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Expert Reviewed
| Moving, Relocation, Car Shipping, Real Estate, H...Since the success of your move depends on seamless coordination, selecting one of the best long-distance moving companies can truly make all the difference.
We awarded Allied Van Lines the best overall spot, scoring 4.7 out of 5 stars against our methodology metrics. It’s our top pick with over 100 years in the moving business, the company offers a full suite of moving services its customers can pick and choose from to customize their moving experience fully. Allied Van Lines rates well among consumers and offers accurate price quoting and customer flexibility.
The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use data and expert advice to inform all of our content. We’ve evaluated 47 competitors, narrowing it down to the top five based on 75 attributes and our own in-depth research, including services, availability, first-hand quotes, deposits, insurance, licensing and customer ratings and scored each company against strict criteria. Plus, our advisory board of licensed professionals fact-checks and reviews our content for accuracy and relevancy. Read more about our editorial guidelines and the long-distance moving companies methodology for the ratings below.
Featured Partners
1
International Van Lines
Deposit required
Yes
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
2
American Van Lines
Deposit required
Yes
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
3
Blvd Moving
Deposit required
Yes
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
4
Mayzlin Relocation
Deposit required
Yes
Service availability
Excellent
Full-service packing
Yes
Key Takeaways
We compared the ratings and costs of our top long-distance moving companies after completing our research and analysis across criteria including pricing and insurance, customer reviews and experiences, services offered, years in business and more.
| Product | Company - Logo | Forbes Home Rating | Forbes Advisor Rating | Best For | Estimate | Price Matching | Learn More CTA text | Learn more CTA below text | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allied Van Lines | 4.7 |  | Best Overall | $9,441 | Yes | View More | |||
| International Van Lines |  | 4.6 | | Best Value | $4,306 + fees | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners | |
| Bekins Van Lines |  | 4.6 | | Best Customer Experience | $6,425 | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners | |
| United Van Lines |  | 4.6 |  | Best for Accurate Pricing | $5,900 | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners | |
| North American Van Lines | 4.6 | | Best for Custom Options | $9,440 | Yes | View More | |||
| Atlas Van Lines |  | 4.5 | | Best for GPS Tracking | $1,040 | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners | |
| Mayflower Transit |  | 4.4 | | Best Local Move Value | $5,800 | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners | |
| JK Moving |  | 4.4 | | Best Full-Service Experience | $6,500 | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners | |
| Colonial Van Lines |  | 4.4 | | Best for Storage | $2,100 | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners | |
| Solomon & Sons Relocation Services |  | 4.3 | | Best for Military Discount | $4,570 | Yes | Get Free Estimates | From Participating Partners |
*NOTE: Forbes Home gathered quotes for a long-distance move for a two-bedroom from Brooklyn, NY (11202) to Charlotte, NC (28105) for each of the moving companies listed.
BEST OVERALL
BEST OVERALL
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines is our best overall pick for a number of reasons. The company provides accurate quotes, and those seeking a completely hands-off moving experience can enjoy Allied’s long list of full-service moving options. Finally, the company can provide its services nearly anywhere its customers need to go.
Learn more: Allied Van Lines review
Allied Van Lines distinguishes itself with a meticulous price-quoting process, garnering positive customer feedback and leveraging its extensive experience in the industry. The company’s no-deposit, penalty-free cancellation policy up until the move date enhances flexibility for customers. Allied Express, its container moving service, stands out for offering services with assured pricing and delivery timelines.
Why We Like It
We’re impressed by Allied’s commitment to providing precise quotes, ensuring customers face no surprises in costs. The flexibility in scheduling, without the need for deposits and allowing cancellations without fees, offers significant convenience and peace of mind. Allied Express’s tailored container moving services, with guaranteed pricing and delivery dates, provide a streamlined and predictable moving experience.
What We Don’t Like
While Allied Van Lines generally receives favorable reviews, we’ve noted some inconsistencies in customer satisfaction, particularly regarding customer service and communication on moving days. These issues, coupled with pricing that often falls on the higher end of the spectrum, present potential drawbacks for some customers.
Who It’s Best For
Allied Van Lines is ideal for those who prioritize accurate pricing, flexibility in moving plans and a variety of service options, including container moves. It’s particularly suited for customers who value peace of mind through guaranteed prices and delivery dates but may not be the best fit for those on a tight budget or those who prioritize the lowest cost above all.
