We’ve reviewed over 3,500 moving companies and compared pricing, services, and customer experiences to identify the top movers for state-to-state relocations in 2026. This guide covers everything you need to evaluate, compare, and hire the right company for your move.
The Best Interstate Moving Companies of 2026
After evaluating licensing data, FMCSA safety records, BBB ratings, pricing transparency, and thousands of customer reviews, these are the interstate moving companies that consistently earn the highest marks across the areas that matter most.
- JK Moving Services
- North American Van Lines (NAVL)
- Allied Van Lines
- United Van Lines
- Mayflower Transit
- International Van Lines (IVL)
- National Van Lines
- Safeway Moving
We’ve outlined each company’s services, pricing model, coverage area, and what each is best for below. The rest of this guide also walks through how to compare interstate movers, understand estimates, avoid scams, and protect your belongings if something goes wrong.
Top Interstate Moving Company Profiles
The following profiles feature the interstate movers that stand out most consistently based on FMCSA safety data, BBB ratings, pricing transparency, and customer review patterns.
JK Moving Services
- Type: Carrier
- Founded: 1982
- Headquarters: Sterling, Virginia
- Coverage: Interstate and international moves
- Notable features: Full-service packing, storage, trained in-house crews, financing through Enhancify
- Best for: High-value, large, or more complex household moves
JK Moving Services is one of the best-known independent interstate movers in the country, and it stands out for customers who want a more controlled, full-service experience from start to finish. Because JK operates as a carrier, it offers more direct accountability than brokers, which can matter if you’re moving expensive furniture, fragile items, or a larger home.
The company also offers packing, storage, corporate relocation, and international moving services, making it a strong fit for households that need more than basic transport. Financing is another differentiator, especially if you’re trying to spread out a high moving bill over time.
Keep reading our full JK Moving Services review.
North American Van Lines (NAVL)
- Type: Van line that acts as both a broker and carrier
- Founded: 1933
- Parent company: SIRVA
- Coverage: All 50 states plus international relocations
- Notable features: Binding, non-binding, and not-to-exceed estimates, storage, auto transport, and shipment tracking
- Best for: Customers who want flexible estimate options and broad service coverage
North American Van Lines is a long-established national brand that works through a large agent network, which gives it a broad geographic reach and a wide selection of interstate moving services. One of its biggest advantages is its flexible estimates: NAVL is one of the better-known movers offering binding, non-binding, and not-to-exceed pricing structures, which gives customers more choice depending on how much price certainty they want.
NAVL also offers packing, storage, auto transport, and specialty handling, so it works well for households that need a customizable move instead of a one-size-fits-all package. For many shoppers, the main appeal of NAVL is the combination of scale, name recognition, and pricing flexibility.
Keep reading our full North American Van Lines review.
Allied Van Lines
- Type: Van line that acts as both a broker and carrier
- Founded: 1928
- Parent company: SIRVA
- Coverage: All 50 states and 130+ countries
- Notable features: International reach, packing and storage services, vehicle shipping, and shipment tracking
- Best for: International moves or interstate moves with more complex logistics
Allied Van Lines is one of the most established names in the moving industry, and its biggest strength is reach. With service across all 50 states and a large international footprint, Allied is especially appealing to customers planning a complex relocation, an overseas move, or one that involves vehicles and storage.
Like other van lines, Allied works through an agent network rather than a single company-owned operation, so local execution can vary, but the brand’s scale and service menu make it a strong contender for full-service interstate moves. It’s especially attractive for customers who want one company to coordinate both domestic and international moving needs.
Keep reading our full Allied Van Lines review.
United Van Lines
- Type: Van line that acts as both a broker and carrier
- Founded: 1928
- Parent company: UniGroup
- Coverage: Nationwide plus international destinations
- Notable features: Large agent network, customizable full-service plans, packing, storage, and shipment tracking
- Best for: Large household moves where agent coverage and capacity matter
United Van Lines is one of the largest interstate moving companies in the U.S., and its scale is a major reason it made our list. The company works through a broad agent network, which can be especially useful for larger household moves, higher-volume shipments, or relocations that need storage, packing, and destination services bundled together.
