đź’ˇ Moving costs in Montana: Expect to pay $476 – $1,489 for local moves and $2,487 – $5,134 or more for long-distance relocation. Prices depend on your home size, services, and how far you’re moving.
We recommend getting free quotes from multiple Montana movers to get the most accurate estimate.
Compare the Cost of Montana Movers by Type
Compare your moving options in Montana
Not sure which type of mover is right for you? Here’s a quick comparison of the most common moving options for Montana residents:
| Move type | Avg. cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠Local movers | $482 – $1,492 | In-town moves under 50 miles |
| 🚚 Long-distance movers | $2,472 – $5,687 | Interstate or full-service moves |
| 📦 Small load movers | $311 – $1,486 | Studio or 1-bedroom moves |
| 🚛 Truck rental | $37 – $96 per day + mileage | DIY moves on a tight budget |
| 📤 Moving containers | $483 – $4,990 | Flexible timing and mid-budget moves |
Cost of Local Montana Movers
Local movers in Montana generally charge based on your home size, location in the state, and service needs. In cities like Billings, you’ll likely spend around $478 – $1,484 for a typical in-town move.
The prices below are estimates for local moves (typically 50 miles or less) and are based on the average hourly rate of $127.5 for a moving crew in Montana.
| Home size | Avg. total cost | # of movers | # hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $383 | 2 movers | 3 hours |
| 1 bedroom | $510 | 2 movers | 4 hours |
| 2 bedrooms | $638 | 3 movers | 5 hours |
| 3 bedrooms | $1020 | 4 movers | 8 hours |
| 4 bedrooms | $1148 | 4 movers | 9 hours |
| 5+ bedrooms | $1275 | 5 movers | 10 hours |
Top Local Movers in Montana
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
1620 Rodgers Street, Missoula, MT, 59802
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 16
- Founded: 2018
- Phone: (607) 644-7509
- Address: 1620 Rodgers Street, Missoula, MT, 59802
Services Offered
- Cancellation policy
- Full service
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Junk removal
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Safes
- Storage
- Unpacking
InterWest Moving and Storage
523 Business Hub Drive, Belgrade, MT, 59714
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 5
- Founded: 1993
- State License: 125550
- Phone: (406) 587-5153
- Address: 523 Business Hub Drive, Belgrade, MT, 59714
Services Offered
- Aaa discount
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Climate controlled storage
- Crating
- Dod certified
- Estate
- Fragile only packing
- Full service
- Full valuation coverage
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Shipment tracking
- Small moves
- Storage
- Unpacking
Mesa Moving & Storage
1414 N Montana Ave, Helena, MT, 59601
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 5
- Founded: 2019
- Phone: (406) 442-9470
- Address: 1414 N Montana Ave, Helena, MT, 59601
Services Offered
- Antiques
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Crating
- Dod certified
- Full service
- Hot tub
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Pool table
- Safes
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Unpacking
Baker Transfer & Storage
706 Daniel St Suite 1, Billings, MT, 59102
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 6
- Founded: 2012
- State License: 469163
- Phone: (406) 245-3147
- Address: 706 Daniel St Suite 1, Billings, MT, 59102
Services Offered
- Cancellation policy
- Climate controlled storage
- Crating
- Full service
- Intrastate
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Pool table
- Safes
- Small moves
- Storage
- Unpacking
All Lanes Moving & Storage
9562 Futurity Dr Suite B, Missoula, MT, 59808
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 8
- Founded: 2000
- State License: 917105
- Phone: (406) 400-9616
- Address: 9562 Futurity Dr Suite B, Missoula, MT, 59808
Services Offered
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Crating
- Full service
- Full valuation coverage
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Pool table
- Safes
- Small moves
- Storage
- Unpacking
See a list of all the best movers in Montana.
Cost of Long-Distance Moves in Montana
Long-distance moves in Montana 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 – $4,489, while moves over 1,000 miles may cost up to $6,000 or more.
Top Interstate Movers in Montana
- Our Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
- Best For: Sustainability
- Availability: 48 states (not in AK or HI)
1. Safeway Moving
Started in Florida in 2020, Safeway Moving has rapidly gained trust and popularity in the industry. They are known for efficient and timely moves at reasonable prices. Besides their standard full-service options, Safeway offers 24/7 customer support, flat-rate pricing, a price-match guarantee, and special discounts and resources for seniors.
The company can handle long-distance relocations in all 50 U.S. states, as well as international moves.
