We know how frustrating searching online for ‘cheap moving companies near me’ can be. With the hundreds of search results returned offering a huge range of services and prices, it can be tough to know which companies offer the best value and services for your moving budget.
To ensure you find a reputable and affordable moving company that best fits your needs, our team of experts researched our network of vetted professional moving partners for the most important qualities:
- required federal and state licensing (all our moving partners must have this)
- customer testimonials
- company policies
With Moving APT on your side, helping to find, compare, and choose the most affordable movers in your area, you’re sure to have a stress-free moving experience that won’t break the bank.
Our Top 3 Cheapest Moving Companies:
All My Sons
- Affordable storage
- Flexible rates
Two Men And a Truck
- No obligation quotes
- 35 years of experience
iMoving
- Guaranteed prices
- Service to all 50 states
What to Look For In Cheap Movers?
Saving money on professional moving companies doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or service. In fact, the hallmarks of a great moving company, regardless of its pricing, are standard throughout the industry.
When looking for cheap moving services, be sure to ask about:
- Moving services – Moving services that match your needs should be available a la carte or as a package deal. Affordable movers will be able to offer you a range of services from full-service packing to fragile-only packing, vehicle transport, storage solutions, and more.
- Binding quotes – Just because a moving company is considered cheap doesn’t mean they should be shady about their pricing. A great way to avoid this is by getting binding quotes establishing the maximum amount you’ll be charged for the services provided on moving day.
- Flexibility – Moving plans never seem to go 100% according to plan. That’s why it’s important that your mover is flexible and able to accommodate changes as they come up.
- Reputation – Don’t just take a company’s word that they’re the best. Research a company’s reputation online through customer reviews, the BBB, and other reliable sources.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that the cross-country and local moving companies you’re considering are affordable but also reputable, professional, and able to provide you with the level of service you need and deserve.
In this article
5 Cheapest Moving Companies
Overview
All My Sons Moving And Storage offers competitive pricing that can fit within any moving budget. The company’s moving services include expert packing, storage, and transportation assistance, making moving easy and stress-free for customers.
In addition, their pricing includes experienced movers, state-of-the-art moving trucks, and free stretch-wrapping of furniture, doorways, and hallways to protect your home during the move.
Pros
- Flexible rates
- A la carte and package moving services
- Free quotes
- Affordable storage solutions
Cons
- May require a deposit to secure moving services
Why We Like All My Sons
It is hard to beat a national moving service that provides the range of services that All My Sons does at such affordable rates. From full-service packing to personalized storage solutions, this company is sure to have a solution that fits your needs and budget.
Plus, with the company’s commitment to customer service, you can rest assured that you and your belongings are in good hands.
Overview
The national and international moving company Two Men And A Truck has been in business for over 35 years. The company offers a range of moving services that make every aspect of moving easy such as packing, junk removal, storage, and more.
They also provide free quotes with no obligation to book so that you can compare their rates with other companies. The thousands of trucks in the company’s fleet ensure that they will have the manpower and resources necessary to get your belongings from point A to point B, no matter how far apart they may be.
Pros
- Budget-friendly rates
- Packing and storage services available
- No obligation quotes
- 35 years of experience
Cons
- Extra fees for stairs, long carries, and tight spaces
Why We Like Two Men And A Truck
Two Men And A Truck is an excellent option for those looking for an experienced and affordable moving company. With years of experience in the industry, this company has the know-how to make your move go smoothly.
We also appreciate that they offer free quotes with no obligation to book so that you can compare their rates with other companies.
Overview
iMoving is a great resource for hiring moving companies specifically based on your budget. The moving resource website allows customers to search for, compare, and hire movers through its encrypted SSL website.
By booking through iMoving, you are offered price and money-back guarantees that ensure you don’t pay for services that don’t meet your standards. You can also add additional services like storage and packing at an additional fee to customize your moving experience based on your particular budget.
Pros
- Hassle-free way to compare and book movers
- Guaranteed prices
- Option to add on extra services like storage and packing
- Online dashboard to control moving details
Cons
- Moving issues must be resolved through customer service at iMoving
Why We Like iMoving
We appreciate that iMoving offers an easy way to compare and book moving services all in one place. By entering your move details, you are able to get a quote from a variety of companies so that you can choose the one that fits your budget and needs.