Relying on our sample move criteria that includes moving the contents of a typical two-bedroom home from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC, the price quote we received from Allied Van Lines is $9,441.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
“In my moving experience, professional moving companies use a label or numbered sticker system to keep track of the boxes and their contents. Some systems are more detailed than others, so your notes and photos are an extra layer of organization.”
— Dawn M. Smith, Moving Expert
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
Allied Van Lines received high marks from Consumer Affairs with customers praising the high level of service and excellent communication. However, the company received a low score from customers on the Better Business Bureau website. We noticed there were several complaints about delays and damaged items. It is worth noting that the company responded to these complaints promptly.
“In my moving experience, professional moving companies use a label or numbered sticker system to keep track of the boxes and their contents. Some systems are more detailed than others, so your notes and photos are an extra layer of organization.”
— Dawn M. Smith, Moving Expert
BEST VALUE
BEST VALUE
International Van Lines
International Van Lines is a perennial favorite among customers and experts alike. The company makes consistent appearances on professional review platforms. IVL stands out as a leader in international moving as well as long-distance domestic moves. We recommend the company for customers seeking competitive rates for a highly customizable moving experience.
Learn more: International Van Lines review
NOTE: While International Van Lines offers services to just about anywhere, there are only a limited number of states in which it directly handles moves without the use of a broker. Our review of International Van Lines focuses on its performance as a carrier. Working with a broker to complete a move is common practice among moving companies, so it’s important to do your research to ensure you are comfortable with the company IVL will broker for your move.
International Van Lines shines with its competitive pricing and extensive service reach, ensuring that almost no location is off-limits. The company’s provision of four moving insurance options and a history decorated with awards reflect its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The flexibility to cancel up to 48 hours before the move without penalties further accentuates its customer-centric approach.
Why We Like It
We’re impressed by IVL’s broad spectrum of services and its ability to cater to nearly any location, facilitated at times through reliable subcontractors. The choice of four insurance options offers peace of mind, while the company’s accolades since its inception highlight its excellence in service. The lenient cancellation policy adds a layer of flexibility for customers.
What We Don’t Like
Despite its many strengths, IVL has areas for improvement. Customer feedback points to some dissatisfaction with service and communication, impacting its overall score in our review. Additionally, the requirement of a 25% deposit to secure a move might deter some customers, especially those looking for more financial flexibility.
Who It’s Best For
International Van Lines is ideal for customers seeking a broad array of moving services with the assurance of competitive pricing and comprehensive insurance options. It’s particularly suitable for those requiring flexibility in their moving plans, thanks to its accommodating cancellation policy. However, individuals wary of financial commitments might need to weigh the deposit requirement carefully.
“Discuss how your moving company calculates your estimate. Will they visit your home, request a video of your items, or rely on a written inventory?”
— Dawn M. Smith
International Van Lines quoted us $4,306 plus fees to move the contents of a typical two-bedroom home long-distance from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
Overall, customers tend to report a positive experience with International Van Lines with many praising its customer service. Those who weren’t happy with the service tended to cite poor communication, subtractors and pricing discrepancies.
“Discuss how your moving company calculates your estimate. Will they visit your home, request a video of your items, or rely on a written inventory?”
— Dawn M. Smith
BEST CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
BEST CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Bekins Van Lines
At over 130 years old, Bekins makes our review list for being the best overall regarding customer experiences. Across numerous customer and expert review and ratings platforms, Bekins consistently scores highly. While not the cheapest moving company around, we recommend Bekins to customers seeking a solid value while receiving excellent customer service.
Learn more: Bekins Van Lines review
Bekins Van Lines earns its spot on our list by excelling in customer service and the breadth of its moving options. The availability of a move manager and unique discounts for certain groups, combined with the absence of a moving deposit, mark Bekins as a standout choice in the moving industry.
Why We Like It
Bekins impresses with its emphasis on customer experience, offering services that can be tailored to individual needs at competitive rates. The addition of a move manager and special discounts for retirees and federal employees enhance the moving experience, making it smoother and more accessible.
What We Don’t Like
Despite its many strengths, Bekins falls short with its limited cancellation window of just three days after the work order is signed, which may not offer enough flexibility for some customers. Additionally, the absence of a moving container option might limit the choices for those looking for more streamlined or budget-friendly moving solutions.
Who It’s Best For
Bekins Van Lines is ideally suited for customers prioritizing exceptional service and comprehensive moving solutions. It’s especially beneficial for retirees, federal employees looking to capitalize on discounts and those who appreciate the added value of a move manager. However, those in need of more flexible cancellation policies or container moving services might need to look elsewhere.
