Moving to a new home in a new city and state can be exciting, but the logistics can also cause stress, especially if you’re trying to do everything yourself. Learning about the best long-distance moving companies in Pennsylvania and finding the one for you can make the process much simpler.
Whether you are looking to move a piano cross-country or want storage or automobile transport services, here is a guide to the best options on the market to get you into your new home.
Top 6 Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania
- Trinity Relocation Group – Best Overall Long-Distance Moving Company in Pennsylvania
- Allegiance Moving and Storage – Best Pa Long-Distance Moving Company for Easy Scheduling
- New Leaf Moving Group – Best Pa Company for Long or Short Moves
- International Van Lines – Best Pennsylvania Company for International Moves
- United Van Lines – Best Company for Military Moves in Pennsylvania
- North American Van Lines – Best Pa Long-Distance Moving Company for Custom Needs
1. Trinity Relocation Group — Best Overall Long-Distance Moving Company in Pennsylvania
Pros of the Trinity Relocation Group Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- Wide network of movers nationwide
- Easily book interstate moves
- Commercial services
- Ships automobiles
Cons of the Trinity Relocation Group Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- No independent fleet of trucks
- Does not offer intrastate moves
- Pricing method can vary based on partners
Trinity Relocation Group makes the list as one of the best long-distance moving groups because of its massive network of resources. The company is a moving broker, which means it contracts with different moving companies across the nation to complete your move.
If you need auto transport, this is one of the best long-distance moving companies to work with. They can arrange a car move with a qualified company so you don’t have to worry about driving to your new location.
The process of getting a quote with this service is a bit complex since it is a broker. When you call Trinity and go over the details of your move, you will receive an estimated quote. However since another moving crew will ultimately handle the move, you need to talk to that company for your final quote.
It is important to note that Trinity only handles moves across state lines. That means even if you are moving hundreds of miles but staying in the same state, this will not be your best option.
Trinity Relocation Group Long-Distance Moving Pennsylvania Customer Satisfaction: 4.75/5
Trinity has many four- and five-star ratings from customers on its Google business page. Many reviews mention the helpful nature of the staff at Trinity. Representatives are skilled in helping customers understand what to expect for specific pricing from the third-party movers.
Occasional complaints include reports of miscommunication with a contracted mover and damage to some pieces of furniture. These issues are not uncommon among even the best long-distance moving companies.
Range of the Trinity Relocation Group Long-Distance Moving Service Area: 4.8/5
You can move to any state in the nation thanks to Trinity’s wide network of partners. This includes moves to Hawaii and Alaska, which are sometimes not served by moving companies in the continental U.S. The moves have to be from state to state. Trinity doesn’t handle in-state or short distance moves.
Additional Long-Distance Moving Services Offered by Trinity Relocation Group in Pennsylvania: 4.5/5
If you need more than just household moving, this company is a great choice. The company can find movers to transport your vehicles to simplify your move. They also offer packing services if you need extra help with your move.
Trinity Relocation Group Pennsylvania Long-Distance Moving Storage Support: 4.5/5
On its website, Trinity offers storage services to customers. You can use an overnight option if there is a short delay with your move-in. You can also pick from short-term and long-term storage help if there is a need to store your items longer, a nice feature from one of the best long-distance moving companies.
Overall Pennsylvania Score of the Trinity Relocation Group Long-Distance Moving Company: 4.6/5
Improve your move with the Trinity Relocation.
2. Allegiance Moving and Storage — Best Pa Long-Distance Moving Company for Easy Scheduling
Pros of the Allegiance Moving and Storage Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- Customers can easily schedule services
- Contracts with movers in every state
- Carefully vets moving partners
Cons of the Allegiance Moving and Storage Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- No company fleet
- Pricing models vary
- Complicated claims process
Allegiance Moving and Storage is also a moving brokerage as opposed to an independent moving company. Their staff can find qualified movers to relocate you across state lines. Many customers report positive experiences with getting moves scheduled quickly and even at the last minute, with one review noting a three-day turnaround for services.
Like the best long-distance moving companies that act as brokers, you will be dealing with third party businesses to complete your move. Allegiance says it has a five-step vetting process to make sure carriers perform quality work and have the proper licenses.
When getting an estimate from Allegiance, the company asks for a list of items that will need moving and other services you may need to get your quote. The estimate is supposed to be binding, and Allegiance says it should not change unless a customer adds items or services later.
However, some customers have reported moving crews informing them that more truck space is needed for the move, changing the price.
Allegiance Moving and Storage Long-Distance Moving Pennsylvania Customer Satisfaction: 4.5/5
Many online reviews note great service and communication from the main office at Allegiance Moving. The company is very clear on fees and its cancellation and refund policies. The service also is very responsive in trying to resolve complaints and problems.
