Best Moving Companies in 2026
National movers, self-service options, and broker services evaluated for reliability and price.
Moving is consistently ranked among life's most stressful events. Choosing the right moving company can mean the difference between a smooth transition and a nightmare of damaged belongings, hidden fees, and broken promises.
We evaluated national moving companies and broker services to help you find reliable, fairly priced movers.
Types of Moving Services
Full-Service Movers
They handle packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, transportation, furniture disassembly and reassembly, and liability coverage. Best for those who want minimal involvement, have valuable or fragile items, or don't have time to handle logistics.
Self-Service Moving
A container (pod) or trailer is dropped at your location — you pack and load, they transport, you unload at destination. Best for budget-conscious movers with flexibility on timing who don't want to drive a truck.
Truck Rental (DIY)
You rent a truck and do everything else. Best for short-distance moves, minimal belongings, and those on tight budgets who can do physical work.
Moving Brokers
Broker Caution
Moving brokers don't move you themselves — they arrange movers. The company you research may not be who shows up. Prices quoted may not match final bills. Complaints are harder to resolve.
Our Top Picks
Based on our evaluation, these are the top moving companies we recommend.
International Van Lines
Top-ranked for verified customer reviews, competitive pricing, and comprehensive storage and packing options.
Allied Van Lines
Virtual estimates with no deposits required, flexible storage options, and a network of 400+ agents nationwide.
United Van Lines
Full-value protection on every move with extensive extras including auto transport and full-service packing.
What We Evaluated
Pricing & Transparency
Estimate accuracy (binding vs. non-binding), hidden fees and charges, deposit requirements, and price versus market rates.
Reliability
On-time performance, item handling and damage rates, communication quality, and problem resolution.
Licensing & Insurance
USDOT registration (required for interstate moves), proper licensing, insurance coverage options, and complaint history.
Customer Experience
Booking process, communication throughout the move, crew professionalism, and overall customer satisfaction.
Service Options
Full-service vs. partial options, packing services, storage options, specialty item handling, and long-distance vs. local capabilities.
What to Consider Before Hiring
Verify Licensing
Interstate Moves: Any company moving you across state lines must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number. Get the company's USDOT number, search the FMCSA database, and check registration status, insurance, and complaint history.
Get Multiple Estimates
For accuracy, get in-home or video estimates from at least three companies. Phone estimates based on describing your belongings are notoriously inaccurate.
Understand Estimate Types
- Binding Estimate: The price is guaranteed (for listed items). You pay that amount regardless of actual weight or time.
- Binding Not-to-Exceed: You pay the estimate or actual cost, whichever is lower.
- Non-Binding Estimate: An approximation. Final cost can be higher based on actual weight or time.
Understand Liability Coverage
Basic ("Released Value") coverage is included free but provides minimal protection — typically $0.60 per pound per item. A 50-pound TV damaged beyond repair? $30.
Full Value Protection costs extra but covers repair, replacement, or cash settlement for damaged items.
Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move (PDF)↗
Red Flags to Watch For
Moving Scam Warning Signs
- Large deposit demands (more than 25% upfront)
- No physical address — legitimate companies have actual offices
- Unusually low estimates — if it seems too good to be true, it is
- No written estimate — everything should be documented
- Unmarked trucks — professional movers have clearly marked vehicles
- Refusal to provide USDOT number
- Frequent name changes (sometimes to escape bad reviews)
Tips for a Better Move
Inventory Everything
Create a detailed inventory of what's being moved. This helps with estimates, claim documentation if needed, and ensures nothing is lost.
Prepare Appropriately
Label boxes clearly (room and contents). Keep valuables with you (jewelry, important documents, medications). Take photos of electronics setup and valuable items before moving.
Confirm Details
A few days before your move, confirm date and arrival time, address details, total cost and payment method, contact information, and any special instructions.
Inspect Before Signing
At delivery, check items against your inventory. Note any damage on the paperwork before signing. Once you sign without notation, claims become harder.
Disclaimer
The information on ScoreCardHQ is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional, legal, financial, or medical advice. We encourage all readers to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making significant decisions.