There’s a lot of work and stress involved when moving all of your belongings to your new home, even if you aren’t doing the heavy lifting. Whether you’re moving to or from Hartford or New Haven, working with one of the best moving companies in Connecticut can save you time, money, effort, and worry.
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.2
Top-notch packing services
Nationwide partner network
Comprehensive moving calculator
During my secret shopping, I talked to a number of movers that operate in Connecticut. Every moving company was scored on basic services, customization, reputation, and transparency according to our criteria. I then took it further and compared prices, services, reviews, and more to determine my top choices for moving brands in the state.
I’ve put together the list of my choices for the best moving companies in Connecticut to cut down on the amount of work you need to do, including a list of services and facts that are important to Connecticut residents and homeowners across the country. I highly suggest getting quotes from these five brands when it’s time to move to your new home.
Top 5 Connecticut Moving Companies
- When moving in or out of Connecticut, International Van Lines is my go-to recommendation. IVL offers a wealth of services to tackle just about any move in or out of state (or out of the country), and they have a solid reputation behind them. Full-service packing is included in their quote, which can be a great way to cut down on the stress of a move.
- If you want to pack your own items or save money, I’d suggest American Van Lines. While they don’t offer as many services as IVL, customers can save hundreds of dollars by going with their self-service packing option. Plus, AVL has standout reviews.
- All reputable moving companies within Connecticut are required to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and either a Household Goods Carrier Certificate or Motor Contract Carrier permit from the Connecticut Department of Transportation, in addition to adhering to the state’s moving company statutes.
Read our full Moving Methodology for more details.
My Expert Recommendation
If you’re a homeowner or tenant looking to move into, out of, or within Connecticut, I recommend International Van Lines. The company has many glowing reviews from customers and offers just about any service a person could need from their moving company. They’re equipped to handle local moves as well as international transportation to over 150 countries on top of car shipping, custom crating, antique moving, and more. Full-service packing is also baked into their prices, so if you need someone to pack your items for you, it can be a fantastic way to save hundreds of dollars as well as time and effort.
However, not everyone wants someone else to pack up their belongings or pay extra for full service. If you don’t need or want full-service packing, I recommend American Van Lines. They don’t offer quite as much as IVL, but they’ll cover most of Connecticuters’ needs. They also feature some of the best reviews I’ve found among moving companies and are highly transparent about their pricing.
Connecticut Moving Companies I Didn’t Include
One moving company that operates in Connecticut that I didn’t include was Allied Van Lines. Although the company offers a wealth of services, including home staging, which is a rarity among movers, it isn’t easy to get a quote from them. Customers have to go through a virtual or in-home assessment in order to get an estimate. Their website also doesn’t feature sample pricing or additional fees, so it’s really hard to say how much you’d be spending with Allied without going through the assessment.
I also didn’t include Mayflower Moving. They also provide several services homeowners in Connecticut will be looking for, but reviews for the brand are hard to find. Reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), for example, are actually for their parent company, Unigroup, and Mayflower doesn’t have a Google Business Profile or Yelp page. Looking into a mover’s reputation is essential when determining the best company to hire, so their lack of reviews makes me think twice.
Compare The Highest Rated Moving Companies In Connecticut
| Company | Rating | BBB Rating | Cost | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
A |
$1,400–$9,200 |
VISIT SITE | |
|
A+ |
$1,700–$13,800 |
VISIT SITE | |
|
B |
$1,250 – $8,500 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
C |
$3,000–$11,200 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
A+ |
$1,200–$11,250 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
B |
$1,200–$11,250 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
A+ |
$600–$5,100 |
VISIT SITE | |
 JK Moving Services |
A+ |
$3,000–$6,000 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of publication.
Our Reviews of the Best Moving Companies in Connecticut
International Van Lines
4.5
Our Rating
International Van Lines came in at 4.5 stars, our choice for “best full-service mover.” Packing is included in their price, which can cost $250 to $1,000 or more compared to other brands. This can be a solid solution if you want to save effort and money on your move. However, this service can be a double-edged sword for some customers. If you want to save cash or you wish to handle packing your belongings yourself, opting out of full-service with IVL isn’t going to cut the cost down much. At that point, it might be worth it financially to go with another moving company.
Aside from full-service packing solutions, IVL also offers a wealth of other services customers need. As a broker/carrier, they have the network to handle local, long-distance, interstate, and international moves to over 150 countries. If you need extras like car shipping, antique moving, and custom crating, IVL and their partners can assist. However, IVL no longer handles moves to or from Alaska, so Connecticuters looking for information about moving to the 49th state will have to go with another company.
