The size of the United States of America is no joke, which is why cross country moves in this great nation are even more daunting than they would be anywhere else in the world.
You want a moving company that can safely pack up your belongings to withstand the long and often bumpy transit journey, make the journey with everything still in one piece, and not arrive late.
The stresses of a cross country move are many, but with our best cross country movers reviews, you can pick a reliable company that gets you and your furniture from one end of America to the other.
Moving Astute reviewed over 20 moving companies and analyzed more than 50 quotes to find the best professional cross country movers in the United States.
United Van Lines
- Best Overall
- Full-Service Moving Company
- In-home Moving Estimates
Allied Van Lines
- Best for Customized Moving Packages
- Live GPS Tracking
- Flexible Storage Options
North American Van Lines
- Best for Long-Distance Moves
- WorldTrac® Satellite Shipment-tracing System
- Proven Track Record
Atlas Van Lines
- Best for Government, Military and Corporate Relocation
- AAA Membership Discount
- Nationwide Availability
Mayflower Transit
- Best for Full-Service Moving
- Nationwide Availability
- Favorable Cancellation Policy
Get instant free moving quotes for your upcoming relocation with our moving cost calculator!
10 Best Cross Country Movers of 2023 (with in-depth Reviews)
- United Van Lines
- Allied Van Lines
- North American Van Lines
- Atlas Van Lines
- Mayflower Transit
- Arpin Van Lines
- U-Pack
- Bekins Van Lines
- All My Sons Moving
- Gentle Giant Moving Company
Compare Top 1 to 5 Trusted Cross Country Moving Companies in the U.S.
| Moving Company | United Van Lines | Allied Van Lines | North American Van Lines | Atlas Van Lines | Mayflower Transit |
| Logo | | | | | |
| Ratings | 4.8/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Best For | Best overall | Best for customized moving packages | Best for long-distance moves | Best for government, military and corporate relocation | Best for full-service moving |
| DoT Number | 77949 | 76235 | 70851 | 125550 | 125563 |
| MC Number | 67234 | 15735 | 107012 | 79658 | 2934 |
| Company Type | Carrier and Brokerage | Carrier | Carrier | Carrier | Carrier and Brokerage |
| Offers Auto Shipping | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| States Covered | All states covered except AK and HI | All states covered except AK and HI | All states covered | All states covered except AK and HI | All States Except Delaware, Hawaii, Rhode Island, and West Virginia |
| Nationwide Availability | Excellent | Excellent | Great | Good | Great |
| Storage Available | Yes | Yes | Available Locally | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Experience & Happiness | Excellent | Excellent | Great | Excellent | Excellent |
| Pros | Full-service Moving Company In-home Moving Estimates | Live GPS Tracking Flexible Storage Options Award-winning Company | WorldTrac® Satellite Shipment-tracing System Wide Range of Moving Services Proven Track Record | AAA Members Discount Mobile App Nationwide Availability | Favorable Cancellation Policy Nationwide Availability |
| Cons | Not for Budget-oriented Customers Nor the Best Option for Last-minute moves | Slightly Expensive than Peers Complex Claim Process Very Few Discounts | Inconsistent Online Reviews A Bit Costly | Stringent Quote Process Poor Communication | Costly Add-on Services Negative Reviews about the Quality of Customer Service |
| Phone | 800-299-1700 | 800-470-2851 | 800-228-3092 | 800-638-9797 | 877-720-4066 |
1. United Van Lines – Best Overall
United Van Lines is one of the most popular moving companies in America, having started in 1928. United Van Lines has a network of over 500 movers that stretches across all 50 states, making it easy to find an agent near you.
They are a full-service mover, which means they will do everything related to your move, from packing to loading and unloading to unpacking your belongings.
United Van Lines is one of America’s top cross-country moving companies. They handle interstate and intrastate moves (within state lines), but their specialty is long-distance moves.
They have plenty of services and options to choose from; full-service, partial moving services, and packing services are all available. United Van Lines is an excellent choice for those who want the convenience of full service but with some aspects left to the customer.
Why We Recommend United Van Lines:
Full-Service Mover: As mentioned before, United Van Lines offers full-service moves, which is a huge perk because it includes services that would typically cost extra with other movers (like packing/unpacking).
This company even goes as far as offering auto transport services, so you can have your car transported without having to drive it across the country.
Accurate Quotes: When you request a quote from United Van Lines, they will send out a representative to do an in-home estimate of how much your move will cost. This is important because it ensures that the final price you’re quoted is very close to the actual cost of your move.
With other long distance moving companies, you may be given a low “ballpark” quote only to be hit with hidden fees and surcharges later on.
Excellent Customer Service: United Van Lines has some of the best customer services. Their representatives are knowledgeable and helpful, and they’re more than happy to answer any questions you have.
They’re also great at keeping you updated on the status of your move, so you always know what’s going on.
