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Seasonal · +4% through 2028

Moving & Relocation Services Jobs

Moving and relocation trucking involves transporting household goods, office equipment, and personal belongings for residential and commercial moves. This sector ranges from local moves using box trucks to cross-country relocations requiring 53-foot trailers. Unlike most freight trucking, moving dri...

Avg Pay

$45,000 - $80,000

Growth

+4% through 2028

Seasonality

Seasonal

Top States

10 States

About Moving & Relocation Services

Moving and relocation trucking involves transporting household goods, office equipment, and personal belongings for residential and commercial moves. This sector ranges from local moves using box trucks to cross-country relocations requiring 53-foot trailers. Unlike most freight trucking, moving drivers interact directly with customers, handle personal property, and must exercise care to prevent damage to belongings and homes. The household goods (HHG) segment is regulated by FMCSA, and interstate movers must operate under a federally issued operating authority. Major van lines like United Van Lines, Atlas Van Lines, and Mayflower operate agent networks where independent movers handle local operations under the national brand. The industry is highly seasonal, with summer (May-September) accounting for 70% of annual moves. Military relocations through the Department of Defense's Global Household Goods Contract provide steady year-round volume for qualified carriers.

Requirements & Qualifications

1
CDL-A for interstate moves with 53-foot trailers
2
CDL-B or non-CDL for local moves with 26-foot box trucks
3
Physical ability to lift 50-100 lbs repeatedly and navigate stairs
4
Customer service skills (interacting with homeowners directly)
5
Knowledge of padding, wrapping, and loading techniques to prevent damage

Equipment Used

53-foot moving vans (CDL-A)26-foot box trucks (CDL-B/non-CDL)High-cube trailersPortable storage containers (PODS, UNITS)Moving dollies and furniture padsSpecialty crating for high-value items

Top Employers

1
United Van Lines
2
Atlas Van Lines
3
Mayflower Transit (UniGroup)
4
Allied Van Lines
5
North American Van Lines

Top States for Moving & Relocation Services

These states have the highest demand for moving & relocation services drivers based on employer activity, freight volume, and industry presence.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving & Relocation Services

How much do long-distance movers earn?

Long-distance CDL-A moving van drivers earn $55,000-$80,000 annually, with top earners at major van lines exceeding $85,000. Pay structures vary — some are per-hundredweight (cwt), some per-mile, and some salary plus commission. Summer peak season earnings can be significantly higher.

Is moving trucking physically demanding?

Extremely. Movers lift and carry furniture, boxes, and appliances weighing 50-100+ lbs up and down stairs, through narrow doorways, and across parking lots. A typical residential move involves handling 5,000-15,000 lbs of household goods. The physical demands make this one of the most labor-intensive trucking sectors.

What is the peak season for moving companies?

May through September accounts for 70% of annual residential moves, driven by school year transitions, home sales closings, and favorable weather. Military PCS (Permanent Change of Station) moves also peak in summer. Winter months (December-February) are the slowest, though corporate relocations continue year-round.

What is the DOD military moving contract?

The Department of Defense contracts with qualified moving companies to handle military family relocations (PCS moves). This government work provides steady, year-round volume and reliable payment but requires meeting strict DOD quality standards and timelines. Many van line agents depend on military moves for base-load business.

Can I start my own moving company?

Yes. Local moving companies can start with a single box truck and 2-3 crew members. Interstate movers need FMCSA operating authority, a $300,000 bond or insurance, and compliance with federal HHG regulations. Many successful moving companies start locally and expand to interstate as they grow.