The Best Cheap Moving Companies

Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet stressful time. While you may be eager to get settled into your new place, the process of actually moving your belongings can be daunting, especially if money is tight. This is where finding an affordable moving company can make all the difference.

Rather than breaking the bank to hire movers, there are many reputable moving companies that offer quality services at affordable prices. Doing your research is key to finding top-rated movers that provide great value for your money. We’ve done the legwork for you by compiling this list of the best budget-friendly moving companies in the industry.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Moving Company

While an inexpensive price tag is important, it shouldn’t be the only factor that influences your decision. Be sure to take the following into account as well:

Reputation & Reviews

Always check independent review sites like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau to see what past clients have said. Legitimate companies will have mostly positive feedback. Beware of movers with no online reviews or a litany of complaints.

Insurance Coverage

Even if you’re on a tight budget, don’t skimp on adequate insurance. Make sure the company has both liability coverage and valuation coverage (to protect your belongings). Ask for proof.

Experience

Go with an established company that has been in business for several years. They’re more likely to have an efficient process and experienced staff. New companies may not have proven track records.

Licensing & Certifications

Check that the company is properly licensed and insured. Interstate movers need a DOT number. Ask to see their certifications.

Binding Estimates

A binding estimate guarantees that you won’t pay more than the quoted price. Non-binding estimates could result in unexpected higher costs.

Available Services

Many affordable movers offer a full range of services (packing, loading, transportation, unloading, etc). Choose a company that provides the specific services you need.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can identify affordable movers that offer good value and quality customer service. Now let’s look at some of top picks for budget-friendly moving companies across the US.

Our Top Picks for the Best Cheap Moving Companies

1. College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

With over 200 locations across North America, College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving is a reputable national moving company known for reasonable rates and great service. As their name suggests, they were founded by a group of college students looking to earn extra money by helping people move.

Now College Hunks is a full-service moving company equipped to handle local, long-distance and commercial relocations. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and hundreds of 5-star reviews praising their efficient movers and affordable prices.

Some key benefits of College Hunks include:

Upfront binding estimates: You’ll know exactly what your move will cost beforehand.
Experience: They’ve been in business since 2003 and maintain a high standard for employees.
Availability: With locations throughout the US, you can easily book College Hunks for a local or long-distance move.
Packing services: They provide complete packing so you don’t have to lift a finger.
Storage: College Hunks offers temporary and long-term storage options.
Junk removal: They’ll haul away unwanted items and debris before or after your move.

For those needing to move on a modest budget, College Hunks is one of the top choices for affordable and seamless moving services.

2. U-Pack

U-Pack pioneered the U-Pack moving model allowing customers to save money by doing their own packing and loading. With U-Pack, you pay for space on a moving trailer that you load yourself. When you arrive, U-Pack provides an affiliated mover in your new city to unload your belongings into your new home.

This affordable DIY moving option allows you to move at a fraction of the cost of a traditional full-service move. U-Pack handles the hard part (the driving) while passing on big savings to you.

Benefits of moving with U-Pack include:

**50-70% savings **on average compared to conventional movers.
Convenience: U-Pack drops off the trailer unit and picks it up when you’re done.
Flexibility: You can load on your own timeline, with no rushing on moving day.
Security: Your belongings are safely locked up throughout transit.
Nationwide service: U-Pack operates in 48 states including options for Canada.

For a stress-free move without the huge price tag, U-Pack is one of the best and most affordable choices available today.

3. PODS

Like U-Pack, PODS offers a self-service moving option that can save you significantly on your relocation. With PODS, you pack and load your own belongings into a PODS storage container dropped off at your location. PODS then stores your loaded unit temporarily before delivering it to you at your new home.

PODS is more flexible than U-Pack since they’ll store your stuff for as little as one day or as long as you need. Once at your new place, you unload the container yourself or pay an affordable fee for PODS to unload for you.

Key advantages of moving with PODS:

Savings up to 40% compared to full-service movers.
Convenience: Pack and move at your own pace without scheduling pressures.
Storage: Long and short term options allow flexibility between moves.
Peace of mind: Contents are protected with up to $100,000 of coverage.
Availability: With 20,000 containers throughout the US, PODS can help you move locally or long-distance.

For an easy, self-guided move, PODS handles the logistics while giving you the control and savings you need.

4. Budget Van Lines

As their name depicts, Budget Van Lines specializes in providing quality moving services at affordable rates. They are a licensed and insured national moving broker that partners with reputable carriers to provide interstate moving options across the US.

What makes Budget Van Lines one of the most affordable movers?

