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Best Moving Companies in Kansas City, MO

We compared 37 companies and chose the top movers

    • Best overall
      Colonial Van Lines
      4.4(2,918)
    • Customer service
      International Van Lines
      4.7(1,336)
    • Quote accuracy
      Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
      4.1(457)
    Author picture
    By: Cassidy McCants
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Matt Zane

    Best Moving Companies in Kansas City, MO

    After evaluating verified reviews from local customers, Colonial Van Lines ranks as the best moving company in Kansas City. For those who want easy-to-reach representatives, International Van Lines is a strong option. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group is best if you want to minimize surprises when the invoice arrives.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,838,538 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
    • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    Our 4 moving company picks in Kansas City

    1. Best overall: Colonial Van Lines
    2. Best customer service: International Van Lines
    3. Best quote accuracy: Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
    4. Best value: PODS

    To help you find the best options, we compared moving companies available in Kansas City. Then we analyzed ratings and reviews on ConsumerAffairs from Kansas City customers.

    To make our picks, we also considered pricing, the quote and deposit processes, and the availability of packing services and storage options. Read our full methodology below for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.

    Compare moving companies

    Our 4 Kansas City moving company picks

    Learn more about our top picks for the best moving companies, based on verified reviews from Kansas City area customers and broader Missouri feedback on ConsumerAffairs.

    Best overall

    Colonial Van Lines

    Colonial Van Lines
    4.4
    2,918 reviews
    Deposit
    33% to 40%
    Local moves
    No
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT
    1434373
    Get a Quote Read Reviews

    Colonial Van Lines allows Kansas City customers to handle their move using a mobile app where they can upload photos to get an estimate quickly. If you’d rather not wait for an in-person walk-through, this tech-first approach saves time. You can see updates on your move status, and communicate directly with the team — a real plus if you’re juggling a busy schedule.

    Best for: Budget-conscious long-distance movers

    Pros
    • Robust mobile app features
    • Virtual moving estimates
    • Specializes in long-distance
    • Corporate relocation expertise
    Cons
    • Deposit required to book
    • Does not handle local moves
    • Mixed reviews on subcontractors
    • Long-distance moving
    • Corporate relocation
    • Packing services
    • Storage
    • Virtual estimates
    • Quote type: Binding (locked-in price)
    • Deposit: 33% to 40%
    • Discounts: Seasonal

    Customers in Missouri praise Colonial Van Lines for its professionalism, fair pricing and helpful communication, though some note issues with scheduling.

    “I was 100% impressed with the driver with Colonial. The packers were local people, and they were excellent. They knew what they were doing.”
    Ivan Kansas City, MO
    “Speaking with their representative was refreshing as the experience was straightforward and genuine. The representative candidly listed the services, and we proceeded without the upselling tactics many other companies employ.”
    David Van Buren, MO
    “The communication was excellent as well as the professionalism. … The people were timely, professional and friendly. They were there every step of the way. They were very knowledgeable and I had somebody who I could contact 24/7.”
    Julie Eldon, MO
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Best customer service

    International Van Lines

    International Van Lines
    4.7
    1,336 reviews
    Deposit
    25%
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT
    2293832
    Get a Quote Read Reviews

    International Van Lines keeps its support lines open 24/7, so you can always reach someone, no matter if you’re moving across Kansas City or relocating to another time zone. This round-the-clock access can be a lifeline when you’re managing a cross-country or international move and need quick answers to questions as they come up.

    Best for: Long-distance and overseas movers

    Pros
    • International moving expertise
    • Nationwide domestic coverage
    • 24/7 customer support
    • Ocean and air freight
    Cons
    • 25% deposit required
    • Broker and carrier hybrid model
    • Domestic ratings vary
    • International moving
    • Long-distance moving
    • Auto transport
    • Air freight
    • 30 days free storage
    • Quote type: Binding and nonbinding
    • Deposit: 25%
    • Discounts: None specified

    Missouri customers highlight the professionalism, careful handling, fair and accurate pricing and strong communication of International Van Lines, though a few report issues with damage during long-distance moves.

