Pocatello, Idaho, often called the “Gateway to the Northwest,” has been steadily growing as both a residential and business hub. With affordable housing, a strong community atmosphere, and Idaho State University anchoring much of its cultural and economic life, the city has become an increasingly popular place to settle. Naturally, this rise in relocations has created greater demand for reliable moving services.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, roughly 8.2 million Americans moved in 2022, highlighting just how common relocations are nationwide. Pocatello reflects this trend on a smaller scale, as households, students, and professionals seek trustworthy movers to handle everything from local apartment moves to full-scale corporate relocations.
This article explores the top 5 moving companies in Pocatello, breaking down their pricing structures, service offerings, and customer reputations. Whether you’re a professional relocating for work or a family transitioning into a new home, this guide will help you identify the right mover for your needs. For additional moving advice, see Six Steps to Make Your Move Easier.
Why Moves in Pocatello Are on the Rise
Pocatello is attracting new residents and businesses for several key reasons, each shaping the city’s housing and relocation landscape:
- Expanding Job Market – Local employers in healthcare, education, and manufacturing are growing, drawing talent from across Idaho and beyond.
- Educational Opportunities – Idaho State University brings thousands of students, faculty, and staff to the area each year, creating steady housing turnover.
- Affordable Housing – Compared to nearby Boise or Salt Lake City, Pocatello offers more competitive real estate prices, allowing families to buy larger homes for less.
- Family-Friendly Neighborhoods – Communities like Highland and Old Town provide safe, community-oriented living that appeals to families and retirees alike.
Together, these factors have created a strong demand for professional moving companies in Pocatello that can handle both residential and commercial relocations. To save on costs while planning, you may want to review these Cost-Effective Moving Tips.
What to Look for in a Pocatello Moving Company
Not all movers offer the same level of service, and choosing poorly can result in unexpected fees or even damaged property. Before hiring, consider these key criteria:
- Licensing and Insurance – Make sure the mover is registered with Idaho transportation authorities and carries valid liability and cargo insurance.
- Transparent Pricing – Written estimates, clear hourly rates, and disclosure of valuation coverage protect you from hidden charges.
- Service Range – The best movers provide flexibility, offering local and long-distance moves, packing, storage, and specialty moving for large or fragile items.
- Customer Reviews – A consistent rating of at least 3.8 stars on platforms like Google or Yelp usually signals dependability.
- Awareness of Hidden Fees – Ask about fuel surcharges, stair fees, or additional mileage to avoid unpleasant surprises.
For more guidance on evaluating movers, see our guide on Choosing the Right Moving Company.
The 5 Best Moving Companies in Pocatello to Know
1. BustNMoves Moving & Storage
BustNMoves has established itself as one of Pocatello’s most trusted names, completing more than 7,000 moves. Known for its professionalism, punctuality, and reliability, the company serves both residential and commercial clients across Southeast Idaho. Their services include local and long-distance moves, packing and unpacking, furniture disassembly/reassembly, and secure storage solutions.
What sets BustNMoves apart is its transparent quoting process. Customers can request flat-rate or customized moving plans, ensuring there are no surprise charges. Their crews are praised for efficiency and careful handling of belongings, making them particularly appealing to families and businesses relocating valuable assets. For anyone looking for movers who combine local expertise with a strong service record, BustNMoves stands as the top recommendation.
2. Mayday Pro Movers
Mayday Pro Movers specializes in long-distance and cross-country relocations, providing dedicated trucks for each move. This approach reduces the risk of delays and misplaced items, a common concern with shared loads.
Their pricing is competitive, appealing to budget-conscious customers who still want quality service. Reviews often highlight the company’s commitment to maintaining high service standards, even for complex moves that involve multiple stops or specialty items. While Mayday is based outside of Pocatello, its reach extends across Idaho, making it a viable option for residents planning bigger relocations.
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK – Idaho Falls
Part of a nationally recognized brand, the Idaho Falls branch of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK brings standardized training, dependable resources, and extensive moving experience to Pocatello clients.