Discounted pricing with rates 15-35% less than other full service movers.
Personalized quotes with zero obligations so you know upfront what you’ll pay.
Wide range of services including packing, loading, transport, unloading, and more.
Secure protection with valuation coverage up to $250,000.
Professional staff that are background checked and trained.
Stress-free experience handling the details so you don’t have to.

Budget Van Lines takes pride in over-delivering on service despite offering budget-conscious pricing. They are upfront, reliable, and provide customized moving packages to fit any situation and budget.

5. Gentle Giant Moving Company

For budget-friendly local and regional moves in the Northeast US, Gentle Giant Moving Company is a top choice. They are fully licensed and insured, and maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Gentle Giant sets themselves apart by:

Offering upfront binding estimates so you know the final cost before starting.
Having transparent pricing available right on their website.
Employing only professional uniformed movers who are trained and background checked.
Providing guaranteed, scheduled service when you book in advance.
Having a helpline available 24/7 for support throughout your move.
Maintaining an excellent reputation with thousands of happy customers.

Their affordable hourly rates, transparent pricing, and exceptional service makes Gentle Giant an ideal mover for local and regional relocations across the Northeast US.

6. Allied Van Lines

As one of the largest interstate moving companies, Allied Van Lines provides an array of moving services at competitive rates. They have a national network of over 400 agent locations providing quality moves to households and businesses across the country.

Allied Van Lines is an ideal budget option with:

Competitive long-distance moving quotes with discounted pricing.
Binding estimates provided upfront so you know the final cost.
A range of moving services and packages to fit various needs and budgets.
Top-rated agents that are licensed, insured, and background checked.
A trusted brand with over 90 years of moving experience.

Whether you need packing, loading, transportation, temporary storage or other services, Allied Van Lines has affordable solutions to meet your moving needs at a price you can afford.

7. Two Men and a Truck

With more than 375 locations, Two Men and a Truck is North America’s largest franchised local and long-distance moving company. They provide affordable moving services thanks to their customized approach.

Two Men and a Truck is a budget-savvy choice due to:

Personalized moving process with customized options to fit your needs.
Upfront cost estimates so you aren’t surprised by charges later.
Reliable movers who are trained, uniformed, and background checked.
A full range of services like packing, loading, moving, unloading, and more.
Short and long distance capabilities.
Competitive pricing for budget-conscious consumers.

No matter what type of move you’re planning, Two Men and a Truck offers personalized and affordable moving solutions.

Questions to Ask Cheap Moving Companies

Once you’ve compiled a list of low-cost movers, it’s important to ask the right questions before hiring one. This ensures the company is legitimate, licensed and able to properly execute your move.

Here are crucial questions to ask any budget mover before booking:

Are you licensed and insured?

Only work with companies that carry general liability insurance and cargo/property insurance. Ask for their DOT and MC license numbers.

Do you provide binding estimates?

Binding estimates guarantee the final price won’t exceed the quoted amount. Make sure there are no hidden fees.

How do you determine pricing?

Ask how they calculate move costs (by weight, hour, mileage, etc). Get an itemized breakdown.

What is your cancellation policy?

Understand terms if you have to cancel the move and what fees apply.

Do you do packing and unpacking?

Verify if they offer full packing services and the cost if not included.

How do you protect my belongings?

Ask how they prevent property damage during loading, transport and unloading.

Can you provide references?

Reputable companies will provide references from past customers. Call them.

Who performs the moves?

Ask if employees are direct (not subcontractors) and background checked.

The company should readily answer these questions. The responses can help reveal red flags and give you confidence in choosing the best, most affordable option.

Red Flags to Avoid When Selecting a Cheap Mover

While everyone wants to save money on their move, some cheap moving companies unfortunately take unethical measures that could put your belongings and finances at risk. Watch out for these red flags:

No company website and lack of reviews
Doesn’t provide MC/DOT license info
Vague about services and pricing
Cannot provide proof of insurance
Uses subcontracted labor, not employees
Rates seem impossibly or suspiciously cheap
Pushy sales tactics and demands deposit/payment upfront
Lack of federal interstate authority
Claims of “guaranteed prices” when estimates are non-binding

A truly professional and ethical moving company will be transparent about licensing, pricing, insurance coverage, employees, and more. Steer clear of movers that appear evasive, sketchy or dishonest.

8 Tips for Moving Affordably

Beyond just choosing a budget-friendly moving company, there are other ways you can cut costs with your move:

1. Downsize to reduce items moved: Eliminating belongings you no longer need will require less truck space, saving on moving costs. Have a garage sale or donate unneeded items.

