Create a moving budget
Moving Prep
Moving is no small feat, whether you're relocating locally, changing states or leaving the country. Hiring the right movers can take a load off. To pick the best company for your move, look at brand reputation, cost transparency and range of services.
Moving Prep Basics
Is a DIY move best for you, or should you hire movers?
Get at least 3 estimates if you can
7 tips for interstate moves
8 steps to an affordable relocation
16 tips for an international move
$50 to $100 per worker is a safe bet
Best of Moving Prep
The best moving companies make your relocation more painless without putting too much strain on your wallet. Make sure to pick a mover with solid reviews, transparent costs and the level of service you need. Our guides lay out the best companies in the business so you can make the right choice for your move.
Latest Resources
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How to pack for a move
6/2/2023Planning a move? Get packing tips, tricks and hacks from industry experts and learn how to make your next move as stress-free as possible.
Jessica Render
Moving tips
6/1/2023Planning a move? Check out our favorite tips, tricks, hacks and general advice for making your next move easier, faster and less stressful.
Margaret Heidenry
5 ways to add curb appeal
6/1/2023From painting your front door to trimming the hedges, here are five ways to improve curb appeal when selling your home so it stands out.
Sally Jones
How much is a dumpster rental?
6/1/2023Interested in renting a dumpster but not sure how much it will cost? See dumpster rental costs and learn about what affects them and how to save.
Margaret Heidenry
Where to find moving boxes
6/1/2023Save money by reusing cardboard boxes — from grocery stores to Craigslist, here are places to find free or cheap moving boxes near you.
Sally Jones
Best one-way truck rentals
6/1/2023Moving and need a truck to relocate your things? Check out our guide to the best one-way truck rentals. Picks include U-Haul, Penske and Budget.
Tom Rains
How to move to Canada
5/25/2023Interested in moving to Canada? Learn what it takes, whether you’re eligible and what programs you can use to live in the Great White North.
Jennifer Schurman
Moving checklist
5/25/2023Looking for a checklist to help you stay organized during your move? Check out our list to learn what to do before, during and after.
Jennifer Schurman
How to move a piano
5/25/2023Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, transporting your bulkiest items — like a piano — can be a huge pain. Here’s how it’s done.
Diana Flowers
How to make a moving budget
5/24/2023Being financially prepared for your move can save you money and relieve unnecessary stress. Here’s how to make a moving budget and cut expenses.
Margaret Heidenry
How to avoid moving scams
5/18/2023Read our resource on the most common moving scams and how to spot a fraudulent moving company. Plus, find out how to choose a legitimate mover.
Tom Rains
What is a linear foot?
5/18/2023Moving comes with lots of measurements; the most basic of these may be the linear foot. Make sure you know what this term means before you move.
Diana Flowers
Best Moving Companies
5/12/2023Our picks include Colonial Van Lines, JK Moving Services and Allied Van Lines. Compare services and recent reviews to find the best mover for you.
Margaret Heidenry
5 reasons to ship your car
5/5/2023Wondering why you might need an auto transporter? Read this article from ConsumerAffairs to learn five good reasons to ship your car.
Rachel Morey
Find the best classic car transport services
5/5/2023Compare 4 of the best classic car transport services by looking at cost, insurance and more. Top picks include Sherpa, eShip and Montway.
Cassidy McCants
8 cheap ways to move across the country
5/5/2023Big moves can be stressful for all kinds of reasons, but there are ways to lessen the strain. Check out our tips for moving cheaply cross-country.
Jessica Render
How to change your address
4/28/2023Changing your address? Follow our guide to make sure the right government agencies and other organizations know your residence has changed.
Taylor Sansano
How to ship a car by train
4/28/2023Want to ship a car by train? We discuss costs, route options and the pros and cons — check it out so you can make an informed decision.
Margaret Heidenry
How much do movers cost?
4/26/2023Read about how to calculate your moving costs. Expect to pay by the hour for a local move and a flat fee based on weight and distance for long moves.
Jessica Render
Open vs. enclosed car shipping
4/13/2023Wondering whether you should ship your car in an open-air or closed shipping container? We can help you decide based on cost, risk and time.
Margaret Heidenry
Are moving expenses tax deductible?
4/7/2023The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made it harder to deduct moving expenses, but you may still qualify if you moved as part of your military service.