Pros:
- Full-service mover
- In-home estimates
- Discounts available
Cons:
- Not the cheapest option
- May not be able to accommodate last-minute moves
Services Offered
- Long Distance Moving
- Local Moving
- International Moving
- Car Shipping
- Small Moves
- Military Moves
United Van Lines Costs
The cost of a full-service cross-country move with United Van Lines will vary depending on the size of your home and the distance of your move. However, you can expect to pay somewhere between $4,000 and $5,000 for 2-bedroom house from Miami, FL to NYC home.
United also offers great discounts if you book your move during their “low season” (September – March).
2. Allied Van Lines – Best for Customized Moving Packages
Allied Van Lines is a non-profit cooperative that began in 1928 and has since evolved into one of the most successful moving firms in the country. Allied offers various services, including local, long-distance, international, residential, and corporate moves.
They’re also well-known for providing a wide range of moving services, including online tracking, full-service packing, and complete insurance coverage.
Allied Van Lines have carried out over 250,000 moves in the last 15 years. Allied Van Lines has all the qualities of an excellent moving company – experience, services, customer satisfaction, and an excellent website.
Why We Recommend Allied Van Lines:
Competitive Pricing: One of the main reasons we recommend Allied Van Lines is their pricing. They offer very competitive rates that are often lower than their rivals.
Allied also offers several discounts that can help you save even more money on your move. For example, they offer a “First-Timer” discount for those who have never used a professional moving company before, as well as discounts for seniors, AAA members, and military personnel.
Flexible Storage Options: Allied Van Lines offers both short- and long-term storage options to accommodate your needs. If you need to store your belongings for a few days or weeks while you wait for your new home to be ready, Allied can keep them safe in one of their secure storage facilities.
Or, if you need to store your belongings for a longer period, they also offer long-term storage options. This can be a great option if you’re downsizing to a smaller home and need to declutter or if you’re between homes and need a place to keep your belongings.
Award-Winning Moving Company: Allied Van Lines have earned many industry awards over the years, including the Women’s Choice Award for America’s Most Recommended Moving Company from 2015 to 2017.
Pros:
- Flexible storage options
- Award-winning company
Cons:
- Fewer discounts than some other companies
Services Offered
- Household Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Cross Country Moving
- Interstate Moving
- Corporate Relocation
- International Moving
- Storage Services
- Portable Storage Containers
- Packing & Supplies
- Military Moves
Allied Van Lines Costs
Allied Van lines gave us a quote for a 2-bedroom house from Miami, FL to NYC of around $3,499–$4,316.
See also: Allied Van Lines Detailed Review
3. North American Van Lines – Best for Long-distance Moves
North American Moving Services started its operations in 1933 and currently has a network of over 500 agents across the United States for local, long-distance, international, and corporate moves.
North American Van Lines has invested in several innovative features, such as the WorldTrac® system to track their fleet and shipments, and they’re also known for their excellent customer service.
Custom crating and auto transport are just a few of the extra services offered by North American Van Lines. North American Van Lines allows you to pick and choose which services you want to utilize to better suit your needs while also saving money.
Why We Recommend North American Van Lines:
Flexible Services: One of the great things about North American Van Lines is that they offer a la carte pricing, so you only pay for the services you need. This can be a big money-saver if you’re able to do some of the work yourself or don’t need certain services.
For example, if you don’t need help packing, you can simply choose the “loading” option to have North American Van Lines load your belongings onto the truck and transport them to your new home.
Wide Range of Services: In addition to local, long-distance, and international moves, North American Van Lines also offers storage, auto transport, and corporate relocation services. So no matter what your needs are, North American Van Lines is likely to have a solution for you.
Pros:
- Trusted nationwide moving services
- Flexible pricing
- Wide range of services
Cons:
- No online quotes
- Premium Costs
Services Offered
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Full Service Packing
- Fragile Only Packing
- Packing Supplies
- Loading & Unloading Services
- Moving Storage
North American Van Lines Costs
We received a quote from North American Van Lines for a 2-bedroom house from Miami, FL, to NYC of around $3,350–$4,200.
Must Read: North American Van Lines Review and Pricing
4. Atlas Van Lines – Best for Government, Military and Corporate Relocation
Atlas Van Lines is a fully licensed and bonded moving company headquartered in Evansville, Indiana. It has built up an excellent reputation in the relocation industry. They are a Promover Certified company and also has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
When you choose this full service mover, you can be assured of getting tips and updates with every step of your move. Along with having a video outlying the various steps in the moving process, you can also have access to an Atlas Van Lines representative who will be there to notify you about updates and answer all your queries along the way.
They provide a wide range of moving services, including local and long-distance moves, residential and commercial, and military and government moves. Atlas Van Lines also provides packing services, storage options, moving supplies, auto-transport services, and specialty moving services.
Why We Recommend Atlas Van Lines:
Fully Licensed and Bonded: As a fully licensed and bonded moving company, you can be assured that your belongings are in safe hands with this company.
Highly-Rated: Atlas Van Lines has an excellent reputation in the relocation industry and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Wide Range of Services: Atlas Van Lines offers a wide range of moving services, including local and long-distance moves, residential and commercial moves, military and government moves, packing services, storage options, moving supplies, auto-transport services, and specialty moving services.
