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Last Updated: 7/22/2024
The wild beauty of the state of Alaska, its wide swaths of wilderness, and its relatively few highways attract many people to Anchorage. However, these factors can also make Alaska a challenging place to move.
If you decide to relocate to Anchorage, it pays to have someone on your side who understands the state and its logistical challenges. You don’t want to pick just anybody for your Anchorage move.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of Anchorage’s top moving companies. Use this run-down to kickstart your research and narrow the field to your top contenders. As we tell everyone, it’s smart to get three independent quotes for your move so you have a true sense of what yours should cost.
To help you create the right Anchorage moving plan, we’ve also included info on:
Royal Alaskan Movers
Royal Alaskan Movers is part of The DeWitt Companies, a fourth-generation family-owned group of five sister companies that got its start in 1927. After 10 years of serving the residents of Alaska, they’ve handled relocations in more than 162 villages and cities and packed more than 535,000 boxes.
- Location: Anchorage, AK
- Years in Business: Established in 2010, although the team has a combined 117 years of moving experience.
- Services Provided: Local moves, long-distance moves, corporate relocations, international moves, and military moves.
- Additional Services Available: Packing and unpacking, storage, assembly/disassembly, and vehicles.
- U.S. DOT Number: 2077580
- Number of Trucks: 7
- Number of Tractors: 4
- Number of Trailers: 6
- Affiliations: The Alaska Trucking Association (ATA), the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA), and the International Association of Movers (IAM).
- Free In-Home Estimate: Yes; virtual consultations also available
AAA Moving & Storage/Allied Alaska Moving & Storage
As an agent for Allied Van Lines—a cooperative non-profit organization owned by its member agents—AAA Moving & Storage can handle local moves and long-distance moves, as well as international moves. Additionally, they’re one of the largest full-service moving and storage companies in the state.
- Location: Anchorage, AK
- Years in Busines: 38
- U.S. DOT Number(s): 2971759 (broker) / 466500 (carrier)
- Number of Trucks: 37
- Number of Tractors: 14
- Number of Trailers: 22
- Services Provided: Local moves, long-distance moves, corporate relocations, international moves, and military moves.
- Additional Services Available: Packing and unpacking, storage, assembly/disassembly, cars, and pianos.
- Affiliations: The American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) and the International Association of Movers (IAM).
- Free In-Home Estimate: Yes; virtual consultations also available
Alaska Terminals, Inc.
An Alaskan-owned and operated business, Alaska Terminals is an agent for Atlas Van Lines, one of the largest household goods movers in the U.S. In addition to residential moves, they also offer corporate relocation services, as well as interstate and international moves.
- Location: Anchorage, AK
- Years in Business: 40
- Services Provided: Local moves, interstate moves, corporate relocations, and specialty moves.
- Additional Services Available: Packing and unpacking, as well as storage.
- U.S. DOT Number: 12105
- Number of Trucks: 14
- Number of Tractors: 5
- Number of Trailers: 48
- Affiliations: The American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA)
- Free In-Home Estimate: Yes
Alison’s Relocations
Alison’s Relocations, founded by current president Alison McDaniel, is one of the largest independent moving companies in the U.S. today, serving more than 1,400 households a year. Although they’re headquartered in in Anchorage, they handle relocations all over the country, as well as internationally.
- Location: Anchorage, AK
- Years in Business: 23
- Services Provided: Local moves, long-distance moves, corporate relocations, international moves, and military moves.
- Additional Services Available: Full packing and partial packing, storage, and specialty moves.
- U.S. DOT Number: 729038
- Number of Trucks: 5
- Number of Tractors: 4
- Number of Trailers: 6
- Affiliations: The Alaska Movers Association (AMA), the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA), the International Association of Movers (IAM), and the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM).
- Free In-Home Estimate: Yes; virtual consultations also available
Golden North Van Lines
Purchased in 1981 by its current owner, Golden North Van Lines is an agent for two national moving companies: Mayflower and United. In addition to offering local moves, they also offer international moving services to more than 200 countries worldwide.
- Location: Anchorage and Fairbanks, AK
- Years in Business: 45
- Services Provided: Residential moves, corporate relocations, international moves, interstate moves, and military moves.
- Additional Services Available: Packing and unpacking, as well as storage.
- U.S. DOT Number: 163057
- Number of Trucks : 25
- Number of Tractors: 8
- Number of Trailers: 28
- Affiliations: The American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA)
- Free In-Home Estimate: Yes
The Moving Man
A family-owned and operated moving company, the Moving Man is a full-service moving company offering both local and out-of-state moves. Founded by current owner Martin Kukowski, the company started as a private moving contractor and expanded to offer the full range of services it delivers today.
