A simple way to start a move
Moving is a big task, especially if this is your first home in the US or your first long-distance move. MoveLantern gives you a clear starting point: what kind of move you have, what it may cost, and how to compare movers without guessing.
We are a free matching service, not a moving company. That means we do not move belongings, pack boxes, store items, or give legal, insurance, or tax advice. We help you understand the process and connect with licensed, vetted movers who can give written estimates.
If you are more comfortable in another language, you can often get help in the language that works best for you. The goal is simple: make the next step feel doable.
What we help you do
A move goes better when you know the basics before you book. MoveLantern helps you:
- Figure out whether your move is local, long-distance, or interstate.
- Understand common moving terms like estimate, bill of lading, and valuation.
- Compare movers that should be properly licensed for the job.
- Ask for written estimates so you can compare real offers, not guesses.
- Plan your move in a way that fits your home size, timeline, and budget.
For interstate moves, movers that carry household goods across state lines must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. We encourage you to verify that yourself before hiring anyone. You can start here: How it works.
Why people use MoveLantern
Many people are trying to balance cost, trust, and timing. Some are setting up a first apartment. Some are moving a whole family for work. Some are new to how US movers work and want plain words, not jargon.
We focus on practical information that helps you choose with confidence. That includes the difference between a binding estimate — a price the mover locks in, in writing, before the move — a non-binding estimate — a good-faith guess that can change — and a not-to-exceed estimate, which is the most you should pay and gives you protection.
Typical US price ranges vary a lot, but as a planning guide: a local move for a 1–2 bedroom home is often roughly $400–$1,500; a local 3–4 bedroom move is often roughly $1,000–$3,500; a long-distance or interstate move is often roughly $2,000–$8,000+ depending on weight and distance. Packing service often runs roughly $300–$2,000+, and specialty items like a piano can add roughly $200–$800+. These are only planning ranges. The real price depends on how much you have, how far you are going, the season, and the city or state. The only number that counts is a written estimate from a licensed mover.
How to use the service safely
A good move starts with a few smart checks. We want you to feel ready before you sign anything.
- Share only basic contact and move details, like your ZIP or city, where you are going, the kind and size of your move, your approximate date, your preferred language, and how to reach you.
- Ask for a written estimate from each mover.
- Check the mover’s USDOT number and state license if the move crosses state lines.
- Read the bill of lading — that is the contract and receipt for your move — before you agree.
- Be careful with scams: very low quotes, large cash deposits, no written estimate, no in-home or video survey, and “hostage load” situations where a mover holds your belongings for more money.
A trustworthy mover should be able to explain their price, their service, and the level of valuation they provide. Valuation is the mover’s level of liability coverage; it is not the same as insurance.
A real-life kind of story
A family moving into their first US home wanted help in a language they used every day. They had a small apartment, a short timeline, and no clear idea what a fair price should look like. They used MoveLantern to understand the steps, compare a few licensed movers, and request written estimates before booking.
Because they could see the difference between estimate types and knew to verify licensing, they felt more prepared. They did not need a perfect plan — just a clear one. That is what this page is for: helping you move forward with less confusion and more control. If you are ready, start here: Get matched.
What MoveLantern is, and is not
MoveLantern is a free information and matching service for people planning a move in the US. We help you get organized and connect with movers; we do not perform the move ourselves.
We are not a broker, a government agency, or a moving company. We do not collect immigration documents, government ID numbers, payment card numbers, or other sensitive records. We also do not promise a price, a date, or a specific mover.
What we do offer is a clearer path: plain language, practical steps, and access to licensed, vetted movers when you are ready to compare options. Learn more about our services here: Services.
MoveLantern is a free service that helps you plan a move, compare licensed movers, and avoid common mistakes with clear, plain-language guidance.