10 best movers in Germantown, Tennessee

International Van Lines is the best long-distance mover for moving out of Tennessee. If you're planning to move around Germantown, use the filters below to find other movers in your area.

Long-distance movers in Germantown

A long-distance move means relocating over 50 miles away or from one state to another. Hiring a mover with the proper federal licensing is essential if you're moving across state boundaries. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name to confirm a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

We've confirmed that the long-distance moving companies below are actively licensed. They can help get you and your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently.

Featured

4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

GET ESTIMATE

4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

GET ESTIMATE

3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

GET ESTIMATE

Why is moving so expensive?

Moving within or out of Germantown is relatively expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense considering the cost of living in Germantown is higher than 94.8% of the country.

Many factors are involved when moving, causing expenses adding up fast. Common moving expenses include the following:

• Junk removal
• Fuel
• Packing
• Professional labor
• Supplies
• Storage

These extra considerations can add even more to your total cost:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are fragile, valuable or particularly large. Some items that can incur higher fees include the following:

• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology
• Pianos
• Artwork and sculptures
• Safes
• Family heirlooms or antiques

If you need to move any of these items, ask potential movers whether they charge additional fees for them.

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers isn’t required, it’s customary if your movers got your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays are common due to issues such as transportation emergencies, a lack of supplies, inclement weather and traffic. These can inflate your moving costs and extend your timeline. Prepare for delays by adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping the following tips in mind can save you money on moving in Germantown.

Be communicative

Be communicative about any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. Notify them about additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory you gave the movers.

Small items may not be an issue, but inform them of large additions such as new furniture or appliances. The movers may need to charge more for those additions and won’t start your move until you’ve agreed to the additional cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Reliable, affordable movers are in high demand. Consider moving in the off-season or during the week to save some money and still book your preferred moving company.

Most people schedule moves from May through September. If your timeline is flexible, moving during slower months may result in less competition or lower ratesfor services.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find a budget - friendly relocation service that works for you, there are alternative routes you can take.

One alternative is handling the move by yourself. Consider the amount of labor required and the following costs when deciding between professional movers and moving by yourself:

• Moving truck rental
• Fuel
• Packing supplies

You may also need to get help from friends, family or neighbors for moving bulky items such as furniture. Hiring movers is beneficial if you don't have the time or anyone to help you move.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack. While hiring hourly help can be less expensive, these independent contractors may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Germantown

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers handle the entire moving process for you. They provide packing supplies, provide packing services for your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving costs more than services that only include loading and transporting your items, but it can be worth it considering the time, labor and packing materials you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving can provide more comprehensive insurance coverage, as self-packed items are usually only insured up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be challenging to get a claim accepted for self-packed damaged goods.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will display proof of registration on their moving trucks and on all official documents like estimates and contracts. As stated above, you should verify a company’s USDOT and MC numbers when planning an interstate move by checking the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Tennessee are also required to have a license from the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

How does moving insurance work?

See what insurance policies your movers provide. Every moving company will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. A full-value protection policy may be practical if your belongings are worth a lot, so ask to review all rates.

When is the best time of year to move?

The ideal time to move falls during May and September, creating increased demand and raised rates for moves of all sizes. The lofty prices could dissuade you from making a move in the summer. Moreover, Germantown's sweltering summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose extra challenges.

We recommend moving during the spring or early fall to experience the best possible weather and lower rates for service.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

For peace of mind, move items like identification documents, financial records and photo albums in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any high-end electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Moving businesses often limit insurance coverage on high-value items, like jewelry and heirlooms. Take irreplaceable and valuable possessions in your own car if you're concerned about loss or damage.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including the following:

• Fuel sources
• Plants
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Batteries
• Aerosols
• Fertilizers
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Perishable foods and produce

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.