    “The guys did a great job with my move. The price was in line with what I was looking for and the quality of work was great. The only issue we had was a minor delay on pickup but the issue was resolved. Overall I had a great move and would use them again!”
    Ashly Kansas City, MO
    “I had a hard time getting accurate and timely quotes from movers but once I came across International Van Lines the stress was gone! They got me an accurate quote fast and were upfront about all costs. I would definitely use them again – all my stuff arrived in perfect condition.”
    Courteney St. Louis, MO
    “From getting a fair quote to final unloading, the process was smooth. Communication was steady, and the movers stayed on schedule. Very reliable service. It made what is often a stressful day remarkably easy.”
    Tanner Saint Louis, MO
    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service, Best Moving Experience and Best Overall Value
    Best quote accuracy

    Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

    Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
    4.1
    457 reviews
    Deposit
    Varying percentage
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT
    3034100
    Get a Quote Read Reviews

    Interstate Moving & Relocation Group ensures a thorough initial inventory process, which makes for more accurate quotes. By making sure every item is included up front, it helps you avoid last-minute cost surprises when moving day comes. This approach can be especially important in Kansas City, where crossing the state line could affect your final cost.

    Best for: Budget-conscious movers and military families

    Pros
    • Nationwide availability in 50 states
    • Specializes in military moves
    • Competitive bidding process
    • Expertise in complex logistics
    Cons
    • Deposit is nonrefundable fee
    • Broker model uses subcontractors
    • Quality varies by assigned carrier
    • Long-distance moving
    • Corporate relocation
    • Military moves
    • Packing and unpacking
    • Auto transport
    • Storage (often 30 days free with promotion)
    • Quote type: Binding and nonbinding
    • Deposit: Varying percentage
    • Discounts: None specified
    “This place has great customer service. I had a problem and was able to get ahold of their staff quickly. My breakables were safe and I didn’t have to worry about anything. The cost of moving is stressful enough.”
    Erika Springfield, MO
    “Besides a delay caused by bad weather (moving across the Midwest in January), everything went well. I knew what to expect and was told about any delays. All of my stuff arrived in good shape. The movers I hired worked quickly and well, and they were careful with my things.”
    Laron Auxvasse, MO
    “They were efficient, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure everything was packed securely for transport. Communication throughout the entire move was clear and timely, keeping us informed every step of the way.”
    Zilpah Auxvasse, MO
    Best value

    PODS

    PODS
    4.6
    5,149 reviews
    Deposit
    100% 1 to 7 days prior
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT
    1397252
    Read Reviews

    PODS lets you cut moving costs by handling the loading and unloading yourself. Instead of paying for a full-service moving team, you rent a container and only pay for the transportation and rental. If you’re comfortable with a DIY approach, this can mean big savings, especially for interstate moves out of Kansas City.

    Best for: DIYers

    Pros
    • Flexible scheduling timelines
    • Storage at your home or facility
    • No driving required
    • Nationwide availability
    Cons
    • You must load and unload
    • Parking space required for container
    • Delivery windows can be wide
    • Moving container rentals
    • On-site storage
    • Warehouse storage
    • Commercial moving
    • Car shipping referrals
    • Quote type: Nonbinding (estimate only; final price may vary)
    • Deposit: 100% 1 to 7 days prior
    • Discounts: Military, friend referral, long-term storage

    Local PODS customers like the convenience, reliability and ease of use, though some report issues with customer service responsiveness.

    “I was satisfied with my Pod. The customer service was vey efficient. They answered all my question in a timely matter. My quote was reasonable. Overall experience was good. I also was contacted thru e-mail when my Pod would be delivered and picked up.”
    Starlets Blue Springs, MO
    “I arranged the service over the phone, and the representative I spoke with was incredible – very helpful throughout the process. … The driver who came to pick up my container was wonderful, making the experience even better.”
    Sherry Grandview, MO
    “I had a 12-foot pod delivered to my house to store some things I had while we had some renovation done, and the driver was very professional and nice. The price was good too. I didn't think it was overpriced, and the customer service is excellent as well.”
    Clifford Grandview, MO
    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service, Best Moving Experience and Best Overall Value

    » MORE: Best moving companies in Missouri

    Best moving companies in nearby cities

    Moving Companies in Kansas City Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Colonial Van Lines logo
    International Van Lines logo
    Interstate Moving & Relocation Group logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Find a team that works for you & enjoy a stress-free move.

      Moving in Kansas City often involves crossing the state line between Missouri and Kansas. This matters because it can technically change your move from 'local' to 'interstate,' affecting liability rules. In addition, Plaza traffic and fountains make navigation tricky. We’ll walk you through finding the right mover for these unique challenges.

      Key insights

      Verify Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) registration for in-state moves. If crossing to Kansas, ensure the moving company has a USDOT number and Motor Carrier (MC) number for interstate authority.

      Jump to insight

      Clarify 'interstate' charges. Even a five mile move across State Line Road is federally regulated. Ensure you aren't paying long-distance tariffs for a local hop.

