10 Best Interstate Movers

Moving across state lines can be stressful. As you’re researching options for your upcoming interstate relocation, you want to find a moving company you can trust to handle your belongings with care. That’s why we researched dozens of moving companies offering long-distance and full-service moves to determine the 10 best interstate movers.

Keep reading for what sets each of these top-performing interstate movers apart, including detailed service profiles, sample pricing, and additional pros and cons helping you determine the right fit for your upcoming relocation needs.

Full Reviews of the Top 10 Interstate Moving Companies

1. Air Van North American Van Lines

With over 85 years of experience and operations extending to every U.S. state and Canadian province, Air Van North American Van Lines stands at the top as the most reliable and experienced long haul mover in the industry.

As our #1 overall best interstate mover, Air Van North American Van Lines shines for its stellar reputation, competitive pricing, and breadth of services offered directly by its own employees, not third parties. The venerable brand sets itself apart with numerous specialized offerings other companies can’t match, like an entire division dedicated to transporting sensitive electronics and trade show booths.

While it commands premium rates compared to newer entrants, Air Van North American Van Lines consistently delights customers with white glove service and zero-headache coordination. Unparalleled financial strength also makes its damage claims process vastly more dependable.

Pros

• 5th largest van line by revenue with over 500 locations
• Available for local, long distance, and international moves
• Competitive pricing, especially for larger moves
• Extensive experience with electronics and delicate items

Cons

• Premium rates due to brand recognition
• Scheduling very early is essential for best pricing

Cost Sample

• $9,440 for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

Whether you require the delicate transport of a piano or entire household across multiple states, North American leads the industry after nearly a century helping families relocate worry-free.

2. Atlas Van Lines

Celebrating 100 years operating in 2022, the venerable Atlas Van Lines matches North American Van Lines in longevity, financial stability and service quality. Atlas comes in a very close second for best overall interstate mover.

This established industry giant coordinates over 140,000 household moves per year across all 50 states. It owns and operates the country’s single largest fleet at over 2,100 trucks strong. Like North American, Atlas invests heavily in proprietary technology solutions modernizing the customer move experience.

We recommend Atlas as the premium full-service option for those wanting maximum oversight and handling of their interstate relocation without breaking the bank on ultra-high-end boutique movers.

Pros

• Largest fleet of over 2,100 trucks
• Competitive pricing for premium white glove service
• Cutting-edge mobile app and tracking dashboard
• Solar-powered warehouse for sustainability

Cons

• Mixed reviews around communication and scheduling
• Potential upcharges for stairs and extensions

Cost Sample

• $6,120 for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

With unmatched scale and modern conveniences catering to customer needs before, during, and after long distance moves, Atlas raises the bar for full-service quality and consistency.

3. International Van Lines

International Van Lines (IVL) brings a perfect blend of accessibility and personalization to interstate moves of all sizes as our choice for best overall value.

This highly rated global mover stands apart for its moderate pricing, stellar customer support, and ability to adapt services to individual needs, whether you’re relocating a studio apartment or 10-bedroom estate.

A partnership network spanning over 500 locations provides local assistance across town or for state-to-state moves. Yet International Van Lines maintains centralized authority over your move from start to finish, rather than handing you off to potentially inconsistent third parties.

Pros

• Among the lowest interstate moving rates
• Wide variety of customizable package services
• Stable family ownership over 35+ years
• Vehicle relocation assistance available

Cons

• Doesn’t own its own equipment
• Restricted availability in more remote regions

Cost Sample

• $4,306 for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

International Van Lines removes headaches and simplifies logistics across the country with exceptional coordination support and flexibility.

4. Allied Van Lines

As our top choice for accuracy of moving quotes and costs, Allied Van Lines prevails where many competitors fall short — providing fixed flat fees for interstate moves and resisting unexpected price hikes down the road.

The venerable brand operates one of the largest fleets of company-owned trucks in addition to smaller shuttles ideal for navigating tricky downtown areas and narrow residential streets. Customers overwhelmingly praise Allied’s seamless handling of moves into apartments or condos.

