If you're moving from Missoula to Colorado, you're looking at roughly 958 miles — a solid two-to-seven-day haul depending on the mover and season. The cost swings wildly based on how much you're moving, but I'll walk you through what's realistic and which local operators actually deliver.
Top Missoula movers for moves to Colorado
I've narrowed this down to three companies that handle interstate moves and have actual track records moving people out of Missoula. Here's the breakdown:
- Two Men and a Truck — 4.38 / 5
- Montana Transfer — 4.34 / 5
- All Lanes Moving & Storage — 4.22 / 5
Two Men and a Truck
Rating: 4.38 / 5 | 1620 Rodgers Street, Missoula, MT 59802 | (607) 644-7509
Yelp | Google | BBB Profile
What stands out: 77% positive reviews across 132 customer reports. Customers consistently praise professionalism, speed, careful handling, and strong communication. Most moves go smoothly and on time, with courteous staff that actually seem to care.
The catch: A chunk of complaints center on surprise costs — customers cite unexpected charges or opaque pricing structures. A few mention damaged items or unclear policies. Before you book, pin down every fee in writing and confirm what's (and isn't) covered.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes, credit card payment.
Years in business: 7 | DOT #: 2527384
Montana Transfer
Rating: 4.34 / 5 | 209 Commerce, Missoula, MT 59808 | (406) 728-8080
Yelp | Google | BBB Profile
What stands out: 61 years in business. They have the credentials — international moves, DOD certification, shipment tracking, and depth of service offerings.
The catch: Only 27% positive reviews. Nearly 70% of feedback is negative, with frequent reports of significant damage, late arrivals, missed delivery windows, and poor communication. Billing discrepancies and missed promises come up repeatedly. The low review rate is a red flag, even with the long history.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, crating, shipment tracking, storage, fragile-only packing, credit card payment, DOD certified.
Years in business: 61 | DOT #: 514197
All Lanes Moving & Storage
Rating: 4.22 / 5 | 9562 Futurity Dr Suite B, Missoula, MT 59808 | (406) 400-9616
Yelp | Google | BBB Profile
What stands out: 92% positive reviews across 25 reports. Customers rave about reliability, professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, and reasonable pricing — this company consistently outperforms typical movers. They also offer full-valuation coverage and have been in business 25 years.
The catch: Two customers reported lost items, damaged goods, and disappointing packing. Not a huge sample size of complaints, but worth asking specifically about their damage protocols before booking.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, safes, credit card payment.
State license #: 917105 | Years in business: 25 | DOT #: 917105
Cost to move from Missoula to Colorado
Here's what you're actually looking at, broken down by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,316 – $5,397 | $757 – $1,936 | $577 – $1,104 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,773 – $6,833 | $1,357 – $2,667 | $649 – $1,421 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,541 – $8,976 | $1,923 – $3,795 | $847 – $1,645 |
*Note: These are approximate estimates for a 958-mile move from Missoula, MT to Colorado, based on pricing data as of January 2026. Your actual cost depends on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and when you move. Always get quotes from multiple movers — comparison shopping will save you real money.
Hiring professional movers from Missoula to Colorado
A professional full-service move is the most expensive option, but you don't lift a finger. For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $1,316–$5,397. Two- to three-bedroom homes run $2,773–$6,833. If you're moving four or more bedrooms, budget $4,541–$8,976.
The wide range depends on how flexible you are with dates (summer costs more), whether the company needs to handle specialty items (pianos, art), and if you're paying for packing services.
Moving containers from Missoula to Colorado
If you're only moving a few key items or want to move at your own pace, a moving container might be a fit. Expect $757–$1,936 for a studio or one-bedroom. Two- to three-bedroom moves run $1,357–$2,667. A four-plus-bedroom move costs $1,923–$3,795.
Containers give you flexibility—you pack when you're ready, they store it, and you unpack on your timeline. But you're still doing the heavy lifting yourself.
Rental trucks from Missoula to Colorado
DIY truck rental is the cheapest option at $577–$1,104 for a studio/one-bedroom (fuel included). Two- to three-bedroom moves run $649–$1,421. Four-plus-bedroom moves cost $847–$1,645.
The trade-off: you drive the truck, you load it, you unload it. It's labor-intensive, but if you've got time and friends willing to help, the savings add up.
Use our moving cost calculator to estimate your specific move and compare all three options side by side.
What drives the cost up or down
Several factors shift moving prices noticeably:
- Move size: A studio is far cheaper than a five-bedroom house. More stuff = higher labor and truck capacity costs.
- Time of year: Summer demand spikes rates. If you can move in off-season (fall/winter), you'll save.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks are cheapest but labor-intensive. Full-service movers cost more but handle the logistics.
- Add-on services: Packing, unpacking, specialty item handling (pianos, art, antiques), and storage all add to the bill.
- Route timing: Expedited delivery costs more than standard.
Missoula vs. Colorado: cost of living and lifestyle
Before you pack, understand how the two places compare. Colorado might offer better job prospects and lower taxes, but rent can be higher. Here's the numbers:
| Factor | Missoula, MT | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,322 | $1,594 |
| Average home cost | $544,475 | $541,072 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,180 | $87,598 |
| Cost of living index | 113 | 91 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.4% | 4.1% |
| State income tax | 6.75% | 5.49% |
Key takeaways:
- Rent is ~21% higher in Colorado. Budget for that when planning your move.