Chauncey Crail
How much does junk removal cost?
3/31/2023Trying to figure out how much junk removal will cost? We talked to junk removal companies nationwide to get real-world cost estimates.
Margaret Heidenry
Best Moving Containers and Portable Storage Units
3/30/2023Looking for a portable moving container or storage unit? Compare the top moving container companies. Learn about self-storage options and storage unit sizes in our guide.
Jessica Render
Best Car Shipping Companies of 2023
3/27/2023Based on reviews, the top auto transporters include Sherpa, Montway, eShip and AmeriFreight. Compare services and quotes to find the best for you.
Margaret Heidenry
5 types of moving companies
3/24/2023Many moving companies specialize in particular types of moves — local, long-distance, international, etc. — so it’s important to find the right fit.
Cassidy McCants
How much to tip movers
3/21/2023Hiring a moving company but not sure of the norms and etiquette for tipping? We’ve got answers for you, including when to tip and how much.
Jessica Render
How much does it cost to ship a car?
3/14/2023Looking to pay for auto transport service? Read our guide to learn about how car shipping is priced and what factors go into the cost.
Danny Russo
How to move to another state
2/27/2023Considering moving to a new state? There’s a lot to think about when moving across state lines, but we’ve got you covered with this moving checklist.
Jessica Render
The 10 states with the lowest cost of living
2/23/2023Which states have the lowest cost of living? ConsumerAffairs looked at taxes and housing, utility, food and gas costs to make some rankings.
Caren Weiner
Best Movers in Chicago, IL
2/13/2023Looking for movers? Don’t book until you read our list! Find services, rates and tips for selecting the best moving company in Chicago.
Jessica Render
Best pet shipping companies
2/10/2023Unsure about how to ship your pet? Learn more about how to choose the right transporter and see which made our list of the best shipping companies.
Taylor Sansano
Best short-distance moving companies
2/8/2023Moving somewhere not too far away? Professional movers can help. Read about our picks for the best short-distance moving companies this year.
Jennifer Schurman
Best interstate moving companies
2/3/2023Moving to another state? Hiring a moving company can simplify the process. Read about our picks for the best interstate moving companies this year.
Margaret Heidenry
Best climate-controlled storage units
2/3/2023Putting things in storage and need to protect fragile items from unstable temperatures? Read our guide to the best climate-controlled units.
Jennifer Schurman
Best packing services
1/24/2023Moving and need help packing? Professional movers can pack for you. Read our top picks for the best packing services available this year.
Jennifer Schurman
Best long-distance moving companies
1/20/2023Moving across the country? Hiring movers can simplify the process. Read about our picks for the best cross-country moving companies this year.
Jennifer Schurman
Best cheap moving companies
1/20/2023Moving and on a budget? Professional movers can be expensive, but some are more affordable than others. See our picks for cheap movers this year.
Jennifer Schurman
How much does it cost to move a piano?
1/19/2023Moving a piano usually takes a team of two to three and can be difficult without hiring help. But this can be costly — is the price worth it for you?
Diana Flowers
Tips for a successful garage sale
1/19/2023Successful yard sales don’t just happen — it’s smart to prepare in advance to ensure everything goes smoothly. Use these tips to help you sell more.
Lorraine Roberte
How to move out of your parents’ house
1/19/2023Feeling ready to venture out on your own? Congratulations! Read our guide to moving out of your parents’ house to get the process started.
Stephanie A. Mayberry
Best local moving companies
1/14/2023Moving somewhere local? Professional movers can help you get there. Read about our picks for the best companies for local moves this year.
Margaret Heidenry
How to tow a car on a trailer
1/10/2023Need to transport your car for a move? Read about the various ways to tow your car with a trailer, including closed and open carriers and tow dollies.
Danny Russo
Best motorcycle shipping companies
12/16/2022Find the best motorcycle shipping company by comparing cost, transport type and more. Top picks are King of the Road and Ship Your Car Now.
Tom Rains
How to ship a car
11/23/2022Looking to ship your car? Read about how to find an auto transport company so you can safely get your car on the road to its destination.
Diana Flowers
What size storage unit do I need?
11/23/2022Whether you’re moving the contents of a studio apartment or a four-bedroom house, here’s how to find the right size storage unit for you.
