How to Start Moving Business [The Step-By-Step Playbook]
- Start My Service Business
- Jan 15
- 13 min read
Updated: Oct 12
Have You Ever Wondered How Much Money You Could Make Helping People Move While Being Your Own Boss?
Starting a moving business might be the opportunity you've been searching for. With nearly 28 million Americans relocating every year and the moving services market reaching $23.3 billion in 2025, there's never been a better time to launch your own moving company. Whether you're looking to escape the 9-to-5 grind or build a profitable service business from the ground up, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of starting a successful moving business.
The moving industry continues to show strong growth, with market projections indicating expansion by $4.4 billion through 2029. What makes this opportunity even more attractive is that the average moving company employs just 6.2 people, meaning you can start small and scale up as your business grows. If you're ready to transform your entrepreneurial dreams into reality, let's dive into exactly how to start a moving company that generates consistent revenue and serves your local community.
Understanding the Moving Business Industry Landscape
Before you jump into starting your moving business, you need to understand the current market dynamics. The moving services industry in the United States consists of approximately 9,535 businesses, with the sector growing at a compound annual growth rate of 3.8% between 2024 and 2029. This steady growth means there's plenty of room for new entrants who provide excellent service and smart business strategies.
When you're planning to start a moving company, you'll discover that most moving businesses fall into several key categories:
Local residential moving - helping families and individuals move within the same city or region
Long-distance moving - transporting household goods across state lines
Commercial moving - relocating offices, retail spaces, and businesses
Specialty moving - handling pianos, antiques, fine art, and other delicate items
The beauty of learning how to start a moving business is that you can begin by focusing on one niche and expand your services as you gain experience and resources. Many successful moving company owners started with just a truck and a helper, gradually building their fleet and team over time.
Step 1: Create Your Moving Business Plan
Your business plan serves as the roadmap for your moving company startup. When you start a moving business, this document will guide your decisions and help secure financing if needed. At Start My Service Business, we help entrepreneurs like you launch moving companies from scratch, and within a short 4 month period they are generating thousands per month in sales revenue.
Your moving company business plan should include:
Executive Summary: A one-page overview of your moving business concept, target market, and financial projections.
Market Analysis: Research your local competition, identify gaps in service, and define your ideal customer. Are you targeting college students, families, or businesses? Understanding your market is crucial when you start your moving company.
Service Offerings: Detail exactly what moving services you'll provide. Will you offer packing services, storage solutions, or specialty item handling?
Financial Projections: Estimate your startup costs (typically $1,000 to $200,000 - we'll cover more on this later), monthly operating expenses, and revenue forecasts for the first three years.
Marketing Strategy: Outline how you'll attract customers through local SEO, social media, partnerships with real estate agents, and community networking.
When you're ready to launch your moving business, having a solid business plan isn't just helpful—it's essential for securing loans, attracting investors, and making informed decisions as you grow.
Step 2: Choose Your Moving Business Structure and Register Your Company
One of the first legal decisions you'll make when starting a moving company is selecting your business structure. This choice impacts your taxes, personal liability, and operational flexibility. Here are your main options:
Sole Proprietorship: The simplest structure where you and your business are legally the same entity. However, this means your personal assets are at risk if something goes wrong.
Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most popular choice for moving companies because it protects your personal assets while offering tax flexibility. Most moving business owners choose this structure.
Corporation (S-Corp or C-Corp): Better suited for larger operations with multiple owners or those planning significant growth.
Once you've chosen your structure, you'll need to:
Register your business name with your state
Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS website
Open a dedicated business bank account
Register for state and local taxes
Your EIN is particularly important because you'll need it for everything from opening business accounts to hiring employees and filing taxes. Getting your EIN is free and takes just a few minutes on the IRS website.
Step 3: Obtain Moving Company Licenses and Permits
Getting properly licensed is one of the most critical steps when you start a moving business. The licensing requirements vary significantly depending on whether you'll operate locally, interstate, or both.
Federal Requirements: If you plan to move customers across state lines, you must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and obtain a USDOT number. This registration typically costs between $300 and $500.