Plus, with over 500 local Allied agencies spanning Canada, the U.S. and beyond, you can rest easy knowing experienced pros are executing your move in any metro region, not unvetted third party help.

Pros

• Company-owned equipment minimizing outside rental costs
• Specialized in moving to downtown metro areas
• Binding guaranteed quotes prevent surprise charges
• Satellite tracking monitors location in real-time

Cons

• Struggles with communication and responsiveness
• Mixed reviews regarding potential delays

Cost Sample

• $9,440 for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

Thanks to ironclad rate lock guarantees and dedicated coordinators overseeing details from start to finish, Allied excels at predictability and transparency throughout interstate moves.

5. Bekins Van Lines

Founded way back in 1901, Bekins Van Lines wins our distinction for top notch customer service above all competitors, living up to their motto of “Excellence. Each time.”

This storied brand now operates over 400 locations coast-to-coast after 120+ years perfecting quality assurance protocols and customer support interactions driving glowing satisfaction even in snafu situations.

A long-tenured group of company executives ensures consistency and reliability consumers can count on versus fly-by-night operations. And robust technology integration improved customer communication channels and overall convenience.

Pros

• Long ownership history inspires stability and trust
• Resilient IT infrastructure for tracking and support
• Extremely satisfied customers praise white glove service
• Large partner network with local oversight

Cons

• Mixed responsiveness from support personnel
• Local partner inconsistencies in isolated areas

Cost Sample

• $6,425 for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

For ultra high-touch treatment getting your valuable belongings safely to a new home across state lines, Bekins delivers exceptional service worthy of its enduring legacy.

6. Mayflower Transit

Mayflower Transit helped pioneer the modern interstate commercial transport industry, having moved families across the country since 1927 using its iconic Pilgrim hats logo.

Today the savvy company utilizes data and analytics to optimize routes and efficiency as a technology-forward but still full-service mover sophisticated enough for high net worth clients yet accessible to everyday folks.

With 24/7 real-time tracking and an app offering complete visibility into your shipment status across states, Mayflower sets the standard for modern transparency and communication amidst the moving process.

Pros

• Full service moving with accessible rates
• Real-time GPS monitoring and ETA updates
• Leading predictive data and analytics capability
• Call center and digital support around the clock

Cons

• Mixed reviews of overseas moves
• Unclear long term storage fees

Cost Sample

• $6,500 for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

Mayflower Transition keeps stride with society’s technology expectations while preserving its longstanding reputation as a premium White Glove coordinator trusted by generations.

7. United Van Lines

Don’t let the generic branding fool you. United Van Lines outpaces nearly all competitors when it comes to customer-focused flexibility and personalized moving solutions for your unique situation.

United shines brightest accommodating tricky logistics like navigating narrow roads or flights of stairs during delivery. The company maintains deep relationships with reputable local partners possessing familiarity of respective regions. So you receive informed recommendations tailored specifically to area infrastructure.

An international presence further equips United to handle overseas moves seamlessly as well. But its sweet spot remains thoughtfully appointed domestic moves across multiple states. Customers glow reviewing their stellar communication and hands-on support.

Pros

• Local partner familiarity prevents snags
• One-on-one guidance identifying best options
• Available for global moves to 100+ countries
• Positive reviews praise expert handling

Cons

• Mixed responsiveness from remote sales staff
• Opaque long distance rate breakdown

Cost Sample

• $5,900+ for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

Bringing both internationally savvy logistics and hyper local assistance across 50 states, United furnishes white glove service for smooth interstate moves.

8. JK Moving Services

For larger high-end moves with fragile valuables or unique circumstances requiring accredited expertise, JK Moving Services brings bespoke solutions and artisan-grade handling.

