Best Long Distance Movers For Small Loads.

American National Movers
Sep 13
3 min read

When you’re moving a small load (studio–2BR or “just a few pieces”), most long distance movers will happily provide a quote—but that doesn’t mean they’re the best fit. If a long distance moving company doesn't have the right resources, they'll charge you more than what you should pay to ship your small move out of state. For a moving company to be competitive in relocating small loads, they need to have enough trucks, labor, and service more than just a couple of states.

Along with a few other moving companies, American National Movers is among the top choices for long distance shipping small loads between states:

Long Distance Movers For Small Loads: Who To Call.

Here are the long distance movers that price small loads fairly and deliver on time:

Two men in blue uniforms loading a few pieces of furniture and boxes in a white van. — American National Movers relocates small long distance loads at an average cost of $2,800.

1). American National Movers (ANM) — Best overall value for small loads:

American National Movers has a good reputation for small long distance moves due to our shared load moving approach and nationwide presence:

Best for: studio–2BR households or “few‑items” shipments that still want pro crews, clear paperwork, and realistic timing.
Why it works: We run nationwide shared‑load, expedited shared, and piggyback/backhaul lanes, so small shipments don’t have to pay “full‑truck economics.”

2). MiniMoves — Specialist small‑move carrier:

MiniMoves is a carrier that focuses on shipping small moves to another state, advertising full-service moves at do-it-yourself pricing:

Best for: apartment-size or partial-home shipments that require a mover designed for small loads.
Why it works: MiniMoves focuses specifically on small, state-to-state and cross-country shipments, making it easier for them to meet the customers' budget expectations.

3). Allied Van Lines — “Allied Express” small‑shipment option:

Allied is a national moving company and is relatively affordable for small long distance moves. Their prices aren't the cheapest out there because they are a major brand (Averaging $5,000), but are still a good choice for those who prefer working with a large moving company:

Best for: small loads that still want a big‑brand footprint and optional full‑service help.
Why it works: Allied Express offers a container‑style alternative aimed at smaller shipments, backed by Allied’s national network.

4). U‑Pack — Budget‑friendly, pay‑for‑space model:

U-Pack is also a great option for small long distance moves—you pack, load, and unload, and they handle the transportation:

Best for: Customers who have the time and strength to pack, load, and unload without the help of movers.
Why it works: You pay for the trailer feet you use or the number of ReloCubes; U-Pack handles the long-haul driving. Their rates are similar to truck rentals, without you having to do the long distance driving.

5). PODS — Container + storage flexibility:

PODS Moving and Storage is similar to U-Pack, they are another you do the labor, we drive option:

Best for: small loads when you want to load at your own pace and maybe keep storage built in.
Why it works: Month of storage typically included; good value if you’re comfortable handling the loading/unloading (or hiring local labor only).

How We Pick the Best Small‑Load Movers.

The best long distance movers for smaller loads operate nationwide and have enough trucks to keep little shipments moving without “full‑truck” pricing. That’s why we chose movers with nationwide coverage (not just a couple of states).

What we look for (in plain English):

If a mover checks these boxes, your small load is far more likely to get fair pricing, on‑time delivery, and no drama:

Coverage & lanes: They run your route regularly, so your load isn’t waiting to “fill a trailer,” which can take weeks to load.
Small‑move program: They have a process for studio–2BR or a few-item shipments.
Fair estimates: Their prices make sense for the value of a small long distance load.
Predictable timing: Honest pickup range and delivery windows, not a vague spread or broken promises.
Track record: Solid reviews for small loads with a track record of providing consumers with a positive experience.

Conclusion: Choosing The Right Movers For Relocating Your Small Load.

Choosing a moving company that has a department that focuses on dispatching small long distance moves is key to a successful experience. These movers include American National Movers, Allied, MiniMoves, U-Pack, and PODS. When relocating to another state, your goal shouldn't be just a cheap price, but a fair one and a delivery timeline you can live with.