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Moving costs can spiral fast — the average local move runs $1,000–$2,500, while long-distance moves often exceed $4,000. The U.S. moving services market is valued in the tens of billions, per Technavio, meaning competition keeps prices negotiable if you know where to look. Whether you're renting a truck yourself or hiring a full-service crew, the six companies below cover every budget and move type. If you're also decluttering before moving day, check out these Facebook Marketplace selling tips to offset moving costs. Let's get started!
Quick Answer
Cheap moving companies include U-Haul (DIY truck rentals from ~$20/day), PODS (portable containers for flexible scheduling), and budget full-service movers. Local moves average $1,000–$2,500; long-distance exceeds $4,000. Prices are negotiable due to intense market competition. Booking early, moving mid-week, and decluttering beforehand can significantly reduce costs.
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Summary Table
| Item Name | Price Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| U-Pack | $2,500–$5,000 | DIY cross-country moves | Visit Site |
| American Van Lines | $2,000–$6,000 | Full-service local & long-distance moves | Visit Site |
| Zippy Shell | $1,500–$4,500 | Flexible storage + moving combo | Visit Site |
| Budget Truck Rental | $20–$100/day | Self-movers on a tight budget | Visit Site |
| Safeway Moving | $1,800–$5,500 | Affordable long-distance full-service moves | Visit Site |
| PODS | $1,000–$4,500 | Portable storage & flexible scheduling | Visit Site |
6 Trusted Cheap Moving Companies [2026 Update]
Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.
1. U-Pack
U-Pack is one of the most budget-friendly options for long-distance moves, using a hybrid model where they handle the driving and you handle the packing. You only pay for the trailer space you actually use, which makes it significantly cheaper than hiring a full-service mover. Rates typically start around $900–$1,500 for a one-bedroom move across the country.
Why it's cost-effective:
- Pay only for space used — unused trailer space isn't charged
- No hidden fuel surcharges; pricing is transparent upfront
- Delivery in 2–5 business days for most routes
American Van Lines offers competitive pricing for both local and long-distance moves, making it a solid pick for cost-conscious movers who still want professional, full-service handling. They provide binding estimates, so the quoted price won't spike unexpectedly on moving day. Average costs run $800–$2,500 depending on distance and load size.
Notable perks:
- Binding quotes protect against last-minute price increases
- Specialty item handling (pianos, antiques) included in quotes
- Available in all 50 states
3. Zippy Shell
Zippy Shell cuts moving costs by combining portable storage containers with professional transport — you pack on your own timeline, reducing labor fees substantially. Their pod-style containers are dropped at your door, picked up when ready, and delivered to your new address. This flexibility appeals to renters and homeowners looking to avoid the premium rates of traditional movers.
Key features:
- Short- and long-term storage options if move dates are flexible
- Ground-level loading reduces packing difficulty
- Pricing generally 20–30% lower than full-service alternatives
Budget Truck Rental is one of the most cost-effective DIY moving options for people who want to avoid full-service mover prices by handling the labor themselves. Renting a truck through Budget typically costs $20–$100/day for local moves, making it significantly cheaper than hiring a moving company outright. It's best suited for able-bodied movers comfortable with driving a larger vehicle.
Key details:
- Truck sizes from 12–26 ft, accommodating studio to 4-bedroom homes
- One-way rentals available for long-distance relocation
- Mileage and fuel costs are additional — factor these in when budgeting your move
Safeway Moving is a moving broker that sources competitive bids from a vetted carrier network, helping customers find lower rates on both local and long-distance relocations. Because brokers aggregate pricing from multiple movers, the quotes can undercut what a single company might charge. Safeway is particularly useful for comparing costs across carriers without contacting each one individually.
What you get:
- Free quotes with price-matching potential across carriers
- Coverage for local, long-distance, and international moves
- Dedicated move coordinator assigned to each customer
6. PODS
PODS (Portable On Demand Storage) offers a flexible, budget-friendly alternative to traditional full-service movers by letting you load at your own pace and pay only for what you use. You keep the container for as long as needed, which eliminates rushed timelines and extra labor fees that drive up moving costs. Pricing typically starts around $149–$500+ depending on distance and container size.
Why it saves money:
- No hourly labor charges — you do the packing and loading yourself
- Container sizes: 8 ft, 12 ft, and 16 ft options to avoid paying for unused space
- Can double as temporary storage, removing the need for a separate storage unit
Final Words
Your best bet depends on your budget, distance, and how much help you need — so compare quotes from at least two or three of these companies before committing. After the move, explore affordable furniture options to settle in without overspending.