Moving the contents of a typical two-bedroom home from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC, costs $6,425.20, based on estimates provided to our team by the company.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
Expert Quote: “Reliable customer service is crucial for a successful move. You may pay more for peace of mind, but it’s worthwhile if your moving journey is flawless.” – Dawn M. Smith
In general, Bekins receives positive reviews from its customers and has earned high marks on sites like the BBB, Google Maps and Facebook. However, we noticed that complaints do occur and usually reflect issues with damaged items.
“The superb customer service is one of the things I consider outstanding about Bekins. They have personalized advice meetings and competitive pricing.”
— Chris Townsend, Bekins customer
BEST FOR ACCURATE PRICING
BEST FOR ACCURATE PRICING
United Van Lines
Several moving companies claim to offer accurate price quotes. However, United Van Lines is the best in the business regarding accuracy, as determined by our detailed analysis. The company requires an in-home or virtual home tour before calculating your move’s precise cost. Pricing is primarily dependent on your chosen service options, moving distance and quantity.
Learn more: United Van Lines review
United Van Lines stands out for its meticulous approach to pricing and comprehensive service offerings for long-distance moves. Despite the lengthy process to obtain quotes, the company’s dedication to accurate and fair pricing is commendable, ensuring customers face no surprises during a stressful time.
Why We Like It
The lack of a required deposit and the flexibility of penalty-free cancellations up until the moving day are significant advantages, providing peace of mind and flexibility to customers. Additionally, United’s Snapmoves container service offers the perks of larger moves, such as flat-rate pricing and full-value protection, to smaller relocations, adding considerable value.
What We Don’t Like
The prolonged and somewhat cumbersome process to secure a quote from United Van Lines, which may involve days of waiting and necessitates a virtual or in-home survey, can deter customers seeking quick and straightforward pricing information.
Who It’s Best For
United Van Lines is best suited for individuals and families in need of reliable and accurately priced long-distance moving services who value thoroughness over speed in the planning phase. The company’s flexible cancellation policy and lack of deposit requirements make it an excellent choice for those whose plans might change at the last minute.
The estimated cost to move a typical two-bedroom home from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC, is $5,900 based on a sample quote provided to us by United Van Lines.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
We noticed that customer reviews for United Van Lines tend to be mixed. Some report positive experiences with customer service and even mention representatives by name. Complaints were usually the result of mishandled items, missed delivery windows and problems with the movers themselves.
On moving day, they showed up right on schedule and did a good job with our goods—the crew was real professional and efficient, ensuring that everything was quite well packed and moved safely. The final cost ended up a little bit more than initially expected due to added services not clearly communicated. Other than that, it has been a pretty low-stress move because of the reliability and professionalism displayed by United Van Lines.
— Ben Hilton, United Van Lines user
BEST FOR CUSTOM OPTIONS
BEST FOR CUSTOM OPTIONS
North American Van Lines
Our top pick’s sister company, North American Van Lines shares many of the same characteristics. North American’s upfront pricing and solid customer service review ratings are among them. Additionally, for those looking for a mover that can provide a fully customizable experience, North American Van Lines can likely fill the order.
Learn more: North American Van Lines review
North American Van Lines earns its spot near the top for its dedication to providing precise quotes and outstanding customer service, reflected in its high consumer ratings. The company’s 24/7 customer support and its nationwide service coverage, including the specialized BlueExpress long-distance container moving option, distinguish it in the moving industry.
Why We Like It
We’re impressed by North American Van Lines’ commitment to transparency in pricing and its exceptional customer service, ensuring a smooth moving experience. The availability of 24/7 support is particularly reassuring for customers navigating the complexities of moving, and the BlueExpress service offers a dedicated container option for long-distance moves, ensuring secure and efficient transport of belongings.
What We Don’t Like
Despite its strengths, North American Van Lines’ pricing could be more competitive, and the company’s three-day window for penalty-free cancellations could be extended to provide more flexibility to customers, making the service more accommodating and customer-centric.
Who It’s Best For
North American Van Lines is well suited for those who value reliable service, transparent pricing and nationwide coverage. It would be a good choice for customers looking for dedicated long-distance moving services with robust support. However, those on a tighter budget or requiring more leniency in cancellation policies might need to consider their options.