Pros:
- Excellent Choice of Long-Distance Move
- Reputed Nationwide Moving Company
- One-stop shop for all Moving Related needs
Cons:
- Inconsistent Quality of Labor
- Poor Communication
Services Offered
- Residential Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Corporate Relocation
- Military Moves
- Government Moves
- International Moves
- Logistics
Atlas Van Lines Costs
We received a quote from Atlas Van Lines for a 2-bedroom house from Miami, FL, to NYC of around $2,900–$4,816.
See also: Atlas Van Lines Review
5. Mayflower Transit – Best for Full-service Moving
Started by Conrad M. Gentry and Don F. Kenworthy in Indianapolis in 1927, Mayflower Transit has evolved at a stunning rate. It now serves customers across the world from its headquarters in Indiana.
Mayflower Transit is one of the oldest moving companies in America. They are a subsidiary of UniGroup, Inc., which also owns United Van Lines and Stevens Worldwide Van Lines.
They offer local, long-distance, and international moving services, storage options, and auto transport services. They have an extensive network of over 700 agents across the United States.
Why We Recommend Mayflower Transit:
Extensive training provided to movers: All Mayflower Transit movers go through an extensive training program before they are allowed to handle customers’ belongings.
Flexible storage options: Mayflower Transit offers its customers long-term and short-term storage options. You can choose the option that best suits your needs.
Competitive and fair Pricing: Mayflower Transit offers competitive and fair pricing for its services.
Pros:
- Provides comprehensive moving services as well as the option to personalize your package.
- Nationwide availability for local and long-distance moves
Cons:
- Costly Add-on services
- Negative Reviews about the quality of customer service
Services Offered
- Long Distance Moving
- Small Moves
- Local Moves
- International Moves
- Corporate Moves
- Car Transportation
- Military Moves
- Full Service Packing
- Storage
Mayflower Transit Costs
We received a quote from Mayflower Transit for a 2-bedroom house from Miami, FL, to NYC of around $3,500–$4,700. This cost includes the standard full value protection coverage.
Related: Mayflower Moving Review
Compare Top 6 to 10 Trusted Cross Country Movers in the United States
| Moving Company | Arpin Van Lines | U-Pack | Bekins Van Lines | All My Sons Moving | Gentle Giant Moving Company |
| Logo |  |  |  |  |  |
| Ratings | 4.8/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Best For | Best for nationwide availability | Best customer service | Best for up-front pricing | Best for full-service relocation | Best for large moves |
| DoT Number | 70719 | 2632086 | 2256609 | Varies by Location | 373544 |
| MC Number | 87113 | 914011 | 77031 | Varies by Location | 218762 |
| Company Type | Carrier | Carrier and Brokerage | Carrier | Carrier | Carrier and Brokerage |
| Offers Auto Shipping | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Motorcycle shipping only |
| States Covered | All states covered | All states covered | All states covered | All states covered except AK and HI | NH, RI, NY, DC, NC, WA, CA, PA, FL |
| Nationwide Availability | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Great | Good |
| Storage Available | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Experience & Happiness | Great | Great | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Pros | Charity Involvements Free Instant Virtual Ballpark Estimate BBB A+ Rank | Long Distance Specializer Exceptionally Informative Website Pay-for-Use | Free Instant Online Ballpark Estimate Moving Discounts | Same and Next-Day Services | Crane and Piano Moving Services Familiarity with Cross Country Routes |
| Cons | 25% Upfront Deposit to Book a Date Experience may Vary Based on Local Agents | 25% Upfront Deposit to Book a Date 3rd Party Services in Some States (MT, UT, WA, OR) | Complex Quote Process | Not an Informative Website No Online Quote | Limited Locations No Instant Online Quote |
| Phone | 877-856-4660 | 844-362-5303 | 866-830-0725 | 866-726-1579 | 800-442-6863 |
6. Arpin Van Lines – Best for Nationwide Availability
Arpin Van Lines started out in 1900 as a family-owned company. They provide services for local moves, long distance moves, military moves and corporate moves in the USA and internationally. They also provide storage, packing and decluttering services.
Having seen immense success in the moving industry for 120 years, AVL was absorbed by multinational Wheaton Group in 2020 to perform for them as an agent. As a client of AVL, this gives you the benefit of a stronger agency network, ideal for a cross country move.
Why We Recommend Arpin Van Lines:
Cross Country Specialists: Arpin Van Lines has a vast network of agents across the USA, with even better availability and services since being absorbed by the Wheaton Group. They have previously assisted in military and corporate cross country moves, which denotes reliability and trustworthiness.
AVL staff are well-versed in federal laws and regulations that come with crossing state borders, and their professionals receive special training in how to handle cross country moves. Plus, subject to certain limitations, your 5,000 lbs shipment is guaranteed to be delivered on the scheduled dates. If not, you get reimbursed up to $125 per day for delay-related expenses.
A company that makes an offer like that is confident in its abilities, which makes us confident in them.