Because Allegiance is a broker, resolving complaints usually means involving the third party that actually handled the move. Allegiance has a separate website for customers to make claims about damages or missing items.
Range of the Allegiance Moving and Storage Long-Distance Moving Service Area: 4.8/5
You can move between any state thanks to Allegiance’s wide network of movers. However, the company does not handle international moves.
Additional Long-Distance Moving Services Offered by Allegiance Moving and Storage in Pennsylvania: 4.5/5
You can arrange for packing services with your move, which is always good to see when looking at the best long-distance moving companies. Allegiance also lets you arrange for furniture disassembly and reassembly.
Allegiance Moving and Storage Pennsylvania Long-Distance Moving Storage Support: 4.5/5
With Allegiance you can get overnight, short-term, or long-term storage. Thirty days of storage is included in your quoted price. After that, you have to pay a monthly fee.
Overall Pennsylvania Score of the Allegiance Moving and Storage Long-Distance Moving Company: 4.5/5
Check out Allegiance Moving and Storage today.
3. New Leaf Moving Group — Best Pa Company for Long or Short Moves
Pros of the New Leaf Moving Group Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- Both long and short-distance moving
- Specialty item movers
- Packing services
Cons of the New Leaf Moving Group Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- All moving done through third parties
- No automobile transport
- Does not move to Alaska or Hawaii
This is a newer option compared to some of the other best long-distance moving companies. New Leaf Moving Group is another moving broker that contracts projects to different movers. They can arrange interstate moves, with their website putting an emphasis on moves from Florida to New York, New Jersey, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
New Leaf offers the benefit of doing long-distance moves within the state of Florida as well. Some other brokers only offer moving services that cross state lines, so if you are making a long-distance move within the state, this is a great option.
Another plus that makes this one of the best long-distance moving companies is the option to get pianos moved. New Leaf promises to coordinate movers who are experienced with handling the instrument.
New Leaf Moving Group Long-Distance Moving Pennsylvania Customer Satisfaction: 4.3/5
Customer service is available all day, every day, offering support to people as they navigate their moves. Online reviews often mention the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff assisting them in booking the moving services. Customers also note the company is flexible with scheduling.
There are complaints about the final moving process, however. Because New Leaf is a broker and a third party handles the final move, these complaints are often about the third-party mover. This is not an uncommon issue for even the best long-distance moving companies that operate as brokers.
Range of the New Leaf Moving Group Long-Distance Moving Service Area: 4.5/5
New Leaf can handle a variety of moves, from intrastate moves within Florida to cross-country journeys. It’s important to remember that they only serve the continental U.S. They do not offer moving services to Alaska and Hawaii.
Additional Long-Distance Moving Services Offered by New Leaf Moving Group in Pennsylvania: 4/5
With this company, you can arrange to have pianos moved, which is not always possible with every moving company. You can also have the company arrange packing. New Leaf has movers who can handle delicate items with care during the packing process.
New Leaf Moving Group Pennsylvania Long-Distance Moving Storage Support: 4/5
New Leaf offers storage services, an important option to look for when choosing from the best long-distance moving companies. The company can have movers pack your items, transport them to the storage unit, and later transport them to their final destination. The storage facility is climate-controlled and under surveillance to protect your items.
Overall Pennsylvania Score of the New Leaf Moving Group Long-Distance Moving Company: 4.3/5
Compare New Leaf Moving Group to the Competition.
4. International Van Lines — Best Pennsylvania Company for International Moves
Pros of the International Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- Handles international moves
- Acts as a carrier and broker
- Transparent pricing
Cons of the International Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- May be pricier than other companies
- Complicated online inventory system
- Deposit required upfront
International Van Lines has a well-established reputation as one of the best long-distance moving companies. The company offers moving services with its own fleet and it acts as a broker to accommodate moves outside of its service area. This makes it a flexible option and increases the company’s accountability to its customers.
Getting a quote with International Van Lines is more complex than some other companies, but for good reason. The process of figuring out your cost involves giving a customer representative a detailed inventory of your home so they can figure out the price.
As the name implies, International Van Lines does operate internationally. If you are moving overseas, the company has global representatives to coordinate your relocation. Your moving coordinator can guide you through customs rules and additional fees that may come up.
Some customers have noted the inconvenience of a 25% deposit due up front. This will reserve your moving team. It is fully refundable if you cancel the move more than two days before your booked date.
International Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Pennsylvania Customer Satisfaction: 4.5/5
International Van Lines has one of the most consistent reputations among the best long-distance moving companies, with quality service and price quotes that are generally in line with the final cost. Managers also oversee each move to ensure things go well.
Some customers have complained of movers being late, and note that the in-depth inventory process is a bit taxing.
