Here’s the bottom line: The average cost of hiring professional movers in Michigan is $138.75 per hour. Your overall cost will be influenced by distance, weight, and additional services.
Compare the cost of Michigan movers by type:
Cost of Long-Distance Moves in Michigan
Long-distance moves in Michigan are calculated based on weight, mileage, and the selected services and add-ons like packing. The cost for a move within 500 miles ranges from $2,467 – $4,483, while moves over 1,000 miles may cost up to $6,000 or more.
Top Interstate Movers in Michigan
1. Safeway Moving, Inc.
Started in Florida in 2020, Safeway Moving rapidly earned a reputation as a top and trustworthy company. They prioritize efficient and timely moves at fair prices. Safeway offers full-service moving, 24/7 customer support, flat-rate pricing, a price-match guarantee, and special deals and resources for seniors.
The company can handle long-distance relocations in all 50 U.S. states, as well as international moves.
Get a quote: Safeway Moving
2. International Van Lines
Established in 2000, International Van Lines is a top moving company serving over 180 countries worldwide. They handle local, long-distance, and international moves, providing services like packing, auto transport, and 30 days of free storage. IVL is praised for its great customer service, fair prices, and special discounts for seniors and veterans.
Get a quote: International Van Lines
3. Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation, a family-owned moving company on the East Coast, prioritizes customer satisfaction. They provide 24/7 support, binding flat-rate pricing, 30 days of free storage, and full refunds for cancellations made seven days in advance. Mayzlin manages long-distance moves across 48 states and local moves in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas. The company ensures reliability with its round-the-clock customer support.
4. BLVD Moving
BLVD Moving, located in California, focuses on both local and long-distance moves within the U.S. This family-run business offers affordable prices with guaranteed estimates and same-day quotes. Their services cover packing, furniture assembly, storage coordination, and careful handling of fragile items. BLVD hires full-time professional movers and does not use subcontractors. They also provide a flexible rescheduling policy. Known for their efficient quoting process and dependable service, BLVD Moving is a standout choice.
5. American Van Lines
American Van Lines, based in Florida, is a full-service moving company with skilled crews and expertise in long-distance moves. They offer packing, storage, and special care for items such as antiques and pianos. Operating across the continental U.S., they provide flat-rate pricing to prevent unexpected charges.
Get a quote: American Van Lines
Cost of Local Michigan Movers
The cost of local movers in Michigan varies based on where you live in the state, as well as your home size, and the services you select. On average, expect to pay $482 – $1,492 for a local move in cities like Detroit. Local movers typically charge by the hour, with generally higher rates in urban areas.
Top Local Movers in Michigan
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Handle With Care Moving, 4.8 out of 5.0
- Two Men and a Truck, 4.8 out of 5.0
- Corrigan Moving Systems, 4.72 out of 5.0
- Powell Relocation Group, 4.66 out of 5.0
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 31
- Years in business: 2018
- State License: 37327
- Phone: (336) 810-1801
- Address: 2927 Millcork St, Kalamazoo, MI, 49001
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving is a top-tier moving company servicing the Kalamazoo, MI region and beyond. Established in 2017, they have already amassed an impressive reputation for their comprehensive offering of both local and long-distance residential moving services. Their suite of offerings also includes office moving services, intensive packing and unpacking services – a feature not always available with nearby competitors. Focused on customer convenience, they provide labor-only services alongside accepting credit card payments without requiring any deposit. Their sterling service is reflected in their online presence, boasting a 4.5 Yelp rating from 32 reviews and a stellar 4.9 average from an impressive 2116 Google My Business reviews. They also maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, setting them apart as a reliable and trusted choice in the moving industry.
Handle With Care Moving
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 26
- Years in business: 1994
- State License: 359936
- Phone: (734) 677-2000
- Address: 4260 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108
Handle With Care Moving stands out as a trusted and highly rated moving company in and around Ann Arbor, Michigan. Established in 1993, this company has a wealth of experience in providing not only local residential moving services but also long distance residential and office moving services. Moreover, Handle With Care Moving further distinguishes itself from other local movers through its comprehensive suite of services, from packing, unpacking to crating, and even fragile only packing when necessary. It also offers labor-only services for those in need of just some extra assistance. In contrast to other moving companies, it accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, demonstrating its commitment to customer convenience. Their reputation for reliable and professional service is reflected in the impressive 4.8 average rating from 271 reviews on their Google My Business profile, bettering the average of the local competition. An A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau corroborates these positive customer experiences. Despite having a slightly lower Yelp rating of 4.0 from 26 reviews, Handle With Care Moving remains a stand out choice for anyone considering moving services in the Ann Arbor area.
