What last-minute & same-day movers do
Sometimes a lease falls through, a closing date moves or a job starts sooner than expected. Many local movers can take short-notice jobs, especially mid-week and outside the summer peak. Long-distance moves at short notice are harder but possible. Same-day help is mostly available for small local jobs, such as a studio or a few large items, depending on how busy crews are that day. Even in a hurry, check the company before it loads your belongings.
What's usually included
- Fast scheduling, often within a few days
- Packing help if you haven't started
- Short-term storage if needed
Who it's for
Anyone who needs to move within the next week or two.
What affects the cost
- How busy movers are that week
- Weekend or end-of-month dates
- Whether you need packing help
Rough planning ranges by home size and distance: how much movers cost.
Find last-minute & same-day movers by city
Our city directories list every mover registered with FMCSA in each area, with registration age, fleet size and authority status.
| City | Registered movers | Interstate authority | In-state only |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | 178 | 127 | 46 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 243 | 96 | 137 |
| Chicago, IL | 136 | 102 | 28 |
| Houston, TX | 230 | 81 | 142 |
| Phoenix, AZ | 134 | 68 | 60 |
| Dallas, TX | 307 | 118 | 178 |
| Austin, TX | 139 | 46 | 90 |
| San Diego, CA | 111 | 32 | 77 |
| Miami, FL | 274 | 148 | 118 |
| Tampa, FL | 105 | 40 | 61 |
Source: FMCSA Company Census File, data as of 2026-11-15.
How to compare companies
- Get at least three written estimates, ideally after a video or in-home survey.
- Compare the same things: services included, valuation coverage, dates and the type of estimate.
- Check licensing: the USDOT number for interstate moves, and any state license for in-state moves. See how to check a moving company.
- Be wary of quotes far below the rest. Moving scam red flags.
Questions to ask before hiring
- When is your earliest availability?
- Is there a rush fee?
- Can you pack as well?