We recommend Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines (NAVL) for long-distance moves to or from Kentucky.
Allied offers a small-move package called Allied Express that provides expedited moving container assistance for two-bedroom and smaller homes, plus basic and specialty services for larger residences. NAVL offers long-distance service via multiple Kentucky locations and access to a nationwide network of 500 offices in all 50 states.
For local service, our top pick is Cardinal Moving. Cardinal offers local and long-distance service with transparent rates and positive customer reviews for its moving crews and quote process.
We scored each of the Kentucky movers below through our rating system, which evaluates offered services, quote processes, review scores and more.
Kentucky boasts a low cost of living and even lower housing costs — a median price of $194,300 — making it a top choice for budget-conscious aspiring homeowners.
Best moving companies
Each of the following movers earned a high rating on our grading scale. Read our provider summaries to learn more about each company.
Compare top long-distance movers for Kentucky
See how our picks for the best moving companies in the country compare on deposit requirements and our ratings.
| Provider | Our Rating | Deposit | Get Started |
|---|---|---|---|
4.6 | Up to 25% | GET ESTIMATE | |
4.6 | None | GET ESTIMATE | |
JK Moving ServicesGET ESTIMATE | 4.7 | $250 | GET ESTIMATE |
4.6 | None | GET ESTIMATE | |
4.6 | Up to 33% | GET ESTIMATE | |
4.2 | 10% to 50% | GET ESTIMATE | |
4.3 | 15% to 40% | GET ESTIMATE | |
4.3 | Up to 33% | GET ESTIMATE |
| Provider | Deposit | Our Rating | Get Started |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 25% | 4.6 | GET ESTIMATE | |
| None | 4.6 | GET ESTIMATE | |
JK Moving ServicesGET ESTIMATE | $250 | 4.7 | GET ESTIMATE |
| None | 4.6 | GET ESTIMATE | |
| Up to 33% | 4.6 | GET ESTIMATE | |
| 10% to 50% | 4.2 | GET ESTIMATE | |
| 15% to 40% | 4.3 | GET ESTIMATE | |
| Up to 33% | 4.3 | GET ESTIMATE |
No results were found.
Best national long-distance movers in Kentucky
The moving companies below provide highly rated long-distance and interstate moving services to and from Kentucky.
Allied Van Lines
4.6
USDOT Number : 76235 Coverage : 50 states BBB Rating : A+
Our Thoughts
Allied Van Lines is a moving carrier with over 400 locations serving all 50 states. It has a highly rated location in Watterson Park from which it provides long-distance service to the rest of Kentucky. One of Allied’s standout features is its Allied Express packages, which offer all-inclusive service for small moves — complete with labor, insurance coverage and transportation — at a bottom-line rate.
Services
Service area: 50 states and 130 countries
Base services:
- Labor for loading and unloading
- Transportation of goods
- Released-value protection
Add-on services:
- Packing and unpacking
- Crating for antiques and fine art
- Vehicle shipping
- Allied Express
Storage: Allied’s Kentucky locations offer short- and long-term storage options.
Quote process and pricing
Quote type: Allied offers binding estimates for long-distance moves.
Pricing: Long-distance pricing is primarily based on move distance and total shipment weight.
Sample cost: We called Allied for pricing for a 2,900-mile, three-bedroom relocation. Our representative gave us a ballpark rate of $12,175 with no add-ons included. Full-service packing would increase this by $2,500. These were both nonbinding rates, which could only be confirmed as binding estimates after an in-person or video call survey of our goods.
Deposit: None required
Payment methods: Allied accepts cash, certified checks, money orders and credit cards for payment.
Insurance coverage
Aside from released-value protection, Allied offers Extra Care Protection (ECP) for additional coverage of goods that are lost or damaged during the move. You’ll have to work with a move coordinator to set a maximum dollar amount of coverage. Your added cost would be a low percentage of the total — usually between 3% and 5%.
Customer thoughts
Allied’s Watterson Park location has 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews with over 200 reviews. Customers like Sharon mention communicative moving crews that provide a positive experience overall. A few negative reviews cite services not being completed on time and lost furniture items.
North American Van Lines
4.6
USDOT Number : 70851 BBB Rating : A+
Our Thoughts
North American Van Lines (NAVL) is a moving carrier and broker with more than 500 U.S. locations. It offers local, long-distance and international services. We like NAVL’s customer-friendly pricing options, including bottom-line and not-to-exceed quotes. This helps customers stay within their defined budgets.
