Best Cities to Start a Moving Company in 2026
Find grants, workspace, and support services for moving company entrepreneurs across 533 US cities.
Top 10 Cities for Moving Company Businesses
| Rank | City | Relevant Resources |
|---|---|---|
| 🥇 | Houston, TX | 200 |
| 🥈 | Chicago, IL | 200 |
| 🥉 | Nashville, TN | 200 |
| 4 | Fort Worth, TX | 200 |
| 5 | San Antonio, TX | 200 |
| 6 | Austin, TX | 200 |
| 7 | Dallas, TX | 200 |
| 8 | Charlotte, NC | 200 |
| 9 | Philadelphia, PA | 199 |
| 10 | San Diego, CA | 199 |
Click any city to explore its full resource directory
Resources You'll Need
Business Insurance
Insurance protects your moving company from liability claims, property damage, and other risks. Required for most businesses.
Business Attorneys
An attorney helps with business formation, contracts, permits, and regulatory compliance specific to moving company businesses.
Marketing Agencies
Marketing agencies help you reach customers through digital marketing, SEO, social media, and local advertising campaigns.
Accountants & CPAs
An accountant helps with bookkeeping, tax planning, and financial projections — essential for managing cash flow in a moving company.
Getting Started Checklist
- 1Register your moving company with the USDOT and get your MC number (for interstate moves)
- 2Get your state moving license or registration (requirements vary by state)
- 3Purchase or lease moving trucks and equipment (dollies, straps, blankets, ramps)
- 4Get commercial auto insurance, cargo coverage, and general liability insurance
- 5Hire and train movers on proper lifting techniques and customer service
- 6Set up estimating, scheduling, and dispatch software
- 7Create your pricing structure: hourly rates, flat fees, or weight-based for long distance
- 8Build your online presence and register on moving lead platforms
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start a moving company?
Starting a moving company costs $10,000-$75,000. A used box truck costs $15,000-$30,000, equipment and supplies run $2,000-$5,000, insurance costs $5,000-$15,000/year, USDOT registration is around $300, and marketing costs $1,000-$5,000. Starting with one truck and 2-3 movers keeps initial costs manageable.
What licenses do I need for a moving company?
For interstate moves, you need a USDOT number and MC (Motor Carrier) authority from the FMCSA. Most states require a state moving license or registration. You'll also need commercial driver's licenses (CDL) for trucks over 26,000 lbs, a business license, and proper insurance minimums that vary by state.
How much should I charge for moving services?
Local moves typically charge $100-$200/hour for a 2-person crew with a truck, with a 2-3 hour minimum. Long-distance moves charge $2,000-$5,000+ based on weight and distance. Specialty items (pianos, antiques) command premium rates. Research competitors in your area and price competitively while covering your costs.
How do moving companies get customers?
Top lead sources include Google search ads (people search 'movers near me'), Yelp and Google reviews (critical for trust), real estate agent partnerships, apartment complex referral programs, lead generation platforms (Moving.com, HireAHelper), and repeat/referral customers. Online reviews are the single most important trust factor.
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