Big Lake Movers review 2026 (Kalamazoo, MI)
In business since 2014 · Updated
Big Lake Movers, a Kalamazoo, MI moving company, ranks #63 of 172 movers in Michigan, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.16/5.
94% of Big Lake Movers' 242 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its affordable rates, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
In business since 2014, Big Lake Movers holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #2544291) and operates 3 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Big Lake Movers measures up
Across 242 reviews, Big Lake Movers in Kalamazoo, MI is rated 4.4/5 on Google (10 reviews).
Big Lake Movers ranks #63 out of 172 movers in Michigan with a moveBuddha Score of 4.16 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.16.
- Website
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Brand
- 4.5
- Customer service
- 4.4
- Review quality
- 3.8
Google rating
Based on 10 reviews
Better Business Bureau
No BBB profile found
Is Big Lake Movers moveBuddha Certified?
Big Lake Movers is not moveBuddha Certified. Certified movers are licensed carriers vetted by moveBuddha and spot-checked every quarter. They meet higher standards for insurance, pricing transparency, and customer care.
With a Certified mover, moveBuddha does the vetting for you and provides added protection. Big Lake Movers hasn't gone through that certification process, so it's important to check licensing, insurance, estimates, and claims policies yourself before booking.
What movebuddha certified movers offer
- Up to $1,000 in added move coverage*. Extra protection for eligible moves.
- Vetted for licensing and insurance**. We verify state-required insurance for local movers and liability and cargo coverage for interstate movers.
- Dedicated moveBuddha support. Help through the move process.
- Dispute mediation. moveBuddha steps in if issues arise.
Before you book, check:
- USDOT and MC numbers. Look up the license and complaint history on FMCSA's site.
- Insurance coverage. Ask for proof of liability and cargo insurance.
- A written estimate. Binding or not-to-exceed, with every fee listed.
- The claims process. Ask how damage claims are filed and how long they take.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind. About moveBuddha Certified
** Local movers must hold insurance that meets state requirements for local moves. Interstate movers must carry auto liability of at least $750,000, general liability of at least $1M, and motor truck cargo coverage at or above $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurrence.
What do customers say about Big Lake Movers?
Out of 242 verified reviews, 94% of customers left a positive review about Big Lake Movers in Kalamazoo, MI. 6.2% of reviews are negative. Big Lake Movers has a 3% higher positive review percentage than the average Michigan moving company (94% vs the Michigan state average of 91%).
- Positive93.8%(227)
- Negative6.2%(15)
Based on 242 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Big Lake Movers
Affordable rates
Many reviewers found Big Lake Movers to be more budget-friendly than competitors without sacrificing quality.
Flexibility
Clients liked that Big Lake Movers was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Quick response times
Customer support at Big Lake Movers was often noted for responding to questions or concerns almost immediately
Quick moving process
The team at Big Lake Movers often gets the job done faster than expected, saving clients time.
Efficient service
Many customers praise Big Lake Movers for completing moves smoothly and with minimal downtime.
What positive reviewers say
“They beat the big names in price, and did an excellent job. Their movers were friendly, professional, and got the job done quickly.”
Fred DamstraVerified ReviewerGoogle“They responded quickly to my inquiry, and pricing is straightforward and reasonable. Their team of movers was very nice and they worked efficiently.”
Steve StarnesVerified ReviewerGoogle“Our original planned movers didn’t show up and Big Lake Movers saved our butts. I know it probably wasn’t ideal but they were more than willing to come on such short notice.”
Mitch AckermanVerified ReviewerGoogle“Before our move, it was easy to communicate via email with Nate. On the day of our move, Imari and Jeremiah were punctual, professional, and careful with our items. Pricing was transparent.”
Ai YamasakiVerified ReviewerGoogle
Most common complaints about Big Lake Movers
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
Unprofessional behavior
Complaints included movers using foul language, showing up late, or acting inappropriately.
Lack of communication
Poor or inconsistent updates from Big Lake Movers left some customers feeling in the dark.
What negative reviewers say
“Not a single piece of our furniture escaped damage from this move. They broke glass on an expensive art piece and a granite dresser top, damaged heirloom furniture, and never responded to repair or insurance requests.”