International Van Lines has a stellar reputation. At the time of writing, they have an A on the BBB and a 4.2 on Google. Many customers cite standout customer service. However, my own experiences with IVL have not been something to write home about. I initially had to call back four times to get a quote, with many promised callbacks in between. I decided to try the chat tool featured on their website and was met with slow responses, inaccurate information, and an unhelpful representative. The representative I did talk to once I finally got through was extremely helpful and responsive, so I do believe my experiences are isolated incidences and not very common.
Our choice for “best full-service mover,” International Van Lines actually includes their full-service packing solution into their price. It’s one of the most cost-efficient packing options out there, too, so it can be significant if you’re looking to save time and money. They also know that box quality is important, so that’s always a consideration when packing your items.
IVL also handles a majority of services Connecticut homeowners are looking for in a moving company. Whether you’re moving to the next city over, across the country, or to the other side of the world, they (and their partner brands) can assist with the transportation. IVL offers specialty options as well, including junk removal, car shipping, and custom crating.
Many reviews speak about standout customer service and communication experiences. However, my personal experience when talking with the company hasn’t matched up to this reputation. Several of my calls and messages went unanswered, and when using the chat tool on their website, I was unable to get real responses to my questions.
While full-service is one of the reasons IVL is a top choice for me, it may not fit everyone’s needs. If you want to pack your own items or save some cash, this moving company doesn’t offer much in the way of cost savings if you decide to opt for self-service. You might be better off going with another brand.
International Van Lines earned a top score in basic costs as they offer everything we look for in a moving company. They’re equipped to handle local moves as well as long-distance moves and international transportation. Packing, loading, and unloading are included in a vast majority of their quotes, which is unusual. For all other moving companies on this list, packing costs extra, so if you’re looking for a full-service solution, IVL is one of the most cost-effective. Know that 30 days of storage is included in the quote, but you need to inform the representative before pick-up to secure your spot. After 30 days, storage costs money. The email I received states $0.60 per cubic foot (with a minimum of $300), but their website says it’s $0.50 per cubic foot. I’d recommend getting clarification on this service and its associated costs before booking IVL.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
Full-service packing is included in International Van Lines’s quotes for Connecticut moves, and both the representative I spoke with and the website advise that doing your own packing is not going to save you much when going with IVL. According to my secret shopping, they’re one of the least expensive options on this list for full-service moving. American Van Lines was $250 more expensive, and JK Moving Solutions was a whopping $5,388 over IVL’s full-service move quote. Only Safeway Moving and IMRG had lower costs for full-service Connecticut moves compared to IVL, but that was only after some hefty discounts. Even then, the savings were just $54 to $105.
For a 573-mile move for a 2-bedroom home between Maybrook, NY, and Carrboro, NC, I was quoted:
- Full-service option with packing: $4,000.52
- Bulky item: $150
- Unpacking service: $175.00/hour at a minimum of 4 hours
- Piano handling: $150 to 350
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
International Van Lines includes a discount right off the bat with their included full-service packing solutions. In addition, they offer a 15% discount to seniors and a 10% to 15% discount for military members and veterans. Their website also states that you could receive $200 to $500 off your moving quote by simply asking for a discount so don’t forget to ask.
IVL earned a 9 for customization for Connecticut moves. They lost a point because they don’t offer home staging. However, they offer every other customization option we look for in moving companies in the Constitution State. Assembly and disassembly of basic furniture, packing materials, and basic valuation coverage ( $0.60 per pound per article) are included in the price, but customers can opt for additional insurance if required. If you need any specialized packing items, such as boxes, crates, or bubble wraps for TVs, mirrors, and mattresses, make sure you let them know ahead of time, or this could cost you extra on moving day. Piano moving, car shipping, antique moving, junk removal, and custom crating are also available through the moving company and its partners for additional costs.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
Thanks to their A on the BBB and their 4.2 on Trustpilot, as of this writing, IVL earned a 10 in reputation. Many positive reviews state that the customer service and communication from IVL were top-notch, with responsive representatives and knowledgeable crews from beginning to end. Reviews on Yelp are lower (at 1.7), but the brand is responsive to both positive and negative reviews on both Google and Trustpilot, a rarity I’ve found among moving companies. They thank customers for their 5-star reviews and invite those who left 1-star reviews to reach out to the company to try to correct the issue.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A/3.51 | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 4.2 | 54 |
| 3.9 | 800 | |
| Yelp | 1.7 | 543 |
Most Common Praise for International Van Lines
Positive reviews across trusted review sites for International Van Lines cite responsive customer service representatives, cost-effective quotes, and hassle-free move experience from getting the quote to the actual move itself. Many even report faster-than-expected packing services the day of the move, which can be reassuring to have on your side when you need to move quickly.
Most Common Criticism for International Van Lines
On Yelp, however, a majority of the reviews are 1-star. Here, customers state that there was “significant damage” to their items, delayed deliveries, and poor packing of fragile belongings. On other websites, customers explained that costs were much higher than expected on moving day.