Services
Service area: 50 states and 130 countries
Base services:
- Transportation of goods
- Labor for loading and unloading
- Released-value protection
Add-on services:
- Packing and unpacking services
- Vehicle shipping
- Crating for fine art, antiques and valuables
- Full-value protection
Storage: NAVL’s Kentucky locations offer short- and long-term storage options.
Quote process and pricing
Quote type: This mover offers binding estimates for long-distance moves.
Pricing: Long-distance pricing is based on shipment weight and move distance.
Sample cost: We contacted NAVL for a sample rate for a 2,900-mile, three-bedroom relocation. In 15 minutes, our representative gave us a ballpark rate for service at $13,450. Full-service packing would increase this cost to $16,757. We would have to schedule an in-person or video call estimate for binding pricing.
Deposit: None required
Payment methods: NAVL accepts cash, certified checks, money orders and credit cards.
Insurance coverage
Aside from the industry minimum released-value protection, NAVL provides full-value protection options. If you feel that your shipment requires extra coverage for potential loss or damage, mention it during the quote process. You’ll set a maximum reimbursem*nt amount and pay an additional fee equal to a low percentage of this figure.
Customer thoughts
NAVL has a few locations in Kentucky. Its Lexington-area branch has 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. Barbara’s review mentions a positive experience with NAVL but complains about missing and damaged items found while unpacking. This can happen with any moving company you hire for long-distance service.
International Van Lines
4.6
USDOT Number : 2293832 Coverage : Excellent BBB Rating : A
Our Thoughts
International Van Lines (IVL) is a moving carrier and broker that services all 50 states. It offers local and long-distance moving options and features transparent rates for add-ons such as piano moving, crating and long carry fees. It also features positive reviews on platforms such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) that mention quick and punctual service by its crews.
Services
Service area: 50 states and 140 countries
Base services:
- Labor for loading and unloading
- Transportation for all goods
- Released-value protection
Add-on services:
- Packing and unpacking services
- Piano moving
- Vehicle shipping
- Crating
Storage: IVL offers 30 days of free storage with long-distance packages. Beyond this, it provides short- and long-term storage in most locations.
Quote process and pricing
Quote type: IVL offers binding estimates for long-distance moves.
Pricing: Long-distance moving costs are set by move distance and total shipping weight.
Sample cost: We called IVL for a sample cost for a 2,900-mile, three-bedroom move. In 20 minutes, our company representative gave us a ballpark rate of $12,964. Full-service packing would increase this rate to $14,600.
Deposit: IVL requires a deposit of 20% to 25% to book.
Payment methods: This mover accepts cashier’s checks, money orders, wire transfers and credit cards.
Insurance coverage
IVL offers released-value protection with all moves. Beyond this, it offers full-value protection at an additional cost. You’ll have to coordinate this exact coverage amount with your company representative during the quote process.
Customer thoughts
IVL has a 3.5 out of 5 stars on BBB with many positive reviews mentioning IVL’s positive customer service. Recent reviews from Callum (May 7, 2024,) and Brooks (May 3, 2024,) mention that movers carefully handled their goods and service needs. Negative reviews mention last-minute cancellations by IVL due to a lack of trucks in the customers’ areas. To avoid this, we recommend calling between quote day and moving day to confirm your move date.
Best movers for a local Kentucky move
Each of the following movers offers excellent local service in Kentucky based on positive customer reviews and our research into their service profiles.
Cardinal Moving
4.8
USDOT Number : 2464685 BBB Rating : A
Our Thoughts
Cardinal Moving is a Kentucky-based mover specializing in local moving and junk removal. It features easy online or over-the-phone scheduling and clearly posted rates online for full-service relocation packages.
Services
Service area: Cardinal Moving focuses on the Louisville area but offers long-distance service from there to most other areas in the state.
Base services:
- Transportation of goods
- Labor for loading and unloading
- Released-value protection
Add-on services:
- Packing and unpacking
- Junk removal
- Assembly and disassembly
- Storage
Quote process and pricing
Quote type: This mover offers ballpark quotes for local service.
Pricing: Ballpark estimates are based on hourly rates determined by the number of movers and trucks needed for your move.
