8 Best Antique Moving Companies in 2022

The Best Antique Movers

1. Best Full-Service Mover: International Van Lines
2. Best for Extended Storage: Allied Van Lines
3. Best Customer Service: North American Van Lines
4. Best Add-On Services: American Van Lines
5. Best for Military Moves: Safeway Moving Systems
6. Best Insurance Options: JK Moving Services
7. Most Competitive Pricing: U-Pack
8. Best Self-Service Option: PODS

Quick Overview

Moving is a hassle at the best of times. It can be even more stressful when you need to consider the protection of your antiques or fragile items. Here’s a quick overview of the best antique movers in the industry today. We’ll explore each company in more detail throughout this guide.

As you research companies, be sure to request and compare free quotes so you can get the best rate for your needs:

* Long-distance average cost is based on aggregate data from customer reviews for a two-bedroom home, moving 250 miles. Cost can vary significantly based on move weight and distance. Be sure to request a free quote to get an accurate estimate for your move.

1. International Van Lines

International Van Lines is one of the best antique moving companies available today. With more than 10,000 moves completed per year, they routinely set the standard for customer service. The company has a strong reputation in the industry and is known to take special care with everything from the most fragile to the most valuable of items.

IVL Services

IVL operates as both a carrier and broker. This allows them to handle any number of moving services, including specialty options for fragile items and antiques. You can fully customize your move with:

• Local, long-distance, and international moves
• Full and partial packing services
• Custom crating
• Storage services
• Debris removal
• Auto shipping

IVL Cost

When moving locally with IVL (under 100 miles), you will be billed by the hour. You can expect to pay $100 per hour for two movers and a truck. Each additional mover is another $50 per hour.

Long-distance moves are priced differently. The main cost factors here include how far you are moving and how many items you will be moving. For a two-bedroom apartment move of 1,100 miles, we were given an estimate of $2,015 – $3,445. This range does account for some add-on services that can increase your cost—like packing, auto shipping, and crating for antiques.

IVL Availability

International Van Lines is available throughout the United States, both as a carrier and broker. Although their presence is strongest on the East Coast and Midwest, they serve all 50 US states and 180 countries around the globe.

Why We Like International Van Lines

IVL has consistently been a leader on the customer service side of things. Along with highly qualified moving crews, they also maintain a full-time customer service department. This allows them to assign two points of contact for each move, so you can always have someone to speak to with any questions or concerns.

2. Allied Van Lines

Allied Van Lines is one of the biggest moving carriers in the US. While many other movers have to contract their work out to partner companies, when you work with Allied, you will work directly with them. They can assist with local, long-distance and international moves, providing special care for fragile and antique moving services.

AVL Services

As a top full-service mover, Allied is ready to help you with a wide range of moving needs, including:

• Local, long-distance, and international moves
• Fragile and antique moves
• Furniture assembly and disassembly
• Full or partial packing
• Full valuation insurance
• Auto and boat shipping
• Custom crating
• Junk removal
• Storage

AVL Cost

Local moves are quoted at a rate of $40-$60 per hour for each mover. Keep in mind that Allied has a 4-hour minimum. You move can take less time, but they will charge you for a minimum of four hours.

Long-distance moves are quoted at a flat rate. The primary factors here are how far you will be moving and the size/weight of your move. Here are some sample estimates we were able to get from Allied:

Request a free quote to find out exactly what your cost will be with Allied Van Lines.

AVL Service Area

Allied works directly as a carrier in all 50 US states. They can also assist with international moves around the world.

Why We Like Allied Van Lines

As a nationwide carrier, Allied can keep its service quality consistent. You are not working with local partner companies as with other movers. The company has a strong reputation for care, even with fragile and valuable items. Be sure to let them know your exact needs when requesting an estimate.

3. North American Van Lines

With a company history dating all the way back to the 1930’s, North American Van Lines has one of the strongest reputations in the moving industry. They are an excellent choice whether you’re moving just a few miles or thousands of miles away. Whether you want to do some work yourself or rely completely on the company’s trusted moving crews, this popular mover is ready to assist.

