With long-distance moves on the rise, many Americans need more than a large truck and a few helping hands to reach their new destinations safely and on time. Fortunately, these days, many moving companies also offer storage services.
We analyzed and compared the best moving companies that will also store your stuff. These services offer affordable pricing, secure storage, GPS tracking, and trustworthy packing and loading assistance to help you navigate your next move.
Our Top 10 Best Moving and Storage Companies
Colonial Van Lines - Best overall moving and storage company
American Van Lines - Best for personalized and detailed moving plans
International Van Lines - Best for global relocation services
Safeway Moving - Best for secure and tailored moving and storage solutions
Allied Van Lines - Best for versatile moving solutions
North American Van Lines - Best for a seamless moving experience
U-Pack - Best for budget-friendly, long-distance services
SMARTBOX- Best for compact storage
1-800-PACK-RAT - Best for easy loading options
Pods - Best for short-term storage
Methodology: How We Reviewed the Best Moving Companies
In our search for the top 10 moving companies for storage and relocation, we conducted a detailed evaluation focusing on essential services and features. Our streamlined methodology included:
Services Offered: We looked for companies providing a full range of services, including packing, loading, transportation, unloading, storage, and cross-state moves, to ensure they can meet diverse needs.
Storage Features: We examined storage offerings for climate control and security measures, considering these critical for item preservation.
Facility Availability: The number and location of storage facilities were evaluated to assess accessibility for customers.
Experience and Reputation: We analyzed each company's industry standing, relying on customer reviews and industry accolades to gauge reliability.
Insurance: Companies offering transparent and comprehensive insurance options were favored, indicating a commitment to customer peace of mind.
Pricing Transparency: We valued clear and upfront pricing, avoiding companies with hidden fees.
Online Quotes: The availability of easy-to-use online quoting tools was a plus, offering convenience in obtaining service estimates.
State Availability: With services available across many states, a wider operational reach scored companies higher for broader accessibility.
Booking Ease: Companies allowing easy scheduling, including online booking and last-minute arrangements, were preferred.
Customer Support: Responsive and multi-channel customer support was crucial for higher ranking.
Our 10 Best Moving and Storage Companies: Quick Reviews
1. Colonial Van Lines
Streamlining Your Move, Coast to Coast
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Main services covered - Long-distance moves, corporate relocation, expert packing services, custom storage options
Participating states - Nationwide in the continental U.S., except for Alaska and Hawaii
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included - Yes
With over 50 years of moving experience, Colonial Van Lines stands out as a family-owned and operated full-service moving company. They excel in long-distance and cross-country relocations, assisting over 12,000 households with tailored moving solutions. Colonial Van Lines offers a wide array of choices, including professional packing, corporate relocation moves, and versatile storage solutions. These storage options are available in climate-controlled units, catering to both short-term and long-term requirements. They also emphasize convenience and modernity. This is evident through their use of a mobile app, which simplifies the process of obtaining quotes and planning moves.
A distinctive feature of Colonial Van Lines is its commitment to community and customer service, partnering with organizations like Move for Hunger to address food scarcity. This commitment, coupled with their comprehensive interstate moving capabilities, positions them as a leader in the moving industry, particularly for those relocating across state lines.
Why we chose Colonial Van Lines: The company's dedication to tailored moving experiences, including their advanced logistics and professional training, ensures a smooth transition for their clients. The ability to manage every aspect of the move, from packing to storage, makes Colonial a go-to choice for those facing the challenges of a long-distance move.
Client experience: Alex (37) from Miami, highlighted the seamless nature of his move to New York City, praising the company's efficient scheduling and the peace of mind provided by their comprehensive services. Alex was particularly impressed with the app's functionality, which allowed for easy communication and updates throughout the moving process.