North American’s pricing estimate for moving the contents of a two-bedroom home from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC is $9,440, according to our sample-move quote from the company.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
We saw relatively positive reviews for North American Van Lines on the Better Business Bureau website. Many customers praise the company’s customer service. However, there are some negative reviews regarding the quality of movers, lost items and delivery windows. It’s important to note that some of the low-scoring reviews are a result of misunderstandings about the compensation system of the Full Value Protection plan.
“I used North American for a long distance move from North Carolina to California last fall, and I had a great experience. They handled my things with care and I was able to talk to the movers a few times during the actual move, which gave me peace of mind.”
— Nicole Gard, North American Van Lines user
Best Local Move Value
Best Local Move Value
Atlas Van Lines
Atlas Van Lines is a true competitor when it comes to long-distance moving. In fact, it rates well in our review in several essential factors. However, the company also provides excellent local moving value. We recommend Atlas Van Lines for both long-distance and local moving and any move that may fall between.
Learn more: Atlas Van Lines review
Atlas Van Lines caught our attention for its outstanding performance in both local and long-distance moves, making it our preferred choice for comprehensive moving services. The company’s inclusion of full-service coverage in its pricing offers significant value and peace of mind to its customers.
Why We Like It
Atlas’s strength lies in its nationwide availability and global reach, with over 1,500 partner companies worldwide facilitating seamless long-distance relocations. The automatic inclusion of full-service coverage in its quotes ensures that customers’ belongings are well-protected without the need for additional negotiations or fees.
What We Don’t Like
Despite its many strengths, Atlas Van Lines’ restrictive cancellation policy poses a potential drawback. Customers face penalty fees for cancellations made more than three days after signing the work order, which can be a significant inconvenience for those needing flexibility in their moving plans.
Who It’s Best For
Atlas Van Lines is best suited for customers looking for a reliable mover capable of handling both local and international relocations with ease. Its comprehensive service coverage is ideal for those prioritizing the safety and security of their belongings, though customers should be mindful of the strict cancellation policy.
An Atlas moving quote for a local move from Brooklyn, NY to Hoboken, NJ is $1,040 based on an hourly estimate. Moving the contents of the same home from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC, is quoted at $6,121 plus any additional fees.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
Atlas Van Lines ratings vary widely by platform. Its reviews on the site from customers are mixed and largely negative. Many reviews cite reasonable pricing as well as professional and pleasant interactions with company representatives. Harsher reviews discuss damaged items and customer service quality with third-party affiliate movers.
Atlas Van Lines is a reliable company, though you’ll pay a premium for premium services. Still, it’s well worth the costs when it comes to your belongings, especially if you have plenty of valuables and cherished items.
— Mark Pierce, Atlas Van Lines user
Best for GPS Tracking
Best for GPS Tracking
Mayflower Transit
Mayflower minimizes uncertainty in a couple of ways: The company offers binding price quotes after taking time to ensure it has all of your information. Additionally, the company provides GPS tracking services for all of its moving vehicles so customers know exactly where their stuff is and what it’s doing.
Learn more: Mayflower Transit review
Mayflower Transit earns its spot on our list for its comprehensive moving services and exceptional customer information tools, notably its detailed GPS tracking feature that keeps customers well informed about the whereabouts of their belongings during the move. The company’s binding quote options and specialization in military relocations further distinguish it in the moving industry.
Why We Like It
The company’s provision of binding quotes significantly reduces the potential for pricing surprises, offering much-needed transparency and budgeting assurance for customers. Additionally, Mayflower’s breadth of customizable moving services caters to a wide range of customer needs, from standard residential moves to specialized military relocations.
What We Don’t Like
Despite the company’s accurate pricing and high-quality services, Mayflower’s costs can be higher than some of its competitors, which may deter customers working within tighter budgets or those looking for more economical moving solutions.
Who It’s Best For
Mayflower Transit is ideally suited for individuals and families seeking a reliable long-distance moving company with transparent pricing and the ability to closely monitor their move. It’s particularly well-suited for military personnel who require a moving company familiar with the unique aspects of military relocations.
The cost to move the contents of a two-bedroom home with Mayflower Transit, was quoted to us at $6,500 for a move from Brooklyn, NY to Charlotte, NC.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
Customer experiences and ratings are mixed across platforms, including Google, Trustpilot, Facebook, Consumer Affairs and others. Reporting customers tend to appreciate Mayflower’s insurance options, binding quote strategy and live chat function. However, negative reviews focus on a lack of online pricing, lack of price matching and spotty service in some locations.
There’s a chance you’ll pay more, but choosing a binding quote instead of a non-binding quote lets you know exactly what you’ll pay before your moving services begin instead of learning the total at delivery.
