Best movers in Tacoma, Wash.

There's a lot to unpack when it comes to moving — and we don't mean actual boxes. Finding a great mover can feel stressful on top of an already long to-do list. That's why we sifted through more than 40 moving businesses in the Tacoma area and found the best five you can work with on your next local or long-distance move. We assessed each one with a proprietary system that considers time in business, customer feedback, Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation and more. From there, we spoke with our top picks to size up what sets them apart and why you might want to choose them for your next moving job.

Quick overview

The best moving company in Tacoma for YOU

We think the three most important factors to consider with any moving company are: their availability relative to your timeline, your budget, and who you truly feel comfortable with when they pick up the phone. We're confident that you'll be able to find an amazing fit on all three factors from our list below.

Eco Movers came out on top in our assessment. Not only does the company have an immense number of glowing reviews, it also has eco-friendly practices that set it apart from others on our list — especially in a region that is known for its commitment to sustainability. (The majority of Tacoma's energy comes from renewable sources , after all.) This is especially noteworthy given the sheer amount of disposable plastic and other materials that come into play for even a small move.

We know that Eco Movers may not fit everyone's needs. If you're looking to contribute to the community with your move, John Volken Academy Movers is a great option. This company is focused on providing jobs for those in recovery, and the moving fees you pay go towards running the program. Meanwhile, Movable is a great pick for those looking for a quick turnaround move.

Table of contents

• Best overall mover in Tacoma

• Best last-minute Tacoma mover

• Best national moving company

• More best moving companies

• Why you can trust Yahoo Local moving advice

• Tacoma moving FAQs

• Methodology

Best moving companies in Tacoma, Wash.

Eco Movers is the best overall mover in Tacoma

There's a reason that "eco" is in this company's name. Eco Movers prioritizes using "eco boxes," which are made from a waterproof and more durable material than cardboard and can be reused. Eco Movers also works to recycle packing materials at its primary location, which happens to be in Tacoma. The company supports local environmental organizations as well. For folks looking to reduce the environmental toll of their move, this is a great option.

Just because it is eco-friendly does not mean the company skimps on other things: Eco Movers is properly insured and licensed, and all moving employees are background-checked and trained by the company before they begin work. They arrive and move you in uniform, which helps add to their professionalism.

Eco Movers' rates range depending on how far in advance you book your move and the days you move (weekdays offer a slightly better deal and more flexibility with scheduling). A three-mover crew will come in at $229 on weekdays, with a one-hour minimum, according to a representative we spoke with. On weekends, that rate goes up to $249 with a four-hour minimum. Rates usually increase for moves booked less than four weeks in advance, but you may be able to score a rate as low as $159 if you book 10 to 12 weeks beforehand. After meeting the minimum, you'll be charged in 15-minute increments.

The rates are all-inclusive, covering the truck, packing supplies and crew. Note that the rates in the summer are higher, as it is the Pacific Northwest's busy season. For payments made with a credit card, you should anticipate an additional 3% fee to be added to your total. There is no deposit required.

Services offered

• Eco-friendly box rentals

• Packing and unpacking

• Furniture dis- and re-assembly

• TV mounting

• Warehouse storage

Eco Movers offers a variety of services. One of its unique offerings is rentable eco-friendly boxes you can pack and move on your own, rather than hiring the company for a full-service move. The boxes are dropped off at your initial location and then picked up when you're unpacked in your new place. Each set of boxes is accompanied by packing paper to cushion your items.

The company also has more traditional offerings, namely, standalone packing services, moving and full-service packing and moving options. Packing is typically scheduled one day before the move. Finally, Eco Movers also has warehouses for storage if you need to temporarily stash your belongings before relocating or are in the process of a cross-country move. The company specializes in long-distance moves to and from the Tacoma area, though it offers local services as well. As such, we think it's a great choice no matter what your needs are.