State and Local Licenses: Every state has different requirements for moving companies. Most states require a moving company license or household goods carrier permit. Business license costs typically range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on your location.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL): Depending on the size of your moving trucks, you or your drivers may need a CDL. Trucks over 26,000 pounds generally require this specialized license, while trucks under 26,000 pounds do not.
Step 4: Secure Moving Business Insurance
Insurance isn't just a legal requirement when you start a moving company—it's essential protection for your business, employees, and customers. The moving industry faces unique risks, from property damage to employee injuries, making comprehensive insurance coverage non-negotiable.
Required Insurance Coverage:
General Liability Insurance: Protects against property damage and bodily injury claims. Expect to pay $500 to $2,000 annually for $1 million in coverage.
Cargo Insurance: Also called inland marine insurance, this covers customer belongings during transport. You'll need between $750,000 and $5 million in coverage depending on your operation size.
Commercial Auto Insurance: Required for all moving trucks and vehicles (not required for truck rentals). Costs vary based on your fleet size, driver records, and coverage limits, typically ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per vehicle annually.
Workers' Compensation Insurance: Mandatory in most states if you have employees. Rates vary by state but expect to pay $2 to $4 per $100 of payroll for moving industry workers.
Surety Bond: Many states require moving companies to carry a surety bond, typically $75,000, to protect consumers from fraud or negligence.
When starting your moving company, partnering with an insurance broker who specializes in commercial moving operations can save you thousands of dollars while ensuring adequate protection.
Step 5: Purchase or Lease Your Moving Equipment
Your moving equipment represents one of your largest startup investments. The key is balancing quality with affordability, especially when you're just learning how to start a moving business and managing a tight budget.
Moving Trucks: You can start with one box truck or cargo van and expand your fleet as business grows. Options include:
Purchasing new trucks: $40,000 - $100,000+ per vehicle with warranty coverage
Buying used trucks: $15,000 - $40,000 per vehicle with higher maintenance risks
Leasing trucks: $1,000 - $2,000 monthly with less capital required upfront
Renting trucks: $100 - $150 per truck rental and this is the method we suggest starting with
Essential Moving Equipment Checklist:
Furniture dollies and hand trucks ($200 - $500)
Moving blankets and pads ($300 - $800 for at least 75 - 100 pieces)
Tie-down straps and bungee cords ($100 - $200)
Moving boxes in various sizes ($200 - $500 initial inventory)
Packing materials (bubble wrap, paper, tape) ($200 - $400)
Tools (screwdrivers, wrenches, furniture sliders) ($150 - $300)
GPS devices and fuel cards ($100 - $200)
Step 6: Hire and Train Your Moving Team
Your employees are the face of your moving company. When you start your moving business, building a reliable, professional team is crucial for delivering excellent service and generating positive reviews.
Key Positions to Fill:
Moving crew members: Strong, reliable workers who can lift heavy items safely
Truck drivers: Experienced drivers with clean records and proper licensing
Office staff: Someone to answer phones, schedule moves, and handle customer service
Sales representatives: Team members who can provide estimates and close deals
Hiring Best Practices:
Screen candidates carefully with background checks and drug testing. Moving employees enter customers' homes and handle valuable belongings, so trustworthiness is paramount. Look for candidates with previous moving experience, but don't overlook motivated individuals with strong work ethics who are willing to learn.
Training Requirements:
Invest in comprehensive training that covers proper lifting techniques, customer service protocols, packing methods, and safety procedures. Many moving company owners spend at least 40 hours training new employees before they interact with customers.
Step 7: Develop Your Moving Company Pricing Strategy
Setting the right prices when you start a moving company directly impacts your profitability and competitiveness. You need to cover costs, pay your team fairly, and still remain attractive to potential customers.
Common Pricing Models:
Hourly Rates: Most local moving companies charge $80 to $150 per hour for a two-person crew plus truck. Three-person crews typically charge $120 to $200 per hour.
Flat-Rate Pricing: For long-distance moves or large projects, many moving companies offer flat rates based on distance, cubic feet, or weight. This provides customers with price certainty.
Hybrid Pricing: Combine hourly rates for loading and unloading with mileage charges for transportation, particularly effective for medium-distance moves.
