How are the cost estimates calculated?

Estimates are based on national averages for each home size and move type. Actual costs vary by distance, time of year, and specific services needed.

What's the difference between full-service and self-service?

Full-service movers handle everything. Self-service means you pack and load yourself. Hybrid options let you mix and match.

Which type of mover is cheapest?

Truck rentals are cheapest but require the most work. Portable containers offer a middle ground. Full-service movers cost the most but handle everything.

How do I choose the right mover?

Consider your budget, how much work you want to do yourself, distance, and specific needs. Compare at least 3 companies and check their claim rates.

Moving Company Comparison

Find the right movers for your move

Compare 15 major moving companies on price, ratings, services, and estimated costs for your home size.

From

Home Size

Type

15 companies available for California to Texas

United Van Lines

Full Service$$$

4.2

Local Est.

$1,800

Long Dist. Est.

$5,200

Claim Rate

3.2%

Largest US mover with 500+ agent locations

packingstorageauto transportinternational+1 more

Atlas Van Lines

Full Service$$$

4.1

Local Est.

$1,750

Long Dist. Est.

$5,000

Claim Rate

3.5%

Known for handling specialty and high-value items

packingstorageauto transportinternational+1 more

Mayflower Transit

Full Service$$$

4.0

Local Est.

$1,780

Long Dist. Est.

$5,100

Claim Rate

3.8%

Nearly a century of moving experience

packingstorageauto transportinternational+1 more

PODS

Portable Container$$

4.3

Local Est.

$900

Long Dist. Est.

$3,200

Claim Rate

1.8%

Pioneer of portable container moving

storagepacking suppliesflexible scheduling

U-Pack

Self Service$

4.4

Local Est.

$750

Long Dist. Est.

$2,600

Claim Rate

1.5%

Pay only for the space you use

storageflexible deliverypay for space used

Two Men and a Truck

Full Service$$

4.5

Local Est.

$1,300

Long Dist. Est.

$4,200

Claim Rate

2.1%

Highest-rated franchise mover in the US

packingstoragejunk removalinternal moves

North American Van Lines

Full Service$$$

3.9

Local Est.

$1,770

Long Dist. Est.

$4,950

Claim Rate

4.1%

Strong corporate relocation program

packingstorageauto transportinternational+1 more

1-800-PACK-RAT

Portable Container$$

4.1

Local Est.

$950

Long Dist. Est.

$3,400

Claim Rate

Steel-frame containers for better protection

storagepacking suppliesweather-resistant containers

College Hunks Hauling Junk

Full Service$$

4.6

Local Est.

$1,400

Long Dist. Est.

$4,500

Claim Rate

1.9%

Eco-friendly with donation and recycling programs

packingjunk removallabor-onlydonation pickup

Penske Truck Rental

Self Service$

4.2

Local Est.

$450

Long Dist. Est.

$1,800

Claim Rate

1.2%

Newest fleet in the truck rental industry

truck rentalpacking suppliestowing equipmentone-way rentals

Budget Truck Rental

Self Service$

3.8

Local Est.

$420

Long Dist. Est.

$1,650

Claim Rate

1.4%

Most affordable truck rental option

truck rentalpacking suppliestowing equipmentone-way rentals

International Van Lines

Full Service$$$

4.4

Local Est.

$1,650

Long Dist. Est.

$4,800

Claim Rate

2.5%

Specialists in international relocations

packingstorageauto transportinternational+1 more

Allied Van Lines

Full Service$$$

4.0

Local Est.

$1,760

Long Dist. Est.

$5,000

Claim Rate

3.6%

Comprehensive corporate relocation packages

packingstorageauto transportinternational+1 more

Safeway Moving

Hybrid$$

4.3

Local Est.

$1,450

Long Dist. Est.

$4,300

Claim Rate

2.3%

Flexible hybrid model: mix full-service and DIY

packingstorageauto transportspecialty items+1 more

U-Haul

Self Service$

3.7

Local Est.

$380

Long Dist. Est.

$1,550

Claim Rate

1.6%

Largest DIY moving network with 23,000+ locations

truck rentaltrailer rentalstoragepacking supplies+1 more

Common questions

Everything you need to know

Free Moving Day Checklist

Everything you need to do before, during, and after your move. Don't forget a thing.