Moving Discounts: A slightly terrifying aspect of any move is the expenditure that comes with it, especially with cross country moves. Thankfully, AVL has certain discounts that you can avail of to make things easier on your wallet.
What caught our eye is the Moving Performance program: moving between September 1st and April 30th can help you save $150 on your move. You also stand to get 15% off full replacement value protection (FRVP), and $25 for every day the claims resolution letter isn’t delivered post 30 days.
One of the qualifying requirements is that you must be an interstate mover – no problem whatsoever for cross country movers. Apart from this, AVL offers discounts to veterans, seniors and realtors.
Pros:
- Charity Involvements
- Free Instant Virtual Ballpark Estimate
- BBB A+ Rank
Cons:
- 25% Upfront Deposit to Book a Date
- Experience may Vary Based on Local Agents
Services Offered
- Long Distance Moving
- Full Service Moving
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Arpin Van Lines Costs
When we requested a moving quote for a 2-bedroom apartment from Atlanta, Georgia, to Austin, Texas, we got a cost estimate of $3,301–$4,263, which includes having workers from Arpin Van Lines load your stuff in Atlanta and transporting it to Austin, TX.
Packing Tips when Moving Across America: Moving across the country means your belongings have to endure a long distance transit journey. Ensure you invest in quality packing materials, and use enough buffer material (bubble wrap, packing/foam peanuts) so that your belongings don’t bump against each other. As much as possible, try to make your precious items water-proof with plastic sheets or saran wrap.
7. U-Pack – Best Customer Service
This non-traditional moving and storage service has been around since 1997. Don’t let the term ‘non-traditional’ deter you; U-Pack has loads to offer.
U-Pack caters to long distance movers, offering moving containers called ReloCubes or renting a moving trailer. They drop it off, and pick it up after 3 days to deliver it to your new location.
With service available in all 50 states, it makes it to our list of the best cross country movers, especially for DIY moves or those looking for an alternative to full-service moves.
Why We Recommend U-Pack:
Dependable Cross Country Movers: U-Pack doesn’t do local moves, offering services only for long distance, cross country moves. Every service is catered to be a solution to a long distance move, so you know you’re in good hands.
U-Pack is thus named because you do the packing yourself. They don’t offer packing or labor services, but contact them for help and they will inform you of quality professional packers in your area.
Their transit times average just 2 – 5 business days, nulling the worry of your shipment taking weeks on end to arrive.
The ReloCubes, around 305 cubic feet, fit into single parking spaces. They are made of steel and aluminum to properly weather the weather, and long distances. U-Pack certainly ticks all our boxes when it comes to reliable cross country movers.
Tech Tools: UPack’s website has their Space Estimator, which helps you decide between a ReloCube and a trailer. You can reserve as many ReloCubes as you think you may need, but you only pay for what you use.
The same applies for the moving trailer, as your cost is determined by the linear feet your things take up. You can compare the space of your house (sq.ft), a truck rental (truck size in feet) and a storage unit (in feet) to determine how many ReloCubes you’ll need, or how much space in the trailer you’ll occupy.
Unsure? You can always contact them for any help. Simply add in your moving locations on their website and get a free instant quote inclusive of taxes, fuel and a free ramp.
Lastly, cross country moves involve lots of distance and time, which also brings along anxiety about your shipment and where it’s at. UPack has a convenient tracking system on their website that shows you the latest update on your shipment; you can check this any time of the day or night.
Pros:
- Long Distance Specializer
- Exceptionally Informative Website
- Pay-for-Use
Cons:
- 25% Upfront Deposit to Book a Date
- 3rd Party Services in Some States (MT, UT, WA, OR)
Services Offered
- Cross Country Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Military Moving
- Student Moving
- Senior Moving
- Small Moves
U-Pack Costs
Moving from Atlanta to Chicago with an average number of belongings costs between $3,788 and $4,939 with U-Pack.
Good To Know: You don’t have to pay any cancellation fees if you cancel your move more than 7 days from the reserved move date. Cancellations within 7 days cost $50, while cancelling on the same day makes you incur a $150 cancellation fee.
Also Read: U-Pack Review
8. Bekins Van Lines – Best for Up-front Pricing
One of the oldest long distance moving companies in the USA, Bekins Van Lines was founded way back in 1891. With over 125 years of experience in the moving industry, Bekins has remained loyal to its commitments of expertise and hassle-free moves.
BVL provides services for local moves, inter-state moves, national moves, corporate moves, government and military moves. They also work internationally. They also offer services for packing, storage, moving supplies and packing and transporting of specialized items and equipment.
Why We Recommend Bekins Van Lines:
Specialized Moving: Finding a moving company that deals in specialized moves is so important for a cross country move, it may as well be essential.
When you hire movers, you want as many things to be taken care of as possible. Bekins understands this, but wait. They don’t just specialize in moving items like grand pianos and lawn mowers – they can also handle medical equipment, office equipment, appliance transport, heavy machinery, store fixtures as well as unique furniture items.