Sample cost: This mover’s rates depend on when you schedule your move. Its rate for service between Monday and Thursday is $165 for two movers and a truck. This jumps to $180 for moves between Friday and Sunday. It charges $70 per hour for each extra mover every day of the week.
Deposit: None mentioned
Payment methods: Cardinal Movers accepts checks and major credit cards for payment.
Insurance coverage
All movers offer released-value protection. We didn’t see any additional insurance advertised on Cardinal’s site. If you need coverage beyond this 60 cents per pound per item, ask your move coordinator about your options during the quote phase.
Customer thoughts
Cardinal Moving has 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews, with over 3,100 reviews. Joshua’s recent review praises the moving crews for efficiency and a lack of damage. Many reviews mention that the movers appeared experienced and handled difficult situations, such as narrow stairways.
Wildcat Moving
4.8
USDOT Number : 2207083 BBB Rating : A+
Our Thoughts
Wildcat Moving is a Lexington-area mover that operates more than 20 trucks. It provides local and long-distance service, transparent rates and experienced moving crews for clients across Kentucky.
Services
Service area: Wildcat Moving focuses on the Lexington area and provides long-distance service from there to the rest of the state.
Base services:
- Transportation of goods
- Labor for loading and unloading
- Released-value protection
Add-on services:
- Packing and unpacking
- Storage
- Junk removal
- Cleaning services after move-out
Quote process and pricing
Quote type: This mover offers ballpark rates for local moves based on hourly rates.
Pricing: All hourly rates are set by the number of movers and moving trucks needed for your move.
Sample cost: Wildcat Moving charges $210 per hour for three movers and a truck during the week. This rate jumps to $220 between Friday and Sunday. Moves within Fayette County incur a one-time travel fee of $50, while moves beyond this area have a $3 per mile charge.
Deposit: None mentioned
Payment methods: Wildcat accepts cash, personal checks and credit cards.
Insurance coverage
All moving companies provide released-value protection for loss or damage during moves. Beyond this, you should discuss additional coverage with your move coordinator during your quote.
Customer thoughts
Wildcat Moving has 4.8 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews, with more than 2,150 individual reviews. Colleen, a second-time client, mentioned the moving crew’s speedy service, even during rainy conditions. Mentions of friendly, efficient movers are common in customer reviews for this provider.
Two Men and a Truck KY
4.8
USDOT Number : 4051348 BBB Rating : A+
Our Thoughts
Two Men and a Truck operates multiple branches in Kentucky, including a highly rated Lexington branch. This location offers local and long-distance moving services, junk removal and packing. It provides residential and commercial moving options.
Services
Service area: This mover offers local moving in the Lexington area and long-distance moving options from this locale to the rest of the state.
Base services:
- Labor for loading and unloading
- Transportation for goods
- Released-value protection
Add-on services:
- Packing
- Junk removal
- Storage
- Delivery of packing supplies
Quote process and pricing
Quote type: Two Men and a Truck offers ballpark rates for local moves.
Pricing: Local pricing is based on hourly rates, which are set by the number of movers and trucks needed for a move.
Sample cost: We contacted this Two Men and a Truck branch for pricing for a three-bedroom move. After submitting the inventory, we were told that a company representative would reach out to set up a quote. We have not heard back as of this writing, so we recommend giving this process at least a few days from the time of initial contact.
Deposit: None mentioned
Payment methods: All Two Men and a Truck locations accept credit cards.
Insurance coverage
Two Men and a Truck provides valuation coverage with each initial moving quote. The amount you’ll pay for this coverage will depend on the estimated value of your inventory. Discuss the details of any added coverage with your move coordinator.
Customer thoughts
Two Men and a Truck’s Lexington branch has 4.6 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews with more than 650 reviews. These cite punctual and quick-moving crews and responsive customer service teams, which is best exemplified by Charles’ review.
A guide to professional movers: Making an informed choice
When researching providers and requesting quotes for your upcoming move, be aware of the following factors.
Moving services
One of the first steps in the moving process is determining your service needs. Conduct a walk-through of your home and compile a comprehensive inventory list of everything you plan to take. This will inform you of any add-on services you may need, such as the following:
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Crating for fine arts and antiques
- Short- and long-term storage
- Piano moving
- Vehicle shipping
- Heavy-item moving for safes, hot tubs or similar items
- Junk removal
- Home staging
Carriers vs. brokers
When requesting moving services, be aware of the company’s service model. This will determine who is actually carrying out the work you pay for.