— Dawn M. Smith
Best Full-Service Experience
Best Full-Service Experience
JK Moving
Low cost isn’t one of JK Moving’s strongest points. Our research uncovered that JK Moving rates are among some of the highest in our review. However, the company offers unique benefits in return. JK Moving offers sustainable moves and practices an eco-friendly approach. The company also offers third-party financing on its website and consistently earns high marks from its customers. We recommend it primarily for its full-service moving skills.
Learn more: JK Moving review
JK Moving has earned its reputation as a long-distance moving expert, reflected in its strong customer satisfaction ratings across various platforms. Its nationwide availability for both partial and full-service moves, coupled with an environmentally friendly approach, makes it a standout choice.
Why We Like It
We’re impressed by JK Moving’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, offering sustainable moving options that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The company’s full-service moving option presents great value, ensuring a hassle-free experience for those opting for comprehensive moving services.
What We Don’t Like
The lack of a binding quote option with JK Moving can lead to uncertainty around final moving costs, which might be a concern for budget-conscious customers. Additionally, the required non-refundable deposit of $250 could be a deterrent for those who are still comparing moving companies or whose plans might change.
Who It’s Best For
JK Moving is best suited for customers prioritizing eco-friendly moving solutions and those in need of reliable full-service moving options across the United States. It’s an ideal choice for those committed to their moving plans, given the non-refundable deposit requirement.
The non-binding price estimate from JK Moving to move the contents of a typical two-bedroom home from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC, is $8,400.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
JK Moving has numerous positive reviews on Google, Trustpilot and Facebook and other review sites. Positive reviews cite details like helpful 24/7 live support and a user-friendly mobile app. Negative reviews mention issues like a lack of binding quotes, higher-than-normal long distance moving quotes and fewer-than-average insurance options.
JK Moving handled our office relocation recently. Their team was incredibly professional and efficient, making what could have been a chaotic day surprisingly smooth. The only downside was the cost, which was a bit higher than other quotes we received. However, their exceptional service and attention to detail made the extra expense worthwhile. Overall, it was a stress-free experience, and I’d recommend them for commercial moves.
— Shawn Zar, JK Moving user
Best for Storage
Best for Storage
Colonial Van Lines
Colonial Van Lines consistently scores high consumer review ratings. The company focuses primarily on long-distance and interstate moves, meaning it’s a specialist. As such, Colonial offers its customers excellent options, such as providing a single-person company contact to facilitate easy and fast communication. The company also stands out for its useful mobile app and moving storage solutions.
Learn more: Colonial Van Lines review
Colonial Van Lines earns its spot for excelling in long-distance moves and offering flexible storage solutions, including rental containers. The company stands out with its comprehensive services, a single point of contact and an effective mobile app that collectively aim to streamline the moving process.
Why We Like It
We’re impressed by Colonial’s focus on long-distance moves, ensuring dedicated services and expertise in this area. The availability of various storage options and the convenience of a robust mobile app add significant value, enhancing customer experience and simplifying the moving process.
What We Don’t Like
The requirement for a 25% estimated moving deposit may deter some customers due to the financial commitment it entails. Additionally, Colonial’s heavy reliance on subcontractors could lead to inconsistencies in service quality, raising concerns about the uniformity of the moving experience.
Who It’s Best For
Colonial Van Lines is best suited for those prioritizing long-distance moving services and in need of flexible storage solutions. It’s ideal for customers comfortable with the required deposit and those who value the convenience of a comprehensive mobile app for managing their move.
Moving a two-bedroom home with Colonial Van Lines from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC, is quoted at $2,650 plus fees.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
Customer reviews regarding Colonial Van Lines are mixed, but mostly positive. Positive reviews mention an easy-to-use mobile app, helpful customer support via the 24/7 live chat and extensive storage service options. Negative reviews cite unreliable pricing estimates and varied experiences depending on whether they worked with a subcontractor or directly with Colonial.
Keep in mind that some moving companies do not allow you to move prefilled dressers, trunks and storage bins. Ask your provider about their policy before pack day.
— Dawn M. Smith
Best for Military Discounts
Best for Military Discounts
Solomon & Sons Relocation Services
A pair of glaring benefits to working with Solomon & Sons Relocation Services became apparent shortly after beginning our evaluation of the company. Not only does the company provide a wide range of moving services, it does so at reasonable prices and tosses in some discounts where it matters.