Range of the International Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Service Area: 5/5
With local, long-distance and international moving services, you can turn to this company in a wide variety of circumstances. Depending on the locations involved, International Van Lines may contract the job to a third-party mover.
Additional Long-Distance Moving Service Offered by International Van Lines in Pennsylvania : 4.25/5
You can get packing services from International Van Lines, a common offer from the best long-distance moving companies. The service also offers crating services for specialty items and furniture disassembly and reassembly. Automobile transportation is also available.
International Van Lines Pennsylvania Long-Distance Moving Storage Support: 4.25/5
If you need to keep items somewhere during the moving process, choose from warehouse or portable storage with International Van Lines. They can also offer storage in other countries if you are completing an international move.
Overall Pennsylvania Score of the International Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company: 4.3/5
See what International Van Lines can do to make your move stress free.
5. United Van Lines — Best Company for Military Moves in Pennsylvania
Pros of the United Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- Offers military discount
- No deposit required upfront
- Higher amounts of additional insurance offered
Cons of the United Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- More expensive than some other options
- Customer service concerns
- Prices for packing not always clear
United Van Lines has a great reputation helping military families move between duty stations. The company has General Service Administration approval from the government. This means the company is approved to work with the government. There is also a military discount offered.
To get started with the company, you can get an online quote without giving a lot of personal information, a break from most of the best long-distance moving companies. You do not need a deposit to book your service.
Once you get an online quote it is best to get an in-home quote for a more exact price. This will also be the best way to assess packing prices, since the company’s packing service options vary.
Because United Van Line is both a carrier and a broker, you may get movers either directly from the company or from a third party. This is why it’s a good idea to get the in-home assessment to make sure the rates are what you expect.
United Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Pennsylvania Customer Satisfaction: 4.3/5
Customers can count on reliable service with this company. That includes a high level of included insurance for items being moved, as well as the option to purchase more coverage if desired.
As with any broker service, there have been reports of miscommunications between third-party movers and customers.
Range of of the United Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Service Area: 4.5/5
Local, interstate and international moves are all covered with United Van Lines. Approval to contract with the government also helps this company be able to offer services at military installations and military housing, making it one of the best long-distance moving companies for service members.
Additional Long-Distance Moving Services Offered by United Van Lines in Pennsylvania: 4/5
While the company does offer packing and auto transport services, some customers have noted trouble in determining exact pricing early in the process. Unless packing and unpacking are purchased as part of a package, it can be complicated to determine how much extra they will cost at times.
United Van Lines Pennsylvania Long-Distance Moving Storage Support: 4.3/5
You can get storage for your residential move across the nation, as well as commercial storage for office furniture and other business equipment.
Overall Pennsylvania Score of the United Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company: 4.2/5
Reduce headaches with United Van Lines!
6. North American Van Lines — Best Pa Long-Distance Moving Company for Custom Needs
Pros of the North American Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- Large fleet around the U.S.
- Easy estimate process
- Choose the services you need
Cons of the North American Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company for Pa Moves in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown:
- Reports of customer service issues
- Lots of calls after initial contact
- Extras can add up quickly
For customers looking to control the cost of their move, North American Van Lines easily makes the list of the best long-distance moving companies. You choose how much help you want with packing and unpacking to keep the price of your move in check.
To get the most accurate quote, an expert will complete an in-home assessment. With a large fleet across the nation, North American Van Lines can handle this easily. Your quote is based on the estimated volume of your items, how many people the move will likely need, and the time estimated for the move. Time overages will be charged hourly fees.
A few users reported slow help from customer service agents over the phone. Also, customers who completed the online interest form say they found themselves constantly receiving sales calls and emails from the company and had to ask to be removed from the calling list.
North American Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Pennsylvania Customer Satisfaction: 4/5
Customers are generally satisfied with the moving service offered by North American Van Lines. The use of a company-owned fleet that is supplemented by third-party movers offers quality service. However, the customer service with this company may not be as responsive as some of the other best long-distance moving companies.
Range of the North American Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Service Area: 4.5/5
You can get moving services between all 50 states and more than a hundred international destinations. North American Van Lines can also handle local moves if needed.
Additional Long-Distance Moving Services Offered by North American Van Lines in Pennsylvania: 4/5
With this company you can choose how much help you want with additional services such as packing and unpacking. You can opt for full-service packing, fragile-only packing or no packing services. If you pick no packing services, you can still request a pre-set amount of moving boxes from the company.
North American also offers automobile transportation services if you need them.
North American Van Lines Pennsylvania Long-Distance Moving Storage Support: 3.5/5
The company’s website says its relocation specialists can help arrange storage for those who need it. This is less comprehensive than many of the other best long-distance moving companies that take a more proactive approach to storage solutions.
Overall Pennsylvania Score of the North American Van Lines Long-Distance Moving Company: 4/5
See if North American Van Lines is the right choice for you.