Factors Affecting Your Pricing:
Local competition and market rates
Your operating costs (insurance, fuel, labor, equipment)
Move complexity (stairs, elevators, special items)
Time of year (summer is peak moving season)
Additional services (packing, storage, specialty handling)
Pricing Formula Example:
For a basic local move, calculate: (Labor cost per hour × estimated hours) + (Truck cost per hour × estimated hours) + (Fuel estimate) + (20-30% profit margin) = Customer price
Step 8: Build Your Moving Company's Online Presence
In 2025, your online presence directly impacts your ability to attract customers. When you start a moving company, investing in digital marketing from day one sets you apart from competitors who rely solely on word-of-mouth referrals.
Google Business Profile: This free tool is essential for local moving companies. When someone searches "moving companies near me," your Google Business Profile determines whether you appear in results. Claim your profile, add photos, encourage reviews, and keep your information current.
Professional Website: Your website should include:
Clear service descriptions and pricing information
Online booking or quote request forms
Customer testimonials and reviews
Service area information
Contact details and business hours
Blog content about moving tips and local area information
Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimize your website for keywords like "moving company [your city]," "professional movers near me," and "affordable moving services." Include these terms naturally in your page titles, headers, and content.
Social Media Marketing: Maintain active profiles on Facebook and Instagram, sharing moving tips, before-and-after photos, and customer success stories. Engage with your community by responding to comments and messages promptly.
The Start My Service Business team specializes in building professional websites and implementing local SEO and online marketing strategies that help moving companies dominate their markets. We handle everything from website design to ongoing content creation, so you can focus on serving customers.
Step 9: Implement Moving Company Software and Systems
Efficient operations separate thriving moving companies from those that struggle. When you start a moving company, implementing the right systems early prevents headaches as you grow.
Essential Software Tools:
Moving Company CRM: Track leads, manage customer information, and automate follow-ups. Popular options include Vonigo, ServiceM8, or Jobber.
Scheduling Software: Coordinate your crews, trucks, and moves efficiently to maximize daily revenue while avoiding double-bookings.
Accounting Software: QuickBooks or similar platforms help you track expenses, send invoices, manage payroll, and prepare for tax season.
Route Optimization: GPS and routing software minimize drive time and fuel costs while ensuring your crews arrive on schedule.
Digital Inventory Tools: Smartphone apps allow your team to photograph and catalog customer belongings, protecting everyone from damage disputes.
Step 10: Market Your Moving Business Effectively
Having the best moving services means nothing if potential customers don't know you exist. When you start your moving company, implementing a multi-channel marketing strategy helps you build a steady stream of leads.
Local Marketing Strategies:
Real Estate Agent Partnerships: Build relationships with local realtors who can refer their clients to your moving services. Offer special discounts for their customers and consider reciprocal marketing arrangements.
Community Involvement: Sponsor local sports teams, participate in community events, and support local charities. This builds brand awareness and demonstrates your commitment to the community.
Vehicle Branding: Turn your moving trucks (if you decide to buy or finance one) into mobile billboards with professional wraps featuring your company name, phone number, and website.
Door Hangers and Flyers: Target neighborhoods where you see "For Sale" signs, distributing promotional materials highlighting your services and special offers.
Online Marketing Tactics:
Pay-Per-Click Advertising: Google Ads can quickly generate leads when you start a moving company, though costs vary by market competitiveness.
Facebook Ads: Target specific demographics and geographic areas with compelling ads showcasing your services and customer reviews.
Content Marketing: Publish helpful blog posts about moving tips, packing guides, and local area information. This content helps with SEO while demonstrating your expertise.
Email Marketing: Build an email list and send regular newsletters with moving tips, seasonal promotions, and company updates.
Review Generation: Actively request reviews from satisfied customers on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Positive reviews significantly influence purchasing decisions for moving services.
Understanding Moving Business Startup Costs
Let's break down what you'll actually spend when you start a moving company. These numbers help you secure appropriate financing and set realistic expectations.
These estimates vary significantly based on your location, whether you buy or lease equipment, and your growth ambitions. When you start your moving business with professional guidance, you can avoid overspending while ensuring you have adequate resources for success.