- Home values are nearly identical — your monthly mortgage should feel familiar.
- Colorado salaries are ~48% higher. If you land a job there, you'll have more to spend.
- Overall cost of living is ~19% cheaper in Colorado. That extra cushion adds up over time.
- Lower unemployment in Colorado (7% lower). More job options if you're looking.
- Colorado has 19% lower income taxes. More money stays in your pocket.
Weather, population, and culture
Moving isn't just about money—it's about how you'll actually live day-to-day.
| Factor | Missoula, MT | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 77,757 | 5,877,610 |
| Political lean | Democratic 58.4-38.5 | Democrat 54-46 |
| Summer high | 85°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 16°F | 13°F |
| Annual rain | 15" | 16" |
| Annual snow | 40" | 63" |
| Crime index | 33.27 | 36.4 |
What this means:
- Summer temps are nearly identical. You won't notice a huge climate shift in warm months.
- Winters are slightly colder in Colorado (13°F vs. 16°F), but comparable enough that your daily routines won't change drastically.
- Rain is almost the same (16" vs. 15"), so expect similar wet seasons.
- Colorado gets significantly more snow (63" vs. 40"). Beautiful for skiing and outdoor winter sports, but you'll need proper gear and more snow removal prep.
- Colorado is slightly less safe (crime index 36.4 vs. 33.27). Not a drastic difference, but worth noting. Stay alert and check neighborhood crime data before signing a lease.
- You're moving to a much larger state. Colorado has 76 times more people than Missoula. If you prefer quiet, that's a shock. If you want more nightlife and amenities, Colorado delivers.
- Both lean Democratic, so political culture is broadly similar.
Before you move: logistics and regulations
The details matter. Here's what you need to handle before moving day:
State regulations & permits:
Colorado regulates intrastate and local movers through the Public Utilities Commission (COPUC). Make sure any company you hire is licensed—you can verify their status on the official state regulator's website.
Parking and move logistics:
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific move-in day restrictions. Confirm with your HOA ahead of time.
- Elevator reservations: Many buildings require advance booking. Check with your landlord or property manager.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require permits for large vehicles. Call ahead to avoid surprises.
- No moving permit required in Colorado, but local parking rules vary by city, so check with your destination neighborhood.
Moving insurance:
Rules differ by state. Ask your mover about Released Value Protection (free, but limited to 60 cents per pound per item) versus full-value protection. If you have high-value items, get a quote for third-party moving insurance to cover the gap.
Change of address:
File your USPS change of address at least one week before moving. You can set your official move date so mail forwards smoothly. Do it here.
Moving checklist:
Use our moving checklist to track everything—utilities, insurance, address changes, mail forwarding, and vendor notifications.
Things to do in Colorado
Once you're settled, you'll find plenty to do:
Museums & gardens:
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science
- Rosemount Museum
- Argo Mill and Tunnel
- Benson Park Sculpture Garden
Parks & outdoor space:
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Sports teams:
- Denver Broncos (NFL)
- Denver Nuggets (NBA)
- Colorado Rockies (MLB)
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
- Denver Barbarians (RSL)
Universities:
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Colorado State University
- University of Denver
- United States Air Force Academy
- University of Colorado Denver
Frequently asked questions
How long does a move from Missoula to Colorado take?
Two to seven days, depending on the service. Summer moves may take longer due to higher demand. Always confirm the delivery window with your mover before booking.
Do Missoula movers offer custom crating?
Yes. Two movers in Missoula provide custom crating for artwork, antiques, and fragile pieces. When you request a quote, specifically ask about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
How do I ship a car from Missoula to Colorado?
Auto transport professionals handle the details and protect your vehicle. Compare carriers through our car shipping guide to find the best fit for your timeline and budget.
Why are people moving from Missoula to Colorado?
Better job market, higher salaries, lower taxes, and proximity to world-class outdoor recreation (skiing, hiking, climbing). Colorado's stronger economy is a big draw for people leaving smaller towns.
Can I pay with cash?
No moving companies in Missoula currently accept cash. The industry prefers traceable payment methods (card, ACH, cashier's check) and digital receipts for liability reasons. Most require a deposit to secure your date, then the balance due at pickup or after delivery. Ask your mover about their specific payment schedule upfront.
Key takeaways
- Two Men and a Truck has the strongest reviews (4.38 / 5) and consistent delivery. Pin down pricing details before booking.
- All Lanes Moving & Storage offers excellent value with 92% positive feedback and reasonable rates—a solid mid-market choice.
- Montana Transfer has deep experience but recent reviews are poor; skip unless you find specific endorsements.
- Costs range from $1,316–$8,976 depending on home size and service type; rental trucks are cheapest but require your labor.
- Colorado offers higher salaries, lower taxes, and more job opportunities—but rent is 21% higher and you get 23" more snow annually.
- Get multiple quotes and compare all three service types before deciding.
Ready to move? Compare quotes from local movers and lock in a date that works for your timeline.