For transparency, International Van Lines landed at an 8.7. They’re one of the few moving companies that feature sample pricing right on their website. They also have a quick quote feature online, but you’re going to need to submit your email and phone number to use it. In addition, IVL offers GPS tracking on some of their trucks, binding estimates, and online or over-the-phone booking. IVL is a broker/carrier, which means they do outsource some moves to partner companies. They’re a carrier in Connecticut but use third-party agents in Washington, Utah, Oregon, and Montana. Additionally, IVL did lose some points, as their website doesn’t feature many of the additional costs you could incur on your move, including elevator, stairs, and custom crating fees.
American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
Overall, American Van Lines came in at 4 stars. Like International Van Lines, they earned a 10 in reputation, and it’s one of my favorite things about the company. AVL has some of the highest reviews out of the five moving companies in Connecticut on this list, and customers talk again and again about amazing experiences from beginning to end. However, while they’re responsive to positive reviews on Google, they simply don’t reply to any negative reviews, and they aren’t responsive outside of Google at all. I’m glad they’re thanking customers for positive reviews, but I would love to see what they’re doing for customers who didn’t have amazing experiences with the brand, too.
Another shining attribute of AVL is their website. During my research on moving companies, I’ve found that many brands go into what you should look for in a moving company and tips while providing vague statements about their actual services. AVL’s website, on the other hand, covers it all. Whether you want to find advice for your move or detailed information about what AVL offers customers, their website features the information you need in a clear format.
Where AVL falls short for me is their lack of services. They simply don’t offer as much as other moving companies that operate in Connecticut. They don’t handle moves to Alaska, Hawaii, or internationally, and if you need car shipping, junk removal, or home staging, you’re out of luck with this brand. Therefore, AVL isn’t the go-to choice if you require one of these services.
American Van Lines has some of the best reviews out of the moving companies on this list. With an A+ and 4.1 on the BBB, a 4.4 on Trustpilot, and a 4.2 on Google at the time of writing, these high numbers instill confidence in the brand. Customers explained that representatives were helpful and knowledgeable, crews were careful and efficient, and the entire moving experience was stress-free, easy, and cost-effective.
I also love AVL’s informative website. They go into extensive detail about what they, as a brand, offer their customers. Many other moving companies’ websites lack basic information or choose to focus on what you should look for in a moving company rather than talking about what the organization specifically offers their customers. AVL’s website is a breath of fresh air where you can easily find what you’re looking for and know what to expect when working with the company.
American Van Lines doesn’t offer as many services as other companies on this list, including JK Moving Services and International Van Lines. They only operate in 48 states, and they don’t do any international moves. In addition, they don’t offer extras like car shipping or junk removal, which are commonly found with other brands. Therefore, they’re not going to meet every Connecticuter’s needs.
While AVL does have a stellar reputation, they’re not very responsive to reviews outside of positive ones on Google. This makes it difficult to assess how exactly the company handles negative reviews and if they did anything to correct situations with unhappy customers.
American Van Lines received a 9 out of 10 for basic services, losing a point because they don’t offer international moves or moves to Alaska and Hawaii. For most homeowners in Connecticut, they’ll be able to handle your move as they specialize in local, interstate, and long-distance moving. Customers can purchase packing and unpacking services for an additional fee, but loading and unloading are included in your quote. Plus, if you need storage services, the first 30 days are free, but customers are welcome to utilize their warehouses for longer terms. AVL’s storage warehouses are fully licensed and insured, and customers can choose the solutions that meet their belongings’ needs, including climate-controlled, high-value, oversized, and temperature-controlled vaults.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | No |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
American Van Lines offers both self-packing and full-service options so you can select the best option for you. Going with self-packing can save you hundreds of dollars. For example, the self-service quote I received was $600 to $800 cheaper than having AVL pack my items. If you do opt for their packing, packing supplies, including specialty boxes for dishes and TVs, are included in your quote.
To move a 2-bedroom home from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, AVL gave me the following estimates:
- Self-packing option: $3,651.39
- Full-packing option: $4,251.39 to $4,451.39
- Mattress and box spring packaging: $92
- TV Box: $56.50
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
American Van Lines posts several discounts right on their homepage, but none of them, as of this writing, are to or from cities in Connecticut. However, the company does offer discounts for seniors, as well as seasonal promotions. For example, when I called for a spring move, they were running their Springtime Promotion, but the quote I received in my email didn’t state how much it saved me.