- Location: Anchorage, AK
- Years in Business: 29
- U.S. DOT Number: 807379
- Number of Trucks: 3
- Number of Tractors: 2
- Number of Trailers: 8
- Services Provided: Local moves, out-of-state moves, and corporate relocations.
- Additional Services Available: Loading and packing (including partial packing) and vehicles.
- Free In-Home Estimate: Yes
World-Wide Movers
World Wide movers is a locally owned and veteran-operated business. They act as a moving agent for two national moving companies: Mayflower and United Van Lines. As a result, they have the authority to operate in all 50 states, as well as Canada.
- Location: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kodiak, and Juneau, AK
- Years in Business: 59
- Services Provided: Long-distance moves, residential moves, corporate relocations, international relocation, and military moves.
- Additional Services Available: Packing and unpacking services, assembly/disassembly, vehicles, and secured temperature-controlled storage.
- U.S. DOT Number: 248628
- Number of Trucks: 32
- Number of Tractors: 20
- Number of Trailers: 102
- Affiliations: The Alaska Trucking Association (ATA) and the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA).
- Free In-Home Estimate: Yes
- Website: https://world-widemovers.com/
How to Choose the Right Anchorage Moving Company
Now that you’ve got a list of potential Anchorage movers to assist you, let’s talk about what to look for as you vet these companies.
Get Three, Independent Quotes
As we mentioned earlier, we always recommend getting three, independent quotes for your move. This will give you a good lay of the land for how much your Anchorage move will cost.
Make Sure You’re Comparing Apples to Apples
If one company’s quote is significantly less expensive than the others, approach it with a critical eye.
Some moving companies will offer you an all-in-one quote that includes all of the potential fees. (Including things like port charges if your shipment travels by boat to Anchorage.) Other companies may not include these items in their initial quote, which can initially make them seem less expensive.
Before you make your final decision, ask about any potential additional charges so you can plan your budget accordingly—and avoid any unwanted surprises on Moving Day.
Look for a Company with On-the-Ground Alaska Knowledge
Alaska is a unique place with its own ways of operating—and its own challenges for residential moves. A limited highway system, varying road quality, extreme weather, and seasonal shifts like the spring breakup can all impact your move. Choose a company with its own dedicated crews, trucks, and warehouse in Alaska—and plenty of experience with residential moves in the state.
By the way, if your origin or destination is somewhere outside Anchorage, make sure to ask whether your mover has worked in that specific area. Some movers may have little experience outside of Alaska’s main population centers. It’s better to choose a company that’s been there and done that—rather than someone who would be winging it for the first time.
Inquire About Their Potential Partners
Depending on how far you’re moving, the crew who moves you out may not be the same crew that moves you in. Ask about the partners that your mover may engage when completing your Anchorage move. You’ll want to know that you’re in trusted, experienced hands throughout.
We also suggest inquiring whether you’ll have a dedicated point of contact throughout your move or whether your move will be passed over to their partner operation for servicing. It’s important that you know exactly who to call if you have a question or encounter a challenge during your relocation.
Find Out What Services They Deliver
Some moving companies offer additional moving services, such as packing and unpacking, furniture assembly/disassembly, and storage.
Even if you’re not sure you need these services, it’s good to know what’s available. If your moving timeline changes suddenly and you need to move ASAP—or you’re not able to get into your new house when you thought you would—these extra services can come in handy.
Make Sure They’re Reputable, Experienced, and Insured
Along with the companies listed above, you may see a number of ads or listings on forums like Craigslist that offer help with moving and packing your items. While we applaud the “can-do” attitude, make sure to confirm your mover is:
- Registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
- Assigned a S. DOT number
- Insured
Here’s why this is important: As a consumer, you have rights, including the right to a written estimate.
You can review your rights and responsibilities as a consumer on the FMCSA website. By choosing a legitimate moving company that’s registered with the FMCSA and carries insurance, you can be sure that your rights will be respected. Additionally, you’ll have recourse if something goes wrong with your move, depending on the type of coverage you agree to with your mover.
However, if you decide to work with an unregistered mover and your move doesn’t go as planned, there might not be much you can do about it. Consider your options carefully. Our team is happy to answer any questions you might have as you search for the right mover for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Anchorage, Alaska
Is Anchorage Worth Moving To?
Our Anchorage-based team would certainly say so! As Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage offers a unique blend of urban amenities, alongside easy access to Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, skiing, and wildlife viewing just a short drive away.