Sally Jones
How to move to another country
11/18/2022Moving abroad can feel intimidating, but with the right plan your move can go off without a hitch. Follow our step-by-step guide to get started.
Jessica Render
How much do storage units cost?
11/18/2022The size and type of unit, location and security features affect how much you’ll pay for storage. On average, you can plan to pay about $190 a month.
Danni White
How to pack a moving truck
11/18/2022When you move, it’s smart to make the most of your space in the truck and ensure everything shows up in one piece. Read about how to load in tiers.
Stephanie A. Mayberry
What is a USDOT number?
11/17/2022Check out this article to learn what a USDOT number is, why it’s important and how you can find it before you hire a moving company.
Diana Flowers
How much does it cost to move?
11/12/2022Moving is stressful. Not only is it physically and mentally exhausting — it can also be hard on the wallet. But how much does it really cost?
Taylor Sansano
How to pack dishes for moving
11/12/2022Moving soon and want to make sure to protect your dishes and kitchenware? We’ve got some packing tips to help you avoid a disaster in transit.
Jennifer Schurman
How to hire movers
11/8/2022Considering hiring moving help for an upcoming relocation? Check out our step-by-step guide to hiring a reputable and trustworthy moving company.
Margaret Heidenry
Where to buy wardrobe boxes
10/25/2022If you’re moving lots of clothing — especially bulky pieces — a wardrobe box might help you out. Read about where to find them and how to pack them.
Diana Flowers
How to move a hot tub
10/25/2022From hiring moving help and renting a crane or dolly to the DIY “roller” method, experts weigh in on the best ways to move a hot tub.
Sally Jones
Charities that offer free donation pickup
10/22/2022If you’re paring down your belongings, you might consider donating household items to charity. Several offer free donation pickup to ease the process.
Jennifer Schurman
Is moving insurance worth it?
10/14/2022Moving insurance doesn’t have to be confusing. Read about the types of coverage to see which is best for you. Plus, learn about costs and exclusions.
Tom Rains
19 things to do when moving into a new house
9/2/2022So you’ve just moved into a new house. Do you know what to do next? Use this move-in checklist to help you get settled in and protected.
Diana Flowers
Best Movers in Oklahoma City, OK
9/2/2022The best Oklahoma City moving companies can help make a stressful move easy. Read through our guide to learn the costs, how to prepare and how to choose.
Sandi Pope
Best Movers in Fresno, CA
9/2/2022The best Fresno moving companies can help take away the stress of moving. Check out our guide to compare companies, learn costs and how to choose.
Sandi Pope
Best Moving Companies in Fort Lauderdale, FL
9/2/2022Want to make your move easier? Check out our guide to find the best Fort Lauderdale moving companies. Learn how much it costs and the services you need.
Sandi Pope
How to rent a moving truck
4/14/2022Interested in renting a moving truck? Find out how, and if it’s better than hiring a moving company. Plus, see costs and commonly asked questions.
Tom Rains
What to know about moving quotes
4/7/2022Are you getting ready to move? Learn how to get an accurate quote from your moving company with this resource from ConsumerAffairs.
Jessica Render
How to unpack after moving
2/3/2022When you move into a new home or apartment, unpacking can be overwhelming. Follow our guide to make a plan and stay organized while unpacking.
Rosemary Avance, Ph.D.
U-Pack vs. PODS
2/3/2022U-Pack and PODS offer similar shipping container moving and storage services. Compare pricing and reviews to find out which is best for you.
Amelia York
Moving yourself vs. hiring movers
2/3/2022Are you planning a move? Read this before you decide between moving yourself or hiring movers. Learn about all your options before you move.
Jami Barnett, Ph.D.
Tips for moving with kids
2/3/2022Moving with kids can be difficult. From moving day to settling in, ConsumerAffairs has tips and tricks for helping children deal with a move.
Jami Barnett, Ph.D.
Best Movers in Dallas, TX
10/15/2021Use our guide to find the best movers in Dallas. Compare price, services and availability of the top moving companies in Dallas, Texas.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in San Antonio, TX
10/15/2021Looking for a mover? Don’t book until you read our list! Find services, rates, and tips for selecting the best moving company in San Antonio.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Indianapolis, IN
10/15/2021Looking for a moving company near you? Use our guide to find the best movers in Indianapolis. Compare prices, services, availability and more.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Austin, TX
10/13/2021Use our guide to find the best movers in Austin. Compare price, services and availability of the top moving companies in Austin, Texas.
