

Recommended
#1 Mover in the United States
Air Van northAmerican Van Lines
Of all the interstate movers we researched, Air Van northAmerican stood head and shoulders above the competition when it came to responsiveness, transparency with estimates, damage-free handling of possessions, and overall accountability. With over 1,800 trucks, 40,000 truck shipments per year, 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states, and a real focus on continuous improvement, this mover has the scale, resources and commitment to quality that enables them to provide an exceptionally smooth moving experience despite the complexities of long distance transportation.
Services include:
- Long distance moves
- Local moves
- Full-service moving
- Corporate relocation
- Vehicle transport
- Office moving
Contact: (877) 306-2585
10 Best Budget Moves For Your Next Relocation
Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it certainly requires careful planning and budgeting. Finding affordable options for your move should be a top priority when determining the 10 best budget moves to make.
Our Methodology for Finding the Most Budget-Friendly Movers
We want your move to go as smoothly and stress-free as possible without emptying your bank account! That’s why our team put in extensive research, evaluating over 20 leading moving companies across 10 criteria to determine the most budget-friendly options that still provide high-quality service. We looked at:
Years in Business
We only considered movers that have been in business for over 10 years. This shows they have the experience and operational excellence to handle moves professionally and safely without unexpected hiccups.
Range of Services
The companies on our list offer a full spectrum of moving services (packing, loading, transportation, unloading, unpacking, etc.) to accommodate any customer’s needs and budget.
Pricing/Quotes
One of the most important factors! We analyzed initial quotes, binding estimates, overall reported costs and policy flexibility to maximize value.
Reputation
High customer satisfaction ratings and reviews were analyzed to ensure quality service.
Availability
The movers on this list have nationwide availability to handle moves across state lines.
Customer Reviews
We pored through validated customer reviews across multiple platforms to gauge real-world experiences.
Key Types of Moves Explained
Before we dive into the top 10 budget movers, let’s clarify some key terminology related to types of moves:
- Local Moves: Relocations within your area/city, usually under 50 miles. These have a lower cost on average.
- Long-Distance Moves: Also called interstate moves, these cover relocations over 50 miles away/across state lines. More complex, so higher average costs.
- International Moves: For relocating overseas. Require greater coordination and expenses like customs paperwork.
- Full-Service Moves: The mover handles the full spectrum of packing, loading, transportation, unloading and unpacking for you start to finish. Very convenient but more expensive on average than self-service options.
Self-Service/DIY Moves: You handle packing yourself and typically load/unload the truck. The mover provides the vehicle and drives it to your destination. Great budget saver but more physical work for you.
Alright, now let’s reveal the 10 top affordable movers that provide quality without breaking the bank!
1. Air Van NorthAmerican Van Lines
With 85+ years of experience spanning all 50 states, Air Van NorthAmerican Van Lines (NAVL) has built expertise in budget-friendly moves through custom pricing options and great service:
Pros:
- Custom quotes available (binding, not-to-exceed, etc.)
- Online moving calculator and tips provided
- Smooth claims process for damaged goods
Cons:
- Restrictive cancellation policy
- May cost more for large long-distance moves
NAVL empowers you to tailor options to your budget. Customers praise their professionalism and transparent process when issues arise. Overall a prime budget choice!
Average reported cost: $4,700 – $5,350
2. American Van Lines
Operating since the 1960’s across 48 states, American Van Lines (AVL) delivers quality training and services:
Pros:
- Teams specializing in pianos, antiques
- Guaranteed arrival dates
- Flat-rate pricing
Cons:
- No instant online quotes
- 50% deposit possibility
AVL Flat-rates help keep surprises minimal. Investments in specialized teams gives peace of mind your cherished possessions are safe. While deposit may be high and quotes not instant, they deliver on budgeting promises.
Average reported cost: $3,200 – $3,500
3. Allied Van Lines
In business for over 90 years, Allied Van Lines shines with flexible services and options:
Pros:
- Competitive mid-range moving rates
- Specialized container service available
- High customer satisfaction
Cons:
- Potential fees for cancellations/rescheduling
Allied is praised for quality full-service moves and making logistics smooth. While a large long-distance move may run higher than smaller local relocations, excellent service makes them a go-to budget option.
Average reported cost: $4,730 – $5,380
4. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
As nationwide moving brokers for over 10 years, the Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) leverages partnerships with professional movers to get you affordable quotes:
Pros:
- Negotiates rates among partners
- Helpful online cost calculator
- Efficient and quick quoting
Cons:
- Quality varies slightly across partners
- Tough cancellation refund policy
IMRG uses extensive network to customize cost-saving packages. Some variability in partners but overall great moving value.