Bonnie DeYoung-NeffVerified ReviewerGoogle“The guys were personable, but not very focused. It was evident they needed to be monitored. They didn't arrive on time because they didn't know where to go.”
lisa swopeVerified ReviewerGoogle“The movers were nice, efficient and flexible. Good pricing. However, I have 1 piece of furniture that was damaged and so far, 3 messages have received no response.”
Mary FriVerified ReviewerGoogle“I hadn't heard from them, so I called and they assured me a quote was being sent by email. By Thursday evening, I still had no quote.”
Catherine TubergenVerified ReviewerGoogle
Big Lake Movers
4.16Kalamazoo, MISince 2014
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Big Lake Movers
4.16
Kalamazoo, MI · Since 2014
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Big Lake Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Kalamazoo.
Compare prices side by side
See where Big Lake Movers lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
What services does Big Lake Movers offer?
Licensed under US DOT number 2544291, Big Lake Movers offers full-service moving, labor-only loading help, local moves, and long-distance moves.
Services offered
Is Big Lake Movers licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 2544291 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Big Lake Movers is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 2544291, as GRAND RAPIDS MOVING LABOR LLC, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a Michigan intrastate license, number 36142.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Big Lake Movers holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 36142Issued by Michigan. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- GRAND RAPIDS MOVING LABOR LLCThe entity behind the trading name, as filed with the FMCSA
- FMCSA safety rating
- Not ratedMost carriers are unrated. A rating is only assigned after a compliance review. It is not a failed one.
- Trucks registered
- 3Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Miles driven
- 60,000Reported to the FMCSA for 2021
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- July 2026
How much does Big Lake Movers cost?
Big Lake Movers lists an hourly rate of $162, above the Michigan average of $116/hr. At that rate, a studio or 1-bedroom move (3–5 hours with 2 movers) would come to about $500–$800. Larger homes need more movers and hours: totals from similar movers typically run $850–$1,750 for a 2-3 bedroom, and $1,700–$3,400 for a 4+ bedroom home. Long-distance (500-1,000 mi) 2-3 bedroom moves from similar movers typically run $4,500–$7,500.
What similar movers typically bill for a local move
Full-service Michigan moving companies similar to Big Lake Movers typically bill the amounts below using a $116/hr rate for a 2-person crew and scaling up for larger homes that need more movers and hours.
| Home size | Typical total | Time and crew |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $400–$750 | 3–5 hours, 2 movers |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $850–$1,750 | 5–8 hours, 2–3 movers |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,700–$3,400 | 8–12 hours, 3–4 movers |
What similar movers typically bill for a long-distance move
Big Lake Movers is licensed for interstate moves, which are typically priced by weight and distance. Ranges below reflect totals from similar full-service Michigan moving companies.
| Home size | Distance | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $4,500–$7,500 |
| 4+ bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $7,000–$11,500 |
What payment options and discounts does Big Lake Movers offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
Big Lake Movers accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
How Big Lake Movers compares with the top 5 Kalamazoo movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.16 out of 5, Big Lake Movers places fifth when ranked against the five highest-scoring Kalamazoo moving companies, 0.14 points behind Pro Low Moving and level on score with Greater Michigan Movers but with more reviews. Where Big Lake Movers falls behind is review quality, with a review quality score that trails four of the five.
The five highest-scoring local movers near Kalamazoo, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TWO MEN AND A TRUCKKalamazoo | 4.56 | 1,612 | 4.9 | 3.7 | A+ |
| 2 | College Hunks Hauling Junk & MovingKalamazoo | 4.48 | 4,531 | 5.0 | 3.8 | A+ |
| 3 | Mulder's Moving & Storage, Inc.Kalamazoo | 4.34 | 142 | 4.4 | 3.3 | A+ |
| 4 | Pro Low MovingZeeland | 4.30 | 1,321 | 5.0 | 5.0 | A+ |
| 5 | Big Lake MoversThis mover · ranks #5 | 4.16 | 242 | 4.4 | — | — |
| 6 | Greater Michigan MoversBattle Creek | 4.16 | 55 | 4.7 | 4.1 | A+ |
How does Big Lake Movers compare to other Michigan movers?
