to significant savings on your final bill.
Be Flexible with Your Moving Dates
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to moving costs. The moving industry has peak and off-peak seasons. Summer, weekends, and the beginning or end of the month are the busiest (and most expensive) times to move. If your schedule allows, being flexible with your moving dates can result in major savings.
Moving on a weekday in the middle of the month is almost always cheaper than a Saturday move. Similarly, planning your move for the fall or winter instead of the summer can result in a much better deal. When you talk to moving companies, let them know you have some wiggle room with your dates and ask which days would be most cost-effective for you.
Declutter Before You Pack
One of the most straightforward ways to save money on a move is to move less stuff. The cost of a long-distance move is heavily influenced by the weight and volume of your belongings. Before you even think about packing, take a thorough inventory of everything you own and decide what’s truly worth taking with you.
Get rid of things you don’t need by donating, selling, or recycling them. That old couch in the basement or the clothes you haven’t worn in years are only adding to your moving costs. Holding a garage sale or selling items on Facebook Marketplace can even put a little extra cash in your pocket for moving expenses. For everything else, a trip to a local donation center can make your move cheaper and help your community.
Compare Your Packing Options
You have a few choices when it comes to packing: do it all yourself, hire professionals for the entire job, or find a middle ground. Packing yourself is the cheapest option, but it requires a lot of time and effort. You’ll also need to source your own moving supplies, like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap.
If you’re short on time or have a lot of fragile items, using professional packing services can be a lifesaver. To save some money, consider a hybrid approach. You can pack durable items like books and clothes yourself and leave the delicate items, like your dishes and electronics, to the experts. This way, you save money while still getting professional help where it counts most.
Your Checklist for a Smooth Cross-Country Move
Moving across the country feels like a huge project, but breaking it down into smaller steps makes it manageable. A solid plan is your best defense against last-minute stress. Think of this as your go-to guide for keeping things organized, on track, and as smooth as possible from start to finish.
Create a Detailed Moving Timeline
The secret to a low-stress move is giving yourself plenty of time. Start planning your cross-country move at least two to three months before your target date. This buffer isn’t just for show; it gives you the space you need to research and compare moving companies, get accurate quotes without feeling rushed, and sort through your belongings. A longer timeline also makes it easier to schedule your move on a date that works for you. Use a comprehensive moving checklist to map out your tasks week by week, from decluttering your closets to transferring your utilities.
Gather Your Moving Supplies
Before you can pack a single box, you need to decide how you’ll handle the packing itself. You can take the DIY route and gather your own boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Or, you can save yourself time and effort by letting the professionals handle it. Many moving companies offer flexible packing services, whether you need help with just your fragile items or want your entire home packed up. They can also provide you with high-quality moving supplies if you prefer to pack but don’t want to hunt for materials.
Stay in Touch with Your Movers
Clear and consistent communication with your moving company is essential, especially when your belongings are traveling hundreds or thousands of miles. A reputable mover will assign you a personal move coordinator who will be your main point of contact throughout the process. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them with questions or for updates on your shipment’s progress. Knowing who to call and feeling confident that you can get a straight answer will give you incredible peace of mind while you wait for your items to arrive at your new home.
Know Your Rights as a Customer
When you move from one state to another, you’re protected by federal regulations. Only moving companies with a special license from the U.S. Department of Transportation are legally allowed to transport your belongings across state lines. These movers must also carry specific insurance policies to protect your possessions. Before you hire anyone, verify their credentials. Working with an established company with a long history of service ensures you’re partnering with a legitimate business that follows the rules designed to keep you and your belongings safe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book my cross-country move? For a cross-country move, it’s best to start contacting moving companies about two to three months before your planned date. This gives you plenty of time to research your options, get multiple quotes without feeling rushed, and book the company that’s the right fit. If you’re planning to move during the busy summer season, you might even want to start a little earlier to ensure you get the dates and services you need.
What’s the best way to get an accurate moving quote? The most reliable way to get an accurate quote is to have the moving company conduct an in-home or virtual survey of your belongings. A representative will assess the volume and weight of everything you plan to move, which allows them to provide a detailed, binding estimate. Be cautious of companies that only offer a quote over the phone without seeing your items, as these are often inaccurate and can lead to surprise charges later on.
What’s the difference between basic liability and full-value protection? Basic liability coverage is the minimum insurance required by federal law, and it’s automatically included in your move. However, it offers very limited protection, typically covering your items at a set rate per pound. Full-value protection is an optional, more comprehensive plan where the mover agrees to repair, replace, or offer a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during the move. For the peace of mind it provides during a long-distance trip, it’s often a worthwhile investment.
What if I need to store my belongings for a while? It’s very common for move-out and move-in dates not to align perfectly. Most reputable long-distance movers offer integrated storage solutions to handle this exact situation. You can arrange to have your belongings kept in a secure facility for a few days, weeks, or even longer. Just be sure to discuss this possibility with your move coordinator upfront so you understand the process and how the storage fees are calculated.
Is it cheaper to pack myself or hire professional packers? Packing yourself is almost always the less expensive option in terms of upfront cost, but it requires a significant investment of your time and energy. Hiring professional packers costs more, but it saves you countless hours and ensures your items, especially fragile ones, are packed correctly and securely for the long haul. You can also choose a middle ground by packing durable items like books and clothes yourself and hiring the pros to handle just the kitchen and other delicate belongings.
