Moving Across the Country? Here Are The Smarter Ways to Choose the Right Long Distance Movers
Moving across the country or to a different state can be one of the most exciting yet overwhelming experiences of your life. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, starting fresh with your family, or simply craving a change in scenery, a long distance move requires more than just packing up boxes. Choosing the right moving company can make all the difference in how smooth, affordable, and stress-free your move turns out to be.
Discover the Movers That Americans Trust Most for Cross-Country Relocation
We’ll go over the top long distance moving companies of 2025, what to look for in a mover, how to avoid scams, and how to obtain the greatest deal in this in-depth guide. By reducing the list to just the most trustworthy, effective, and customer-focused movers in the industry, we’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to.
Not all movers are created equal. The best long distance moving companies stand out by offering a combination of reliability, transparency, comprehensive services, and excellent customer support. Here are some qualities to look for:
Licensed and Insured: Always verify that a mover is properly licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Transparent Pricing: Look for clear estimates, binding quotes, and no hidden fees.
Experience and Reputation: Years in the business and strong customer reviews speak volumes.
Full-Service Options: Packing, unpacking, storage, and furniture assembly are a huge plus.
Nationwide Coverage: The best movers serve all 50 states and offer flexibility in delivery windows.
Top 7 Long Distance Moving Companies of 2025
1. American Family Mover
American Family Mover is a trusted name in the industry, known for treating your belongings like their own. They offer personalized service, competitive pricing, and white glove moving options that cater to both families and individuals.
Highlights:
Full-service packing and unpacking
Licensed and insured
Experienced with both local and long distance moves
Outstanding customer support
Best for: Personalized moves with a family-friendly touch.
2. North American Van Lines
With over 80 years of experience, North American Van Lines is one of the most established names in the game. They provide seamless cross-country moving experiences, with GPS tracking and customizable services.
Highlights:
Real-time tracking
Furniture disassembly and reassembly
Dedicated moving coordinators
Best for: Tech-savvy customers and large households.
3. Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines offers an excellent balance between cost and service. Their extensive agent network ensures timely delivery and localized customer care across the U.S.
Highlights:
In-home and virtual estimates
Temporary and long-term storage options
Optional full-value protection coverage
Best for: Budget-conscious moves with flexible options.
4. Mayflower Transit
Mayflower has been a go-to for long distance moves for over 90 years. They offer a variety of service packages to fit your unique relocation needs.
Highlights:
Move coordination and personal move plans
Debris removal and setup assistance
Add-on services like real estate and cleaning help
Best for: Comprehensive relocation support.
5. U-Pack Moving and Storage
If you’re looking to save money and are open to doing some of the work yourself, U-Pack is a fantastic option. They drop off the trailer, you load it, and they drive it to your new home.
Highlights:
Pay only for the space you use
Fast transit times
No deposits or hidden fees
Best for: DIY movers and college students.
6. International Van Lines (IVL)
IVL is a great choice if your move includes crossing international borders or if you need flexibility with storage and timing.
Highlights:
Domestic and international moving options
Flexible scheduling
Wide range of insurance coverage
Best for: International and cross-border moves.
7. United Van Lines
United Van Lines is one of the largest and most recognizable names in the moving industry. Their technology-driven services and extensive agent network make them a top pick.
Highlights:
Online move tracking
Specialized services for military and corporate moves
Full-service packing options
Best for: Corporate relocations and military families.
How to Choose the Right Long Distance Moving Company for You
While all the companies listed above have stellar reputations, your ideal mover depends on your unique needs. Here’s how to narrow it down:
Assess Your Budget: Are you willing to pay more for convenience or looking for a DIY-friendly option?
Determine Your Timeline: Some movers offer quicker delivery windows than others.
Know Your Inventory: Bulky or fragile items may require specialty handling.
Check Reviews: Third-party sites like Yelp, Google, and Better Business Bureau are goldmines for honest feedback.
Request Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first estimate—compare at least 3.
Red Flags to Avoid in Long Distance Movers
Unfortunately, not every moving company plays fair. Watch out for these red flags:
Lack of licensing or insurance
Demands for large upfront deposits
Vague or no written estimates
Unprofessional customer service or aggressive sales tactics
If something feels off, trust your gut.
Money-Saving Tips for Long Distance Moves
Move during the off-season (fall or winter) for better rates
Purge before you pack to reduce the size and cost of your move
Get free supplies from local stores or community groups
Bundle services like packing and storage for discounts
A long distance move is more than a logistical task—it’s a life-changing experience. By choosing the right moving company, you’re not just transporting belongings, you’re safeguarding memories and building your future.
Whether you go with American Family Mover for their family-focused approach or U-Pack for affordability and control, the key is to plan ahead, stay informed, and work with a team you can trust.
Choose movers with experience, licensing, and solid reviews
Compare estimates and services before deciding
Avoid scams by knowing the warning signs
Personalize your move with add-ons that matter to you
Get started today by requesting quotes from your top 3 picks. Whether you’re headed across the state or across the country, the right moving partner is just a click away.
Need help getting connected with a top-rated mover like American Family Mover? Reach out now and take the first step toward a smooth, stress-free relocation!