American Van Lines’s lowest score is customization. They simply don’t offer the same amount of services as other moving companies on this list. As a result of not offering home staging, junk removal, or car shipping, we placed them at a 7 out of 10. Assembly and disassembly of standard furniture and basic valuation coverage (at $0.60 per pound per article) are included in both quotes, but packing materials are only available if you choose to buy them separately or opt for full-service packing. For customers who need additional insurance, there is Full Value Protection (FVP). This starts at $6 per pound and has a $500 deductible. However, it’s important to note that FVP doesn’t cover items that the customer packed themselves. If you’re going with more insurance, it’s a good idea to go with AVL’s full-service moving solution. AVL and its crews can also handle antique moving, custom crating, and piano moving upon request.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | No |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | No |
| Home Staging | No |
What really stands out for me with American Van Lines is their reputation. Not only do they have a 10 out of 10 according to our criteria, but they have an A+ and 4.1 on the BBB, a 4.4 on Trustpilot, and a 4.2 on Google as of this writing. This is far above many of the other brands on this list. Reviews explain that AVL exceeded expectations and that crews and representatives were professional, efficient, and friendly. However, Yelp does feature a lower score, with many customers saying items were broken beyond repair upon delivery.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+/4.1 | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 4.4 | 61 |
| 4.2 | 959 | |
| Yelp | 2.3 | 449 |
Most Common Praise for American Van Lines
Customers who left 5 stars for American Van Lines often praise the customer service from representatives and crews from start to finish. They note that their questions were answered right away, and moves were generally easy. If trouble did arise, the problems were quickly fixed.
Most Common Criticism for American Van Lines
One of the themes among negative reviews for AVL is “broken items.” Many customers who left 1 star claimed that several items were broken, scratched, or smashed when delivered, while others were simply never loaded onto the truck. These reviewers state that they had little to no assistance from the company after their poor experience.
AVL matches IVL for transparency at 8.7. The company lists several examples of moving prices right on its website. Though none of them are for moves to or from Connecticut, AVL does break down exactly how they estimate moving costs using distance, weight, and additional moving services. However, you won’t find information about costs for those additional moving services on their website, which meant we scored them slightly lower points. The brand’s emails don’t contain many details regarding these fees either, so plan to specifically request quotes for any specialized services you need for your move. AVL did get points for their quick quote feature, GPS tracking option availability on some trucks, posted customer service hours, disclosure of their status as a carrier, and online and over-the-phone booking.
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
4.2
Our Rating
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group came in at 4.2 stars. The moving broker is our selection for “best discounts” as they really do offer some substantial deals to customers. As of this writing, customers can get $500 off simply by calling the number at the top of their website. When I called, though, I was offered much more off. They removed $2,345 thanks to the 59.01% tariff discount, and a further $1,265 was taken off due to the availability discount/manager approval/route discount.
Unlike many other moving companies, IMRG is responsive to both positive and negative feedback on Google. In my experience, I’ve found that most moving brands only respond to positive feedback. Their responses to negative reviews are also kind and thoughtful, inviting the customer to reach out to IMRG so they can try to correct the situation. However, reviews overall are mixed since the brand is a broker, and clients of the company are getting matched with different partners. Therefore, they’re receiving different experiences.
One subject that makes me hesitant when recommending IMRG is their cancellation policy. During my secret shopping I found that there are several moving companies that allow you to cancel up to a day before your move with a full refund of any deposit you’ve submitted. IMRG states that the deposit is non-refundable unless a cancellation request is submitted by email within three days of booking. Since they require a 25 to 50% down payment, this isn’t a small chunk of cash. They also charge a 4% cancellation fee if you booked using a credit card. If you cancel and the deposit isn’t returned, you can receive a credit toward future moves, but I’d highly recommend making sure you want to work with IMRG before booking.
Our choice for “best discounts,” Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) offers some serious money off. Their website advertises $500 off simply for calling the company, but I received a much deeper discount when I reached out, thanks to an availability discount through manager approval and a 59.01% discount off of the tariff portion of the quote. Simply asking for a lower price can be a great way to save cash on your move.
IMRG is also responsive to feedback, both positive and negative, on Google. While many other companies only respond to positive reviews, IMRG talks to customers who leave 1-stars, too. They thanked them for their feedback and asked them to reach out for further assistance with the issues they mentioned.
While IMRG is responsive to reviews, their actual review scores are in the middle of the road. They’re not bad, but they’re not impressive either. As of this writing, they have a B and 3.28 on the BBB and a 3.5 on Google. This is likely because IMRG is a broker, not a carrier, which means clients of the company can have vastly different experiences with IMRG’s various partners. Customers leaving negative reviews cite miscommunications and thousands of dollars in unexpected costs.
Many moving companies allow you to cancel up to a day before your move and require little to no money down to secure your transportation. However, IMRG does require a 25 to 50% deposit, with 50% to 70% due before the moving truck can leave the state with your items. They also only allow you to cancel penalty-free within three days of booking and signing your Bill of Lading, the document that explains the goods being transported.