Two Men and a Truck
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 21
- Years in business: 2009
- State License:
- Phone: (616) 371-4019
- Address: 1115 Taylor Avenue North, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
Two Men and a Truck, operating in and around Grand Rapids, MI since 2008, offers a comprehensive suite of moving services. Notably, they fulfill both local and long distance residential moves, distinguishing themselves from several nearby competitors who solely focus on local moves. Their services extend to careful packing and unpacking, as well as offering a labor-only service. Remarkably, they possess the unique aptitude to safely move delicate items like pianos and grandfather clocks. Unlike many of their competitors, Two Men and a Truck require no deposit, making the moving process more convenient for their customers. Their online reputation speaks volumes about their reliable and high-quality service, as demonstrated by a high rating of 4.7 from 345 reviews on Google My Business. Furthermore, they’ve earned an average rating of 3.9 from 18 reviews on Yelp and have managed to gain an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. In comparison to other moving companies in the area, Two Men and a Truck stand out for their comprehensive services, expertise, and customer satisfaction.
Corrigan Moving Systems
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 20
- Years in business: 1928
- State License:
- Phone: (616) 455-4500
- Address: 7409 Expressway Court Southwest, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
With a legacy dating back to 1927, Corrigan Moving Systems is not your average moving company. This Michigan-based mover offers superior, all-inclusive residential moving services both locally in Grand Rapids and beyond, outpacing other nearby options with their capacity for long-distance and international moves. Among their broad spectrum of services, you’ll find packing, unpacking, and crating services, making them a one-stop solution for any moving needs. They distinguish themselves further from the competition by requiring no deposit upfront, a testament to their confidence in providing seamless moving experiences. Online, they hold a commendable presence with a notable 3.5-star rating on Yelp and an impressive 4.7-star rating on Google My Business from a substantial number of reviews. Moreover, their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau underlies their commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction. Corrigan Moving Systems indeed sets the standard for moving companies in the Grand Rapids area.
Powell Relocation Group
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 8
- Years in business: 1964
- State License: 261884
- Phone: (616) 956-0900
- Address: 4937 Starr St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546
With an excellent reputation spanning nearly 60 years, Powell Relocation Group stands apart from other moving companies in the Grand Rapids, MI, area. Offering an array of services including local, long distance, and international residential moves as well as office relocations, the company also specializes in military and senior moving services. The Group’s ability to handle sensitive items such as pianos, hot tubs, art, antiques, and safes not only sets them apart but also makes them a preferred choice compared to other local providers. Powell’s packing and crating services are a testament to their thorough approach to relocation. The company recognizes the importance of convenience and trust in the moving process, accepting credit cards without requiring any deposit. Moreover, they provide full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking, giving customers peace of mind. The commendable customer service of Powell Relocation Group is reflected in their impressive online presence, boasting a flawless 5.0 star rating on Yelp from four reviews and an admirable 4.7-star rating from 155 reviews on Google My Business. Culminating these achievements, the Better Business Bureau has recognized the company’s commitment to quality and integrity with an A+ rating. Compared with other moving companies in the area, Powell Relocation Group consistently surpasses expectations, providing reliable and top-notch services to residents in and around Grand Rapids, MI.
See a list of all the best movers in Michigan
Cost of Small Load Movers in Michigan
Small load movers are ideal for moves under 2,000 pounds, such as a studio or small one-bedroom apartment. Costs range from $310 – $1,480, depending on the specifics of your move. Factors like how far you’re moving, the types of items you have, and whether you choose any add-on options will impact your price.
Top Small Load Movers in Michigan
1. U-Pack
U-Pack is an excellent option for small moves because you only pay for the container space you use. Their “you load, we drive” model is economical and perfect for those with fewer items. U-Pack provides quick delivery, covers the whole country, and offers online tracking for your convenience. However, U-Pack doesn’t handle local moves, restricts loading/unloading to three business days, and charges fees for cancellations made within a week of the move.
2. Transit Systems Inc.
Transit Systems, Inc. (TSI), located in Pennsylvania, focuses on small moves, long-distance relocations, and secure shipping of delicate, valuable, and large or heavy items. Their services include white-glove packing, custom crating, car shipping, and guaranteed delivery dates. Since starting in 1989, TSI has built a reputation for reliability and great customer service in the contiguous U.S. They are ideal for one- to two-bedroom moves and offer clear pricing with personalized quotes.
3. uShip
uShip is an online marketplace linking customers with drivers and movers who have extra truck space, providing an affordable option for small moves, furniture, vehicle transport, or equipment shipping. Customers post their needs and receive competitive bids through a pay-as-you-go model. Perfect for flexible schedules, uShip can reduce costs for long-distance and interstate moves. However, prices and service quality can differ based on the independent driver offering their services on uShip.
