5 types of moving companies
Which is right for your next relocation?
+2 more
Even though moving rates have been low in recent years, a 2024 survey found that 35% of American adults said their current cost of living was making them consider moving to a different state. Hiring a moving company can help ease the stress of relocating, but not all movers provide the same services or specialize in the same types of moves.
Some companies focus on long-distance or international relocations, while others handle local moves, corporate relocations or military transitions. Full-service movers take care of everything from packing to unpacking, while others offer more limited support.
Long-distance movers handle relocations exceeding 100 miles and must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for interstate moves.
Jump to insightLocal movers typically charge by the hour and are ideal for short-distance moves.
Jump to insightFull-service movers handle everything from packing to unpacking, while DIY options like moving containers or truck rentals require more hands-on effort.
Jump to insightWhat are the different types of moving companies?
Most moving companies perform similar services — typically, the most notable difference is the distance of moves they handle. A local moving company may not be equipped to handle an international move, for instance, and a corporate mover will have expertise in issues that arise when moving businesses.
1. Long-distance/interstate movers
Long-distance moving companies handle relocations that exceed a specific mileage threshold — typically between 100 and 400 miles. Most of these moves cross state lines, although in some cases, a long-distance move may occur within the same state.
Each long-distance mover that moves items across state lines is required to be registered with the USDOT. Long-distance movers customarily charge based on the size of your home, the distance of your move, what types of belongings you’re moving and whether you need to make any extra stops — like to a storage facility — along the way.
2. Local movers
Some moving companies only operate inside a defined local area, like within a specific city or state. Those companies may be required to register with the DOT or local authorities, depending on regulations in the region.
Local movers often charge by the hour. In 2023, rates typically ranged from $80 to $100 per hour for two crew members. The biggest factor in your cost for a local move is how many items you’re moving. The more time and labor you require, the higher your overall cost will be. You can also expect to pay more for heavy, fragile or oddly shaped items, like pianos or hot tubs.
3. Corporate/military movers
Corporate relocation companies specialize in moving entire businesses and are equipped to handle large volumes of belongings. These movers prioritize quick turnaround times to minimize downtime, ensuring the business can resume operations as soon as possible. They also offer services such as furniture assembly, disassembly and supply packing materials to simplify the process.
For both corporate and military moves, additional support is often available to ease transitions. This can include helping teams acclimate to the new area, easing culture shock and assisting with relocation paperwork.
Movers operating across state lines must register with the USDOT and obtain a USDOT number, while military movers must also register with the Department of Defense's Defense Personal Property Program (DP3) to transport the personal property of military members.
4. International movers
International moving companies help individuals, families and corporations move their belongings to a new country. These companies are experienced in international moving logistics, including shipping by air and sea, handling customs and tracking items. International movers are required to register with the DOT to operate legally in the U.S.
Any moving company that transports personal belongings overseas must also register with the Federal Maritime Commission.
5. Full-service movers
Full-service movers handle pretty much every aspect of a move. A full-service move is a good option for busy professionals who don’t have enough hours in the day to get all aspects of a move done, including:
- Packing: Full-service movers pack your home and provide all the materials you need to safely and securely relocate your belongings. This includes handling any large items that need to be disassembled.
- Labor and transport: Full-service movers load your packed belongings and transport them to your new home.
- Unpacking: This type of mover can both unload and reassemble your furniture. They can also unpack your belongings and dispose of all packing supplies before they go.
What about DIY moves?
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might consider do-it-yourself moving options, like moving containers and moving truck rentals. Moving containers allow you to pack and load your belongings at your own pace. Once the company drops off a portable container at your home, you’ll have a set amount of time to load it before it’s transported to your new destination.
Many of these companies also offer long- or short-term storage solutions, so this option might be ideal if you’ll be in limbo for a few weeks between houses.
You can also rent a moving truck. If you go this route, you'll be responsible for loading, driving and unloading the truck yourself. It can be a lot of work, but it's a great way to save money, especially if you don’t have a ton of belongings.
Keep in mind that you'll be responsible for all aspects of a DIY move, from packing and loading to driving and unloading. You'll want a good understanding of the logistics of your move and to be comfortable driving a larger vehicle if you choose to rent a moving truck, for instance.
FAQ
How can I tell if my move is considered long-distance?
Most movers define a long-distance move as one that exceeds 100 to 400 miles. If you’re crossing state lines, your mover should follow federal guidelines and have a valid USDOT registration.
What are the advantages of hiring a full-service mover?
The advantage of hiring a full-service mover is that it handles everything from packing and loading to transporting and unpacking. This option is ideal for busy professionals who prefer to leave all the work to experts.
What extra services should I look for in corporate or military moves?
Corporate and military movers often offer additional services such as furniture assembly and disassembly or relocation paperwork assistance. These extra services help ensure a smooth and efficient move for businesses and military personnel.
When might a DIY moving option be a better choice?
A DIY move is a better option if you have fewer belongings and plenty of time. This budget-friendly approach usually involves using moving containers or renting a truck, but it requires you to handle every aspect of the move yourself, from packing to driving.
What should I ask a moving company before booking their service?
It’s a good idea to ask about the company’s registration credentials, pricing structure and if there will be any additional fees. For long-distance moves, confirm the company has a valid USDOT registration to ensure it meets federal safety standards.
Trending in Moving