United also offers customizable service packages, so customers can build a more tailored move based on their needs. For shoppers comparing major van lines, United’s main draw is its combination of national coverage, broad service availability, and the infrastructure to handle more complex cross-country moves.
Keep reading our full United Van Lines review.
Mayflower Transit
- Type: Van line that acts as both a broker and carrier
- Founded: 1927
- Parent company: UniGroup
- Coverage: Nationwide plus international relocation services
- Notable features: Packing, storage, long-distance moving, and a Snapmoves program for smaller shipments
- Best for: Full-service interstate moves, especially for customers who want a legacy national brand
Mayflower Transit is one of the oldest national moving brands in the country, and it remains a strong option for full-service interstate moves thanks to its large network and broad service range. The company offers packing, storage, and long-distance moving support, and its Snapmoves program can be especially useful for customers with smaller shipments who still want a professionally coordinated move.
Like United, Mayflower operates under the UniGroup umbrella and uses a network-based model, so its strength is less about being the cheapest option and more about dependable nationwide reach and established moving infrastructure. It’s a good fit for customers who value a recognizable brand with broad interstate experience.
Keep reading our full Mayflower Transit review.
International Van Lines (IVL)
- Type: Van line that acts as both a broker and carrier
- Founded: 2000
- Headquarters: Coral Springs, Florida
- Coverage: All 50 states and international service worldwide
- Notable features: Long-distance moving, international relocation, packing, storage, and car shipping
- Best for: Customers who may need both interstate and international moving support
International Van Lines has built its reputation on long-distance and international relocations, making it a good fit for customers whose move may involve overseas shipping, cross-border logistics, or multiple service add-ons. The company handles interstate moves across all 50 states and also offers packing, storage, and auto transport, giving it a broader service footprint than many movers focused solely on domestic household moves.
IVL is appealing to customers who want one point of contact for a move that may extend beyond a standard state-to-state relocation. It’s also a reasonable option if you prioritize communication and bundled service availability over choosing a legacy van line brand.
Keep reading our full International Van Lines review.
National Van Lines
- Type: Van line that acts as both a broker and carrier
- Founded: 1929
- Headquarters: Broadview, Illinois
- Coverage: Nationwide long-distance moves plus international relocations
- Notable features: Packing, storage, specialty moving services, and a long operating history
- Best for: Shoppers who want a long-established national mover with competitive pricing
National Van Lines is a long-running moving company with nearly a century in business, and it stands out as a dependable choice for long-distance household relocations. The company offers packing, storage, and specialty moving support, and its longevity gives it more brand familiarity than some newer national players.
While it doesn’t always dominate consumer discussions the way some larger van lines do, National can still be a good fit for customers who want a traditional interstate mover with broad service capabilities and a long operating track record.
Safeway Moving
- Type: Van line that acts as both a broker and carrier
- Founded: 2019
- Headquarters: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Coverage: Nationwide interstate moving
- Notable features: Flat-rate pricing, GPS tracking on many trucks, storage and packing options, and long-distance focus
- Best for: Customers who want a more price-forward interstate option with a strong service pitch
Safeway Moving has become a popular name in interstate moving by emphasizing transparent pricing, long-distance specialization, and a more modern, customer-facing sales approach. The company emphasizes flat-rate quotes, nationwide interstate service, and added conveniences like packing, storage, and tracking support on many trucks.
Safeway isn’t the same type of legacy van line as Allied, United, or Mayflower, but it’s built a strong profile among shoppers looking for a more contemporary long-distance moving brand. Its biggest draw is usually the combination of pricing clarity, hands-on customer support, and an interstate focus.