Best Long-Distance Moving Company Honorable Mentions:
- Allied Van Lines
- American Van Lines
- Mayflower Transit
- Atlas Van Lines
- Bekins Van Lines
- U-Pack
- Colonial Van Lines
- Safeway Moving
- North American Moving Service
- PODS
- U-Haul
How We Selected the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania
Making sure you have the right mover can be the difference between a stress-free relocation and an extremely frustrating experience. To evaluate your best options, we looked at several key factors:
- Transparent pricing
- Proper insurance and licensing
- Ability to accommodate special items
- Customer satisfaction
- Vetted and background-checked staff
Buying Guide for the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania
As you decide which company will be the best for you, there are several important factors to consider. Check into these different areas as you pick a moving partner that is right for your needs.
Insurance and Licensing of the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania
Always make sure the moving company you pick is properly insured. It’s not uncommon for a few items to get damaged during a move, so your company needs coverage for cargo to protect your actual possessions. This way, they can compensate you for anything that doesn’t make it to your new home. You may need to get special coverage for high-priced items like pianos.
The best long-distance moving companies also have extremely good auto insurance. A move that involves hundreds of miles of driving a large vehicle involves the risk of a crash. Your company should have responsive auto coverage that will allow staff to quickly handle a wreck and get your move back on track.
Companies that complete moves across state lines also need special licensing. Movers that work in multiple states have to register with the U.S. Department of Transportation and keep their records with that agency updated. Any reputable company should provide you with its USDOT number.
Transparent Rate Estimates
Any of the best long-distance moving companies will be upfront and transparent about how your price is assessed. Start by getting a clear understanding of what rates are based on. Many companies charge based on the distance of the move, the number of movers needed for the job, and the weight or volume of the cargo being moved.
Ask for an in-person consultation with a company so a representative can see the scope of the moving and packing job at your current home. This will let them give you a more accurate quote.
See what circumstances could lead to extra fees. Ask for all possible factors that could raise the price. The best long-distance moving companies will have no problem explaining pricing.
Are There Special Considerations in the Long-Distance Move?
When communicating with a potential mover, go over all the potential challenges with the move. Start with the layout of both homes involved. Is it either in a high-rise building or is there otherwise limited access to the site? Movers need to know if they can accommodate these obstacles.
Discuss how your moving company handles special items. Things like hot tubs, valuable artwork, and medical equipment may require more work to move properly. The best long-distance moving companies will also need to know about potentially hazardous items, like gas-powered grills. You may need to find alternative ways to move certain things.
Limits to Where the Company Goes
Long-distance moving teams obviously have a much wider service range than local companies, but that doesn’t mean they are unlimited. Many have brokerage networks to partner with movers in areas they aren’t based in.
Be sure the company you pick is licensed to cross state lines. A move is generally considered “long-distance” when it is 200 miles or more. That can still encompass a move within one state. Check that your team will have no problem getting to your destination.
Take special care with moves to Alaska and Hawaii. Due to the geographical challenges these states present, some companies may not serve them.
Storage Options of the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania
Depending on your moving process, you may find that you will need to store your possessions for a certain time between homes. Some of the best long-distance moving companies either offer storage units you can use or portable units that can be held at your destination until you are ready to unload them.
Check to see if these services will lead to extra charges. Also ask if there is a time limit or capacity limit for storage services.
How Do I Choose Between the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania?
Choosing the best company will come down to the types of items you are moving, where you are going, and your timeline for the move. As you shop around, make a checklist that encompasses all these needs so you can clearly communicate with the company about your needs.
Take advantage of any additional services the best long-distance moving companies offer, such as packing or cleaning. These options may come at an additional cost but they help you reduce stress in your moving process, which is one of the best reasons to hire a moving service.
Top 5 Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania Comparison
- Rate Determination Factors: Varies
- Storage: Yes
- Packing Services: Yes
- Auto Transport: Yes
- Rate Determination Factors: Weight and cubic volume
- Storage: Yes
- Packing Services: Yes
- Auto Transport: Yes
- Rate Determination Factors: Varies by 3rd party mover
- Storage: Yes
- Packing Services: Yes
- Auto Transport: No
- Rate Determination Factors: Volume and distance
- Storage: Yesh
- Packing Services: Yes
- Auto Transport: Yes
- Rate Determination Factors: Volume and distance
- Storage: Yes
- Packing Services: Yes
- Auto Transport: Yes
Final Thoughts on the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Pennsylvania
When you go through a major relocation, you must make a large investment of time and money. Take the time to find a moving company that gives you all the value you are looking for. The goal is to minimize stress and worry so you can focus on settling in.
The best long-distance moving companies are invested in making sure you are happy with your move and ready to start your new chapter in your new space.
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