Eco Movers is also set apart by its BBB accreditation and high A+ rating . To date, the company has seven complaints, several of which are resolved, and one which was intended for another moving company, but was posted to Eco Movers page by mistake. Online reviewers give the company high marks, with a 4.9-star rating on Google (725 reviews), 4.6 stars on Yelp (83 reviews) and 4.8 stars on Angi (211 reviews).

The company has a number of locations throughout Washington, but its Tacoma office is located at 8100 Tacoma Mall Blvd., Tacoma, Wash., 98499. The Tacoma location has a staffed warehouse that is open 24/7, though the phone is only operated during its normal business hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. To book your move, you can call 206-971-6895 or visit Eco Movers' website to set up a free quote.

First Due Movers is Tacoma's best customer-focused moving company

First Due Movers immediately impressed us, and its representative was quick to address all our questions and put us at ease. When we inquired about deposits, he explained not only that First Due does not require a deposit, but also that Washington state law only permits companies to charge refundable deposits. Customers who hear about nonrefundable deposits with any moving company should be concerned. This respectful, informative and customer-centric answer was representative of our experience throughout the conversation.

First Due charges $296 per hour for three movers and the truck. The price is broken down to $94 per hour per mover, and an additional $14 per hour for the truck. Unlike other companies on this list whose rates fluctuate depending on the season, First Due keeps its rates stable year-round. For those who are not in the company's immediate vicinity in Kent, there is an up-charge for travel, though it will vary depending on the weight of your move. While the hourly rate is relatively high, the company does not charge an additional card transaction fee.

After you get in touch with First Due Movers, an employee will set up a virtual or in-person estimate. In this 30- to 40-minute meeting, the company will look at what you need to move and provide you with a sense of what the time and cost will be. The representative said these estimates are usually pretty accurate and, if anything, estimates are usually a little high.

Services offered

• Long-distance moving

• Local moving

• In-home furniture moving

• Store-to-home moving

First Due also takes a few extraordinary safety precautions. In addition to running a background check on all employees, a representative said potential employees go through multiple interviews and are required to complete a drug screening.

The company was founded by three former firemen, who continue to own and operate First Due Movers. Many of the staff are former firefighters or volunteer firefighters, though the company does not exclusively employ movers with firefighting experience.

First Due Movers garners high marks online, with 4.9 stars from 512 reviews on Google. Yelp users also hold it in high esteem, giving it 4.8 stars from 143 reviews, and it also has a perfect five-star Angi rating from 35 reviews. When we called and spoke with the representatives, we could tell why — its professionalism and customer service quickly came through in even short interactions. The company isn't BBB-accredited and isn't currently listed with the organization.

The First Due Movers office is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and you can reach it by calling 206-483-1375. Alternatively, you can click "schedule a move" on First Due Movers' website , fill out a few pieces of information, and someone from the staff will get in touch with you. Its office is located at 21854 76th Ave. S, Kent, Wash., 98032.

Kangaroo Movers is the best mover with a cash discount

Kangaroo Movers might be more aptly called "workhorse movers." This company has ten years of experience and a glowing reputation throughout the greater Seattle area, including Tacoma. The company offers an array of options, and a slight rate break if you pay with cash instead of a credit card — an added perk for those looking to squeeze the most out of every dollar they spend on moving.

The company has a few more restraints than some of the others on this list. All jobs require a three-hour minimum. The company also charges a flat rate of $40 fuel fee for moves that are more than 20 miles from its Seattle office. You'll also be charged for the time the movers spend driving to and from your location. There is no deposit required.

Kangaroo Movers also has a flat rate truck fee of $50. The baseline rate for three movers is $180 per hour if you pay in cash and $195 per hour if you pay with a credit card. The cash versus credit card fee is the same regardless of crew size — so if you have a smaller team moving you, you should still expect to pay an additional $15 per hour if using a credit card. The company will provide estimates for the total cost of your move via a video call and using the origin and destination zip codes.