We also like that services come with a price and money-back guarantee so that you can be confident that you are getting what you pay for.
Overview
PODS offers a very affordable way to move using its portable storage containers. The company brings a container to your home where you can load it at your own pace.
Once it is full, they will pick up the container and take it to your new location, where you can unload it at your convenience. The company offers storage and transportation of containers anywhere you need, and changing your delivery date is as easy as a phone call.
Pros
- You load and unload on your own schedule
- Flexible storage and transportation options
- Pay-as-you-go pricing
- Great for DIY moves
Cons
- May not be able to store everything you need in one container
Why We Like PODS
We like that PODS offers a very affordable and convenient option for those looking to make a DIY move. With PODS, you can take your time loading and unloading the container on your own schedule.
We also appreciate that they offer flexible storage and transportation options so that you can customize your moving experience based on your budget and moving schedule.
Overview
U-Pack offers an affordable way to move using its trailer rental service. You can choose the specific size trailer you need based on how much you have to move, and the company will deliver it to your home.
Once you have loaded up the trailer, they will take it to your new location, where you can unload it at your convenience. The company offers a variety of storage and transportation options to choose from so that you can customize your moving experience.
Pros
- Flat-rate pricing
- Fast and easy delivery
- You load and unload on your own schedule
- Flexible storage and transportation options
Cons
- Trailer may require special parking permits
Why We Like UPack
We appreciate that UPack offers an affordable flat-rate price for its trailer rental service. We also like that the company offers fast and easy delivery so that you can get started on your move right away.
Additionally, the flexible storage and transportation options give you the ability to customize a move based on your budget and moving schedule.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Moving Company?
The cost to hire a moving company can be as little as $300 for local moves to as much as $5,000+ for long-distance moves. The rates vary depending on the type of move, moving services, and required fees for moving obstacles.
Even moving companies that offer moving containers that you fill at your own pace, can cost about the same as hiring professional movers.
Once you break down the cost of renting a truck, buying packing supplies, and taking time off work, the cost of hiring professional movers is often not that much more expensive.
Average Local Moving Companies Cost
| Home Size | No. of Movers | # Hours | Ave Cost / Hr | Average Price |
| Studio | 2 movers | 2 – 4 hours | $80/hr | $278 – $599 |
| 1 Bedroom | 2 movers | 3 – 6 hours | $80/hr | $389 – $750 |
| 2 Bedroom | 3 movers | 4 – 8 hours | $125/hr | $750 – $1900 |
| 3 Bedroom | 4 movers | 6 – 12 hours | $165/hr | $1250 – $3500 |
| 4 Bedroom | 4 movers | 8 – 14 hours | $165/hr | $1,400 – $5100 |
| 5 Bedroom+ | 5 movers | 10 – 16 hours | $200/hr | $2500 – $8000 |
Average Long-Distance Movers Cost
| Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2 – 3 Bedroom | 4 – 5 Bedroom |
| 100 miles | $1000 – $1500 | $1250 – $1700 | $1500 – $3400 |
| 250 miles | $1200 – $2000 | $1500 – $3500 | $2,000 – $4800 |
| 1000 miles+ | $1400 – $2900 | $2100 – $6900 | $5500 – $7900 |
| 2500 miles+ | $1800 – $3700 | $3900 – $7500 | $8500+ |
What Factors Contribute To Moving Costs?
The most significant factor that affects the cost of a move will be the type you are completing: local or long-distance. Local moves are charged at an hourly rate. Because they won’t take the crew very long to complete, the total cost will be lower than a long-distance move.
Long-distance moves are charged based on the total weight of your belongings being moved and the distance of the move. Because these moves require more time and resources, they will typically be more expensive than local moves.
Other common factors that contribute to moving costs include:
- Moving services – Professional assistance with packing, unpacking, and disassembling/reassembling furniture will add to the total cost of your move. These services can save valuable time and energy, making them worth the cost for many people.
- Required fees – Some moves require special permits or parking passes in order to complete them. If you are moving into a gated community or high-rise building, there may also be a fee to use the elevator or multiple flights of stairs.
- Packing materials – Movers won’t allow you to throw loose objects into their trucks and will typically charge you for any packing materials they provide. If you plan to pack yourself, be sure to factor in the cost of boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other packing supplies.
