Moving from Billings, MT to Massachusetts — Costs & Local Movers
If you're moving from Billings to Massachusetts, you're looking at one of the longer hauls in the country: roughly 2,195 miles across the northern tier of the US. That distance means your costs will depend heavily on a few variables — move size, season, and whether you hire full-service movers or go DIY.
I've pulled together what the top movers in Billings actually charge for this route, plus what you need to know about living differences between Montana and Massachusetts before you pack up.
Top Movers from Billings to Massachusetts
Out of the moving companies in Billings that can handle interstate moves, here are the ones worth considering:
- Aaron's Back Company — 4.2 / 5
- Baker Transfer & Storage — 4.22 / 5
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 3.86 / 5
- McKell Brothers Hauling Inc. — 3.78 / 5
Aaron's Back Company
Rating: 4.2 / 5 stars (166 reviews)
6917 King Ave W, Billings, MT 59106
Phone: (406) 670-4045
Pricing: $140/hr | Years in Business: 17
Aaron's Back Company stands out for professional crews and reliable service. Among 166 reviews, 97% were positive — that's notably high for this market. Customers consistently praise quick moves, careful handling, and courteous staff. The main complaints are occasional item damage and communication gaps, but those are exceptions. They handle both local and interstate moves, plus specialty items like pianos and hot tubs.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, antiques, safes. Accepts cash and credit card.
Baker Transfer & Storage
Rating: 4.22 / 5 stars (27 reviews)
706 Daniel St Suite 1, Billings, MT 59102
Phone: (406) 245-3147
License #: 469163 | DOT #: 469163 | Years in Business: 13
Baker Transfer earns strong marks for professionalism and attentive service. About 78% of reviews were positive, with customers noting efficient moves and respectful crews. The company excels at handling specialty items — they offer piano moving, crating, and safe relocation. Some customers flagged unexpectedly high costs and occasional scheduling delays, but overall it's a solid operator for this route.
Services: Local moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, crating, storage, safes. Accepts cash and credit card.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Rating: 3.86 / 5 stars (23 reviews)
1375 4th Ave N Suite F, Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 219-4070
License #: 3796877 | DOT #: 2527384
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK gets consistent praise for professional, efficient crews. About 61% of reviews were positive, highlighting quick service and careful handling. The company handles both local and interstate work. However, roughly 39% of feedback mentions concerns — unprofessional behavior, unexpected charges, or item damage on larger moves. They're reliable for straightforward relocations but might stumble on complex jobs.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes. Accepts credit card.
McKell Brothers Hauling Inc.
Rating: 3.78 / 5 stars
1430 Maurine St, Billings, MT 59105
Phone: (406) 259-1249
Limited review data available for this operator. They handle local moves, packing, unpacking, offices, and safes. Accepts money order and cash.
Cost to Move from Billings to Massachusetts
Here's what you can expect to pay for this 2,195-mile move, depending on your home size and service type:
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,504 – $5,479 | $1,146 – $2,985 | $1,232 – $2,403 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $4,031 – $8,041 | $2,100 – $4,382 | $1,270 – $2,697 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,272 – $13,327 | $2,855 – $5,527 | $1,587 – $3,237 |
These are approximate ranges based on 2,195 miles and typical add-ons. Actual costs vary by volume, fuel prices, time of year, and service level. Use our moving cost calculator for a personalized estimate.
Full-Service Moving Companies
If you're hiring movers to pack, load, drive, and unload, expect $1,504–$5,479 for a one-bedroom, $4,031–$8,041 for a two- to three-bedroom, and $7,272–$13,327 for a four-bedroom-plus. This is the most hands-off option but also the priciest. You get professional handling and arrive in Massachusetts without lifting a finger.
Moving Containers
Moving containers like PODS are a middle ground: the company drops off a container, you pack at your own pace, and they transport it to Massachusetts. Costs run $1,146–$2,985 for a small move, $2,100–$4,382 for medium, and $2,855–$5,527 for large. You control the timeline and don't rush through packing.
Rental Trucks
A rental truck is the budget option—$1,232–$2,403 for a studio, $1,270–$2,697 for two to three bedrooms, $1,587–$3,237 for four-plus. The trade-off: you drive the truck yourself (often 2,200+ miles) and do the heavy lifting. Fuel and mileage add up fast, so this only makes sense for smaller moves or if you have friends willing to help.
Cost Factors to Know
- Move size: More belongings = higher costs. The single biggest driver.
- Time of year: Summer moves (peak season) run 15–30% higher than off-season. Aim for fall or winter if you can.
- DIY vs. professional: DIY is cheaper but demands your time and physical effort. Professional movers cost more but save you days of work.
