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Best moving companies in Cary, NC 2025

We compared 28 companies and chose the top movers

    • PODS
      4.6(3,988)
    • Colonial Van Lines
      4.3(2,658)
    • WayForth
      4.8(98)
    Author picture
    By: Cassidy McCants
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Jon Bortin

    Best moving companies in Cary, NC 2025

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    PODS logo
    Colonial Van Lines logo
    WayForth logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

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

      Our 3 picks for movers in Cary

      1. Moving containers: PODS
      2. Best overall: Colonial Van Lines
      3. Senior moves: WayForth
      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,594,581 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.

      To help find the best options for you, we compared 80 moving companies and determined which were available in Cary. Then we analyzed ratings and reviews on ConsumerAffairs from Cary 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, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.

      Moving containers
      PODS
      PODS
      4.6
      3,988 reviews
      Highlight
      Flexible timelines
      Types of moves
      Local, long-distance, international
      Discounts available
      Military
      Read Reviews

      PODS provides moves to and from Cary. It offers quotes over the phone, or you can request a quote online.

      Highlights

      • Broker vs. carrier: Carrier and broker
      • Type(s) of quotes: Phone
      • Storage options: Various container sizes for short- or long-term storage
      • Packing services: Professional third-party packing services

      Pros

      • Flexibility
      • Cheaper than traditional moving companies
      • Simplified moving process

      Cons

      • Not available in all locations
      • Some delivery delays, according to reviewers
      • Upfront charges
      • Deposit requirements: None; full amount charged one to seven days prior
      • Discounts: Military
      • “I wanted to make sure that everything we had that got from point A to point B would be protected along the way. And I felt confident with PODS. We see the pods throughout the neighborhood, so I was able to physically see the pods. My pod was the right size. It was clean when it arrived, when we started loading it up, and when it arrived to point B. … PODS was very good in how they transported everything. They were very good on how they loaded it. They got a happy camper here. Use them.” — Michael from Knightdale
      • “I was very satisfied with PODS. We booked a 16 foot pod, which is biggest they've got, and there was quite a bit of room inside. I've told many friends that they should use PODS.” — Linda in Knightdale
      Best overall
      Colonial Van Lines
      Colonial Van Lines
      4.3
      2,658 reviews
      Highlight
      Climate-controlled storage options
      Types of moves
      Commercial, residential, military
      Discounts available
      Seasonal
      Get a Quote Read Reviews

      Colonial Van Lines offers commercial, residential and military moves and single-item, kitchen and full-service packing. It’s a carrier that provides moving services to and from Cary. 

      Highlights

      • Broker vs. carrier: Carrier
      • Type(s) of quotes: Binding
      • Storage options: Climate-controlled facilities and modular cubes
      • Packing services: Single items, kitchen, full packing

      Pros

      • Portable moving containers
      • Quick, efficient crews, according to reviewers
      • More than 50 years in the moving industry

      Cons

      • No local or international moves
      • Some reports of communication issues
      • Deposit requirements: Anywhere from one-third of the full price to 40%
      • Discounts: Seasonal
      • “The salesperson was very helpful, knowledgeable, and open. Also, there was good email communication, good reminders, and the driver was outstanding. He was very organized, on time, and professional.” — Tonya from Holly Springs
      Senior moves
      WayForth
      WayForth
      4.8
      98 reviews
      Highlight
      Several insurance options
      Types of moves
      Commercial, residential and senior moves; car shipping
      Discounts available
      None specified
      Read Reviews

      WayForth offers auto transport and commercial, residential and senior moves to and from Cary. It provides nonbinding quotes, so your initial quote may change by the final bill.

      Highlights

      • Broker vs. carrier: Broker and carrier
      • Type(s) of quotes: Nonbinding
      • Storage options: Long-term storage solutions
      • Packing services: Full-service packing and unpacking

      Pros

      • Specializes in senior moves
      • Punctual and professional crews, according to movers
      • Full packing and long-term storage services

      Cons

      • Some reports of miscommunication regarding pricing and timelines
      • Deposit requirements: 50%
      • Discounts: None specified
      • “WayForth’s price was better and it seemed a little more personable to speak with the reps. They were super pleasant. Getting the quote was perfect and scheduling the move was fine. It was a very small move and ended up being one gentleman who came and set up. He was fabulous and finished very timely. So, they did a good job. I was impressed. Based on a very limited business with WayForth this one time, they were super-efficient and very cost-efficient, and I would recommend them.” — R from Cary
      • “It went very smoothly with Wayforth. It was a tight turnaround but they were very accommodating. They were respectful and helpful.” — Gail in Cary

      What to consider when choosing a mover in Cary

      Hiring the right movers can make a move significantly smoother. Here are some tips for finding the right type of mover for you:

      1. Determine what kind of mover best suits your needs. Is your move local or long-distance, and do you need full-service packing services or basic transport?
      2. Research movers available in your area. Check licensing, insurance and customer reviews. Get multiple quotes in writing to avoid misunderstandings and for easy comparison.
      3. Get details on pricing and insurance. Ask about costs for any extra services you’re interested in (e.g., packing, unpacking, storage). Don’t forget to factor in potential costs for bulky items or difficult-to-access areas. Also clarify the details regarding insurance coverage and the claims process in case of damage.