IMRG and its partners can handle a majority of Connecticuters’ needs when it comes to moving within the United States. We did dock a point because they don’t offer international moves, but they do operate as local and long-distance movers. All of their moves include loading and unloading, and packing and unpacking services can be added to your moving quote. Thirty days of free storage is available when you book, too, but it’s $.50 per cubic foot per month after those initial 30 days and a minimum of $200. The types of storage facilities available to you may depend on the moving agent you’re partnered with, as IMRG doesn’t have any information about storage options available on their website or in their emails.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | No |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
The estimate I received from IMRG provided a breakdown of what I’d be expected to pay should I work with them. My quote included the base price, tariff costs, fuel surcharge, binding estimate fee, packing materials, and basic valuation protection. I also inquired about their full-service packing solutions and associated costs so you could compare and see if it’s a good investment for your wallet. The company was very generous with discounts, too.
For a 573-mile move from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, I was quoted:
- Self-packing option: $4,500
- Self-packing option with discount: $3,296
- Full-packing option: $5,150
- Full-packing option with discount: $3,946
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
IMRG’s website highlights a $500 off coupon right at the top of their website if you call as of this writing. When I spoke to the representative, however, they were able to get me more off the price. They also let me know if I waited a day, they could get a manager’s approval to get the price, even for a full-service move below $4,000, which they managed to do. During your call with IMRG, I highly recommend asking them if there are any other discounts available as the savings could net you some serious cash.
Like many of the moving companies on this list, IMRG doesn’t offer home staging as a moving service. This resulted in them getting a 9 in customization. Assembly and disassembly of standard furniture are included in the quote, but their emails note that elaborate items may need a 3rd party professional service or additional labor time. If you believe you have a complex piece of furniture that needs to be disassembled before it’s moved, I highly recommend letting them know ahead of time.
The company sells packing materials but charges nothing for packing tape or moving pads if needed. Basic valuation coverage at $0.60 per pound per article is included in the quote, but full replacement value coverage is also available upon request. If you need your car shipped in or out of Connecticut, custom crating, or junk removal, IMRG also partners with movers with specialized experience in these areas.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
IMRG only received a 7.8 for their reputation, the lowest on this list. They only have a B on the BBB and have not claimed their Trustpilot profile as of this writing. While the moving broker is highly responsive to reviews on Google, they only have a 3.5 on their business profile. Over on the BBB, their review score is a 3.28. These aren’t the worst scores I’ve seen but they’re definitely not inspiring.
The mixed experiences are likely due to IMRG’s status as a broker. Customers are going to be partnered with different moving agents and will then have different experiences with these companies. Positive reviews talk about excellent communication from IMRG and experienced crews on moving days. On the other side, negative reviews discuss major miscommunications and higher-than-expected costs.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B/3.28 | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | N/A | N/A |
| 3.5 | 1,115 | |
| Yelp | N/A | N/A |
Most Common Praise for Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Common praise among positive reviews for IMRG regularly explains the company offered excellent customer service — both the representatives of IMRG and their partner moving companies. Even if issues arose during the move, they were quickly solved.
Most Common Criticism for Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Negative reviews, however, tell of miscommunication issues that lead to major delays, broken items, incorrect estimates, missing property, and problems with pick-up and delivery. One customer on Google saw their quote increase from $19,000 to $30,000.
IMRG received a 7.7, according to what we look for in transparency. Their website does have sample pricing available but doesn’t clearly list additional fees that could be incurred. They also have a quick quote tool, but it’s important to note that it seems to give the same few ranges no matter what information you put in. You’ll likely have to call to get a more accurate quote. IMRG also received some points thanks to their posted customer service hours, online and over-the-phone booking options, and disclosure of their broker status. Binding estimates are available through the moving broker as well, but customers can opt to choose non-binding or binding not-to-exceed quotes. IMRG and its partners don’t offer GPS tracking.
Safeway Moving
4.1
Our Rating
Safeway Moving is our choice for “best flat-rate pricing” as they base their quotes on space the customer will use in the moving truck rather than weight. I’ve found that weight can be tricky. Calling two different companies with the same exact moving list can come with two vastly different weight estimates. I’m talking about two or three thousand pound differences. This is huge when trying to get an accurate quote. However, if you go in with a detailed inventory list that includes measurements, you stand to get a very accurate quote from Safeway. If you don’t use as much space as they anticipated, too, you’ll even save some money.
Safeway is also a carrier, which means they handle the work themselves. When you call Safeway to handle your Connecticut move, their branded trucks are going to be the ones outside your home, and you can look at reviews to see how Safeway handles their work. When you work with brokers, it’s a mixed bag of partners, and you could get partnered with an agent that is poorly reviewed compared to the broker. Working with a carrier, though, does have its downsides. They don’t tend to offer as many services as broker/carriers or brokers. For instance, Safeway doesn’t handle local moves in Connecticut.
