Our top picks for the best cheap moving companies
To make our choices for the best cheap moving companies, we researched 70 moving companies, collecting 17 data points for each one. We then used this data to compare companies based on factors like cost, availability and add-on services to help us make our final selections.
Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us. This doesn’t affect our recommendations or evaluations, but it may impact the order in which companies appear.
Our picks for the best cheap moving companies are:
- Availability
- All 50 states
- USDOT number
- 3545015
- Availability
- All 50 states and Washington, D.C.
- USDOT number
- 076235
- Availability
- The continental U.S.
- USDOT number
- 2293832
What affects moving costs?
Moving costs vary depending on several factors, such as distance and house size, as well as the following elements:
- Add-on services: If you add on extra services, like packing and unpacking assistance, your costs can increase pretty quickly.
- Complexity: Some moving companies may charge extra for certain moving scenarios, such as if they have to carry your furniture up a flight of stairs.
- Number of items: Even if you have a one-bedroom apartment, you could pay more if you have a lot of belongings.
- Weight of items: Having heavy items, like a solid-wood armoire, could also add to your fees.
» MORE: How much do movers cost?
Tips for reducing moving costs
While moving can be expensive, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some ways to reduce your overall moving costs:
Declutter your home
Movers assess fees based on the estimated weight or volume of your items. Selling or donating items you don’t want can not only save you money when it comes time to move everything, but it also frees up space in your new home. This is especially true if you donate larger items, like furniture or a piano.
Pack and move by yourself
One of the cheapest ways to move is to rent a truck and load the items yourself. Keep in mind that you’ll probably need at least one extra set of hands on moving day, so be prepared to ask a friend or family member for help. You may also consider renting or borrowing moving equipment to make the job a little easier.
Move during off-peak times
Summer is usually the busiest time for moving companies, so prices are often the highest then. If your moving day is flexible and you can wait to move until the fall or winter, you may find significant cost savings by delaying the move. Weekday rates are also typically lower than weekend rates.
How to choose a cheap moving company
Keep the following in mind to help you choose a moving company:
1. Ask for recommendations
One of the best ways to find a moving company is to ask family and friends for their recommendations. Real estate agents and apartment leasing managers may also be able to offer companies their clients have worked with.
2. Research companies
In addition to asking for recommendations, it’s also a good idea to do your own research. Compare low-cost movers based on pros, cons and customer reviews. Make sure to check out not only positive reviews but also negative ones since bad reviews can shed light on any issues you might encounter.
3. Check credentials
Whether you decide to work with a moving broker or a moving company directly, make sure the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A broker must have a Motor Carrier (MC) Docket number, and any carrier operating across state lines must have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number.
4. Compare quotes
Ask for a quote from each company you’re interested in. Be sure a company representative completes an in-house assessment before putting together your quote to get a more accurate estimate.
5. Review and sign a contract
Whichever company you’re interested in should provide a moving contract. However, don’t feel pressured to sign a contract immediately upon receiving it. It’s best to give yourself time and space to read over the details on your own and make sure you understand everything.
FAQ
What’s the cheapest way to move long-distance?
One of the cheapest ways to move long-distance is to pack and move your belongings yourself. Renting a moving truck typically costs anywhere from around $1,000 to $4,000 or more for a long-distance or cross-country move.
Can you negotiate with movers?
You can negotiate with movers, but you’ll typically need quotes from other companies as a bargaining tool. Be sure to mention ahead of time that you’re gathering multiple quotes and that you’re looking for the best value. If asked about your moving budget, try to mention the services you want rather than a dollar figure. Compare each company’s quote by line item, and use those figures to negotiate service prices. You can also ask if a company offers any discounts.
How much should you tip movers?
Generally, it’s best to tip movers based on the number of hours each mover worked. For a move that’s four hours or less, $20 to $40 per person is a good guideline. For a full-day move (about eight hours), the tip might be $40 to $80 per person. However, you can tip more than these guidelines if you’d like to show your appreciation for movers who exceed your expectations.
What are the red flags for moving scams?
Some moving scam red flags to watch for include:
- The company doesn’t complete an assessment of your belongings
- The company doesn’t provide a written quote or a moving contract
- The company requires a significant cash deposit in order to secure its services
What is a moving broker?
A moving broker is a third party that sets you up with a moving company based on your needs and your moving budget. A broker can help take the burden of researching companies off your shoulders, which could be worth the cost if it’s in your budget.
Bottom line
Even if money is tight, you might still consider hiring professional movers if you need to relocate quickly for a new job or another obligation, especially if it’s a long-distance or cross-country move. No matter which route you take, make sure to thoroughly research any moving company or broker before you sign a contract.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “Spot the Red Flags.” Accessed Feb. 17, 2026.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “Movers vs. Brokers.” Accessed Feb. 17, 2026.
