The Best Long-Distance Moving Companies for Your Interstate Move

Moving across state lines is an exciting, yet often stressful, endeavor. The key to a smooth interstate transition lies in choosing the right long-distance moving company. With so many options available, finding a reliable, efficient, and affordable service can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down some of the top contenders in the industry, helping you make an informed decision for your next big move.

What to Look for in a Long-Distance Moving Company

Before diving into specific companies, understand the critical factors that define a good long-distance mover:

• Licensing and Insurance: For interstate moves, companies must be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number.¹ They should also offer various insurance options to protect your belongings.
• Transparent Pricing: Get a detailed, written estimate that clearly outlines all costs, including potential surcharges. Avoid companies that offer suspiciously low bids or demand large upfront deposits.
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: Check online reviews (BBB, Google, Yelp, etc.) to gauge customer satisfaction and identify any recurring issues.²
• Services Offered: Do they provide packing, unpacking, storage, vehicle transport, or specialty item handling (pianos, antiques)? Choose a company that meets your specific needs.
• Tracking and Communication: Good communication and the ability to track your shipment are crucial for peace of mind during a long-distance move.

Top Picks for Your Interstate Move

Here are some of the most reputable and highly-rated long-distance moving companies:

1. United Van Lines

Best For: Full-Service Moves & Customization

United Van Lines is one of the largest and most well-established moving companies in the U.S. They excel in offering a comprehensive, customizable moving experience.³

• Pros: Extensive network, full-service packing and unpacking, fragile-only packing, debris removal, storage solutions, and car shipping.⁴ They offer various valuation protection plans.⁵
• Cons: Can be more expensive than some competitors. Being an agent-based model, service quality can vary by location.
• Key Feature: Their “MyUnited” portal provides online resources and tracking for your move.⁶

2. Allied Van Lines

Best For: Global Reach & Diverse Services

As a sister company to United Van Lines, Allied also boasts a vast network and a wide array of services, including international moving.⁷

• Pros: Extensive domestic and international service, vehicle transport, short-term and long-term storage, custom crating for high-value items, and optional self-pack services.⁸
• Cons: Similar to United, pricing can be on the higher end, and local agent quality can differ.
• Key Feature: Strong capabilities for moving specialty items and offering a range of liability coverage options.⁹

3. Mayflower Transit

Best For: Personalized Moving Assistance

Mayflower, also part of the UniGroup family (like United Van Lines), emphasizes personalized service with dedicated move coordinators.¹⁰

• Pros: Personalized moving plans, packing and unpacking services, debris removal, storage, and robust online resources for move planning.
• Cons: Pricing can be premium, and as an agent network, local service quality may vary.
• Key Feature: Known for clear communication and helping customers navigate every step of their long-distance move.

4. International Van Lines (IVL)

Best For: All-in-One Service (Domestic & International)

Despite the name, IVL offers extensive domestic long-distance moving in addition to their international services.¹¹ They act as both a carrier and a broker.

• Pros: Comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, car shipping, and storage.¹² Strong reputation for handling complex moves. Transparent pricing model with various insurance options.
• Cons: Can be pricier, especially for full-service options.
• Key Feature: Their ability to handle virtually any type of move, anywhere in the world, making them a versatile choice.

5. U-Pack

Best For: DIYers on a Budget

U-Pack offers a hybrid moving solution: they drop off containers or trailers, you pack and load, and they handle the long-distance transportation.¹³

• Pros: Significantly more affordable than full-service movers. Flexible scheduling. You only pay for the space you use in the trailer, or per container.
• Cons: Requires you to do all the packing and loading/unloading. Less suitable for those who need extensive assistance.
• Key Feature: Ideal for those who want to save money but prefer not to drive a rental truck cross-country.

Getting Quotes and Making Your Decision

1. Get Multiple Quotes: Contact at least 3-5 companies for in-home or virtual estimates. This helps you compare pricing and services accurately.
2. Read the Fine Print: Carefully review all contracts, estimates, and insurance details before signing anything.
3. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about delivery windows, potential extra charges, and how they handle claims.
4. Trust Your Gut: Choose a company that makes you feel comfortable and confident in their ability to handle your belongings.

By doing your research and understanding your needs, you can select a long-distance moving company that will make your interstate move a smooth and successful experience.