Pros
Offer portable moving containers for rent
Provide instant quotes for free
Innovative use of technology for ease of planning and communication
Cons
Does not offer international moving
Local moving unavailable
Read the full Colonial Van Lines review
2. American Van Lines
Expert Nationwide Moving & Specialized Services
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Main services covered - Local moving, long-distance, military, commercial, corporate relocation, antique and piano moving, and storage solutions
Participating states - All 48 continental United States
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included - Yes
American Van Lines stands out for its commitment to quality service, recognized by its ranking as one of “America’s Best Customer Service 2023” by Newsweek Magazine in the Transportation and Travel category for the fourth consecutive year. The company has been a significant player in the moving industry since 1996, offering a wide range of moving services including local and long-distance moves, military moving services, commercial and corporate relocation, as well as specialized moving services for antiques and pianos. Their storage solutions are designed to meet the needs of customers requiring temporary space during the moving process, with weekly shuttles to most US cities ensuring timely and efficient delivery.
Industry experts commend American Van Lines for its robust service portfolio and the direct management of its moving processes, emphasizing the company's investment in customer experience and satisfaction. The emphasis on direct handling of moves, from packing to delivery, without outsourcing to franchises or other companies, ensures a consistent quality of service and accountability directly from American Van Lines.
Why we chose American Van Lines: Their expansive service offering, coupled with a direct approach to moving and storage services, ensures a seamless and efficient relocation experience for customers across the continental United States. The company’s transparency in pricing and commitment to customer service excellence make it a preferred choice for those looking for reliable moving solutions.
Client experience: Customers have praised American Van Lines for their professionalism, efficiency, and care in handling personal belongings. Testimonials highlight the company's ability to provide personalized service and support throughout the moving process, making it a trusted partner for both residential and commercial relocations.
Pros
Specialized services available
Direct handling of all moves
Last-minute scheduling accepted
Cons
Requires deposit
Packing services dependent on contractors
Read the full American Van Lines review
3. International Van Lines
Your Go-To for Local, International, and Auto Transport Needs
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- Main services covered - Long-distance, local, international moving, auto transport, storage solutions
Participating states - All 50 U.S. states
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included - Yes
Established in 2000, International Van Lines (IVL) has expanded its operations to become a major player in the moving industry, offering both local and international relocation services. With capabilities ranging from auto transport to comprehensive storage solutions, IVL caters to a broad spectrum of moving needs. They pride themselves on being a licensed carrier with a strong emphasis on customer service, having been recognized for their excellence with awards such as Newsweek’s Best in Customer Service for 2023. Their online quote tool simplifies the estimation process, promising quick and straightforward quotes to prospective clients.
International Van Lines sets itself apart with its comprehensive service offerings and dedication to customer satisfaction. Experts note that IVL’s ability to handle complex international moves and its capacity for vehicle transportation and storage solutions make it a robust choice for customers with varied moving requirements.
Why we chose International Van Lines: The company's commitment to offering a diverse range of services, including specialized options for small moves and vehicle transport, positions IVL as a versatile choice for those in need of moving services, their accolades and customer testimonials reflect a strong reputation in the industry.
Client experience: Feedback from customers such as Charley and Kellie highlights IVL’s efficiency, professionalism, and fair pricing. Clients have praised the company for their hardworking staff, friendly service, and the care taken with fragile items, further establishing IVL’s reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
Pros:
Comprehensive moving services including international and auto transport
Award-winning customer service
Quick and easy online quote process
Cons:
- Your move may be handled by a partner company
- Requires a 25% deposit
Read the full International Van Lines review
4. Safeway Moving
Seamless Moves with Veteran Precision Nationwide
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- Main services covered - International and national moving, packing and unpacking, crating services, storage
- Participating states - Multiple, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, Indiana, Florida, Illinois, Washington, and Texas
- Online quote tool - Yes
- Insurance included - Yes
Safeway Moving stands out for its veteran leadership and meticulous approach to moving services, offering a blend of reliability and meticulous attention to detail. Their offerings include international and national relocations, packing services, and up to 30 days of free storage, all underscored by round-the-clock customer support.
This comprehensive approach and a commitment to transparency and security make Safeway Moving a top choice for those seeking a professional and stress-free moving experience. Their dedication to customer care and flexibility further enhances the moving process, ensuring clients receive a seamless transition to their new location.
Why we chose Safeway Moving: Its blend of moving services, including special crating and packing, along with reliable customer service, positions Safeway Moving as a top choice for those seeking a seamless moving experience.