They offer local and interstate residential and commercial moving services, backed by written flat-rate quotes and clear hourly billing options. Customers frequently choose TWO MEN AND A TRUCK for its strong corporate support and consistent service model, which minimizes the variability sometimes seen in smaller independent companies. For those seeking peace of mind through a trusted national brand, this option provides reliability and professionalism.
4. Big Boy Movers
Big Boy Movers has earned a reputation across Eastern Idaho for its efficient service and customer-first approach. Offering both local and long-distance moves, the company also provides packing assistance and storage solutions, giving customers flexibility throughout the moving process.
Pricing is straightforward, with clear billing practices that help clients budget with confidence. Reviewers often mention the company’s responsive communication and friendly crews, highlighting Big Boy Movers as a dependable choice for households that value both speed and care in handling their belongings.
5. Allied Van Lines – Pocatello Agent
For moves requiring national resources, Allied Van Lines’ local Pocatello agent delivers the backing of a global network combined with local expertise. Services include residential and commercial relocations, full packing assistance, and both short-term and long-term storage.
Allied offers free in-home estimates, ensuring accurate pricing tailored to each move’s unique needs. Customer reviews emphasize professionalism and efficient logistics, particularly for complex interstate relocations. For clients who prioritize experience and national reach, Allied’s Pocatello presence offers an excellent blend of scale and service quality.
Tips for Moving in Pocatello
Relocating in Southeast Idaho comes with its own set of considerations. To make the process smoother, keep these tips in mind:
- Verify Licensing and Insurance – Before signing a contract, confirm that your chosen moving company is properly licensed to operate in Idaho and carries adequate insurance coverage. This protects you in the event of accidental damage, lost items, or unexpected delays.
- Book in Advance – Demand for movers in Pocatello peaks during the summer months, when families prefer to move between school years, and students at Idaho State University are either arriving or departing. To secure the best availability and competitive pricing, schedule your movers at least four to six weeks in advance.
- Account for Local Factors – Pocatello’s geography and neighborhood layouts can influence your moving day. Areas like Old Town have narrow streets and limited parking, which may require special permits or coordination with local authorities to allow moving trucks access. In winter, icy conditions can slow down loading and unloading, so be prepared with extra time and weatherproofing supplies.
- Confirm Storage Options – Not every move lines up perfectly with your new home’s availability. Whether you’re waiting on closing paperwork or dealing with renovation delays, having access to secure storage can be a lifesaver. Many Pocatello moving companies offer short- and long-term storage solutions, often climate-controlled to protect sensitive belongings like electronics, documents, or wooden furniture from Idaho’s variable weather.
FAQs About Hiring Pocatello Movers
How much do movers cost in Pocatello?
On average, local moves in Pocatello cost about $455, though the final price depends on the size of your home, the number of movers required, and the time involved. For long-distance relocations, costs can range from $2,500 to over $10,000, depending on distance, weight, and services included. Specialty items – like pianos, safes, or antiques – may increase the price due to the additional care and equipment needed.
What’s included in full-service moving?
Full-service moving packages are designed to take the heavy lifting off your shoulders. In Pocatello, most full-service companies will handle packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and furniture assembly. Many also provide unpacking, debris removal, and temporary storage if needed. Insurance or valuation coverage is usually part of these packages, giving you additional peace of mind.
When’s the best time to book movers?
Timing is critical when planning a move. The general rule of thumb is to book movers 4–6 weeks in advance, which can vary depending on the season. Summer is the busiest time in Pocatello, thanks to warmer weather and student turnover at Idaho State University. If you need to move between May and August, consider securing an earlier date.
Why are written estimates important?
A written estimate is more than just a price quote – it safeguards against unexpected costs. Movers in Pocatello may provide different types of estimates, including binding (fixed price), non-binding (approximate), and not-to-exceed (a capped maximum cost). Having everything in writing ensures transparency and helps you compare offers across multiple companies.
Final Thoughts
Relocating in Pocatello can be seamless with the right preparation and the right moving company by your side. Evaluating licensing, pricing transparency, service offerings, and customer satisfaction ratings will go a long way toward ensuring a stress-free move.
While each company on this list brings valuable expertise, BustNMoves Moving & Storage stands out for its proven track record, comprehensive services, and customer-focused approach. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, their professional team offers the reliability and peace of mind you need.
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