Solomon & Sons Relocation Services stands out for its competitive pricing and newcomer vigor in the long-distance moving sector. Since its inception in 2014, it’s not only offered fair upfront costs but also discounts, such as $150 off for military moves and $100 off when including vehicle transport, enhancing its value proposition.
Why We Like It
We appreciate Solomon & Sons for their straightforward pricing and special discounts, which make long-distance moving more affordable, especially for military personnel and those needing vehicle transport services.
What We Don’t Like
The requirement for a 20% deposit to secure a move could be a significant upfront cost for customers. The absence of a mobile app diminishes the convenience of managing the move digitally, and the lack of container moving options could limit flexibility for those seeking a more modular moving solution.
Who It’s Best For
Solomon & Sons is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly long-distance mover, particularly appealing to military families and individuals needing to transport vehicles. Customers willing to commit with a deposit and not requiring a mobile app for move management will find their services suitable.
Moving a two-bedroom home with Solomon & Sons Relocation Services from Brooklyn, NY, to Charlotte, NC, is quoted at $4,570.
NOTE: The estimates in this article are examples that cover two specific types of moves and do not represent a national average. To receive an accurate or binding quote, reach out to the company directly and be prepared with a full list of items that you’re moving, or schedule a virtual or in-person evaluation.
Services Offered
Types of Moves Offered
Consumer review ratings for Solomon & Sons Relocation Services are consistently high with a few negative reviews. Sites, including the BBB, Consumer Affairs, Facebook and Google Maps all award the company between 3.8 and 4.4 out of five stars. Positive reviews reflect the company’s professionalism and ease of communication, while negative reports cite customer service and communication breakdowns.
Solomon & Sons impressed our family when we made a long distance move a few months ago. Representatives touched base with us a handful of times before and during the move, and nothing was damaged at the end. Couldn’t ask for anything more!
— John Dina
Based on our research, the total cost of a long-distance mover depends on several factors. The primary costs revolve around distance, the quantity of your possessions and the specific services you choose to have the mover provide. Lesser, but still important, costs include the price of moving supplies, various fees and moving insurance. Extra services, such as storage, also play a significant role in determining cost.
Each long-distance move has its own unique set of circumstances that affect cost. However, typical costs range from around $1,400 to over $17,000. That’s a wide range.
To get to a closer estimate, we recommend you consider the size of your home and your moving distance. Moving the contents of a single-bedroom home around 1,000 miles will be at the very low end of that scale and up to about $4,100 for a full-service experience with some extra add-ons included.
Moving a three-bedroom home a similar distance increases the price range to between $3,100 and $6,600. The price jumps to between $4,300 and $8,900 when moving a two or three-bedroom home 2,500 miles or more.
To move a four- or five-bedroom home 1,000 miles away, expect to pay between $5,700 and $13,700. The same home contents going more than 2,500 miles will cost $7,800 to $17,000.
| DISTANCE (MILES) | 1 BEDROOM | 2 OR 3 BEDROOM | 4 OR 5 BEDROOM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | $1,400 - $4,100+ | $3,100 - $6,600+ | $5,700 - $13,700+ |
| 2,500+ | $3,200 – $4,500+ | $4,300 - $8,900+ | $7,800 -$17,000+ |
EXPERT TIPS
Dawn M. Smith
Military Moving Expert and Experienced Traveler, Advisory Board Member
Lexie Pelchen
Deputy Editor
Cassidy Grubisic
Updates Editor
Moving insurance is worth considering for two reasons. Your homeowners or renters insurance may not protect your belongings while in transit. And, although the moving companies offer full-value and released-value coverage (not the same as insurance), you probably need more coverage to help you sleep worry-free.
Military Moving Expert and Experienced Traveler, Advisory Board Member
Moving insurance helps to protect your items during a move. Since moving increases the risk of loss or damage to the items in transport, moving insurance acts as protection and can help you get reimbursed for any mishaps that may occur during the process. If you have any high-ticket items that you’re wanting to protect, moving insurance is worth considering.
Deputy Editor
Additional moving insurance can be worth it if you have items of significant value, such as antique furniture, paintings, high-end tech or appliances. The other thing to consider is the distance of the move. You’ll likely find insurance more valuable for a long-distance move than simply moving down the street.
Updates Editor
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Your relationship with a long-distance mover will likely be more involved than the one you may have with a local moving company or other service providers. Long-distance moving involves choosing a company that may handle every aspect of your move and is a part of your life for at least several days or possibly weeks. Take time to research and choose the best one for your needs.