Client experience: A satisfied customer highlighted, "Safeway's team was efficient and considerate, exceeding my expectations. Their professionalism and no hidden fee policy made my move stress-free."
Pros
A wide array of moving services
Transparent, flat-rate pricing
Veteran-owned, emphasizing reliability and precision
Cons
- Their website does not provide much information
- Require up-front deposit to schedule a move
Read the full Safeway Moving review
5. Allied Van Lines
Seamless Moves & Secure Storage, Nationwide
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Main services covered - Storage services, long-distance, local, interstate, corporate, international, and household moving
Participating states - 44
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included - Yes
With over 90 years of experience, Allied Van Lines employs a vast in-house network of movers to ensure crew availability. This carrier company also provides temporary storage units, which is ideal if you face a short-term relocation due to work. Its online quote tool creates an estimate by calculating the weight of your items and the total mileage.
"Allied Van Lines offers broad coverage, flexible scheduling, cost-efficient logistics, and the capability to handle specialized moving needs," Matt Woodley, a moving expert and founder of Mover Focus, said. Woodley added that this carrier should be “a top choice for those seeking both moving and storage services.”
Why we chose Allied Van Lines: The variety of moving boxes for household items, combined with its ability to handle long-distance relocation, makes Allied Van Lines our best moving company with storage services overall. Plus, its transparent prices can simplify budgeting since there aren’t any hidden fees.
Client experience: Peter (43) from Chicago recently booked a move with Allied Van Lines and explained that he liked the 90-day storage period because “[he] was selling [his] apartment and wanted to wait for the best possible offer.” He added that he “could even switch to a permanent warehouse if [he] needed more time to find a new place.”
Pros
Short- and long-term storage solutions
GPS tracking on all shipments
Uses its own trucks for vehicle relocations
Cons
Prices are somewhat higher than competitors
Not available nationwide
Read the full Allied Van Lines review.
6. North American Van Lines
Comprehensive Services & Transparent Pricing
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Main services covered - Local and long-distance moves, packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, satellite tracking, in-transit storage, vehicle transport
Participating states - 48
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included - Yes
As a carrier company specializing in international moving, North American Van Lines can assist with customs clearance, ensuring you declare your belongings correctly to avoid unnecessary charges. You can also request on-arrival services in your new country, like unpacking your belongings.
North American Van Lines is known for "accurate price quotes with no unexpected costs or surprises," Woodley said, adding that the company's "comprehensive range of moving services and 24/7 shipment tracking make North American Van Lines a trustworthy choice for those seeking a hassle-free moving experience."
Why we chose North American Van Lines: North American Van Lines can help you plan your international move, including obtaining visas and shipping your belongings overseas. It uses security systems approved by the U.S. Department of Defense and regulates the temperature of its facilities to keep sensitive items like electronics safe from extreme weather.
Client experience: Martia (25) used North American Van Lines for her overseas move. She booked them because she was leaving to study abroad and “wanted to bring [her] entire wardrobe with [her].” She mentioned that she “even used its satellite system to track [her] shipment during its transport.”
Pros
Runs background checks on all movers before hiring them
Helpful website tools for estimating packing and moving supplies
You can track your items via GPS
Cons
Some services require third-party companies
Storage options are limited
Read the full North American Van Lines review.
7. U-Pack
Nationwide Service, No Deposit Needed
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Main services covered - Container and trailer shipping, storage, shipment tracking
Participating states - 50 states, plus Canada and Puerto Rico
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included- Yes
With U-Pack, the weight of your items and the mileage don’t affect the cost. Its DIY approach — where you can rent part of a container — can save you money as you only pay for the space you use. U-Pack gives you up to three days to load your belongings into the container and up to three days to unload once it drives the belongings to your destination.
U-Pack doesn’t require a deposit, so you can book a moving date even if you’re one paycheck short. Its trailers also have ramps you can use to speed up the process and avoid injuries while you load your items.
Why we chose U-Pack: With U-Pack’s clear pricing model, you know exactly what you’re paying for before you book your move. This transparency can help you avoid unexpected costs and make budgeting easier. You can also drop off or pick up your stuff at a service center, a retail store, or your new home.