While premium boutique movers command steeper rates, discriminate clients gladly pay more for JK’s uncompromising standards, custom crating options and same-day confirmed pricing. Move managers offer direct guidance from start to finish.

jk Moving further stands out being the only mover using all full-time W-2 employee crews, not untrained day laborers. And company ownership accepts liability for any legitimate claim unlike some smaller firms dissolving before resolving issues.

Pros

• Highly trained full-time moving crews
• Custom crate solutions for delicate items
• Fixed fee long distance quotes without haggling
• White glove experience handling valuables

Cons

• Premium tier rates much higher than average
• Challenging to accommodate last minute moves
• Requires sizable deposit upfront

Cost Sample

• $8,400+ for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

Discerning customers moving precious cargo long distance across states depend on JK’s seasoned experts and exceptional service surpassing common movers.

9. Colonial Van Lines

Colonial Van Lines takes our penultimate spot by merit of its technology forward, customer-centric operating ethos and mid-market rates affordable for most budgets.

This fairly young company established in 1995 magnified its capabilities through smart IT infrastructure and customer experience focus rare among old guard incumbents.

Orderly processing via an intuitive web app minimizes headaches scheduling interstate moves. And supportive move consultants proactively contact you at key milestones rather than leaving you guessing about next steps.

Pros

• Modern web app simplifies coordination
• Proactive move advisor consultations
• Competitive mid market household moving rates
• Responsive US-based phone and online support

Cons

• Considerable variability in reviews
• Minimally slower claims resolution

Cost Sample

• $2650+ for 3 bedroom move from NY to NC

Blending high tech orchestration with collaborative human interaction to guide interstate relocations, Colonial Van Lines merits consideration balancing convenience, service and savings.

10. All My Sons Moving & Storage

Rounding out our list of top rated interstate movers, All My Sons brings extreme affordability without sacrificing quality and reliability.

The value-focused brand concentrates greatest coverage east of the Mississippi. But hundreds of company owned trucks traversing these regions offer bare bones moving services passed substantial savings to you.

All My Sons casts a wide net signing new franchise operators regularly. So we suggest researching your local service center specifically before booking rather than depending on blanket brand reputation.

When executed properly, All My Sons furnishes seamless mobile home moving capabilities most competitors lack entirely. Just anticipate managing more personally being less full-service.

Pros

• Ultra low cost interstate moving
• Strength mobilizing manufactured homes
• Total loss replacement cargo insurance
• Basic moving with minimal frills

Cons

• Light long distance presence farther west
• Quality control challenges with franchises
• Variable responsiveness and timeliness

Cost Sample

• $7,300+ for 3-bedroom move from NY to NC

While giving up some hand-holding and luxury, All My Sons lets budget conscious families transfer households across regions paying a fraction of standard interstate moving rates.

After extensive evaluation of nationwide carriers and analysis of pricing, services, insurance coverage, licensing, and customer reviews, we confidently recommend 10 reputable companies delivering quality and reliability for interstate moves of all sizes and budgets. Read on for what to look for when packing up your life and how to choose the ideal mover to transport your stuff and provide peace of mind.

How We Evaluated the Top Interstate Movers

Selecting the top interstate movers involved thoroughly assessing numerous national brands, regional carriers, brokers and independent operators based on strict criteria designed to identify the most ethical, experienced, and financially stable industry players.

Years in Business

We checked incorporation dates and gave higher scores to long-tenured movers in operation for several decades or more, signaling stability and dependability over flash-in-the-pan newcomers. However, this accounted for just 5% of the total score.

Service Offerings

A comprehensive menu of standard and premium moving services available in all 50 states was more heavily weighted, making up 20% of a company’s rating. We gave preference to turnkey movers offering end-to-end packing, loading, inventory, transport, delivery and claim support over bare bones operations.

Pricing Transparency and Tools

The availability of clear binding estimates, online quotes, moving calculators and cost breakdowns factored significantly into scoring, given importance of predictable long distance move pricing. This accounted for 23% of overall rating.

Reputation and Reviews

Analysis of customer reviews across various sites like BBB, Yelp and Google comprised 20% of scoring, blended with FMCSA safety data. We looked for consistent positive feedback around quality and responsiveness.