NAVL Services

A range of add-on services can be included with your relocation, allowing you to customize your experience:

• Local and long-distance moving
• International moving
• Packing and unpacking (full-service or partial)
• Furniture assembly and disassembly
• Debris removal
• 24/7 shipment tracking
• Appliance installation
• Storage
• Excellent insurance options
• And more

NAVL Cost

For interstate and cross-country moves, the weight of your belongings and how far you’re moving will have the largest impact on cost. That said, NAVL’s pricing is comparable with other national movers. Here is some more pricing data to help you plan your move:

NAVL Sample Pricing

NAVL Availability

No matter how far you’re moving, North American Van Lines can help. They currently serve all 50 U.S. states. NAVL is also an excellent option for international moving globally.

Why We Like North American Van Lines

North American Van Lines has deep experience with a strong reputation for exceptional service. With over 80 years of experience and a wide range of service options, it’s hard to go wrong when you book with NAVL. The company goes the extra mile to protect your property with carpet covers for your flooring and pads for doors, railings, and walls. With a dedication to customer service, many add-on options, and strong industry reviews, NAVL is one of the best movers operating today.

4. American Van Lines

American Van Lines has risen to become one of the top local and interstate movers in the US since their opening in 1995. With a comprehensive array of add-on services and experienced workers (many with more than ten years in the industry), AVL is a great choice for your antique moving needs.

AVL Services

American Van Lines has a reputation for offering the most comprehensive list of add-on services available to moving clients today. This is accentuated by the experienced crews sent out on every move. Services available include:

• Local, long-distance and international moving
• Custom crating for fragile items
• Antique moving
• Climate-controlled, secure storage
• Military and commercial moving
• Piano Moving
• Full or partial packing

AVL Cost

Like International Van Lines, AVL has different pricing structures for local and long-distance moving services. For local moves, you will be charged an hourly rate. This rate can fluctuate by location but is generally $40-$60 per mover, per hour. Specialty services like fragile or antique furniture moving can increase your cost.

Long-distance moves are not billed at an hourly rate. Instead, your move cost will be determined by the distance from point A to point B as well as your home size. AVL provides some estimates on its site:

Request a free quote to find out exactly what your move will cost with American Van Lines.

AVL Availability

American Van Lines serves the entire country. Along with hubs in Florida, North Carolina, and Texas, they have smaller locations in many other states, with the capability to move clients anywhere in the US.

Why We Like American Van Lines

American Van Lines offers the most comprehensive list of add-ons among top rated full-service movers. With highly experienced and trained moving crews, customers are in incredibly capable hands when—even for jobs requiring the utmost care.

5. Safeway Moving Systems

Safeway Moving Systems is a leading moving broker, specializing in military moves. That said, their residential and commercial capabilities are among the industry’s best as well. Their commitment to transparency is what keeps clients coming back, as does the quality of their services.

Safeway Services

As a moving broker, Safeway Moving Systems works to match you with the best mover for your needs. Through their esteemed partner network, they can provide:

• Long-distance moving (residential and commercial)
• Antique moving services
• Military relocations
• Full and partial packing
• Piano moving
• Auto shipping
• Basic furniture assembly and disassembly

Safeway Cost

Safeway doesn’t provide sample pricing on their website. To find out what your move will cost, you will need to request a free quote. This step is especially important for those who have unique service needs like moving antique furniture.

Safeway Availability

Based in Chicago, IL, this massive broker has a reach that extends throughout the entire country. They partner with carefully vetted companies in each state to complete jobs, which makes booking fairly easy in most locations.

Why We Like Safeway

Safeway Moving Systems has shown that they are committed to transparency and honesty in their pricing practices. They also stand by their work with a 100% guarantee on all moving services, which is an admirable trait in any field. Those with fragile furniture or antiques should look to a company that cares about their clients the way Safeway does.

6. JK Moving

JK Moving Services is one of the best antique moving companies operating today. They are both a carrier and broker, operating out of the Washington DC area. With over 500,000 jobs completed in the last 40 years, they have a strong reputation for consistency and excellence in the moving industry.