Perhaps the best way to start your search for the best moving companies is to talk to those who’ve been through the process. Ask friends, relatives and co-workers who have moved long distances about hiring movers and their experience with their chosen company.
Once you have a list of several candidates, you can check online for their licensing and registration status. If your move involves crossing a state line, the moving company must be registered with the FMCSA. Check there first. Also, check the Better Business Bureau website for the companies’ consumer standing and other customer review sites for their latest ratings.
| Moving Company | USDOT # |
|---|---|
| Allied Van Lines | 76235 |
| North American Van Lines | 70851 |
| International Van Lines | 2293832 |
| Bekins | 2256609 |
| United Van Lines | 077949 |
| Mayflower Transit | 125563 |
| Atlas Van Lines | 125550 |
| JK Moving Services | 1065394 |
| Colonial Van Lines | 1727120 |
| Solomon & Sons Relocation Services | 2512576 |
Moving company schedules fill up well in advance especially over the peak moving season, summer. Once you’ve vetted several companies, we recommend that you check with them directly to ensure they can accommodate your moving day. Also, if you’re transporting any unusual or specialty items, such as a piano or collector vehicle, ensure the movers can handle that aspect as well.
Like with hiring any contractor, you should get a few price estimates from different moving companies. Ensure that you understand what kinds of moving quotes you’re receiving. Moving companies can provide binding price quotes that won’t change, or they may offer an estimate that can change at any time.
Remember, the lowest bid may only seem like the best deal and could change later. There’s nothing wrong with accepting an estimate instead of a binding quote. Just be sure you know what conditions can alter the price and that your moving budget can absorb extra costs if necessary.
Moving, especially over long distances, can leave you vulnerable to illegitimate businesses out to take advantage of your situation. To avoid encountering a moving company scam, research every company before hiring, even if the business is well known. Hire someone else if you find notice of the following red flags.
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Is a move to a faraway city or state on your agenda in the coming months? If so, you are not alone. According to a survey by our Forbes Home Team, 23% of respondents planned to move out of state.
Long-distance moving or cross-country moving requires more planning and organization than a local move. It’s much easier to make changes on the fly when you and your stuff are within the same few-mile area, which isn’t usually the case during a long move. Here are long-distance packing and moving tips to ensure your long move goes as smoothly as a short one.
Many homeowners are under the impression that their homeowner’s policy insures their belongings if they become damaged during a move. However, this is not always the case. Check with your insurance company to verify your policy’s details, and if you don’t already have sufficient coverage, consider adding more prior to your move, especially if you have items of value, like jewelry or fine art.
I can’t stress enough the importance of using personal referrals to find a moving company you can trust. Tap into your entire network: family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to hear personal accounts of their moving experiences.
— Dawn M. Smith, Moving Expert, Advisory Board Member
The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits certain household items from being transported in a moving van or truck, and some moving companies have their own stipulations as well.
Prepare to move furniture by disassembling it for easier transport and to save space in the moving van. Take your time while moving these items, as they can be heavy, bulky and awkward to move. Consider using blankets and pads to protect the finish.
Relocating is the perfect opportunity to declutter so before you start packing for your move, set things aside to donate or sell. You should also throw away items that are broken or damaged. By taking these steps before you pack, you’ll cut down on the time you spend boxing everything up and you will also save money on moving-related supplies–fewer boxes, less tape, etc. You may even be able to rent a smaller moving van.
Putting your entire life into boxes takes time. Set aside time well before your move and schedule packing a little each day or week. Getting started early will avoid burning out on the project and allow you to make adjustments as you go, such as purchasing more supplies or giving you additional time to declutter.How much time is enough time? Experts say it takes up to five to seven full days to pack up the average three-bedroom house.
If you are already taking your suitcases and dressers with you, you can save time and space by using them to transport your clothing. You can keep your dresser packed and shrink-wrap it to keep the drawers from sliding out in transport. For hanging items, consider buying wardrobe boxes so clothing can stay on hangers during the move.
Keep in mind that some moving companies do not allow you to move prefilled dressers, trunks and storage bins, so you may need to find alternative ways to pack your clothes. Ask your provider about their policy before pack day.
Go room by room, starting with the rooms you use the least.
Leftover boxes from your online shopping sprees are not going to cut it when it comes to packing up your belongings for a long-distance move. When you are moving, it is much better to use supplies that are made specifically for moving and packing (you can even opt for eco-friendly packing supplies). These items are usually available at home improvement stores or at outlets dedicated to moving equipment and supplies.