Keep reading our full Safeway Moving review.
How We Ranked the Best Interstate Moving Companies
We evaluated interstate movers using a mix of regulatory data, pricing transparency, service availability, and customer feedback patterns. Every company on this list is licensed for interstate transportation and was reviewed across several criteria that matter most for long-distance moves.
- FMCSA licensing and safety records: We verified each mover’s USDOT registration, operating authority, and safety record using federal transportation databases.
- Pricing transparency: Companies were evaluated based on how clearly they explain estimates, deposits, and additional fees.
- Customer reviews: We analyzed thousands of reviews across major platforms to identify patterns in delivery reliability, damage claims, and billing disputes.
- Service coverage: National coverage, agent networks, and international capabilities played into our review of each long-distance mover.
- Service options: Movers offering packing, storage, vehicle transport, and specialty handling scored higher for households with more complex relocation needs.
How to Verify a Moving Company Is Legitimate
Every legitimate interstate moving company must be registered with the FMCSA. Verifying this takes under two minutes and is the single most important step you can take before requesting a quote.
Step 1: Get the USDOT number
Ask any moving company for its USDOT number before engaging further. Legitimate companies display this prominently. If a company hesitates or can’t provide one, stop the conversation.
Step 2: Look it up on FMCSA SAFER
Go to FMCSA’s SAFER database and enter the USDOT number. You’ll see the company’s legal name, authorization status, safety rating, and operating status.
Step 3: Cross-reference with BBB and review sites
Check the company’s BBB profile for accreditation status, rating, and complaint history. Then cross-reference with consumer review sites, and pay special attention to reviews that mention delivery timing, claims handling, and pricing surprises.
If you’re working with a broker, verify both the broker’s FMCSA registration and the carrier assigned to your move. If the broker can’t provide the carrier’s name and USDOT number before move day, cancel.
Types of Interstate Moving Quotes
Interstate moving quotes come in three distinct formats. It’s important to understand what each one guarantees.
- Binding estimate: A binding estimate is a guaranteed price. The mover cannot charge more than this amount as long as the scope of the move stays the same. This is the most consumer-protective estimate type and is strongly recommended for interstate moves.
- Non-binding estimate: A non-binding estimate is a projection, not a guarantee. Your final price is calculated after your goods are weighed. Under FMCSA’s 110% rule, a mover cannot require you to pay more than 110% of a non-binding estimate at delivery, but the remaining balance can still be billed afterward.
- Not-to-exceed estimate: A not-to-exceed estimate acts like a cap. If your shipment weighs less than estimated, your price drops. If it weighs more, your price doesn’t increase above the agreed ceiling.
How Interstate Moving Prices Are Calculated
Most interstate moves are priced primarily on:
- Shipment weight in pounds
- Distance traveled in miles
- Labor requirements and crew size
- Seasonality and demand
- Add-on services such as packing, storage, and specialty item handling
Typical Interstate Moving Costs in 2026
The following ranges reflect the most recent 2026 market pricing for full-service interstate moves booked through a carrier or van line, not a broker.
Most interstate moving companies calculate pricing based primarily on shipment weight and the distance traveled.
| Move size | 500 miles | 1,000 miles | 2,000+ miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,200–$2,500 | $1,800–$4,000 | $3,000–$5,500 |
| 2 bedroom | $2,500–$5,000 | $3,500–$7,000 | $5,000–$10,000 |
| 3 bedroom | $4,000–$7,500 | $5,500–$10,000 | $7,000–$14,000 |
| 4+ bedroom / full house | $6,000–$11,000 | $8,000–$15,000 | $10,000–$20,000+ |
Portable container options like U-Pack can cost less, but they require you to handle packing and loading yourself. If you want a more personalized estimate, use our moving cost calculator.
How to Reduce the Cost of Your Interstate Move
- Declutter before the estimate: Your price is based in part on shipment weight. Removing items before you get a quote can meaningfully reduce your cost. See our guide to decluttering.