They also provide a great range of packing materials, from specialised boxes to sturdy packing tape, they cover it all. No matter how bulky or antique, BVL can look after it for you. Plus, their website has adequate information about valuation protection that you can opt for.
No Local Agents: BVL provides services across the USA through their local agents. While it says on their website that they aren’t brokers, and that all agents qualify as Bekins agents, interacting with local agents is always a bit of a worry.
Several moving companies have agents, and several consumer reviews reflect the biggest fear: that experiences differ depending on how good or bad your local agent is. However, Bekins itself services all inter-state moves. This means you communicate and interact with Bekins professionals throughout.
Pros:
- Free Instant Online Ballpark Estimate
- Moving Discounts
Cons:
- Complex Quote Process
Services Offered
- Full Service Moving & Packing
- Household Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Specialized Moves
- Packing & Shipping
- Storage
- Packing Supplies
Bekins Van Lines Costs
We received a general moving quote from Bekins Van Lines for a 2-bedroom house in Miami, FL to New York City with a medium-sized load for around $4,739–$6,183.
Good to know: Bekins Van Lines provides moving discounts to members of the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM), National Active Retired Federal Employees (NARFE), and to those moving in the off season.
Also Read: Bekins Van Lines Review
9. All My Sons Moving – Best for Full-service Relocation
At All My Sons Moving, family is the name of the game. This moving company is family-owned and operated, and has been in the moving business for over four generations. They have multiple locations across the country, and will treat your cross country move with their old-time ‘courtesy and respect’.
At every location, All My Sons provides local, long-distance, auto, residential, commercial, and corporate moving services. They also offer additional services like full service packing, packing supplies and storage services.
Why We Recommend All My Sons Moving:
Convenience: Perhaps it is the care that comes with being a family-owned business, or just the way they work. All My Sons has an air of assurance and convenience to the clients.
Amusingly, this is seen in the fact that they include full dresser hauling with their long distance moves, saving you the headache of having to separately pack and store all the tid-bits that lie inside.
Along with this comes furniture assembly and disassembly, furniture placement and setup, and quilt wrapping. All of this, no extra charge. Plus, as typical family does, they reach out a helping hand for last minute moves under 500 miles with same day and next day services.
This won’t work as well for a cross country move as much as for an interstate move, but it gains them brownie points from us nonetheless.
Storage Services: Sure, every other moving company offers storage services. But All My Sons lists out all the storage-related services they offer.
All your belongings will be tagged and inventoried before storage, with padding for extra protection. They get stored in warehouse facilities that are climate-controlled, with alarmed facilities, an on-site manager, and a built-in sprinkler system to ensure your belongings are as safe as possible. Plus, short-term or long-term, they can look after it.
There’s free loading and unloading at the storage facility, so you don’t have to break a sweat doing it yourself. The best part? All warehouses are owned by All My Sons, so at no point will anything go into the hands of agents or third parties.
Pros:
- Same and Next-Day Services
Cons:
- Not an Informative Website
- No Online Quote
Services Offered
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Corporate Moving
- Packing Services
- Packing Supplies
- Residential Moving
All My Sons Moving Costs
Although an in-person exam may provide a precise moving estimate, the actual cost of transporting a 2-bedroom house from New York City to San Francisco would range between $7,918 and $9,653.
Cheapest Packing Tips: Looking to save money on packing supplies? You can always buy cheap or free moving boxes, but use them sparingly and only after you fortify them with tape. Better still, ask family, neighbors and friends for any supplies they may have around their homes. You can also approach your local stores to ask them for any boxes they may have; most of them have them lying around in fairly good, minimally used condition.
Must Read: All My Sons Moving Review
10. Gentle Giant Moving Company – Best for Large Moves
Gentle Giants came about in 1980, when founder Larry O’Toole decided to make a difference to the moving industry by focusing on making clients so happy, they’d never turn elsewhere for a move.
Gentle Giants provides services for local moves, long distance moves and corporate moves. They also provide special piano moving services, packing and furniture placement, and storage services. With 20 locations across the United States, Gentle Giants is sure to help you out with that cross country move.
Why We Recommend Gentle Giant Movers:
Unique Services: Gentle Giants may not offer as much as other big moving companies, but they certainly tick all our boxes for cross country moves. They do so by offering unique services. They’re the only cross country moving company on our list to offer crane moving services, for those odd pieces of furniture that won’t go up narrow stairs, or fit through doorways.
They associate with Allston Piano Moving company, the only one of its kind specializing in perfectly moving pianos. There’s free delivery of moving supplies should you want to pack yourself, and they have pre-set packing supply sets for different homes in case you’re unsure about your packing needs.
Ordered for one box too many? You get refunds for every unused box. Done with the move? You get $25 for 20 used Gentle Giants boxes that you return.
Lastly, they have a section on their website detailing popular cross country routes. With a clear familiarity of long distance and cross country routes stretching across America, they make it to our reckoning of the best cross country movers.