Moving companies operate as either carriers or brokers. Moving carriers directly provide services to clients with their own moving crews and moving trucks. Brokers, on the other hand, operate as third parties that book services for clients with carriers.
Most brokers primarily offer long-distance service and will take a large upfront deposit as a convenience fee. After booking, your carrier handles any liability or coverage claims for loss or damage.
Moving regulations
All moving companies must comply with either local or federal regulations to operate legally. Confirm a mover has the appropriate registration before booking.
Regulations for interstate and long-distance movers
Long-distance moving companies are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This governing body requires that movers carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can check a company’s registration status on the FMCSA’s website.
Regulations for intrastate and local movers in Kentucky
Local moving companies offering primarily local service must carry a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet number. You can check the list of registered Kentucky movers to confirm a local provider’s registration status.
Moving costs
Knowing your cost breakdown structure will help you discern which moving companies offer a fair price. Here, we explain how different types of movers charge for relocation services.
Long-distance moving costs
Long-distance moving companies bill at more all-inclusive rates based on move distance and estimated shipment weight. Add-on services also factor into the final cost. You can request binding estimates for such moves, which will not shift unless you change your inventory or service needs between quote day and moving day.
Local moving costs in Kentucky
Local movers charge hourly rates for service. These moves are not eligible for binding estimates; your final cost will depend on how long your move takes. Most local moving companies have minimum charges, which amount to two to four hours at your hourly rate.
Moving insurance
All moving companies offer coverage for loss or damage during a move. The federal government requires all movers to provide released-value protection, which provides 60 cents per pound per item.
Beyond this, most movers provide full-value protection, which covers up to the full replacement value of your goods for an added fee. Some movers charge a flat rate for this, while others bill a low percentage of your maximum amount of coverage.
Final take: Get a quote from Allied Van Lines or Cardinal Moving for reliable moving service in Kentucky
We recommend beginning your Kentucky moving process with a quote from Allied Van Lines for a long-distance move or Cardinal Moving for a local relocation.
Allied offers a full range of services and has one of the widest coverage areas among domestic and international moving companies. Cardinal Moving’s transparent rates make it stress-free to book basic or comprehensive services for any residential moving need.
Be sure to get at least three quotes from professional movers before settling on a provider. We recommend starting four to six weeks ahead of your move date.
Our rating methodology for moving companies
Our moving recommendations are all backed by our detailed rating methodology. To fairly assess both interstate and local movers, we have tailored two sets of review standards for long-distance and intrastate movers.
Both sets of review standards assess factors including reputation and customer satisfaction, availability and range, services offered, pricing and quote practices and customer service. We rate each moving company out of 100 possible points. We then divide the final score by 20 to obtain the 5-star rating we feature in our reviews.
BBB and Google Reviews scores are accurate as of June 2024.
Sean Donnelly, WriterHomefront
Learn more about Sean Donnelly
Sean Donnelly is a writer for USA TODAY Homefront. His content draws on more than three years of experience in the moving industry. He started as a laborer and was quickly promoted to moving crew leader. Sean also served as a move coordinator, where he conducted in-home and virtual estimates for customers. During his time in the industry, Sean assisted more than 500 clients with their relocation needs. Thanks to his years of hand-on experience, he understands all aspects of moving — from proper preparation to the quote process to effective packing techniques. Sean studied English literature and creative writing at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and is still located in the greater Springfield area. When he isn’t writing, Sean is a cohead coach of the boxing team at his alma mater.
Veronika Jelenik, EditorHomefront
Learn more about Veronika Jelenik
Veronika Jelenik is an editor for USA TODAY Homefront, where she edits articles spanning from moving and home warranty to roofing and HVAC. She has a background in journalism, having worked as a news reporter covering local government and municipal planning, a content update editor for Brides.com, and a freelance contributor to several major publications. Her pieces have been published in the New York Daily News, the Hartford Courant, PAPER Magazine and elsewhere. When not editing, you can find Veronika shopping for used books and vintage clothing, reading her poetry and creative nonfiction at open mics and cuddling with her Chihuahua, Beanie. She lives in Manhattan.