Key Takeaways for Starting Your Moving Business
As you prepare to start a moving company, remember these essential points:
✓ The moving industry offers substantial opportunity with $23.3 billion in annual revenue and steady 3.8% growth projections through 2029
✓ Start small and scale strategically - you don't need a massive fleet to launch a profitable moving business
✓ Legal compliance is non-negotiable - proper licensing, insurance, and business formation protect you and build customer trust
✓ Your team represents your brand - invest in hiring and training reliable, professional employees
✓ Online marketing is essential - customers search for moving companies digitally, making your online presence critical
✓ Systems and software improve efficiency - implementing the right tools early prevents operational chaos as you grow
✓ Customer service drives growth - excellent service generates reviews, referrals, and repeat business
✓ Professional guidance accelerates success - partnering with experts helps you avoid costly mistakes and reach profitability faster
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Moving Business
How much money do you need to start a moving company?
You can start a moving company with as little as $5,000 or less for a basic operation using rental trucks and minimal equipment. However, most successful moving businesses invest $50,000 + for better equipment, comprehensive insurance, and working capital. Your specific startup costs depend on your location, whether you lease, purchase or rent vehicles, and your service offerings.
Do you need a special license to operate a moving business?
Yes, you need multiple licenses when you start a moving company. At minimum, you'll need a business license from your state or locality. If you move customers across state lines, you must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and obtain a USDOT number. Many states also require specific moving company licenses or household goods carrier permits.
How profitable is a moving business?
Moving companies can be highly profitable with average profit margins ranging from 10% to 30% (or more) depending on operational efficiency and market positioning. Many successful moving company owners earn $50,000 to $150,000 annually after paying themselves a salary. Your profitability depends on factors like your pricing strategy, operating costs, marketing effectiveness, and service quality.
What insurance do I need for a moving company?
When you start a moving company, you'll need several types of insurance including general liability ($1 million minimum coverage), cargo insurance ($750,000 to $5 million), commercial auto insurance for all vehicles, workers' compensation insurance if you have employees, and often a $75,000 surety bond. Expect to invest $8,000 to $15,000 annually for comprehensive coverage.
Can I start a moving business with just one truck?
Absolutely! Many successful moving company owners started with a single truck and gradually expanded their fleet. Starting small or renting trucks allows you to learn the business, refine your processes, and prove your concept before making larger investments. As you build a customer base and generate revenue, you can add trucks and crew members strategically.
How do I find customers for my new moving business?
Customer acquisition combines online and offline strategies. Optimize your Google Business Profile for local searches, build a professional website, generate positive customer reviews, partner with real estate agents, use social media marketing, invest in vehicle branding, and network within your community.
What's the best time of year to start a moving company?
While you can start a moving company any time, many entrepreneurs launch in late winter or early spring to prepare for the busy summer moving season. The period from May through September represents peak moving season when demand is highest, but thousands of leases end every month and people always need to move. Starting in early spring gives you time to establish operations, train your team, and build momentum before the busy season arrives.
Conclusion: Your Path to Moving Business Success Starts Now
Starting a moving company offers an incredible opportunity to build a profitable service business serving your local community. With 28 million Americans moving annually and the industry growing steadily, there's never been a better time to launch your moving business.
The journey from concept to successful operation requires careful planning, proper licensing, strategic investments, and consistent marketing. While the process might seem overwhelming, breaking it down into manageable steps makes it entirely achievable. Whether you're investing $5,000 or less for a basic startup or $50,000 + for a more comprehensive launch, success comes down to providing excellent service, building a reliable team, and implementing smart business systems.
Remember, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Start My Service Business specializes in helping entrepreneurs like you launch successful service businesses. We can build the entire operation for you, handle all of your marketing, sales, hiring and so much more. After completion of our 4 month program, your operation will be generating thousands per month in consistent sales revenue.
The moving industry is waiting for dedicated entrepreneurs who are ready to provide professional, reliable service. Your community needs trustworthy moving companies, and with the right preparation and support, you can build a thriving business that generates consistent income while helping families and businesses during one of life's most stressful transitions.
Are you ready to take the first step toward owning your own moving company? Visit Start My Service Business today to schedule your free consultation and discover how we can help you launch your moving business faster, more affordably, and with greater confidence than you ever thought possible.
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