100% Crew Guarantee: Gentle Giants makes an offer that, if proved otherwise, can cost them. Literally. They have what they call the ‘100% Crew Guarantee’: it promises exceptional service from their Giants a.k.a. moving crew.
As their clients, you are entitled to a money-back performance guarantee for each member of their moving crew. But with superior training in service and execution, it is highly unlikely that such an occasion will arise. Plus, they have an A+ from the Better Business Bureau!
Pros:
- Crane and Piano Moving Services
- Familiarity with Cross Country Routes
Cons:
- Limited Locations
- No Instant Online Quote
Services Offered
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Craning & Specialty Moving
- Piano Moving
- Storage
- Packing Services
Gentle Giant Moving Company Costs
An in-home estimate will provide you with the most accurate cost of moving with Gentle Giant Moving Company; however, moving a 2-bedroom home from San Francisco, CA to Orlando, FL would cost about $9,250 to $13,876.
Interstate Moving vs Cross Country Moving: Interstate moving is when you cross over state borders, from one into another. Cross country moves are interstate moves by default. However, interstate moves aren’t always cross country. You could simply be moving into your neighboring state.
Recap Summary: Cross Country Moving Company Ratings
| Company | Moving Astute Rating | Best For | Nationwide Availability | Auto Shipping | Compare Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Van Lines | Best Overall | Excellent | Yes | ||
| Allied Van Lines | Customized Moving Packages | Excellent | Yes | ||
| North American Van Lines | Long Distance Moves | Great | Yes | ||
| Atlas Van Lines | Military & Corporate Relocation | Good | Yes | ||
| Mayflower Transit | Full-Service Moving | Great | Yes | ||
| Arpin Van Lines | Nationwide Availability | Excellent | Yes | ||
| U-Pack | Customer Service | Excellent | No | ||
| Bekins Van Lines | Up-front Pricing | Excellent | Yes | ||
| All My Sons Moving | Full-Service Relocation | Great | Yes | ||
| Gentle Giant Moving Company | Large Moves | Good | Motorcycle Shipping Only |
Compare Cross Country Moving Company Quotes
| Company | Sample Price | Sample Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| United Van Lines | $4,000 – $5,000 | 2-Bedroom – From Miami, FL to NYC |
| Allied Van Lines | $3,499 – $4,316 | 2-Bedroom – From Miami, FL to NYC |
| North American Van Lines | $3,350 – $4,200 | 2-Bedroom – From Miami, FL to NYC |
| Atlas Van Lines | $2,900 – $4,816 | 2-Bedroom – From Miami, FL to NYC |
| Mayflower Transit | $3,500 – $4,700 | 2-Bedroom – From Miami, FL to NYC |
| Arpin Van Lines | $3,301 – $4,263 | 2-Bedroom – From Atlanta, GA to Austin, TX |
| U-Pack | $3,788 – $4,939 | 2-Bedroom – From Atlanta to Chicago |
| Bekins Van Lines | $4,739 – $6,183 | 2-Bedroom – From Miami FL to NYC |
| All My Sons Moving | $7,918 – $9,653 | 2-Bedroom – From NYC to San Francisco |
| Gentle Giant Moving Company | $9,250 – $13,876 | 2-Bedroom – From San Francisco to Orlando |
What Is The Cheapest Way To Move Cross Country?
There are several ways to make your move the cheapest possible move when moving cross country. Instead of a full-service packing deal, choose to pack everything yourself.
Buy cheap moving supplies and look out for free boxes, and instead of hiring labor to help, rope in your friends and family. Negotiate a job relocation package with your company if you are moving for a promotion or a new job.
Downsize and sell as much of your things as you can: fewer things to move means more money saved. You can rent a moving container (PODS, U-Pack).
Lastly, move in the off-season for lower prices and possible discounts.
What Is The Average Cost To Move Cross Country?
Your moving costs are determined by a slew of factors, including how much you’re transporting, how far you’re moving, and when you’re moving. It also depends on the services you’ve hired.
However, on average, a cross country move can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $8,500, averaging at around $6,500.
The higher end can go as high as $22,000. Shipping your vehicle cross country can cost between $1,500 to $2,500, depending on how far you have to ship it and the type of vehicle.
| Distance | Studio Apartment | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bedroom | 5 Bedroom | 5+ Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 miles | $240 – $675 | $425 – $750 | $820 – $1,325 | $1,110 – $1,475 | $1,500 – $2,100 | $2,100 – $3,200 | $3,000+ |
| 500 miles | $800 – $1,500 | $1,200 – $2,100 | $2,000 – $3,650 | $2,500 – $3,950 | $3,450 – $4,900 | $4,450 – $6,800 | $7,000+ |
| 1000 miles | $1,500 – $2,500 | $2,550 – $3,400 | $3,725 – $5,400 | $4,450 – $7,300 | $6,000 – $8,800 | $7,300 – $11,200 | $11,000+ |
| 2000 miles | $2,500 – $4,000 | $3,950 – $5,300 | $5,500 – $8,400 | $7,500 – $11,000 | $9,150 – $13,500 | $11,500 – $15,500 | $16,000+ |
| 3000+ miles | $3,500 – $5,500 | $5,550 – $7,500 | $7,500 – $10,850 | $9,000 – $14,000 | $12,000 – $18,000 | $15,000 – $21,500 | $22,000+ |
Factors Influencing the Cost of a Cross Country Move
Many factors can influence the cost of a cross-country move. The amount of stuff you have to move, the distance of the move, and the type of moving company you choose are just a few examples. Here are some more detailed explanations of some of these factors.