Cost of Living: Billings vs. Massachusetts
Before you pack, understand that Massachusetts costs considerably more than Billings — especially housing. Here's the breakdown:
| Metric | Billings, MT | Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,300/month | $1,588/month |
| Average home price | $381,592 | $623,131 |
| Per capita income | $63,515 | $96,505 |
| Cost of living index | 95 | 100 |
| Unemployment | 4.1% | 3.9% |
| State income tax | 6.75% | 9.0% |
Key takeaways:
- Rent runs 22% higher in Massachusetts. Budget an extra $288/month if you're renting.
- Home prices are 63% higher — expect to pay roughly $240,000 more for the median home in Massachusetts.
- Incomes average 52% higher, which can offset some housing costs if you land a comparable job.
- Cost of living is roughly the same overall, so your day-to-day spending shouldn't shock you.
- Income taxes are 33% higher in Massachusetts (9.0% vs. 6.75%), which is a real difference in your annual tax bill.
- Unemployment rates are nearly identical, so job market competition should feel similar.
What Life Is Actually Like: Billings vs. Massachusetts
| Factor | Billings, MT | Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 184,167 | 7,001,399 |
| Political lean | Republican (61–37) | Democratic (61.5–36.3) |
| Summer high | 88°F | 82°F |
| Winter low | 16°F | 16°F |
| Annual rain | 14" | 49" |
| Annual snow | 46" | 47" |
| Crime rate | 48.63 | 13.92 |
On weather: Summers in Massachusetts run about 6°F cooler — nice if you dislike heat. Winters are virtually identical. But here's the big one: Massachusetts gets 49 inches of rain annually versus Billings' 14 inches. That's 3.5 times more precipitation. Invest in good rain gear and adjust to frequent wet days.
On crime: Massachusetts has a significantly lower crime rate (13.92 vs. 48.63). You'll likely feel safer, though this varies by neighborhood — check specific areas before signing a lease.
On politics: Billings leans Republican; Massachusetts leans Democratic. If politics shape your community experience, be aware of this shift.
On size: You're going from a mid-sized city (184K) to a densely populated state (7M). Traffic, crowds, and noise will be more noticeable, especially around Boston.
Important Logistics Before You Move
Massachusetts Moving Regulations
- Company licensing: All moving companies operating in Massachusetts must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities — Transportation Oversight Division. Verify your mover's license before hiring.
- Insurance: Released Value Protection is free but covers only 60 cents per pound per item. For full coverage, ask your mover about alternative insurance or get a third-party policy.
- No moving permit required for most residential moves, but check with your specific building or neighborhood.
Preparation Steps
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address at least one week before moving. You can do it online at usps.com.
- Elevator reservation: If your building requires it, reserve the elevator for move-in day.
- Truck parking permits: Some Massachusetts cities require permits for large vehicles. Check your destination city's parking rules ahead of time.
- HOA rules: Review any community regulations for your new neighborhood so you know what's allowed on move-in day.
- Building rules: Confirm access times, elevator availability, and any building-specific moving policies with your new landlord or HOA.
Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven't missed anything.
Movers' Specialty Services in Billings
If you have unusual items, here's what local Billings movers can handle:
- Interstate moves: 4 out of 6 movers (66.7%)
- Piano moving: 3 out of 6 (50.0%)
- Small/mini moves: 3 out of 6 (50.0%)
- Antiques: 1 out of 6 (16.7%)
- Art or fragile-only crating: None listed
If you're moving a piano or antiques, confirm ahead of time that your chosen mover has done it before and carries proper insurance.
Things to Do in Massachusetts
You're moving to a state rich in history, education, and culture. Here's a sampling:
Museums:
- Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
- The House of the Seven Gables, Salem
- Plimoth Patuxet
- Whaling Museum
- John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
Parks & Outdoor:
- Stage Fort Park and Beach
- Salem Witch Trials Memorial
- Forest Park
- Veterans Memorial Park
Sports (if that matters to you):
- Boston Red Sox (MLB)
- Boston Bruins (NHL)
- Boston Celtics (NBA)
- New England Patriots (NFL)
- New England Revolution (MLS)
Universities:
- MIT
- Harvard University
- Boston University
- Tufts University
- University of Massachusetts Amherst
FAQ
How long does the move take?
Most moves from Billings to Massachusetts take 6–17 days, depending on the mover's schedule and route. Summer moves can face delays due to peak-season congestion. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before booking.
Can I ship my car from Billings to Massachusetts?
Yes. Use a company experienced in long-distance auto transport that prioritizes vehicle care and professionalism. Check out auto shipping options.
What's the best payment method?
Three Billings movers accept cash, but it's not standard in the industry. Most prefer traceable payments (check, credit card, bank transfer). Expect to pay a deposit to secure your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment terms with your chosen mover.
Why are people moving to Massachusetts?
Natural beauty, excellent education system, strong job market, and cultural institutions draw people to Massachusetts. The trade-off is higher cost of living and denser living conditions compared to Billings.
Ready to Get Quotes?
Compare moving quotes from long-distance movers serving the Billings to Massachusetts route. Get 2–3 estimates to compare price and service quality, then book with confidence.