Services offered

• Local and long-distance moves

• Packing and unpacking

• Appliance moving

• Certain large items (though you may need a bigger moving crew)

The team at Kangaroo Movers is composed of experienced workers who have undergone background checks and have been with the company for at least five years. The company also has a special claims manager in the unlikely case that something does go wrong.

Kangaroo Movers has near-perfect marks on Google, with 929 reviews and 4.9 stars. On Yelp, the company has garnered 4.5 stars from 568 reviewers, and 73 Angi users give it 4.8 stars. While it is not BBB-accredited , it has a B- rating for failing to respond to its one registered complaint.

Kangaroo Movers' office is located in Seattle, meaning any move in Tacoma will be subject to the $40 fuel surcharge. You can get a quote by visiting its website or calling the office at 206-535-2424 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, or from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The nearest office is its Seattle location, located at 12303 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, Wash., 98125.

John Volken Academy Movers is the best non-profit, mission-driven Tacoma mover

John Volken Academy Movers is unique among the companies on this list because it's a non-profit. This is in part because the moving business is associated with John Volken Academy, a non-profit addiction rehabilitation program with locations in several Western U.S. cities.

Even so, John Volken Academy Movers doesn't skimp on traditional precautions or offerings. All of the movers are required to complete background checks before working with the company. The representative we spoke to personally knew every mover at the Kent location and spoke highly of them. In fact, the person we spoke with was a graduate of the program a few years ago, but has continued working with the organization.

Because of its non-profit status, the moving company also offers a really competitive rate: $175 per hour for a crew of three with a two-hour minimum. This is the same rate for packing, though you'll be charged for whatever materials are used. John Volken Academy movers offer high-caliber service, with options like packing and moving heavy items, such as pool tables, pianos and safes. It also has services for local and interstate moves.

Services offered

• Long-distance moving

• Local moving

• Packing and unpacking

There is an upcharge for moves that are more than 55 miles from the office location in Kent, Washington. This is a flat fee that is calculated based on the weight of your move. Kent's relative proximity to Tacoma means that this won't affect folks who are moving within Tacoma, but it may kick in for longer-distance relocations to or from the Tacoma area. While the by-weight rate may add up, given the lower cost for the moving crew, you could still come out with a total that's more affordable as compared to some of the other companies on this list.

One upshot of John Volken Academy Movers does not charge a credit card processing fee. The company pays these fees itself, rather than passing them off to consumers as an additional charge. There's no deposit required to book your move.

As it is a non-profit, the funds go back to the John Volken Academy, a two-year life skills program that is mainly targeted at men who struggle with substance abuse and addiction. The crew is not paid for moving you. Instead, the money goes toward program costs, including housing, food and clothing. Tips are treated as donations, which the men can use for activities, such as bowling or other fun outings. Before men are accepted onto jobs, they must reach a trusted point in the program, which emphasizes accountability.

John Volken Academy Movers have a great reputation online, too. The company earns high marks on Google, with 284 reviews and an average of 4.9 stars. On Yelp, it has 4.8 stars and 99 reviews. It isn't currently accredited by the BBB , though it has an A+ rating with no registered complaints.

The company has just one Washington location, which is located at 921 Central Avenue N., Kent, Wash., 98032. To book your move, you can call or text 253-856-3056 during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or visit the John Volken Academy Movers' website to request a quote. From there, one of the representatives will get in touch with you and provide the next steps.

Movable Moving & Storage is the best last-minute mover in Tacoma

Movable Moving & Storage has one of the best rates we found, including for last-minute emergency moves — three movers come in at $180 per hour, which includes professional packing supplies, like shrink wrap and blankets. Similarly, the company's $30 flat fee for gas is also cheap, covering fuel and travel costs. Like the other companies on this list, Movable will provide you with a free estimate when you reach out, and it doesn't require a deposit. 

Movable offers a variety of services so you can choose the one that is best for you and your family. This includes less traditional options, like moving services catered specifically to seniors. There's also an eco-friendly moving service, where the movers utilize reusable boxes and recyclable and biodegradable packing materials. It has plenty of typical offerings, too, such as long-distance moves, furniture assembly and disassembly and packing.