      Jump to insight

      Avoid the Country Club Plaza on weekends since traffic can be heavy. Also, check for First Friday road closures if moving near the Crossroads.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a mover in Kansas City

      To find the right moving company in Kansas City, begin by deciding what services you need. Then check at least three licensed movers by comparing written quotes and looking at independent reviews for warning signs such as hidden fees or frequent damage claims.

      Hiring the right moving company is one of the biggest costs of any move, so it pays to do your research. Use these key steps to evaluate movers and make sure you’re picking the best option for your needs:

      1. Determine your move type

      Think about whether you’re moving within Kansas City or to another state. Do you want a company to pack and unpack for you, or are you just looking for basic transportation? 

      Knowing your move type lets you quickly narrow down which movers offer what you need and can give you an accurate quote. Full-service moving companies handle everything but cost more. If you want to save money and don’t mind extra work, self-service or labor-only options make sense.

      In Kansas City, even short moves — such as from Brookside to Prairie Village — can be considered interstate because they cross the state line, which affects pricing and licensing.

      2. Research movers in your area

      Ask people you know in Kansas City for recommendations, then read reviews on ConsumerAffairs and other sites. Check online reviews from customers in Kansas City. The most common complaints about moving companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

      • Damage to belongings during transit: People frequently mention furniture, electronics or boxes arriving scratched, broken or otherwise damaged. Some say the claims process is slow or it’s hard to get fair compensation, while others report the company disputes their claims entirely.
      • Hidden fees and cost overages: Customers often run into extra charges for things like extra weight, extra stairs or fuel that weren’t in the original quote. Some say they’re hit with hundreds of dollars in surprise costs on moving day and don’t have many options to dispute.
      • Poor crew quality and unprofessional conduct: Some reviews reflect crews showing up late, working slowly, taking breaks or being careless with boxes. Others mention rude or dismissive staff when problems are brought up.
      • Unmet delivery dates and communication breakdowns: Several customers suggest their moves were delayed unexpectedly, and that it was tough to get updates or clear answers from the company as schedules shifted.

        Kansas City customer Mark ran into multiple delivery delays. His belongings were initially scheduled to be delivered on April 5th but, “The movers then called while I was in Sacramento and said it would be delayed a week to April 12/13. On April 9th I received another call saying the delivery would be delayed some more.”

      3. Compare multiple quotes

      A nonbinding estimate can change. Get a binding quote to avoid last-minute price hikes.

      Always get written estimates from at least three movers. In-person surveys give you the most accurate pricing, as a crew can see exactly how much you need to move. Because many Kansas City homes have older basements, narrow staircases or long exterior walks, an in-home survey helps avoid surprise fees.

      Line up the quotes next to each other — price isn’t everything, so check for any differences in what’s included. If one bid comes in much lower than the others, be cautious. It could mean key services are missing or the company isn’t reliable. The best quotes will clearly list labor, truck fees, packing materials and any extras.

      4. Ask about extra services

      Before signing a contract, find out what packing, storage or special handling services cost. If you have valuables like a piano or artwork, ask about those fees. Also ask about extra charges for things like stairs, parking or limited truck access. Getting all the details in advance helps you set a realistic moving budget and avoid surprises.

      5. Verify credentials

      Reputable Kansas City movers should be licensed and insured. If your move is crossing into Kansas, the mover also needs a USDOT number — you can check this on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. Make sure you understand what’s covered by insurance and how to file a claim if anything is damaged.

      How much do movers cost in Kansas City?

      The total cost for professional movers can range from several hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on how far you’re moving, how much stuff you have and which services you pick.

      Crossing State Line Road makes it a federal move; check your contract.

      Factors that affect pricing include:

      • Distance: Transitioning from Waldo to Brookside is far more affordable than a long-distance move.
      • Volume: More items or a bigger house means higher labor and truck costs.
      • Services: Packing, unpacking and fragile-item handling increase the total.
      • Timing: Summer and weekends cost more. Moving in winter or on a weekday is usually 20% to 30% cheaper.
      • Deposits: Moving brokers often want 20% to 50% up front (as a broker fee). Carriers tend to require less.

      Rates average $110 to $140 per hour. If moving across the state line, movers might charge based on weight/distance instead of time, though many do hourly for the 'commercial zone.' Ask specifically how the state line affects your billing.

      Average cost for moving services from and within Kansas City

      The figures below are based on current (as of publishing) industry estimates for a three-bedroom home with no additional services.