Cost To Rent a Moving Truck in Michigan
Renting a truck in Michigan costs $30-$100 per day, plus mileage fees and fuel costs. Popular rental companies often charge additional fees for one-way trips.
Top Moving Truck Rentals in Michigan
1. Penske
Penske Truck Rental provides cost-effective and dependable moving trucks, complete with roadside assistance and guaranteed reservations, for both local and long-distance DIY moves. They offer clear pricing and unlimited mileage for one-way trips, eliminating extra mileage fees. With various truck sizes and additional options like towing equipment and moving supplies, Penske has you covered. Seasonal promotions and discounts for military members, AAA, and students offer further savings on your self-managed move.
2. Budget
Budget Truck Rental operates in all 50 states and offers an easy online reservation system. They make DIY moving more accessible without extra fees. Their base rates are very competitive, include unlimited mileage for long-distance trips, and they offer discounts for students, military personnel, and AARP members. They provide various truck sizes to fit anything from studio apartments to entire households.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul offers rental trucks across the U.S. with over 20,000 locations nationwide and in Canada. They provide various vehicles such as cargo vans, pickups, and trucks from 10 to 26 feet. Local rentals charge by the mile, while long-distance moves include a set mileage allowance. Extras like trailers, moving containers, and storage units help tailor your move to your needs.
Cost of Moving Containers in Michigan
Moving containers cost anywhere from $487 – $4,986, depending on factors like container size and distance.
Top Moving Container Companies in Michigan
1. PODS
PODS provides flexible storage and DIY moving solutions with portable containers, letting customers pack at their own pace. The containers come in three sizes: eight, 12, and 16 feet, and are rented on a monthly basis. This rental plan includes storage time, ideal for those who need flexibility around their move. PODS services local and long-distance moves across the U.S., except in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming.
2. U-Pack
U-Pack is available nationwide and offers clear pricing, making it both affordable and convenient. Costs are kept low as you pay only for the space you use in their 28-foot trailers or smaller ReloCubes. Fuel, driving, and transport are included, so you just need to handle packing and unloading. There are no monthly storage fees – charges are based on transit. U-Pack’s sturdy, weatherproof containers and fast delivery help ensure your items arrive safely at your new home.
Moving Cost Factors in Michigan
- Distance: Longer distances increase costs, since moving estimates also include the cost of fuel, as well as driver time and any toll roads.
- Home size: Larger homes require more time and resources to complete and may require a larger moving crew.
- Season: Moving during the peak summer season and on weekends is more expensive because demand is higher.
- Add-ons: Optional services like packing, storage, or specialty items will increase your costs.
- Insurance: If you want additional protection beyond the moving company’s free coverage, you will have to purchase a comprehensive plan.
Tips To Cut Moving Costs in Michigan
- Move during the off-season. Scheduling your move during the moving industry’s slower time of year (mid-September though early May) could save you some money. Movers typically charge more during their peak season due to high demand. Planning a move outside of the busy summer months can also help ensure you get the exact moving date you want.
- Declutter. Cleaning out your attic, garage, and closets is a good first step in the packing process — and one that can save you money. Since long-distance movers charge by weight, the less you have, the lower your rate will be. Plus, if you hold a yard sale or sell your items through an online marketplace, you may even make a little extra cash you can put towards your move.
- Handle packing on your own. While it may be tempting to hire movers to wrap and box everything up, professional packing is a sure way to drive up your moving costs. Reserving movers just for loading and unloading and doing the packing yourself will keep your moving expenses lower, particularly if you can get some free boxes from friends, family, or area businesses.
- Shop around. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies so you can get the most accurate comparison of pricing and services. And since some movers offer price-matching guarantees, a little comparison shopping could result in additional discounts.
- Ask about discounts. Many moving companies provide discounts for one or more special groups like students, senior citizens, active military, veterans, first responders, and educators. Seasonal promotions might also be available, so make sure to check when you contact a company for a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire professional movers in Michigan?
It costs $138.75 per hour, on average, to hire professional movers in Michigan. Your specific costs will depend on cost factors like how much stuff you have, as well as when and where you are relocating.
How much should I tip movers in Michigan?
You should tip movers between 10% and 20% of the total cost — or about $5-$10 per moving crew member for each hour they work. Tipping movers is not mandatory but is considered a customary gesture if you are satisfied with the service.
What is the cheapest way to move in Michigan?
The cheapest way to move in Michigan is to rent a moving truck and handle loading and transportation on your own.