Where Safeway Moving really misses the mark for me is their website. It’s lackluster, to say the least. It has almost no information about basic services, customization options, or differentiators from competitors. Some of the details they do feature are also contradictory. For example, their website says 30 days of free storage are included in the quote, but over the phone and at the top of my email quote, it states 45 days. They also don’t operate in Alaska, even though they state they work domestically and internationally, and it says there are no extra fees with Safeway, yet the email quote I received has several examples of extra fees listed for shuttle services, stairs, and more. As a result of the lack of transparency and fewer moving solutions compared to other moving companies, they received 4.1 stars.
Safeway Moving delivered one of the most informative email quotes out of all of the moving companies I have spoken to. They use flat-rate pricing, which means they estimate the cost based on space used rather than weight. If you use more or less space than expected, they’ll adjust the price accordingly. Going into the conversation with a detailed inventory and measurements will pay off big time with Safeway when you need a quote.
Safeway Moving also operates solely as a carrier. This means when you hire them, they’re going to be the ones to complete the entire move in Connecticut. Working with brokers can be a bit of a gamble as you’re never quite sure which agent you’ll be partnered with, and reviews for brokers are reviews for all of the companies they work with. When you look at reviews for Safeway, however, you can get a good idea of what you’re going to get.
One of the biggest downsides of Safeway Moving for me is their website. It has almost no information on what services they offer, even when it comes to the basics. Some of the details featured on their site are even contradictory to what I’ve been told over the phone or in emails. This can get confusing when you’re trying to determine exactly what’s included in their quote.
Safeway Moving also doesn’t offer as many solutions as IVL or JK Moving Services. If you’re just moving from New Haven to Stamford, for example, Safeway can’t help as they don’t operate as local movers. They specialize in interstate, international, and long-distance moves only.
Safeway Moving can handle interstate, international, and long-distance moves in Connecticut, but they don’t perform local moves, which landed them at an 8 in basic services. The company offers self-packing and full-service depending on what the customer needs, but unpacking does come with an additional fee. Loading and unloading are included in the quote. Storage services are also included, but it’s not clear how long. The website and bottom of the emailed quote state 30 days, but I was told over the phone that my quote was for 45 days, which is also stated at the top of the emailed quote. It’s a good reminder to always read what’s written in your contract.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | No |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
Safeway Moving delivers very informative estimates to your email. They break down the costs associated with your move, including fuel, packing materials, valuation coverage, packing services, storage, and more. It’s easy to understand exactly what you’re paying and why, especially compared to other companies’ estimates. There are some discrepancies between the website, the email, and what the representatives have told me over the phone, so I would be sure to get everything in writing before you sign a contract.
After discounts, a 2-bedroom move between Maybrook, NY, and Carrboro, NC, was estimated at:
- Self-packing option: $3,275
- Full-service option: $3,896
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Maybrook, NY, to Carrboro, NC, for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
Safeway Moving offers discounts right out of the gate. They offer first-time customer discounts that, for me, ranged between $200 and $700. I’ve also found that simply asking them for a discount can net you hundreds of dollars in savings.
Even though Safeway Moving doesn’t handle locals moves, like from Hartford to New Haven, they do offer most of the customization services we look for in a moving company, netting them a 9 in customization. Assembly and disassembly are included in the quote, and the cost of packing materials depends on how much you need to be moved. Basic valuation coverage is also included in the price at $0.60 per lb with a maximum cargo protection of $10,000, but full value protection could be purchased as well with three options for deductibles: $250, $500, and $1,000. Safeway can assist with custom crating, piano and antique moving, and car shipping, and their emails note that they won’t load any fragile items onto the moving truck that aren’t properly packed.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
As of this writing, Safeway Moving has a B- on the BBB and has claimed their Trustpilot profile, where they have a 4.3. This has earned them a 9 in reputation. Reviews on BBB and Google are mixed, with a 3.68 and 3.8, respectively, and much lower on Yelp, at only a 1.3. Positive reviews cite reasonable prices, fantastic experiences with the virtual survey, and stress-free moves. On the other side of the fence, negative reviews state items were mishandled, belongings were broken, and insurance claims were denied. Safeway is responsive to positive reviews only on Google.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B-/3.68 | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 4.3 | 44 |
| 3.8 | 214 | |
| Yelp | 1.3 | 66 |
Most Common Praise for Safeway Moving
Several positive reviews for Safeway Moving note that they have used the company several times for their moves, with a hassle-free experience every time. Crews and representatives are cited as being extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and professional at every point of contact.