Movable also offers a handful of detailed guides for moving throughout the Seattle region that are helpful as you plan your move. One features steps to consider at different points leading up to your final move , and another discusses the timing of moving relative to changes in the rental market.

Services offered

• Packing and unpacking

• Furniture disassembly and reassembly

• Eco-friendly moving services

• Last-minute moving

Movable offers rush services and hours that are more flexible than many of the other companies on this list. According to the Movable website, it offers same-day and evening services, so it's a great option for emergencies. All of Movable's moving staff receive extensive background checks before they begin working as movers for the company.

Unlike most of the other companies on this list, Movable also has a chat feature on its website, which makes it easy to connect with someone while completing other tasks. That said, we had mixed results using the chat service and found calling was easier. If you're not on a tight timeline or needing an immediate response, you can also reach out via email.

Movable is highly rated on various review platforms. On Google, it has 4.7 stars from 35 reviewers. Yelp users score it highly with 4.7 stars from 22 reviewers. On Angi, it has 10 reviewers with an average of 4.5 stars. It is not currently accredited by the BBB , but it has an A+ rating with no complaints.

You can reach the Tacoma location by calling 206-466-7710 or visiting Movable's website to request a free quote. Its address is 2602 S. 38th St., #182, Tacoma, Wash., 98409. The company is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and is closed on Sundays. Finally, if you have the time to spare, you can also email the company at movablewa@gmail.com .

BLVD Moving is the best national moving company

At Yahoo Local, we're here to help people make well-informed decisions. We enjoy showcasing local businesses, but sometimes a national moving company is a better fit, and it depends on what your move requires. If you're trying to figure it out, check out our guide on the pros and cons of local versus national movers . For those going with a national option, we recommend BLVD Moving as our top pick .

BLVD Moving has been around since 2000 and is run by a team with decades of experience in the industry. It has just four locations in California, but it handles both local and long-distance moves throughout the U.S. It's an independent, family-owned business with its own fleet of trucks and moving crews. According to its terms , it may also use subcontractors or agents for certain moves, which is a common practice during busy periods in the moving business.

We got in touch with BLVD Moving for a quote on a 500-mile relocation involving roughly 1,340 cubic feet of belongings — about what you'd expect for a typical three-bedroom house, excluding large appliances. The company estimated the cost at around $6,700, which is comparable to other long-distance movers. It asks for a 33% deposit up front, with half of the remaining balance due when your items are picked up. The rest is paid upon delivery.

Services offered

• Local and long-distance moves

• Residential and commercial relocations

• Office transition services

• Professional packing assistance

• Storage options

• Flexible financing

If your plans change, BLVD Moving allows cancellations with a full deposit refund, as long as you cancel at least two full business days before your pickup date. The delivery window ranges from two to 21 business days, depending on distance. That window starts from the delivery date you select, so once you're ready, your belongings might arrive a little over a month later.

BLVD suggests booking your move at least a month in advance or earlier if you're moving during high-demand times like summer or the beginning or end of the month. (Check out our full guide on the best and worst times to move for more.) The quote process is straightforward, and you can do a virtual walkthrough or fill out an inventory form online. Financing is also available for those who qualify, with interest rates starting at 0%.

BLVD Moving is accredited by the BBB and has an A- rating , along with 65 complaints on record. That number may seem high, but it's pretty standard for nationwide moving companies. It holds a 4.4-star rating on Google from 860 reviews, and a 2.3-star rating on Yelp based on 340 reviews. All of its movers are actual employees who have passed background checks.

The company's main office is located at 21622 Plummer St., Chatsworth, Calif. 91311. It's open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time. You can contact BLVD Moving at 844-274-0500 or visit its website to request a quote.