- moveBuddha score#63 of 172(better than average)
4.16vs 3.80 avg
Big Lake Movers scores 4.16, above the Michigan average of 3.80, and ranks #63 of 172 Michigan movers.
- Positive reviews#65 of 172(better than average)
94%vs 91% avg
Big Lake Movers has 94% positive reviews, above the Michigan average of 91%, and ranks #65 of 172 Michigan movers.
- Negative reviews#69 of 172(better than average)
6%vs 9% avg
Big Lake Movers has 6% negative reviews, below the Michigan average of 9%, and ranks #69 of 172 Michigan movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#52 of 172(worse than average)
242vs 328 avg
Big Lake Movers has 242 reviews analyzed, below the Michigan average of 328, and ranks #52 of 172 Michigan movers.
- Years in business#50 of 172(worse than average)
12 yearsvs 27 years avg
Big Lake Movers has been in business for 12 years, below the Michigan average of 27 years, and ranks #50 of 172 Michigan movers.
| Metric | This moverBig Lake Movers | Michigan avg | Michigan rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#63 of 172 in Michigan | 4.16 | 3.80 | #63 of 172 | +0.36(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#65 of 172 in Michigan | 94% | 91% | #65 of 172 | +3 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#69 of 172 in Michigan | 6% | 9% | #69 of 172 | −3 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#52 of 172 in Michigan | 242 | 328 | #52 of 172 | −86(worse than average) |
| Years in business#50 of 172 in Michigan | 12 years | 27 years | #50 of 172 | −15(worse than average) |
Compared with 172 Michigan movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in Michigan.
Big Lake Movers
4.16Kalamazoo, MISince 2014
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Big Lake Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Kalamazoo.
Compare prices side by side
See where Big Lake Movers lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
Big Lake Movers
4.16
Kalamazoo, MI · Since 2014
Final verdict: Big Lake Movers
Big Lake Movers earns a 4.16/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #5 among Kalamazoo movers, with 94% positive feedback across 242 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its affordable rates and flexibility. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, helpful crews, and reliable service experience.
With 3 trucks and a track record dating to 2014, it has less history than the average Michigan mover, and the most common complaint is damage to items.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
Big Lake Movers
4.16
Kalamazoo, MI · Since 2014
Why moveBuddha?
- 30%+Average savings
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before booking.
Calculate your Michigan moving cost - $1,000Added move coverage*
When you choose a moveBuddha Certified mover, you get $1,000 in added move coverage*, plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- 1-on-1Dispute mediation
If something goes wrong, moveBuddha provides dispute mediation with Certified movers to help resolve the issue and protect your move.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind.
How we score moving companies
Every mover on moveBuddha is scored on the same six factors, weighted by how much each one changes a move.
- Quotes & payment optionsWeighs most
The heaviest factor, because price certainty is where moves go wrong. We reward estimates you can hold a mover to, and terms disclosed before you pay.
- Online reputationMajor factor
An objective read from third parties rather than from the mover. The Google rating for the company's headquarters sets the band; Trustpilot, BBB, and independent review sites are read alongside it.
- ServicesMajor factor
The range a mover can actually cover, scored across seven categories, with extra credit for the uncommon ones most companies hand off to a subcontractor.
- Customer supportSupporting factor
How easily you can reach a human, and how clearly the mover sets expectations before, during, and after the move. Verified against company documentation and direct outreach.
- Review feedbackSupporting factor
A company's share of positive customer feedback, converted straight to points, with no curve and no editorial adjustment.
- State availabilityMinor factor
The lightest factor, and deliberately so: wide coverage helps more readers reach a mover, but it says nothing about how good the move will be.
What the scores are built on
- 4,500+Moving companies analyzed
- 1M+Authenticated reviews
- 25+Independent data sources
- 1,000+Live price points a month
- $0Paid for a ranking
- MonthlyRefreshed and re-verified
Written by
Ryan CarriganCo-founder, moveBuddha
Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.