- The amount of stuff you have to move is a significant factor in the cost of your move. The more things you have, the more it will cost to move it. This is because the movers will have to do more work to move all of your stuff. They will also need to use more resources, like trucks and fuel.
- The distance of the move is another significant factor in the cost of your move. The longer the distance, the more it will cost to move your stuff. This is because the movers will have to travel a longer distance, and they will need to use more resources like trucks and fuel.
- The type of moving company you choose is also a significant factor in the cost of your move. Some moving companies charge more than others. You will need to research and find the company that fits your budget.
How Do I Find The Best Movers?
Finding the best movers starts with research, and avoiding the rookie move that is going with one of the first movers you come across.
Try to get recommendations from family and friends as personal experiences make for an important comparison. Ensure that your full service movers are licensed, especially when choosing a cross country mover, since they are required to have the legal permission to transport goods across state borders.
Once you’ve finalized 3 to 4 movers, contact them for in-house estimates and ask them about their quote process. You ideally want a binding estimate for long distance and cross country moves.
We also recommend looking up our other blogs to explore your options, and contacting us so we can get you in touch with movers to fit all your needs.
How to Choose the Right Cross Country Mover?
Moving is a big undertaking, no matter the distance. But when you’re planning a cross-country move, there’s even more to think about. In addition to the usual details like packing and unpacking, you also have to find a reputable moving company that can handle such a long-distance relocation.
So how do you choose the right cross country mover? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Get recommendations: Start by asking family and friends if they have any recommendations for good cross country movers. If you don’t know anyone who has made a similar move, you can check online review sites like Yelp or Angie’s List.
- Do your research: Once you have a few names of potential long distance moving companies, take the time to research each one. Visit their website and read customer reviews. You should also check to see if the Better Business Bureau accredits them.
- Get quotes: Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential full service movers, get quotes from them. Ask for an itemized estimate to see exactly what is included in the price.
- Ask questions: Once you have your quotes, don’t be afraid to ask the companies questions about their services. Find out what kind of insurance they have, what happens if your belongings are damaged during the move, and how they will handle any special requests you may have.
- Make a decision: After you’ve done your research and gathered all the information you need, it’s time to decide. Choose the company you feel most comfortable with and believe will provide the best service.
Moving is never easy, but you can make sure your cross-country move goes as smoothly as possible with a bit of planning and research. Choose a reputable moving company, get all of your belongings packed up, and relax – you’re on your way to your new home!
How to Prepare for a Cross Country Move?
You may be feeling a mix of emotions as you prepare for your cross-country move. Excitement, adventure, and nerves are all common. No matter how you’re feeling, it’s essential to take the time to prepare for your big move properly. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start by decluttering your home: The last thing you want to do is move items you no longer need or use. Take some time to go through your belongings and decide what you can live without. This will not only lighten your load, but it will also save you money on moving costs.
- Begin researching moving companies: All moving companies are different regarding the quality of services and pricing, so it’s important to do your research and find a reputable company that suits your needs. Ask friends and family for recommendations, or check online reviews.
- Pack smart: Packing can be overwhelming, but it’s important to take the time to pack properly. Make sure you have plenty of packing supplies and use the right size boxes for your items. Label all of your boxes to know what’s inside and where it needs to go in your new home.
- Make arrangements for your pets: If you have pets, you’ll need to ensure they are properly taken care of during the move. This may include finding a pet-friendly hotel for a night or two or making arrangements with a friend or family member to take care of them during the move.
- Change your address: Don’t forget to change your address with the post office and update your contact information with friends and family. You may also want to set up mail forwarding in case you miss any important mail.
Preparing for a cross-country move can seem daunting, but it can go smoothly if you take the time to plan and prepare. With a little bit of planning, you can make sure your move is as stress-free as possible.
How to Save Money When Moving Across the Country?
Moving across the country can be a costly endeavour. But with a little bit of creativity and planning, it is possible to save money on your move. Here are a few tips on how to save when moving across the country:
- Get rid of anything you don’t need: One of the easiest ways to save money when moving is to get rid of anything you don’t need. This might include clothes, furniture, or kitchen appliances.
- Compare prices for moving companies: It is essential to compare them before selecting one. You don’t want to end up paying too much for your move.
- Pack light: Packing light can also help you save money on your move. The less stuff you have to move, the less it will cost.
- Ask for moving company discounts: Many moving companies offer discounts for customers willing to do some of the work themselves. This can include packing and loading boxes onto the truck.
- Find free or cheap moving boxes: You can find free or inexpensive moving boxes from various places, including online classifieds websites and local grocery stores.