- Specialty items – While common household goods are usually included in moving costs, other specialty items such as pianos, safes, antiques, or art may incur additional charges. Use a moving cost calculator to get an accurate estimate for these items for comparison to quotes from moving companies.
While these services may increase the cost of your move, they can also save you a lot of time and energy. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each option to decide what is best for you and your budget.
And remember, you may be able to save on these moving costs by doing some of the work yourself, bundling services together, and taking advantage of any promotions or discounts that the company may be offering.
Cost Saving Tips
Make use of the moving calculator provided on the mover’s website to accurately figure out the number of boxes you will need for your 3-bedroom home moving. The calculator will consider the size of your home if you have a basement or garage, the number of bathrooms, and your lifestyle to determine the number of boxes you need.
7 Cheapest Ways to Move From State to State
1. Create a Checklist
Creating a moving checklist will ensure that you stay on schedule and don’t forget anything during the moving process. This way, you won’t have to spend extra funds on last-minute items or services.
2. Get Quotes From Multiple Moving Companies
When it comes to finding the cheapest way to move, you’ll want to compare rates from multiple moving companies. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting the best deal possible. Also, be sure to request in-home or virtual estimates to get the most accurate pricing and avoid any surprise fees on moving day.
3. Choose the Right Time of Year to Move
Peak moving season runs from May through September, so if you’re looking to save money, you may want to consider a moving date during the off-season in the winter and fall. Moving during these months can often be cheaper, as fewer people typically move during this time.
4. Pack Yourself
Packing yourself can save you a significant amount of money, as most moving companies will charge for packing services. If you’re short on time, you can always ask friends or family to help you with packing.
5. Get Rid of Unnecessary Items
The less stuff you have to move, the cheaper it will be. Before you start packing, sort through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or use. You can donate, sell, or throw away unwanted items.
6. Move Everything to An Easier Access Point
You may be able to avoid access fees for stairs and elevators by bringing your belongings down to a convenient location. This will make it easier for the local or cross-country movers you hire and could end up saving you money on your overall moving costs.
7. Look for Second Hand Moving Boxes
You can often get moving boxes for free or at a reduced cost. There are many online communities that specialize in connecting people who need moving boxes with those who have extras. This can be a great way to save money on moving supplies.
When it comes to moving, there are many ways to save money. By following these tips, you can be sure that you’re getting the best deal possible on your move without sacrificing your safety or comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much do cheap movers usually cost?
With average local moving rates being approximately $100 an hour and long-distance moving rates averaging $0.80 per mile/pound, anything below these rates would be considered cheap by most people. Remember that you should only consider movers with required licensing and insurance – regardless of their rates. This will ensure that your belongings are protected in case of any accidents during the move.
2. What is the cheapest way to move long-distance?
The cheapest way to move long-distance will be dependent on the specific details of your move. The two most important factors to consider are the weight/size of your shipment and the distance you will be moving. If you don’t mind doing most of the moving labor yourself, a moving container may be cheaper. But if you don’t have a lot of time or want to avoid injury to yourself, hiring professional moving assistance may be the best and cheapest way to move long-distance.
3. How far in advance should I hire movers?
If you want to get the cheapest rates on moving services, it is recommended to hire moving services no less than 2-3 weeks in advance. This will give you time to compare rates between different companies and book the most affordable option. Keep in mind that hiring a mover last minute can be very expensive, so it’s always best to plan ahead if possible.
4. What items can’t be moved?
No matter the distance or company, movers won’t be able to transport certain items, including but not limited to explosive/hazardous materials, fresh food, plants, pets, open paint containers, and firearms. If you have questions about what items your mover can’t transport, ask before hiring them so that you can make other arrangements if needed.
5. How can I save money on my move?
The best way to save money on your move is to get rid of items you no longer need or use. Moving these unwanted items only adds time and money to your total moving costs. You can also save money by packing/unpacking yourself, booking movers during off-peak moving times, and disassembling/reassembling your own furniture. In many cases, these cost-saving techniques can make any moving company you hire a cheap mover.
Hire Cheap Movers at Moving APT
Let Moving APT help you find cheap moving companies that can offer you affordable rates, professional services, and peace of mind.
All of the moving partners in our network maintain the highest standards of excellence, and we’ve helped thousands of customers move their homes and businesses with their help.
Whether local or long-distance, trust Moving APT to find you the best movers for any budget or move size.