Most Common Criticism for Safeway Moving
On Yelp, a vast majority of reviews are single-star. Here, customers explain that belongings were damaged or missing upon delivery, furniture was dented, mirrors were shattered, and wall art was scratched. They had little assistance after filing their insurance claim with the company.
Safeway Moving is only a 7 in transparency, largely due to the lack of information on their website. They don’t offer details about their pricing, such as sample prices. Safeway states on their website that they don’t charge extra fees, but the emailed estimates I received clearly outline additional fees that you could incur during your move. This “no extra fees” line could mean that you won’t incur extra fees that aren’t listed on your contract on the day of your move. The company does, however, disclose their status as a carrier, offer binding estimates, have GPS tracking on some of their trucks, and allow you to book online or over the phone. The website has a quick quote tool, but you will need to give your email and phone number in order to use it.
JK Moving Services
4.2
Our Rating
JK Moving Services came in at a 4.2 stars overall thanks to their high scores in basic services, customization, and reputation. They offer a wealth of services, and their approach to moving allows you to mix and match the solutions you need for your move. A dedicated coordinator will work with you to deliver a tailored list of services to fit your unique needs and wants, especially when it comes to packing. Customers can even opt for a full unpack solution.
JK Moving’s website and emails also give you a good idea of what to expect from the company before you even receive a quote. The website gives you a good baseline of what to expect, and their emails take it even further by providing resources to help you compare movers, services, and quotes. Although I didn’t receive an email with a quote because I didn’t go through their virtual assessment process, the emails answered a majority of my questions. Any additional questions I had were quickly answered by the representative.
However, there’s no way around it: JK Moving Services is expensive. Their ballpark quote for a 2-bedroom home was several thousand dollars more than any other quote I received through my secret shopping. This brand does require a virtual assessment in order for you to get an official binding estimate from the company, so the much higher quote could be an overestimation, which many moving companies do so they don’t surprise you with higher fees later on. That does seem to be the case, too, when you see that American Van Lines estimated the total amount to be moved at 3,300 pounds, but JK Moving estimated the same exact inventory at 6,000 pounds.
JK Moving Services is our choice for the most customizable moving experience, and it’s one of my favorite things about the company. Connecticut homeowners looking to move can mix and match the services and solutions they need and lower the overall costs of their move as a result. Even if you choose to pack your own items, they have resources available to help the job go smoothly.
Their website and emails are also very informative. Every page on their website breaks down what you can expect from JK Moving and tips for making your move as stress-free as possible. When I requested a quote from this brand, it came with videos, PDFs, and more to help me understand my quote, how JK Moving stacks up against the competition, and what I should look for in a moving company.
For me, the most glaring drawback of working with JK Moving Services is the cost. It is several thousands of dollars more than any other estimate I’ve received through my secret shopping. The brand does require you to undergo a virtual survey in order to get a more accurate quote for your moving day, so it could be a simple case of the representative overestimating what I have to move and hoping to surprise me with a lower quote after the virtual survey. However, if you’re on a budget, their high prices could scare you off before you even get to that assessment.
JK Moving Services offers everything from moves from Danbury to Bridgeport to international moves to over 170 countries, so whether you’re moving within Connecticut, into or out of the state, or out of the United States, JK Moving has a customized move for you. Full-service packing is also an option with the brand, and their website even goes into detail about their unpacking solution, which includes removing the items from boxes, unwrapping protective materials, and placing the items in the correct location in your new home. For storage, their warehouse facilities have motion sensors, 24/7 video surveillance, and fire suppression systems.
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
JK Moving Services’s quotes are more than double the estimates I received from other companies. However, this excessive quote could be due to the fact that the representative estimated my move at 6,000 pounds and included more insurance. Other companies estimated the exact same inventory at just 3,000 pounds. From my experience, moving companies do tend to overestimate in an effort to surprise you with a lower quote after a virtual assessment, but double the weight does seem to be a tad overkill. To get a binding estimate, you have to submit 30 to 60 videos of your items to be moved.
For a 2-bedroom home between Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, a distance of 588 miles, I was quoted:
- Self-service option: $7,522
- Full-service option: $9,388
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Mobile, AL, to Dallas, TX, for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
JK Moving offers their own financing if you need assistance with the move. The promotional period is at 0% APR if approved, with a later APR starting at 3.99%. Some moves with JK Moving also have the same pricing structure as IVL, where full-service packing adds little to nothing to the overall price. I recommend comparing the costs of self packing and full-service to determine which is the best deal.