Additionally, although Alaska is known for its harsh winters, the colder months in Anchorage can be milder than in other parts of the state.
Overall, Anchorage has a little bit of something for everyone, making it a great destination for those moving to Alaska for the first time.
Can I Move to Alaska Without a Job?
Yes, a number of people move to Alaska without a job. To ease your transition, there are a couple of things you can do. We suggest saving up a few months’ expenses, getting to know the job landscape before you arrive, and considering a trial period to make sure Alaska is right for you.
We’ll walk you through all this (and more!) in our article on moving to Alaska without a job.
Do You Get $1,000 When You Move to Alaska?
While you won’t get handed a $1,000 check just for moving to Alaska, those who become Alaska residents can become eligible for the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend.
Before you receive your first PFD, there are a couple of requirements to meet, including being an Alaska resident for an entire calendar year.
PFD payouts in the last 10 years have ranged from $900 to $3,284, giving Alaska residents a welcome helping hand with the higher cost of living in the state.
How Much Is a Gallon of Milk in Alaska?
As of the writing of this article, a gallon of Great Value whole milk was $4.28 at both Walmart Anchorage Supercenters. (Remember what we said about urban amenities above?
If you’re concerned about your Alaska budget, take a look at our list of the cheapest and most affordable places to live in Alaska. In the article, we’ll also share some additional cost-of-living numbers so you can put together a financial plan for your life in Alaska.
How Much Money Do I Need to Move to Anchorage, Alaska?
We suggest moving to Alaska with three to six months of living expenses. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult without children needs to make $4,031/month to support themselves in Alaska.
In other words, having $12,000-$24,000 as a cushion would offer significant peace of mind while you get established in Alaska. (If you’re moving to Alaska with a job offer, you can probably get by with less!)
Keep in mind that the above “living wage” only covers your most basic needs, including food, healthcare, housing, transportation, civic engagement, broadband, and other necessities. Things like eating out, savings, leisure time, and retirement would be extra
If you want to envision a more comfortable life in Alaska, you might find GOBankingRates’ estimate helpful. Their study suggests you might need as much as $121,485 to be “happy” in Alaska or $75,480 to achieve “emotional well-being.”
Do I Need a Car to Live in Alaska?
If you’re planning to stay in Alaska for the long term, the answer is probably yes. A car offers you the freedom to truly explore the state and all it has to offer. (And isn’t that why you moved to Alaska in the first place?)
Alaska’s cities—Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau—do have public transportation options. Additionally, some people use their bikes to get around in certain areas. However, during the cold and icy winter months, you will probably prefer the warmth and flexibility of your own car.
Read more about shipping your car to Alaska.
Is Alaska Expensive to Live In?
Living in Alaska is more expensive than many other states. The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) ranks Alaska as the fifth most expensive state in the U.S.
However, the cost can vary, depending on where you decide to live and the lifestyle you embrace. A few key factors to consider include:
- Housing Costs: Housing in Alaska can be pricey, with rents in Anchorage ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. If you’re looking to buy, the average home price in Anchorage is currently around $375,000, according to Zillow.
- Utilities: Alaska’s intense winters can mean high heating bills. On average, you might spend an average of between $150 and $300 per month on utilities, including electricity, heating, and water.
- Groceries and Food: Like housing prices, grocery prices can vary considerably, depending on where you live. Expect to spend more on essentials in Alaska.
- Transportation: Public transportation is available in cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. However, a car will give you much greater flexibility. Gas prices and vehicle maintenance may be more expensive than what you’re used to.
Want some more information for building your Alaska budget? Take a deeper dive into the cost of Alaska living in our article, “What’s the Real Cost of Living in Alaska?”
What Do People Wish They Knew Before Moving to Alaska?
Alaska is a pretty unique place to live, so there are a few things people wish they knew before making the move, including:
- Even in Anchorage, the Alaska winters can be harsh, so it’s important to get the gear you need to be comfortable outdoors in the winter.
- It’s hard to describe Alaska’s natural beauty. There’s simply nowhere else like it!
- You’ll need to get a little creative with how you do your online shopping, since many companies don’t ship to Alaska—or charge a premium. (You’ll quickly learn how to become a savvy local shopper!)
Discover more things must-knows before moving to Alaska in our article, “9 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Anchorage.”
Alaska Moves Done Right
Moving to Alaska isn’t for everybody, and its logistics aren’t for the faint of heart. That’s why it’s important to be especially choosy when it comes to the company who’s going to move you to, in, and around Alaska. With this list in hand, you’ll have a good start toward finding the company that will safely and easily get you and all your possessions to your new home in the Land of the Midnight Sun.