2. Pack yourself: Rather than paying movers to pack, save money by packing possessions yourself using free boxes obtained through work or stores.

3. Move during the off-season: Avoid peak moving dates like summer. Opt for months like January through March when rates are generally lower.

4. Take advantage of discounts: Ask your mover if they offer special savings for students, seniors, military, etc.

5. Obtain estimates from multiple companies: Compare rates and services from at least 3-4 movers to find the best bargain.

6. Time your move strategically: Moving mid-week or mid-month often incurs the lowest costs. Fridays and weekends are most expensive.

7. Compare storage options: Sometimes using short-term storage can cost less overall. Time it right as part of the move.

8. Pay with a credit card: You may get additional protections if the mover damages belongings when paying with plastic.

How to Estimate Moving Costs

Figuring approximate relocation costs can help you budget and choose the most affordable mover. Here are some factors that influence pricing:

Distance – Local moves are cheapest. Long-distance costs more due to gas, lodging, etc. Get quotes for exact mileage.
Weight – Movers may charge per 100 lbs. Aim for 10,000 lbs or less to save.
Services – Packing, loading, storage all add costs. Choose only what you need.
Season – Summer peak season is pricier. Save up to 50% moving off-peak.
Accessibility – Stairs, tight spaces, elevators raise rates. Ground floor is most affordable.
Supplies – Get free boxes and supplies to reduce costs.
Time – Weekends and busiest months have highest rates.

Knowing what goes into pricing can help guide you toward the most budget-friendly solutions.

Questions to Ask Yourself to Determine Needs

Before researching cheap movers, analyze your specific moving needs. Key questions to consider:

How far away is your move? Cross-country or locally influences options.
What services do you want – packing, loading, unloading, unpacking? Define must-haves.
How much stuff will you move? Will it fit in one truck or need additional space?
When is your timing? Moving in summer costs more.
Do you need storage? For how long? That adds expense.
What floor do you live on? Stairs and elevators increase rates.
Can you pack yourself or do you need packing help? What about unpacking?

Having the answers helps you identify the most cost-effective movers for your particular relocation situation. List must-have services, measure cubic feet of belongings, and be flexible on timing to get the best deal.

Asking the right questions upfront ensures you choose an affordable moving company that truly fits your needs.

Pros of Hiring Affordable Movers vs. DIY Move

While hiring budget movers costs more than moving yourself, professional movers have advantages that may be worth the affordable price.

Pros of hiring movers include:

Less physical strain of lifting all your heavy stuff
Faster process since movers are efficient experts
Your belongings are fully protected against damage
No need to impose on friends and family to help move
Ability to continue working while movers pack and load
Less stress dealing with logistics like the moving truck
Insured help prevents personal injury from moving strains/accidents
Long distance moves become feasible without you driving a rental truck

Sometimes spending a little more for the convenience, speed, and expertise of professional movers is the best choice despite the cost. Just be sure to secure quotes from reputable low-cost movers to keep it affordable.

Should You Pay for Packing Services to Save Money?

Many affordable moving companies offer packing services for an additional fee – but is it worth paying extra for packing help? Here are pros and cons to consider:

Reasons to Let Movers Pack:

Trained packers have techniques to properly protect fragile items and use space efficiently. This can prevent expensive damages.
Professional packing is faster. Movers average 2 hours packing a 2-3 bedroom home. Doing it yourself takes considerably longer.
When movers pack the truck, they know how to arrange items to maximize capacity and reduce the chance of shifting during transit. Their expertise can lead to requiring a smaller truck, which ultimately lowers your total moving costs.
Having movers provide full-service packing and loading reduces stress and physical exhaustion for you on moving day. This can be worthwhile for the convenience factor.
Some moving companies require liability limitations if you pack your own boxes. Proper packing from movers protects you.

Reasons to Pack Your Own Boxes

Packing yourself costs nothing upfront besides purchasing moving boxes and supplies. Many moving companies charge around $300-$600 for packing services.
You know how all your belongings are packed and can mark boxes intuitively in a way you understand.
Doing it yourself gives you control over which items are packed together.
Packing your boxes as early as possible spreads out work instead of all on moving day.
You can declutter while packing boxes and avoid taking stuff you no longer need.

Overall, having movers handle packing may be worthwhile if you can fit it within your budget. Just be sure to get an itemized estimate of packing costs from the movers upfront so you can budget accordingly.

Questions to Ask References for Cheap Moving Companies

Checking references from past customers is wise anytime you hire a service provider, especially for major services like relocating