      Should you tip your movers?

      You don’t have to tip, but most people do. A standard moving tip is $20 to $50 per mover for a local job. On long-distance moves, you might tip more, or give a percentage of the total bill. Even snacks or drinks are appreciated.

      » COMPARE: Top national moving companies

      Tips for a Kansas City move

      Avoid moving near the Crossroads District on 'First Fridays' due to crowds.
      • Start 8 weeks out: Give yourself a two-month runway to compare quotes and handle logistics so you aren't rushing at the last minute.
      • Calculate total costs: Create a realistic budget that accounts for everything from the moving crew and travel expenses to packing materials and gratuities.
      • Purge before packing: Lower your moving costs by selling, donating or recycling items you don't need, as pricing is usually based on weight and volume.
      • Use a strategic packing order: Begin with storage areas like garages or guest rooms, label boxes by room, and invest in proper protection for breakables.
      • Pack a "First Night" box: Assemble a survival kit containing your daily necessities — toiletries, clothes, meds, and papers — so you aren't digging through boxes immediately.
      • Confirm communication channels: Get the driver or foreman's contact info ahead of time to ensure smooth communication regarding parking and timing on moving day.

      » MORE: Cheap ways to move long distance

      Moving regulations in Kansas City

      All legitimate moving companies in the U.S. should be licensed and insured. For moves crossing state lines, companies must be registered with the U.S. DOT and have a valid USDOT number (verify on the FMCSA website).

      Missouri moves are regulated by MoDOT. Kansas moves are less strictly regulated by the state, but crossing the line triggers federal rules.

      Moving within or to Missouri?

      We’ve got some resources for you:

      FAQ

      Can I negotiate moving costs?

      You can try to negotiate your moving costs. Gather several quotes first, then ask about possible discounts — some movers offer deals for off-peak moves, weekday bookings or for military or seniors. Combining services like packing and storage sometimes unlocks additional savings.

      What are red flags when choosing a mover?

      Be wary of any company that won’t give you a written estimate, doesn’t have proper licensing or keeps changing your main point of contact. If you feel rushed into making a decision, consider that a warning sign.

      Do movers charge extra for apartment buildings or parking restrictions in Kansas City?

      Yes, if you’re moving in or out of a condo in the Plaza/Downtown area, you likely need reservations.

      When is the cheapest time to move in Kansas City?

      Winter is the cheapest time to move in Kansas City. Spring and summer bring higher prices and extra complications due to tornadoes and storms.

      Methodology: How we pick the top moving companies in Kansas City

      To select our top moving companies, we start with reputable movers available in Kansas City, then rank them based on how they actually perform in your area.

      Our approach: Local reviews and national standards

      We score each company by combining:

      • Local customer reviews (65%): What people in Kansas City and nearby areas say about the company.
      • National track record (22%): How the company performs outside of Missouri.
      • Service offerings and user experience (13%): An evaluation of each mover's logistical capabilities, cost transparency and ease of booking.

      This way, companies with strong national reputations are judged on their actual local performance.

      How we use local data

      We gather customer feedback in layers to make sure we have enough information to rank companies fairly:

      1. Reviews from your city: If a company has several reviews from Kansas City, we use those (and weight them more heavily).
      2. Reviews from nearby areas: If not enough Kansas City reviews exist, we look at reviews from the surrounding metro area.
      3. Statewide data: If regional data is still limited, we use the company's overall performance across the state.

      The more reviews we have, the more confident we are in the ranking. If lots of companies have reviews in a city, we prioritize them over companies that lack local reviews.

      We make sure our top picks are actually active in your area. Companies with solid local reviews rank higher than those relying only on national reputation, even if they perform well nationally.

      What we measure

      We analyze customer reviews for:

      • Moving crew quality
      • Customer service
      • On-time delivery
      • Packing and care
      • Quote accuracy
      • Damage prevention
      • Fair pricing

      We also research what pricing and services each company offers, including:

      • Quote for a 500-mile, 2-bedroom move
      • Storage options
      • Packing services
      • Available discounts
      • How easy it is to get an accurate quote
      • Types of moves offered (local, long distance, international)
      • Digital ease of use
      Guide 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:

      1. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, "Company Snapshot." Accessed Dec. 8, 2025.
      2. Missouri Department of Transportation, "Missouri Operating Authority - Intrastate Operations." Accessed Dec. 8, 2025.
      3. Missouri Department of Transportation, “Moving in Missouri.” Accessed Dec. 8, 2025.

      Not sure how to choose?

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