Client experience: Barry, a 42-year-old from Tulsa, used U-Pack for his move to Oklahoma City. While he wasn’t thrilled about the three-day packing window, he cleverly “booked his container on a Friday to get two extra” days. He also said that his “pod arrived on time, and the price was more affordable than other services.”
Pros
Multiple sizes of containers and cargo trailers
Up to 100% money back if your items don’t arrive on the agreed date
Only charges you for the space you take in the container
Cons
Solely accommodates moves further than 150 miles
You get six business days total to pack and unpack
8. SMARTBOX
Streamline Your Move with Portable, Secure Storage Solutions 
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Main services covered - Local and long-distance moving, DIY moving, corporate moving, commercial moving
Participating states - 23
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included - Yes
SMARTBOX is a crate moving company offering portable 8-foot wooden boxes suitable for smaller, corporate, and commercial relocations. You get a personal lock and key if you opt for a long-distance move.
The containers can hold up to 3,000 pounds — the contents of about one and a half rooms — so you can group your belongings by living areas if you want. You can also load items from ground level, so there’s less chance of slipping or falling from higher platforms.
Why we chose SMARTBOX: Its price-matching guarantee can be a convenient way to manage your moving budget without compromising quality. Besides that, SMARTBOX offers discounts for college students and military personnel.
Client experience: Jessica (36) recently hired SMARTBOX to move from her apartment in San Francisco to a new home in Los Angeles. “The customer service was great, and the movers were professional and efficient,” she said. Jessica had a few friends help her since she lived alone. They liked that the crates were on the ground level; “it made loading all the furniture easier,” she added.
Pros
Moves up to eight individual storage containers in a single trip
Storage calculator available on the website
Containers have waterproof canvas coverage
Cons
Only one container size available
Limited insurance options
9. 1-800-PACK-RAT
Reliable Local to Long-Distance Solutions
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- Main services covered - Local and long-distance moving, storage, packing and loading, valuation protection
Participating states - 31
Online quote tool - Partial (requires phone call)
Insurance included - Yes
1-800-PACK-RAT offers a straightforward crate-moving solution. Its employees carefully pack your fragile items in custom-made containers to protect them while moving. There’s also a 30-day minimum storage rental period, which is more suited for long-distance moves than local ones.
If you need multi-day moves, home staging, or long-term furniture safekeeping, you can ask for 6-, 8-, and 12-foot weatherproof portable containers. They have large barn doors, so you can safely load your bigger and heavier items.
Why we chose 1-800-PACK-RAT: It includes 30 days of storage and $10K insurance — with the option to purchase more — in the base price. You also get a free container lock for extra security.
Client experience: Jane (50) from Salt Lake City used 1-800-PACK-RAT to store her furniture while she renovated her house. She appreciated the option to “schedule a time to access [her] storage unit.” However, “because of some no-shows in the past,” the staff waited for her to arrive before retrieving it.
Pros
Convenient for local moves
Free supplies, like boxes and tape, for long-distance moves
Flexible change and cancellation policies
Cons
Only available in 31 states
Container rentals are for 30 days or more
Read the full 1-800-PACK-RAT review
10. PODS
Pack, Move, Store Anywhere in the U.S.
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- Main services covered - Local and long-distance moving, packing, unpacking, car shipping, storage
Participating states - 50
Online quote tool - Yes
Insurance included - Yes
PODS is a crate-moving company with over 240 warehouse locations. It holds the largest network of portable storage units in the U.S., which makes it more likely to have a container available in your area.
It also sells moving supplies, such as boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap, which you can order with your container. PODS keeps your items in a climate-controlled facility until you can move into your new place. Although, in high-demand states such as Florida, you may need to book a date in advance.
Why we chose PODS: Your first move may take a little longer. That’s why PODS gives you unlimited loading and unloading time. It also has a flexible cancellation policy, so you can get a refund if you change your mind.
Client experience: Sandra (33) from Dallas used PODS for a cross-country move with her husband. “Always check the coverage area before relocating the container,” she said. The company had moved their container early and later discovered the services weren’t available in that area. However, “we secured everything as recommended, and our items were all intact,” Sandra added. “I couldn’t be more satisfied.”