Customer testimonial

Wilfredo and his crew with BLVD Moving did an excellent job with my long distance move. These guys are the best there is! I've used movers before and I admit that there is a lot to deal with, but they were on time, on top of everything, organized, professional and courteous. I simply could not have asked for better service. I am truly impressed. Don't go anywhere else. I'm extremely pleased with everything from start to finish. - Chandrica M., Google reviews (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

* See Google reviews * See Yelp reviews

You can count on Yahoo Local moving advice. This is why.

We know you want your move to be as easy as possible — and we want that for you, too. Here at Yahoo Local, we have years of experience in sifting through services and making recommendations informed by our personal experience with companies, research and an objective, proprietary ranking system. We identify the best movers, then individually screen each one just like a customer would to ensure we bring you the best information possible. Our articles follow strict editorial standards, and the companies featured never pay us for a recommendation — these suggestions are all our own. If you want to learn more about how we select and recommend companies, check out our methodology .

Here are the considerations and statistics we took into account while writing this list:

• 41 movers evaluated

• 14,435 customer reviews and ratings from five sources

• 14 ranking criteria incorporated

• Interviewed or connected with all six featured movers

• Independent price quotes collected or sought from all six featured moving companies

• Independently researched and fact-checked by Yahoo

• Recommendations are maintained and updated regularly

Tacoma moving FAQs

What info should you have when requesting an estimate?

In general, the mover you're speaking to will guide you through the information they need to make your cost estimate. However, it's helpful to think about a few questions going into that conversation.

First, you'll want to have your origin and destination zip codes handy. You also want to consider the size of the space you're moving. If you can provide the square footage, even if it's approximate, or the number of bedrooms, you'll be on solid ground. This will help the company determine what size crew will be most helpful and efficient for your move. 

In the same vein, you will want to think about any obstacles to moving you may want to disclose — for example, if your new place requires movers to carry furniture up three flights of stairs to an apartment, but does not have an elevator. This is especially important if you have heavy objects that need to be moved, like a piano, as those come with special considerations, and not every company will move them.

Finally, think about the exact type of service you need. If you want packing as well as moving, disclose that so that the moving crew can estimate the total time required.

What should you know about packing and storage in Tacoma?

While Tacoma isn't the wettest city in the U.S., it can be pretty wet. If you're planning on moving in the rainy months, pay special attention to your packaging. Items that are prone to water damage, like books and electronics, should be packaged in water-resistant containers. This is an important consideration when packing yourself for a move.

Though the climate is wet in the Pacific Northwest, the storage considerations are largely the same as other regions and climates. You will likely want to opt for a climate-controlled storage space for delicate items in particular. Things like musical instruments, which can be sensitive to humidity, are worth keeping in mind. Security may also be a concern, and you can look for warehouses, like Eco Movers , that have 24/7 staff and security. Movers will be able to tell you how they store your items over the phone if it's of concern.

What's different about condo and apartment moving in Tacoma?

Moving into a condo or apartment almost anywhere comes with some special considerations, and these spaces in Tacoma are no exception. Fortunately, the extra requirements are pretty easy to navigate.

Most importantly, you'll want to coordinate with your building management team. In some apartments, residents who are moving in (or adding large furniture) can use special freight elevators for the task. You'll have to specifically coordinate with your building if that is an option.

Do you need moving permits or licenses to move in Tacoma?

In general, you do not need a permit or license to move in Tacoma. As long as your move lasts less than 90 days (we sure hope it does!), you don't need a special permit for parking moving trucks or PODs on the road. Moving companies, however, must be properly licensed to operate in the state. You can find all the details in our full guide to Washington moving company licensing and registration .

Still, if you're moving into a community with a homeowner's association, you'll also want to check the specific rules for your association. You'll also want to inquire about any fees or regulations surrounding parking in the community.

How much should you tip movers in Tacoma?

As in many locations, tipping for moving is not required in Tacoma. Still, it can be a nice gesture, especially for a job well done. If you decide to tip your moving crew, it can be calculated much like a restaurant tip as a percentage of the total. Typically, you can tip an amount between 10% and 20% of the total. For more information on all things tipping, check out our guide on tipping movers .

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