JK Moving Services

JK Moving Services provide industry leading service, no matter what your move may entail. Services offered include:

• Local moving within the Washington DC metropolitan area
• Long-distance moving to all points in the United States
• International moving
• Commercial moving
• Antique and fragile item moving
• GPS shipment tracking
• Full packing services
• Climate-controlled storage
• Financing for payment of your move bill
• Full valuation insurance coverage options

JK Moving Cost

JK Moving Services doesn’t provide sample pricing on their website. However, their 24/7 customer service can help you with a quote or estimate at any time. Simply request a free quote on their website to begin the process.

JK Moving Availability

JK Moving Services acts as a carrier in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia, where they offer local moving services. Throughout the rest of the US, they operate as a broker—providing long-distance and cross-country moving services. They also assist with international moves around the globe.

Why We Like JK Moving Services

JK Moving Services has some of the best workers in the industry. They are continually trained in the latest moving practices and undergo full background checks. Along with this, JK’s full valuation insurance coverage options ensure the safety and protection of your goods.

7. U-Pack

U-Pack is a leading moving container service offering a pared down service at an extremely affordable price. While they are only available for long-distance moves, if you’re willing to do the loading and unloading yourself, you can save a lot of money. They maintain an A+ rating with the BBB and offer multiple container sizes to best meet your needs.

U-Pack Services

While it can be a good idea to trust your antiques with a professional moving team, if you’re confident in your packing and loading ability, then a moving container service can be a great way to save money. U-Pack allows you to rent a moving container (either 8 feet or 27 feet), which you will be responsible for loading. Once loaded up, they’ll pick up the container and ship it to your new destination, where you’ll unload it.

U-Pack Cost

8. PODS

Even though U-Pack has been in operation for longer, PODS is the first brand that comes to mind when most people think about moving containers. This company has a strong reputation and is available for both local and long-distance moves. You’ll still have to do the loading and unloading yourself. If you’re willing to take that project on, though, you can save big compared to a full-service antique moving company.

PODS Services

Like U-Pack, PODS will drop off a moving container at your property for you to load. You can rent either a 7 ft., 12 ft., or 16 ft. container, depending on your needs. Every rental is for 30 days, and you can keep the container on your property as long as you need. When you’re ready, PODS will pick up the container and ship it to your new home.

PODS Cost

Request a Quote

When looking for the best antique movers, it’s important to shop around. No client is a cookie cutter fit for every moving carrier. Furthermore, not all moving providers are properly equipped to handle your exact needs. Request estimates and compare quotes from as many providers as possible to help ensure you get the best rate:

How to Find the Best Antique Moving Company

Moving company websites can be a little hard to decipher, especially if they’re a small local name. In most cases, you’ll see services like “antique moving” and “custom crating,” listed on their site without much detail.

So, what do the best antique moving companies look like, and how do you find the right provider for your needs? Here’s what to look for:

Experience

Check to see how many years of experience a company has in moving antique furniture and other fragile items. Technology and carrier liability coverage plans have both grown over the years, so it’s important that a company has all the latest materials and services to protect valuable antiques.

Specialty Services

There are some specialty service options that are best suited for antique moves. Not all companies provide these. To ensure your items will receive the greatest level of care, look for movers with services like:

• Custom crating. An experienced mover will come to your home, measure and photograph the piece in question, and build a customized package specifically for the item. These crates include custom packing materials and even climate-control technology if necessary.
• Professional packing. Even if you’re handling a small move, packing services are an excellent way to keep precious items safe. The best movers have access to high-quality containers, packing supplies, and means to safely transport them to the truck.
• Insurance options. As we mentioned earlier, carrier liability coverage is the form of insurance specifically offered by moving companies. While it depends on your plan, most homeowner insurance plans do not cover damage that occurs in the hands of the movers, so it’s important to opt for full valuation coverage whenever possible.
• Storage. Antique furniture and décor often requires storage in a climate-controlled storage unit to keep it safe and secure.
• Piano moving. Older instruments need to be treated with exceptional care. Ensure that your mover is experienced before trusting them with piano moving services.

There are some special pieces movers prefer that you transport on your own. Irreplaceable items like wedding rings, family photos, passports, and tax data should be kept in a special box and moved separately. If there are small, high-value items you can transport yourself, you may save money on insurance rates.