2. American Van Lines
American Van Lines is a Florida-based moving company with highly trained crews and extensive experience in long-distance moves. They handle packing, storage, and special items like antiques and pianos. They serve the continental U.S. and offer flat-rate pricing to prevent surprise costs.
3. International Van Lines
International Van Lines, established in 2000, is a top moving company worldwide, working in more than 180 countries. They handle local, long-distance, and international moves, providing services like packing, auto transport, and 30 days of free storage. IVL is renowned for great customer service, affordable rates, and special discounts for seniors and veterans.
4. Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation is a family-owned moving company with locations on the East Coast. They focus on customer satisfaction by offering 24/7 support, flat-rate pricing, 30 days of free storage, and full refunds for cancellations made seven days in advance. Mayzlin manages long-distance moves in 48 states and local moves in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas, providing reliable and constant communication.
5. BLVD Moving
BLVD Moving, located in California, focuses on both local and long-distance moves across the U.S. This family-owned business is known for being affordable, offering binding estimates and quotes on the same day. They provide packing, furniture assembly, storage coordination, and delicate item handling. BLVD uses full-time professional movers instead of subcontractors and has a flexible rescheduling policy. They are distinguished by their efficient quoting process and dependable service.
Cost of Small Load Movers in Montana
Small load movers are ideal for moves under 2,000 pounds, such as a studio or small one-bedroom apartment. Costs range from $305 – $1483, 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 Montana
1. U-Pack
U-Pack is an excellent option for small moves because you pay only for the space you use in their containers. The you load, we drive model is budget-friendly and perfect for those with few items to move. U-Pack provides quick delivery, nationwide service, and online tracking, ensuring convenience and dependability. However, U-Pack doesn’t handle local moves, limits loading and unloading to three business days, and charges cancellation fees if canceled 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 safely shipping delicate, valuable, and large or heavy items. They offer a range of services, including white-glove packing, custom crating, car shipping, and guaranteed delivery dates. Since starting in 1989, TSI is known for being reliable and offering great customer service within the contiguous U.S. They are perfect for one- to two-bedroom moves and provide clear pricing with quotes that match your specific needs.
3. uShip
uShip is an online platform linking customers with truck drivers and movers who have spare space. It’s a budget-friendly choice for small moves, furniture, vehicle transport, or equipment shipping. Customers can list their needs and receive competitive bids with a pay-as-you-go system. Perfect for those with flexible schedules, uShip can reduce costs on long-distance and interstate moves. However, prices and service quality might differ because they depend on each independent driver using the uShip platform.
Cost To Rent a Moving Truck in Montana
Renting a truck in Montana 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 Montana
1. Budget
Budget Truck Rental operates in every state and offers a simple online booking system, making DIY moving easier without extra costs. They offer competitive base rates, including unlimited mileage for long-distance moves, and provide discounts for students, military members, and AARP members. They have various truck sizes to fit anything from studio apartments to entire households.
2. Penske
Penske Truck Rental provides cost-effective and dependable moving trucks with roadside assistance and guaranteed reservations for both local and long-distance DIY moves. They offer clear pricing and unlimited mileage on one-way trips, so you won’t face extra charges for additional miles. Choose from various truck sizes and add-on options, such as towing equipment and moving supplies. With Penske’s seasonal promotions and discounts for military members, AAA members, and students, you can save even more on your self-managed move.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul offers rental trucks across the U.S. and Canada, with over 20,000 locations. They have a range of vehicles, from cargo vans and pickups to trucks between 10 and 26 feet. Local rentals charge by the mile, while long-distance rentals include a set mileage. You can also add trailers, moving containers, and self-storage to tailor your move.
Cost of Moving Containers in Montana
Moving containers cost anywhere from $485 – $4981, depending on factors like container size and distance.
Top Moving Container Companies in Montana
1. PODS
PODS provides portable containers for flexible storage and DIY moving. Customers can pack at their own speed without tight deadlines. Containers come in three sizes: 8, 12, and 16 feet, and are rented monthly. This allows storage time as needed, suitable for those who need flexibility around their move. PODS serves all U.S. states except Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming, and offers solutions for both local and long-distance moves.
2. U-Pack
U-Pack provides affordable and convenient moving services across the nation with simple pricing. They keep costs down by charging for the space you use in their 28-foot trailers or ReloCubes. Fuel, driving, and transport are included, so you only need to pack and unload. Unlike rental trucks, there’s no monthly storage fee—pricing is based on transit time. Their durable, weatherproof containers and fast delivery ensure your items stay safe on the way to your new home.