- Move in the off-season: September through April is usually cheaper than peak summer months.
- Pack yourself: Full-service packing is convenient, but it is one of the most expensive add-ons.
- Get at least three binding estimates: Comparing quotes gives you a pricing benchmark and leverage.
- Negotiate: Interstate moving prices are often negotiable, especially when carriers have open capacity.
- Ask about financing: JK Moving offers financing through Enhancify for qualified customers.
How to Protect Yourself from Interstate Moving Scams
The moving industry has lots of legitimate companies and some bad actors. Watch for these warning signs before and during your move.
Pre-booking Red Flags
- Unusually low quote: If one quote is dramatically lower than the others, it may be bait pricing.
- No in-home or virtual survey: Reliable movers usually need to see your inventory before issuing an accurate binding estimate.
- Large upfront deposit: A demand for more than 20%–25% upfront is a major warning sign.
- No USDOT number: Any company unwilling to provide one should be disqualified immediately.
- Generic or recently changed company name: Frequent rebranding can be a sign of avoiding complaints.
Pickup-day Red Flags
- Different company name on the truck: Do not allow loading until you know exactly who is handling your goods.
- Blank or incomplete bill of lading: Every major term should be filled in before you sign.
- Pressure to sign quickly: Reputable movers give you time to review documents.
Timing & Scheduling
How Far Ahead Should You Book a Long-distance Move?
- Peak season (May–August): Book at least 6–8 weeks ahead.
- Off-peak (September–April): 2–4 weeks is often enough, though more lead time gives you better options.
- Last-minute moves: Possible, but usually more expensive and less predictable.
Peak-season Pricing Premium
Expect to pay 15%–25% more for the same move in summer than in late fall or winter.
Delivery Windows vs. Guaranteed Dates
Standard interstate delivery windows often run 5–14 business days from pickup. Guaranteed delivery dates are available from some carriers, but they usually cost more.
Alternatives to Full-Service Movers: Portable Containers & Hybrid Moves
If you’re willing to handle your own packing and unpacking, portable containers can provide a reliable, lower-cost alternative to full-service moving.
- PODS: Flexible container delivery and optional storage.
- U-Pack: Pay only for the trailer space you use; often one of the most affordable long-distance options.
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: Similar to PODS with weather-resistant containers and flexible scheduling.
The tradeoff is that these services do not provide the same hands-on labor or level of consumer protection as a full-service interstate carrier.
If you’re trying to cut costs, see our full U-Pack review for one of the strongest DIY-friendly interstate options.
How to Read Moving Company Reviews Critically
Star ratings alone don’t tell the whole story. Use these tips to vet moving companies using their third-party reviews:
- Review recency: A strong lifetime rating may hide weaker recent performance. Look at the most recent reviews for a current snapshot of how a mover is doing.
- Complaint category: Reviews about damage, late delivery, and billing disputes matter more than vague praises.
- BBB complaints: Check complaints, not just letter grades, and see if they were resolved or not.
- Fake review patterns: Watch for clusters of generic five-star reviews posted within a short period of time, since they may have been paid for or incentivized.
Compare the Best Interstate Moving Companies by State
If you’re narrowing down options based on where you live, these state-specific mover guides can help.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right interstate mover comes down to a few non-negotiable steps: verify federal licensing before talking to a mover, get binding estimates from at least three licensed carriers, read every document before signing, and document your belongings before the truck arrives.
The companies that usually earn the highest marks, including JK Moving, North American Van Lines, Allied, Mayflower, and United, aren’t necessarily the cheapest. They stand out for their transparency, accountability, and how they handle problems when things go wrong. That is the standard every mover you consider should be held to.
Need a quote? Start with three binding estimates from FMCSA-licensed movers, then use the SAFER database to verify every company before signing anything.
Use our moving cost calculator to compare quotes from reputable movers.