- Move in the off-season: Moving during the summer months can be more expensive than moving during the winter. If you have the flexibility, try to schedule your move for a time when moving companies are less busy.
- Use your own vehicle: If you have a large enough vehicle, you may be able to save money by transporting your belongings yourself. Just be sure to factor in the cost of gas and wear and tear on your vehicle.
- Stay with friends or family: If you have friends or family who live in your new city, see if you can stay with them for a few days while you get settled. This can save you money on hotel costs.
- Don’t forget about storage: If you don’t have room for all your belongings in your new home, consider renting a storage unit. This can be a temporary solution until you find a bigger place to live.
- Compare prices on moving supplies: Before you pack a single box, be sure to compare prices on moving supplies. You may be able to save money by buying supplies in bulk or online.
Methodology
To evaluate and identify the best cross-country moving companies, Moving Astute’s editorial and research team analyzed more than 20 movers operating in the United States. Here are a few factors that we look for in a professional cross-country mover:
- Nationwide Availability
- Customer Satisfaction
- Pricing
- Storage Availability
- Insurance Coverage
- Packing Services
- Tracking Facility
In order to ensure accurate and reliable information for our users, we research several moving companies using the following research method:
Transparent Pricing: To ensure that each moving company’s pricing is reliable, we collect moving quotes, verify binding estimates, and read users’ reviews on price.
Authentication: We verify the registrations of each moving company in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database to ensure that they are validly licensed to carry and relocate household items.
Review and Feedback: We analyze every moving company’s website, impersonate customers during conversations with them, and read client reviews to evaluate each moving services provider, transit protection, and customer service. We also talk to actual customers about how their moves went from beginning to end.
Periodic Reviews and Updates: Every year, we repeat this procedure to keep our recommendations up-to-date with current information. We also make modifications throughout the year to our periodic reviews.
Cross Country Moving Services FAQs
Which long-distance moving company is the best?
The best long-distance moving company is one that will provide you with a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
You should look for a company with a good reputation that can offer you a competitive price.
Additionally, the company should be able to handle all of the details of your move, including packing, loading, and unloading your belongings.
By choosing the best long-distance moving company, you can relax and enjoy your move without worrying about a thing.
What is considered a cross-country move?
A cross-country move is a move that goes across state lines. This can be from moving to a new state, even if it’s close by (for example: moving from Texas to New Mexico), to moving to a state on the other side of the country (for example: Moving from New York to California).
How do you move across the country?
One of the best ways to move across the country is to hire a professional moving company. A professional moving company will be able to handle all of the details of your move, including packing, loading, and unloading your belongings.
Additionally, a professional mover will be able to provide you with a competitive price for your move. You should get quotes from several different moving companies before making a final decision.
Also, you should read online reviews of moving companies in order to get an idea of what others have experienced during their move.
What should you not move long distances?
There are a few items that you should not move long distances, such as fragile items and hazardous materials.
Additionally, you should not move any items that are illegal to transport across state lines. If you have any questions about whether or not an item can be moved, you should contact the moving company for more information.
What to know before moving across the country?
Before moving across the country, you should take some time to plan your move. This includes budgeting for the added costs of a long-distance move and choosing the right moving company.
Additionally, you should pack carefully and label all of your boxes so that it is easy to unpack your belongings once you arrive at your new home.
You should also contact all of your utility providers and update your address with the post office. By taking the time to plan your move, you can ensure that everything goes smoothly from start to finish.
What is the difference between a carrier and a broker?
A carrier is a company that transports goods from one place to another. A broker is a company that connects customers with carriers and typically does not provide transportation services themselves.
By choosing a broker, you can save time and money by having access to a network of reputable carriers. Additionally, a broker will be able to help you find the best price for your move.
Do I really need moving insurance?
Moving insurance is not typically required, but it is recommended. If something happens to your belongings during the move, moving insurance will help you to recover the costs.
Additionally, moving insurance can provide you with peace of mind during your move. You should contact your moving company for more information about their specific policies and rates.
How far in advance should you schedule cross-country movers?
It is best to schedule your cross-country movers at least 8 weeks in advance. This will give you enough time to compare prices and services from different moving companies.
Additionally, scheduling your move early will help ensure that you get the date and time you want.
What is the difference between a binding and non-binding estimate?
A binding estimate is a set price for your move, based on the estimated weight of your belongings and the distance of your move.
A non-binding estimate is an estimate of the cost of your move, but the final price may be higher or lower than the estimate.
You should always get a binding estimate from your moving company to avoid any surprises on moving day.
Conclusion
We do recommend doing your own research to finalize on the best cross country movers for your move. But compare them to those we’ve mentioned, and keep in mind all the parameters to make sure you get your money’s worth.
Still confused? Just contact us so we can help you with our list of concise recommendations of the best cross country movers near you.
Recommended Useful Resources
- List of Best Out of State Movers
- Top-rated Coast to Coast Moving Companies
- Approximate Moving Cost Calculator
- Printable Moving Checklist