K Moving Services comes in at a 9 for customization, as the only service they don’t offer is home staging. Assembly and disassembly are included in both self-packing and full-service quotes, with packing materials as part of the full-service estimate. Valuation coverage is included in the move at $0.60 per pound, but full replacement valuation (FRV) is also offered. For my quote, FRV was estimated at $24,000 with a $0 deductible. This added $252 to the total price. Car shipping and custom crating solutions are offered through their third-party partners, and the company also offers antique moving and junk removal services to customers.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
Thanks to their presence on Trustpilot, where they currently have a 3.6 rating, and an A+ on the BBB, JK Moving Services earned a 9 in reputation. Reviews on the BBB and Yelp tend to be mixed, but on Google, the company has a standout 4.5 stars. Many customers leave positive reviews on Google detailing excellent experiences, timely communication, and efficient crews. JK Moving is also the only company on this list that has more 5-star reviews on Yelp than 1-star, with a 3.5 as of this writing. However, not everyone’s experience with the brand has been the same. Those leaving negative reviews explain they received broken items and problems with third-party partners.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+/3.86 | Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating |
| Trustpilot | 3.6 | 1 |
| 4.5 | 1,336 | |
| Yelp | 3.5 | 376 |
Most Common Praise for JK Moving Services
Common praise for JK Moving Services highlights the exceptional customer service and responsiveness they received from every employee of the company. Representatives regularly checked in with customers to make sure they were happy with their service as well.
Most Common Criticism for JK Moving Services
Customers who left 1-star reviews often explain that many of their items were broken, scratched, or dented upon delivery. Some even provided pictures of the damage, with one explaining that “The estimation process was way off, driving up the cost. No care in packing. Boxes were cheap. Damage to appliances.”
JK Moving Services’s lowest score is in transparency, at just a 6.3. Their website is extremely informative, yet the company doesn’t highlight any pricing examples or additional fees that could be added to your final price, such as the cost for stairs, elevators, unpacking, or bulky items. The company also doesn’t disclose that they operate as a broker/carrier. This means you could hire JK Moving Services, but another third-party brand should show up on your door on moving day. Some customer reviews actually highlight this exact scenario as a problem, claiming they were completely unaware they wouldn’t be working directly with JK Moving. However, the company did get some points thanks to their online and over-the-phone booking options, GPS tracking availability on some trucks, posted customer service hours, quick quote feature, and binding estimates.
What to Look for in a Reputable Moving Company in Connecticut
Reputable moving companies in Connecticut will have a USDOT number and be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The state of Connecticut also requires moving companies to adhere to CGS statutes 13b-387 through 13b-414, have a Certificate of Public Convenience, and have either a Household Goods Carrier Certificate or Motor Contract Carrier permit that was issued by the Connecticut Department of Transportation.
Reliable moving companies should supply you with a bill of lading, a copy of a booklet titled “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” if moving interstate, and proof of insurance upon request. Always read over contracts before signing anything with a Connecticut mover, and be sure to ask questions if you have any concerns.
How To Avoid Moving Scams in Connecticut
Whether you’re moving into or out of Connecticut, being aware of scams can help you avoid them. Always double-check USDOT numbers, ask questions, review insurance and contracts, and request a copy of your bill of lading and “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.”
Popular scams in Connecticut and across the United States include:
- Hostage loads
- If a company refuses to deliver your items until you pay additional fees, contact local law enforcement with a copy of your contract. You should also report the company and scam to the Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection and FMCSA.
- Bait and switch
- Bait and switch movers will offer you a lower estimate upfront. However, as the move progresses, additional fees and costs will be tacked on. Always request a list of itemized fees.
- No-shows
- No-shows are when a moving “company” takes your deposit and disappears. Always check reviews before hiring a mover. Reputable movers will also accept payment methods other than cash.
- Mover fraud
- Mover fraud is when a company claims to be legitimate but is actually fraudulent. Reviewing registrations can help you weed out these fake brands.
Connecticut Moving Company News
In 2023, following a call “for tougher action against moving company scams” by Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal, there was a focus on stopping these scams across the entire United States. The FMCSA completed over 100 investigations in 16 states, which led to 60 enforcement actions. However, as Newsweek has uncovered, this often doesn’t stop illegitimate moving companies. Many will continue to operate illegally or simply change their name to avoid detection.
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.2
Top-notch packing services
Nationwide partner network
Comprehensive moving calculator
FAQs
How Much Does a Moving Company Cost in Connecticut?
The average cost of a moving company in Connecticut is $4,348.98. This cost can be influenced by a number of factors, including the size of your home, the items to be moved, your location within Connecticut, and the services you require, but you may be able to negotiate a lower price.
Should You Tip Movers in Connecticut?
You should tip movers in Connecticut. Customers often tip between 10 and 20% of the total move cost, but you can always opt to tip using an hourly or daily method, too.
Are Moving Companies in Connecticut Worth It?
A moving company is worth it in Connecticut for most homeowners. While it is possible to do it yourself, Connecticuters can save time, money, and effort by hiring a reputable mover to tackle transportation.