Average reported cost: $2,800 – $4,000
5. U-Pack
U-Pack sets itself apart with flexible trailer space rentals and bare-bones pricing:
Pros:
- Pay only for the trailer space used
- Customizable protection plans
- Reliable delivery windows
Cons:
- Must load/unload yourself
- Time commitments on trailer rentals
Do-it-yourself movers can majorly reduce costs through U-Pack’s pay-per-foot trailers. Give yourself time for self-service responsibilities and it’s a fantastic budget-saver.
Average reported cost: Varies based on trailer space used
6. Safeway Moving
Veteran-owned Safeway Moving brings military precision to streamlined moves through extensive partnerships:
Pros:
- Flat-rate interstate pricing
- Price-match guarantees on storage
- Dedicated senior move experts
Cons:
- Online tools lacking vs competitors
- Deposit required
Safeway leverages networks to deliver quality service at the best rate possible. Flat-fees help give peace of mind. Great choice for seniors and those wanting reliability.
Average reported cost: $6,300 – $7,500
7. International Van Lines
Operating since 2000 using tech and customized services, International Van Lines (IVL) provides a range of moving options to fit needs and budgets:
Pros:
- Mix-and-match personalized packages
- Competitive base pricing
- Robust mobile apps
Cons:
- Up to 25% deposit
- Potential fees for bulky items
IVL allows you to tailor services and coverage to your situation and keeps base prices affordable. Powerful mobile tools also set them apart. One of the best full-service budget providers out there if you can float the deposit.
Average reported cost: $2,500 – $4,300
8. JK Moving Services
Established in the early 80’s, JK Moving Services brings innovative tech paired with high-touch service:
Pros:
- Specialized packing expertise
- Container moving options
- Financing partnerships available
Cons:
- On the pricier end generally
- $250 deposit
While leaning premium in general, JK Moving sets itself apart by technology elevating specialized services like packing fragile valuables and offering 0% financing partnerships that allow you to spread payments over time.
Average reported cost: $7,550
9. Moving APT
Moving APT provides flexible and affordable moves through partnerships with licensed national carriers:
Pros:
- Price-matching available
- Custom cost adjustments
- Helpful moving calculator
Cons:
- As broker, some variability in partners
- Airy packaging issues noted
Skilled brokers, Moving APT searches networks to meet your budget through price-matching and customization. Provides good technology support like calculator too. Reports of occasional issues with subpar packing partners means inspecting materials is wise.
Average reported cost: $2,968 – $5,668
10. Mayflower
Active since 1927, Mayflower is known as a heritage budget mover:
Pros:
- Tiered protection plans
- Full-value coverage available
- Brand renown provides trust
Cons:
- Quality fluctuation across locations
- Legacy perception costs more
One of the most established national brands. While pricing is driven higher partially by reputation, Mayflower gets the job done right. Tiers allow you to balance cost and protection. Overall a trustworthy budget-mover despite small variability.
Average reported cost data unavailable
What Makes a Move More Costly? Key Factors to Consider
While the movers above provide budget-friendly options, it’s good to level-set expectations on what aspects make relocation costs rise. Big drivers typically include:
Distance – The further the move, the more expenses grow like insurance, travel costs and complex coordination.
Weight – Shipping thousands of pounds across the country gets pricier fast than a few local boxes.
Services – Full-service packing/loading and specialty care is more convenient yet costs extra. Doing these yourself saves significantly.
Time of Year – Peak season during warmer months means higher demand, so companies charge premium rates.
There’s wiggle room though! Acting early, minimizing belongings, finding discounts and comparing quotes can balance out the above variables. Plan ahead – your wallet will thank you later.
Tips to Reduce Your Relocation Expenses
Here are insider tips from decades of industry experience on keeping your move affordable if flexibility allows:
- Start planning early – 6+ months ahead if possible. Gives time to shop quotes.
- Downsize now – Clear out items you simply won’t need to reduce load size. Ask – when was the last time I used this?
- Get reusable boxes from local stores for free or cheap instead of buying new.
- Request quotes from 3+ movers and compare. Many offer first-timer discounts as well!
- If timing is flexible, avoid peak season between April-September when rates jump.
Sometimes life mandates a last minute move or other constraints. But by proactively applying even 1 tip above, you’ll save substantially over just going with initial options that pop up on Google. Knowledge is power with moves – arm yourself and outsmart expensive pitfalls!
Final Thoughts
Hopefully this overview dispelled worries that cost-effective movers simply don’t exist! Apply the budget-focused guidance we covered, and you can save hundreds if not thousands on your upcoming relocation. Just partner with experienced movers who allow customization to your needs, confirm binding quotes in writing, and triple check what factors may trigger surprise fees.
Here’s to your upcoming move being smooth and kind to your wallet! Let us know if this intel helps maximize savings – we want to make sure it lands. Wishing you a successful transition to your new chapter up ahead.
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