Insurance Coverage

Moving companies are required to supply basic liability coverage for accidents on moving day of $0.60 per pound, per item. This basic coverage is often not ideal for expensive delicate items and collectibles.

When planning your antique move, look for companies that clearly list their additional insurance options on their website. During the quote process, be sure to point out any highly appraised items that need to travel to your new home. The best movers will suggest the right level of coverage and best price for your needs.

Customer Reviews & Testimonials

Peruse sites like the Better Business Bureau and common review pages like Yelp and Google for red flags about customer care. Some of the most common complaints go back to packers or movers not taking extra care to protect special items. For example, look for reviews about the company’s packing services, packing materials, and experience with their claims process.

Additionally, always feel free to ask a company for direct testimonials from customers with needs similar to yours. If possible, speak with past clients that also moved precious antiques with success.

License & Registration

Always begin by checking a company for basic federal and state requirements. Even if the mover has an excellent website and social media, check their status in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration database for their:

• USDOT number
• Certifications, license, and proof of insurance
• Whether the company is a broker or a carrier
• Number of trucks in their fleet
• Current complaints filed with the FMCSA

Carrier vs Broker

Many local and long-distance moving companies function as either a carrier or a broker:

• Carriers have their own fleet of trucks, trained staff, and moving supplies. When you book with a carrier, you will work with that company throughout the process.
• Brokers reach out to locally vetted companies and coordinate your move on your behalf, instead of serving you directly.

Both types of movers are legitimate, but you may need to do a little more research with a broker when it comes to antique moving. For example, if a company hires a team of movers close by that do not offer the same antique services as the parent website, you could end up with a headache on the big day.

Understanding the Quote Process

The estimate process is a great opportunity to get to know your prospective movers in more detail. You should do an in-person or virtual walkthrough of your home, and be sure to point out items that require special attention. The best companies are fully transparent about pricing, especially for extra services.

Your free moving quote should include:

• A binding or non-binding contract with your estimated costs
• Costs for specialty services like packing, crating, or piano moving
• Add-on insurance costs and info on the claims process
• Your moving-day and delivery schedule

Our Methodology

At Pro Mover Reviews, we are committed to providing our readers with comprehensive and unbiased information on each provider that we review. Our methodology is a step-by-step process that ensures we maintain your trust through transparency and data that is backed up through routine check-ins. Our staff has spent hundreds of hours reviewing dozens of local, long-distance, and international moving companies to bring you our recommendation for the best moving companies in the US. We then narrowed down our findings based on criteria that we find to be the most helpful for you to choose the best moving company for your needs.

Our Rating Categories:

• Company Transparency
• Pricing + Cost
• Services Offered
• Overall Reputation

While there are many sites out there that compare movers, we believe our rigorous standards give us more insights into company performance and better data to share with our community. For each moving company we check for:

• Confirmed Licensing with the DOT
• Updated & Verified Business Registration
• Real & Recent Consumer Reviews
• Industry Ratings and BBB Complaints
• Accuracy of Online Quotes
• Services Provided & Total Service Area
• Pricing & Services vs. Competitors

From here we created a comprehensive, 100 point, rating scale based on the following factors:

• Moving services (25): Companies that offer more flexibility in their services are rated higher.
• Coverage of services (5): The more items a moving company can handle, the higher the score.
• Pricing (25): We compare this to the industry average when rating pricing.
• Trustworthiness (25): We comb through hundreds of reviews and check on BBB ratings to determine the trustworthiness of a company.
• State availability (5): Finding a moving company in your state can be a challenge depending on where you are located. The more states covered, the higher the score.
• Customer service (10): Is this moving company responsive? Do they respond quickly to issues that are brought to their attention? Are they helpful in answering questions? All of these factors are considered when rating customer service.
• Additional benefits (5): Moving companies can sometimes offer special promotions or deals when contracting them for a move. The companies with the most benefit scored higher.

Of the dozens of different moving companies that we’ve reviewed, we’ve broken down the top antique movers in your area. To keep our ratings and data current, we have a full-time researcher who collects (and regularly updates) more than 100 specific data points from each company to help us compare them on key factors such as coverage, cost, service, and dependability. This list is ever-changing, as companies will update policies and procedures, and we will change our information accordingly.