Moving Cost Factors in Montana
- Distance: Longer moves are more expensive because of increased fuel usage, driver time, and potential tolls. Local moves usually have an hourly rate, while long-distance moves are charged based on weight and distance.
- Home size and volume of belongings: Bigger homes need more time to move and often need extra movers and a larger truck, which raises labor and equipment costs.
- Access challenges: Additional charges might apply for long distances, stairs, elevators, or limited parking that requires a shuttle. Movers increase fees when accessing your home is challenging.
- Specialty items: Moving pianos, antiques, safes, or artwork often needs special handling or crating, which increases your total cost.
- Add-ons and services: Optional services such as packing, unpacking, storage, or furniture disassembly/reassembly will raise your costs but can save you time and stress.
- Season and timing: Moving during summer, weekends, and end-of-month dates costs more due to high demand. You’ll find better rates on weekdays or during off-peak times like winter.
- Insurance coverage: Basic coverage is typically included, but for an extra cost, you can get better coverage for valuable items with full-value protection or third-party insurance plans.
- Storage needs: Expect to pay more for temporary or long-term storage, especially if you need climate-controlled units or plan to store items for a long time.
Tips To Cut Moving Costs in Montana
- Move during the off-season. Movers often charge higher rates in the busy summer months and on weekends. If you can, plan your move between mid-September and early May to benefit from lower demand and more availability.
- Declutter before you pack. Move less to save more, especially with long-distance moves where costs are based on weight. Get rid of items you don’t need by donating, selling, or tossing them. A yard sale or online sales can help reduce your moving expenses.
- Do your own packing. Hire movers to pack for convenience, but it will raise your costs. To save money, pack yourself using supplies you have or free boxes from local stores and friends.
- Compare quotes from multiple movers. Get quotes from at least three licensed companies to compare prices, services, and availability. Some movers might match competitor prices or offer package discounts.
- Ask about available discounts. Many movers provide discounts for students, military members, seniors, educators, and first responders. They might also have seasonal promotions, so always ask during your quote call.
Montana Moving Regulations and Your Consumer Rights
If you’re hiring professional movers in Montana, it’s important to understand your rights and what rules moving companies must follow. Knowing the basics can help you avoid scams, overcharges, and damaged items.
Licensing Requirements
All interstate moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid USDOT number. You can look up a mover’s credentials using the FMCSA’s mover search tool.
Estimate rules and pricing transparency
Movers are required to provide a written estimate — either binding (a fixed price) or non-binding (an estimate that may change based on actual weight and services). For interstate moves, FMCSA regulations apply. For local moves in Montana, companies often charge by the hour, and you should receive a breakdown of labor, travel time, and any extra fees.
Your rights if something goes wrong
- Loss or damage: All licensed movers are required to offer basic liability protection, which typically covers $0.60 per pound per item. This is minimal coverage, so you may want to purchase full-value protection for valuable belongings.
- Filing a complaint: If you’re unsatisfied with your mover, you can file a complaint with the FMCSA for interstate moves or with the Montana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for in-state moves.
- Dispute resolution: Reputable movers in Montana will offer arbitration or formal dispute resolution for claims that can’t be resolved directly. Be sure to ask how they handle claims before signing a contract.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire professional movers in Montana?
It costs $127.5 per hour, on average, to hire professional movers in Montana. Your specific costs will depend on factors like home size, distance, and moving date.
How much should I tip movers in Montana?
You should tip movers between 10% and 20% of the total cost — or about $5–$10 per mover per hour. Tipping is optional but encouraged for good service.
What is the cheapest way to move in Montana?
The cheapest way to move in Montana is to rent a moving truck and handle loading, driving, and unloading yourself. This avoids labor fees but requires more effort.
When is the cheapest time to move in Montana?
The cheapest time to move in Montana is during the off-season (October through March), on a weekday, and mid-month when demand is lowest.
Should I hire movers or rent a truck in Montana?
If you’re moving locally and want to save money, renting a truck may be cheaper. But for long distances or if you want less stress, hiring full-service movers can be worth the cost.
How far in advance should I book movers in Montana?
Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance for local moves and 8 weeks for long-distance moves to ensure availability and better pricing.
Are movers in Montana required to be licensed?
Yes. Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA. For in-state moves in Montana, licensing depends on state regulations, but reputable companies should be insured and bonded.
What if my movers damage or lose something?
All licensed movers are required to offer basic liability protection, but this only covers $0.60 per pound per item. You can purchase full-value protection or third-party insurance for better coverage.