Pros
Unlimited loading and unloading time
Low and transparent prices
Flexible reservation and cancellation policies
Cons
Storage units aren’t climate-controlled
You don’t have 24/7 access to your container
How Moving Companies With Storage Work
Moving companies that incorporate storage solutions provide a seamless experience for individuals transitioning between homes. They ensure your belongings are not only moved with care but also stored safely, bridging the gap between moving out and settling into your new residence. This dual service is particularly beneficial for those facing delays in move-in dates or needing temporary space to keep their items secure.
Most moving companies offer three types of storage options:
- Self-Storage Units: Accessible, lockable units within a larger facility, like U-Haul’s self-storage, suitable for short-term needs with flexible access.
- Portable Storage Containers: Flexible units delivered to your location by companies like U-Pack, allowing you to pack at your leisure before being transported to a secure location. Ideal for staggered moving schedules.
- Warehouse Storage: Long-term, climate-controlled storage provided by companies such as Allied Van Lines, ensuring protection against weather and pests.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Moving and Storage Company
Read reviews from previous customers to gauge the company’s reputation and quality of service first. Then, check its movers’ credentials and licenses to ensure they’re qualified to do the job. Also, request quotes from a few companies to get an idea of pricing and features.
Consider these additional factors when finding a legitimate moving company to store your stuff.
1. Services Offered and Flexibility
Ensure the company provides the necessary services, whether brief in-transit storage or a long-term safekeeping solution. If it offers a range of options, you can better customize the service to match your needs.
2. Security and Insurance
Ask if the company has surveillance and verify its insurance coverage. Find out how it delivers your belongings. Does the company transport them themselves, or does it hire a third party to do the job?
3. Transparent Pricing
Pick a moving company that lists transparent prices. Also, watch out for unusually low quotes, as they may indicate subpar service.
4. Customer Support
A company with responsive customer service can address your concerns promptly and make your moving and storage experience smoother.
5. Experience and Reputation
Choose a company with positive reviews and a strong reputation, as it’s more likely to provide reliable services and handle your belongings with care.
How To Take Advantage of Storage When Moving
Storage can give you enough time to coordinate whether you’re downsizing to a smaller home, renovating, or moving to a new city or country.
To make better use of your storage, try the following moving tips and hacks:
Declutter before packing. Organize your belongings and make a list with categories such as keep, donate, sell, or toss out. Use the storage unit to house the ones you plan on posting online or donating so they’re out of your way while you prepare for movers to come.
Pack in stages. Separate your packing in stages to stay coordinated. Start with items that aren’t crucial before the move, such as old CDs and books. Instead, focus on essentials as moving day approaches.
Use temporary storage. If there’s a gap between leaving your old home and moving to the new one, use temporary storage to keep your items secure while you wait.
Store belongings during renovations. If you’re moving into a new home that needs renovations, store your items until the job is done to ensure they’re safe.
Use storage to get your place just right. Moving can reveal the need for adjustments in your new space. Use a storage unit to temporarily stash bulky furniture or items that don’t fit well so you can decide what works best for your new home.
Take your time unpacking. Don’t unload everything at once, as it can overwhelm you. Keep some items in storage and unpack them gradually so you can better organize the layout of your rooms.
How Much Do Moving and Storage Services Cost?
Local moves typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000, while long-distance relocation ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. Some companies charge by the hour, around $80 to $120, based on who you hire. Others have a set price, which may be a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
The price can vary according to:
Distance: Long-distance moves generally cost more due to the transportation time and fuel costs.
Size and weight: You may need more time and resources to manage large, heavy items.
Additional services: Packing and specialty item handling services often cost extra, so consider if they’re necessary.
Storage duration: Determine how long you’ll store your items, as extended periods may incur higher charges.
Season and demand: Peak moving seasons, such as summer, may lead to higher prices due to increased demand.
Going Forward: Find Your Moving and Storage Solution
A moving company that also offers storage can make your move easier. They can keep your belongings safe, whether you store them for a short or long time. So, if you need storage during your move, start your search with some of the companies on this list. Grab quotes from at least three services to find the right one at the best possible price.