Jessica Render
Best Moving Companies in Knoxville, TN
10/13/2021Looking to make your move easy? Check out our guide to find the best Knoxville moving companies. Learn what questions to ask and what services you need.
Sandi Pope
Best Movers in Philadelphia, PA
10/13/2021Looking for professional help during your move? We created a list of the best Philadelphia moving companies so you can compare costs and pick the right one.
Sandi Pope
Best Movers in Kansas City
9/30/2021Find the best movers in Kansas City. Compare price, services and availability of the top moving companies in Kansas City—on both sides of the state line.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Orlando, Florida
9/30/2021Find the best movers in Orlando. Compare price, services and availability of the top moving companies in Orlando, Florida.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Tulsa, OK
9/30/2021Find the best movers in Tulsa. Compare price, services and availability of the top moving companies in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Jessica Render
Best Moving Companies in Cincinnati, OH
9/30/2021Find the best movers in Cincinnati. Compare price, services and availability of the top moving companies in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Houston, TX
9/30/2021Moving within or out of Houston? Don’t book a mover until you read our list of the top reliable moving companies serving the Houston area.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Los Angeles, CA
9/30/2021Looking for a reliable mover in LA? Don’t book your move before you read our top picks for the best moving companies in Los Angeles.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in San Diego, CA
9/30/2021Looking for a moving company in San Diego? Use our guide to compare moving services, costs and tips for selecting the best San Diego movers.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Las Vegas, NV
9/30/2021Looking for a moving company in Las Vegas? Don’t book until you read our list! Find services, rates and tips for selecting the best Las Vegas mover.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Sacramento, CA
9/30/2021Looking for a mover? Use our guide to find the best moving companies in Sacramento. Compare pricing, services, availability and more.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Pittsburgh, PA
9/30/2021Looking for movers near you? Use our guide to find the best Pittsburgh moving companies. Compare services, prices and availability.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Portland, OR
9/30/2021Looking for movers near you? Use our guide to find the best Portland moving companies. Compare services, fees, prices and availability.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Atlanta, GA
9/30/2021Looking for movers near you? Use our guide to find the best Atlanta moving companies. Compare services, rates, availability and more.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Albuquerque, NM
9/30/2021Looking for movers near you? Use our guide to find the best Albuquerque moving companies. Compare services, cost, availability and more.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Milwaukee, WI
9/30/2021Looking for movers near you? Use our guide to find the best Milwaukee moving companies. Compare services, prices, availability and more.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Seattle, WA
9/30/2021Planning a move? Check out this guide to find the best Seattle moving companies to learn the costs and services so you don't have to do the heavy lifting.
Sandi Pope
Best Movers in Miami, FL
9/30/2021Wanting to save time during your move? Be sure to read our guide to find the best Miami moving companies. Compare prices and services.
Sandi Pope
Best Movers in Memphis, TN
9/30/2021Looking to make your move easier? We created a list of the best Memphis movers so you can let others do the heavy lifting. Compare costs and services.
Sandi Pope
Best Movers in Denver, CO
9/30/2021Use our guide to find the best movers in Dever. Compare price, services and availability of the top moving companies in Denver, Colorado.
Jessica Render
Best Movers in Honolulu, HI
9/30/2021Want a hassle-free move? Read our guide to find the best Honolulu movers so you can compare costs and learn how to choose the best mover.
Sandi Pope
Best International Moving Companies
9/27/2021Jessica Render
Best Corporate Relocation Companies
9/27/2021Looking for corporate relocation services? Compare the top corporate relocation companies using consumer reviews and our comprehensive buyers guide.
Jonathan Trout
International car shipping costs
4/28/2021The cost to ship a car internationally can range from $1,000 to $5,000 for ocean transport. Learn about additional costs and the documents needed.
Tom Rains
Moving Company Local Recommendations
- Northeast
- Southeast
- Midwest
- Southwest
- West
Car Shipping Company Local Recommendations
Auto transport rates vary widely based on the starting location and destination, so we created local guides for some of the most important auto transport hubs across the U.S. You can find a list of national and local auto hauling companies on each guide.
- Northeast
- Southeast
- Midwest
- Southwest
- West