      Cost to move in Cary

      Moving expenses can vary significantly — often from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on distance, number of belongings and any additional services you opt for.

      Larger moves require more work from moving crews and higher truck capacity, which generally lead to higher overall costs. Moving during peak seasons (like summer) or over the weekend, when competition is high, may also mean spending more on a mover.

      To get the most accurate idea of your moving costs, contact several moving companies for quotes. Most companies will ask for a detailed list of your possessions in order to offer an accurate estimate.

      Should you tip your movers?

      Tipping your movers isn't required, but it's standard practice — and it’s a way to show your appreciation for their hard work, particularly if they provide excellent service.

      A standard tip for a local move may fall between $20 and $50 per mover. You can adjust this amount based on the difficulty and length of the move. For long-distance moves, a larger tip or a percentage of the total cost is often appropriate. Small gestures like offering cold drinks and snacks are also appreciated.

      Average cost for moving services from and within Cary

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

      Tips for a successful Cary move

      Moving to Cary can be made easier and less expensive by planning ahead, reducing your belongings and using efficient packing strategies.

      1. Develop a moving budget

      Make a moving budget by estimating the costs of hiring movers or renting a truck, taking into account the distance, how many things you have and any extra services you want or need. Include expenses for packing supplies, potential travel costs (such as gas, tolls and lodging) and temporary storage if needed.

      Remember to account for insurance, cleaning fees and tipping your movers. Research typical moving costs for similar moves to create a realistic budget.

      2. Reduce clutter and sell or donate

      Although it takes time to sort through your possessions, downsizing can simplify your entire move. Consider holding a garage sale to earn money from unwanted items. You might also donate gently used belongings to charity. Many charities offer convenient donation pickup services, allowing you to declutter while supporting a good cause. (Don't forget to get a donation receipt for potential tax deductions.)

      3. Pack efficiently

      Gather sturdy boxes, packing tape, cushioning wrap and markers. Pack one room at a time, and label boxes clearly with their contents and the intended room in your new home. Use appropriate packing materials to protect fragile items, and consider using wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes. Maximize space by filling gaps with towels or clothing, and pack an "essentials" box or bag with items you'll need immediately at your new home.

      Moving within or to North Carolina?

      We’ve got some resources for you.

      » MORE: Moving checklist

      Moving regulations in Cary

      All legitimate moving companies in the U.S. should be licensed and insured. If a mover has to cross state lines, it’s also required to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. You can check a mover’s USDOT number on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website.

      Verify current state regulations with North Carolina’s transportation authority. The North Carolina Department of Justice has resources online to help protect consumers from illegitimate movers.

      FAQ

      How much does it cost to hire movers?

      When budgeting for your move, remember that local movers generally charge an hourly rate (around $80 to $100 for a two-person crew), while interstate movers calculate costs based on the weight and volume of your belongings. Expect to pay a few thousand dollars or more for long-distance moves. Ultimately, your total moving cost will depend on factors like distance, the amount of stuff you're moving and the time of year.

      Is hiring a mover worth it?

      While a DIY move can be budget-friendly, hiring professional movers is often a worthwhile investment. The stress and hassle of DIY moving can be overwhelming, and it’s not always cheap — consider the costs of truck rental, equipment and time off from work. If your budget allows, professional movers can save you time, money and a whole lot of worry.

      How early should I start planning a move?

      To ensure a smooth move, it's generally recommended to begin planning at least two months ahead of your target date. This time frame allows you to gather quotes from multiple movers and efficiently pack your belongings. It also provides a buffer for unexpected issues that may arise.

      Methodology

      ConsumerAffairs carefully collects in-depth, verified reviews to tell each customer’s experience with a company. We believe customer experiences are a crucial indicator when evaluating companies, so these reviews are a significant factor when we make our top picks.

      To choose the top moving companies in Cary, we started with the 80 popular providers listed in our main moving guide. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Cary. We then weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      • Storage options: We looked at the availability of storage units and any free storage periods.
      • Packing services: We considered the types of packing services offered, including whether a company offers packing services and whether it offers both full and partial packing.
      • Deposit requirements: We prioritized companies that ask for a down payment of 20% or less over those with higher deposit requirements.
      • Discounts: We outlined how many discounts each company offers and what types (e.g., senior, military, student).
      • App: We gave a company preference if it has an app with a useful service, like requesting a quote or tracking a move.
      Guide Sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

      1. North Carolina Department of Justice, “Moving.” Accessed Nov. 15, 2024.

      Not sure how to choose?

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