Availability and Coverage

The number of metro areas covered through a company’s own crews or vetted partner network determined 15% of rating, with true coast-to-coast operations scoring highest.

Technology and Features

Finally, 5% of a mover’s review score derived from proprietary apps, move planning tools and tech-enabled features facilitating easier long distance coordination and communication around interstate moves.

Key Factors When Selecting an Interstate Mover

Relocating your entire life across state lines stands ripe for chaos, delays and disappointment if not handled properly. Beyond comprehensive services and fair transparent pricing, several other pivotal factors should drive your search for the best interstate moving company fitting your situation.

Type of Move and Service Needs

Take honest inventory of your interstate move requirements. Will you handle any packing/loading yourself or desire fully managed door-to-door relocation? Are specialty items like vehicles, boats or pianos involved? Make a wish list of ideal services then cross-reference movers satisfying everything.

Cost, Quotes and Negotiating

Collect at least three binding quotes aligned to your specifics for comparison. Confirm all-inclusive flat costs avoiding vagaries. Ask about discounts for mid-week moves, combined services or repeat customers. Seek guarantees around no surprises or changes down the road.

Licensing, Credentials and Avoiding Scams

Reputable movers eagerly share licensing, bonding and credentials. Cross-check federal registrations and safety records on government sites. Give intense side-eye to deals seeming too good to true, high pressure sales tactics or demands for unusually large deposits early.

Customer Service and Reviews

Look beyond ratings alone to read context from customer commentary. Even quality movers experience occasional bad apples and flukes. But patterns of communication issues or delays suggest more systemic problems. Positive word of mouth inspires confidence combating an industry fraught with scammers.

Timing and Availability

Ideally lock down movers 6-8 weeks pre-move for best selection and pricing. Confirm capacity to accommodate your precise relocation timeframe before committing. Ask about peak season surcharges running April-September.

Following the above advice locating an ethical and qualified long distance mover prevents the bulk of pitfalls transferring households cross-country. Now let’s discuss helpful preparation once you’ve booked your interstate move.

How to Prepare and Choose the Right Mover

Downsizing and Taking Inventory

Resist carting every belonging across borders. Take time early to downsize non-essentials through yard sales, donations etc. Also create detailed room-by-room inventories tallying all possessions and box counts anticipated, shared with your mover to hone quotes.

Researching Movers

Compile a master list of national van lines, local companies and alternatives like container shipping lines for shopping around. Consult reviews and FMCSA safety data. Meet with reps from three front-runners asking smart questions about specific qualifications, equipment, claims processes and guarantees to validate quality.

Comparing Quotes

Secure apples-to-apples quotes outlining precisely the same services, dates and inventory details from frontrunners. Compare pricing closely along with carrier safety records and DOT operating authority. Reconfirm any binding clauses locking rates and affirm pickup/delivery scheduling aligns with your timeline.

Confirming Details and Logistics

Double check all permits and insurance paperwork proving legitimacy of your chosen interstate mover, along with vendor references vouching for work quality. Take photos capturing condition of valuables pre-move. Revisit pickup logistics and delivery timeframe. Exchange direct contacts for move supervisors overseeing your belongings door-to-door.

Choosing Your Mover

Ideally select an interstate mover with sufficient capacity that owns its own branded equipment versus brokering trucks of unknown quality. Seek personalized guidance from a dedicated move consultant familiar with your region. Opt for guaranteed pricing that caps costs without sacrificing insurance protection or valuation coverage.

Taking the extra effort to validate qualifications, comparison shop pricing and verify arrangements ahead of engaging a long distance moving company greatly eases complications transitioning households between states. Trust but verify.

Best wishes with your upcoming interstate move! Take the reins selecting a mover sharing your standards and expectations. Then rest easy as top-notch pros safely transport your life’s possessions onward to future endeavors spanning state lines. Wherever the road leads, reliable partners make all the difference navigating these transitions in life. Safe travels!