Some of the basic supplies you’ll need for moving include:
Professional moving companies also use a label or numbered sticker system to keep track of the boxes and their contents. Some systems are more detailed than others, so your notes and photos are an extra layer of organization.
– Dawn M. Smith, Moving Expert, Advisory Board Member
Be strategic with your packing and make sure that all of your boxes are of relatively equal and manageable weight. Each box should contain a mix of heavier and lighter items to make it easier to carry from point A to point B. Additionally, boxes of equal weight are safer to stack, as there is less risk of a heavy box being placed on a lightweight box and crushing it.
Moving vans will get the job done, however, if you want to take your time removing everything from your house, the moving container concept is the way to go. Essentially, the container is dropped off in your driveway and you pack it with your belongings at your leisure. When you are ready, the box is picked up and transported to your new place. Then you unload it and the company picks up the empty container when you are done.
If you decide to hire a moving company, make sure they have the proper credentials like a license and insurance. Also, follow the steps outlined by the United States Department of Transportation to help verify that the company is reputable.
Creating a checklist for your long-distance move is one of the best ways to keep numerous things organized before and during your moving day.
Create a list of everything that’s moving with you, big or small. The list will help your moving company provide a better price estimate and allow you to keep track of where everything is throughout the move. Moving companies often have prepared inventories and checklists on their website or added to your email communication. We suggest that you take advantage of their expertise.
It’s crucial before and during moving day to have all of your important and personal documents with you instead of buried in a box somewhere. Keep your driver’s license, ID, moving company documents and any other vital documents on hand until the move is complete.
Before the moving day arrives, double-check that your moving insurance is adequate and that you’re comfortable with the coverage. It’s good to revisit the subject more than once as you pack before moving day, as your comfort level can change along the way.
Start gathering moving boxes, blankets, packing tape and markers early to ensure you have enough when it’s time to pack up the last few items before moving day.
Make as many lists as necessary to keep things organized. List items to remember, items in particular boxes, items that you’re leaving behind or anything else you can think of including. The more checklists, the better.
Forbes Home's moving content is backed by our Forbes Home Advisory Board. Our moving experts specialize in various aspects of moving, from long—and short-distance moves to packing and furniture handling and even car shipping and sustainable moving supplies. With their deep knowledge, these industry experts help us review articles and advise on content at multiple stages in the editorial process, from ideation to publication.
Moving, Relocation, Car Shipping, Real Estate, Home Improvement
Local and Long Distance Moving, Packing, Home Staging, Furniture Handling, Sustainable Moving, Reusable Moving Supplies
To determine the best long-distance moving companies ranking, the Forbes Home editorial team analyzed 39 companies across 89 attributes, with each company’s rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics represented in the bar chart below:
You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates moving companies on our detailed methodology page.
All figures and facts were accurate at the time of first publication.
DIY moving is the best way to save money moving across the country. This involves renting a truck and handling the logistics yourself. However, the task can become quite complex. The next best options include shipping your belongings by freight to your destination or using a moving company just for transportation while you do the packing and unpacking.
A binding estimate and a non-binding estimate are similar in many ways. Both require a moving company to closely estimate your moving project’s cost. The difference between them is that a binding estimate is a promise from the company that the price it gives you is the price you’ll pay under normal circumstances. A non-binding quote is subject to change depending on the final cost tally at the end of the job.
Moving companies must take some responsibility for protecting your belongings. However, that protection is limited in scope and value. To determine if you need moving insurance, consider the replacement cost of your possessions, distance of your move and potential circumstances that may arise during the project.
Having spent 30+ years in residential construction, contracting, remodeling, maintenance and home repair, Deane now contributes DIY, informational and financial content as a freelance writer and consultant for several publications such as Angi, Trusted Company Reviews, USNews and World Report and Small Spaces Great Life.
Lexie is a deputy editor at Forbes Home and has over 6 years of professional experience as a writer and editor in the home improvement space. She's previously worked at sites such as HomeAdvisor and Angi (formerly Angie's List).
Thanks to military life, Dawn knows all too well the ups and downs of creating a new home after each move. She has first-hand experience in a wide range of moving-related topics, from scouting the best neighborhoods to choosing the perfect paint color and hiring the best home service professionals. Dawn has shared expert relocation tips and advice with readers for more than 10 years. Dawn specializes in writing about planning a move, buying, selling, renting and decorating homes. You can read her relocation blogs, articles and guides in outlets such as Angi, The Spruce, The PODS Blog, MiltiaryByOwner and MilitaryOneSource.
