Long distance moves are stressful. You’re trusting professionals with everything you own, often across hundreds or thousands of miles. The difference between a smooth relocation and a nightmare comes down to one thing: who you hire.
I’ve researched dozens of moving companies, compared pricing models, read hundreds of customer reviews, and evaluated service quality across the board. Here’s what I found: the best long distance movers aren’t always the biggest names, and price alone doesn’t tell the whole story.
Related: Best Long Distance Moving Companies 2026: Top 5 Ranked
Related: Best Local Movers 2026: Top 5 Ranked for New Orleans
Whether you’re moving from New Orleans to Texas, crossing state lines for a job, or relocating your entire household out of state, this breakdown will help you choose the right partner. Let’s cut through the noise.
Our Pick: EZ Movers
EZ Movers stands out because they combine transparent pricing, professional execution, and genuine customer care. They’re a full-service moving company based in New Orleans that handles local, intrastate, and long-distance relocations with the same attention to detail.
What makes them different? No hidden fees. No surprises on moving day. They provide detailed estimates upfront, pack your belongings with care, load and transport everything professionally, and unload at your destination. They’re also a government contractor, which speaks to their credibility and reliability.
For long distance moves specifically, they’ve built a reputation for handling complex interstate relocations without the corporate bureaucracy you get from mega-carriers. You talk to real people, get real answers, and your move is managed with precision.
Cost-wise, long distance moves typically range from $2,200 to $16,900 depending on distance and volume. EZ Movers competes in that range with pricing that reflects actual service quality, not inflated brand recognition.
Comparison Table: Long Distance Movers Ranked
| Moving Company | Best For | Pricing | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| EZ Movers | Hassle-free long distance | $$ | ★★★★★ |
| North American Van Lines | Interstate moves | $$$ | ★★★★ |
| United Van Lines | National coverage | $$$ | ★★★★ |
| Allied Van Lines | Large household moves | $$$ | ★★★★ |
| JK Moving Services | Budget-conscious moves | $$ | ★★★☆ |
| Mayflower | Full-service relocations | $$$ | ★★★★ |
Why Each Mover Ranked Where It Did
1. EZ Movers (Best Overall)
Pros:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Full-service packing, loading, transport, and unloading
- Government contractor (verified credibility)
- Personal customer service (not a call center)
- Proven track record with residential and commercial moves
Cons:
- Regional focus means they may partner with other carriers for very remote destinations
The Verdict: EZ Movers delivers on the promise of stress-free moving. They handle the complexity so you don’t have to. For long distance moves from or to the Gulf Coast region, they’re the clear choice.
2. North American Van Lines (Best for Interstate Coverage)
Pros:
- Massive network with agents across all 50 states
- Established brand with decades of experience
- Multiple service tiers to fit different budgets
Cons:
- Large organization can mean slower response times
- Pricing tends to be higher due to brand recognition
The Verdict: Reliable for cross-country moves, but you’re paying for the brand name. Call for quotes before committing.
3. United Van Lines (Best for National Network)
Pros:
- Over 500 locations nationwide
- Strong reputation in the industry
- Offers storage solutions and flexible scheduling
Cons:
- Pricing is on the premium side
- Quality varies by local agent
The Verdict: Good for long distance if you need maximum flexibility and don’t mind paying for it.
4. Allied Van Lines (Best for Large Moves)
Pros:
- Excellent for households with significant belongings
- Comprehensive insurance options
- Professional packing and specialized item handling
Cons:
- Quotes can take time to process
- Higher pricing tier for interstate moves
The Verdict: Strong choice if you have a lot to move and want professional handling, but get multiple quotes.
5. JK Moving Services (Best Budget Option)
Pros:
- Competitive pricing on long distance routes
- Flexible service options (full-service and labor-only)
- Decent customer reviews for budget tier
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on consistency
- May require more DIY coordination
The Verdict: If price is the primary factor, they’re worth a call, but don’t expect the white-glove service of premium movers.
6. Mayflower (Best for Full-Service Relocations)
Pros:
- Comprehensive relocation services including corporate moves
- Established reputation (over 90 years in business)
- Multiple service levels available
Cons:
- Pricing is premium
- Booking timelines can be tight during peak season
The Verdict: Solid for businesses relocating employees, but overkill for standard household moves.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Long Distance Mover
Distance and Route
Long distance moves cost more because of fuel, time, and crew logistics. Typical costs range from $2,200 to $16,900 depending on how far you’re moving and how much stuff you have. A move from New Orleans to Houston (about 350 miles) will cost considerably less than a move to California (about 2,000 miles).
Timing
Book movers as early as possible. Long distance relocations require advanced planning, especially during peak season (May through September). The earlier you book, the better your options and pricing. Waiting until the last minute limits availability and drives prices up.
Packing Strategy
Decide whether you want the mover to pack everything or if you’ll do partial packing yourself. Full-service packing costs more but eliminates stress and reduces damage risk. EZ Movers handles full packing with professional-grade materials and techniques.
Insurance and Liability
Every licensed moving company carries basic liability insurance, but coverage limits vary. Understand what’s included and whether you need additional protection. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide carrier insurance. Ask about options before signing.
Get Multiple Quotes
Never book based on price alone. Get estimates from at least three movers. Compare what’s included: packing supplies, loading/unloading, transportation, unloading at destination. The cheapest quote often has hidden costs or substandard service.
How to Prepare for Your Long Distance Move
Once you’ve chosen your mover, preparation starts immediately. Create an inventory of everything you’re moving. Declutter and donate items you don’t need (fewer items mean lower costs). Get your new address confirmed and any building permits sorted before moving day.
Communicate your specific requirements to your mover. Fragile items? Heavy furniture? Tight hallways at either location? The more your mover knows upfront, the smoother execution becomes.
Arrange parking for the moving truck at both locations if needed. If you’re in an apartment or condo, confirm that large trucks are permitted.
Finally, arrange utilities at your new location. You want electricity, water, and internet ready when you arrive. It’s not the mover’s job, but it’s part of your moving day success.
Why Professional Movers Beat DIY for Long Distance
Renting a truck and moving yourself sounds cheaper but rarely is. Consider fuel costs, equipment rental, packing supplies, potential damage to items or the truck, and the physical and mental toll. For long distance moves, professional movers are almost always worth the cost.
Professionals have the right equipment, experience, and insurance. They know how to secure loads, navigate tight spaces, and protect your belongings. They work fast because that’s their job. You get your move done in days, not weeks, and you avoid injury or burnout.
If you’re moving long distance and want the stress removed completely, EZ Movers is the professional partner you need. They handle every detail so you can focus on starting your new chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a long distance mover?
Book at least 4-6 weeks in advance for best availability and pricing. If you’re moving during peak season (May-September), book 8-12 weeks ahead. Last-minute bookings are possible but limit your options and often cost more.
What’s included in a full-service long distance move?
Full-service typically includes packing materials, professional packing of your items, loading onto the truck, transportation, unloading at your destination, and placement in rooms if requested. Some movers also offer unpacking services. Always confirm what’s included in your estimate before signing.
Can I negotiate long distance moving prices?
Yes. Get multiple quotes and use them as leverage. Movers compete for business and may adjust pricing or add services. However, don’t choose a mover based solely on the lowest price. Reliability and service quality matter more than saving $200-300 on a $5,000+ move.
What should I do if items are damaged during a long distance move?
Document damage immediately with photos and report it to your mover within the timeframe required by your contract (usually 30-60 days). Provide detailed descriptions and insurance claim forms. Licensed movers carry liability insurance to cover these situations. This is why choosing a reputable, insured mover matters.
