Lawton Moving & Storage review 2026 (Warwick, RI)
In business since 1945 · Updated
Lawton Moving & Storage, a Warwick, RI moving company, ranks #6 of 27 movers in Rhode Island, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.28/5. It is one of the 10 top-ranked movers in Rhode Island.
74% of Lawton Moving & Storage's 106 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its affordable rates, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
In business since 1945, Lawton Moving & Storage holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #366666) and operates 3 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Lawton Moving & Storage measures up
Across 106 reviews, Lawton Moving & Storage in Warwick, RI is rated 4.4/5 on Google (64 reviews) and 3/5 on Yelp (42 reviews), and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Lawton Moving & Storage ranks #6 out of 27 movers in Rhode Island with a moveBuddha Score of 4.28 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.28.
- Industry experience
- 4.7
- Customer service
- 4.1
- Brand
- 4.0
- Website
- 4.0
- Review quality
- 3.8
Google rating
Based on 64 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 42 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Lawton Moving & Storage moveBuddha Certified?
Lawton Moving & Storage 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. Lawton Moving & Storage 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 Lawton Moving & Storage?
Out of 106 verified reviews, 74% of customers left a positive review about Lawton Moving & Storage in Warwick, RI. 25.5% of reviews are negative and 0.9% are neutral. Lawton Moving & Storage has a 10% lower positive review percentage than the average Rhode Island moving company (74% vs the Rhode Island state average of 84%).
- Positive73.6%(78)
- Neutral0.9%(1)
- Negative25.5%(27)
Based on 106 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Lawton Moving & Storage
Affordable rates
Many reviewers found Lawton Moving & Storage to be more budget-friendly than competitors without sacrificing quality.
Respectful of property
Customers appreciated how carefully Lawton Moving & Storage's team maneuvered furniture through tight spaces without damaging walls or floors.
Careful handling
Belongings are treated with caution, and many customers report zero damage thanks to Lawton Moving & Storage's attention to detail.
Friendly and approachable staff
Many customers felt at ease working with the courteous and personable team at Lawton Moving & Storage.
Quick response times
Customer support at Lawton Moving & Storage was often noted for responding to questions or concerns almost immediately
What positive reviewers say
“I called them on extremely short notice (3 days), and they accommodated me. The crew was helpful, professional, efficient, and made the move easy and affordable.”
Erin BarryVerified ReviewerGoogle“Both teams were quick, professional, and respectful. Pricing was more than fair.”
Rob TylerVerified ReviewerGoogle“Booking was easy and well organized. The crew was methodical and very protective of furniture and items.”
Michele TetreaultVerified ReviewerGoogle“I spoke with an office representative, received a price, and they stuck to it. I had four prices, and Lawton beat them all.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “They responded quickly, arrived on time, and were efficient, careful, fast, friendly, and positive. Pricing was very fair.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
What mixed reviewers say
“I moved within Providence, and Jeremy and Joe were courteous and professional. Everything was handled well, but the one-bedroom move took slightly over six hours and exceeded my expected budget.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about Lawton Moving & Storage
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.
Unexpected charges
Hidden fees or surprise costs caused dissatisfaction among some Lawton Moving & Storage clients.
What negative reviewers say
“Several antique pieces were broken. They offered us $100 initially and then $300 when we protested. I am also missing a pair of gold earrings.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The cost they gave my girlfriend was astronomical. They said it was an eight-hour minimum, which had not been disclosed, and the representative was extremely aggressive and rude.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “They canceled one hour before arrival, gave conflicting information, and spoke rudely. I heard them cursing about me while I was on hold.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The movers were late and moved slowly, taking smoke breaks every 20 minutes. A one-bedroom move ended around 5 p.m. and cost almost $800.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “We received damaged furniture and broken smaller items. Lawton rejected responsibility, and the manager was rude.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
Lawton Moving & Storage
4.28Warwick, RISince 1945
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Lawton Moving & Storage
4.28
Warwick, RI · Since 1945
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Lawton Moving & Storage, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Warwick.
Compare prices side by side
See where Lawton Moving & Storage 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 Lawton Moving & Storage offer?
Lawton Moving & Storage covers moving (local moves and long-distance moves), packing, and storage.
Services offered
Is Lawton Moving & Storage licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 366666 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Lawton Moving & Storage is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 366666, as WILLIAM LAWTON & SONS INC, and its operating status is currently active.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Lawton Moving & Storage holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- Registered legal name
- WILLIAM LAWTON & SONS INCThe 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
- 12,000Reported to the FMCSA for 2024
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- August 2026
How much does Lawton Moving & Storage cost?
Lawton Moving & Storage does not publish hourly rates or flat fees publicly. Based on moveBuddha's data on moving companies operating in Rhode Island, you can expect to pay approximately $150/hr. Total local-move costs from similar movers typically run $400–$750 for a studio or 1-bedroom, $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 Rhode Island moving companies similar to Lawton Moving & Storage typically bill the amounts below using a $150/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
Lawton Moving & Storage is licensed for interstate moves, which are typically priced by weight and distance. Ranges below reflect totals from similar full-service Rhode Island 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 Lawton Moving & Storage offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
- Discounts
- Military
Lawton Moving & Storage accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
Lawton Moving & Storage also offers a military discount. Ask what you qualify for and how much you could save before you book.
How Lawton Moving & Storage compares with other local movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.28 out of 5, Lawton Moving & Storage trails the five top-rated movers in the Warwick area, 0.14 points behind Scott Relocation Services, Inc.. At 106 reviews, Lawton Moving & Storage has fewer reviews than four of the five. Lawton Moving & Storage has the highest quote accuracy score in the group, but the lowest industry experience score.
The five highest-scoring nearby movers, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | All My Sons Moving & StorageProvidence | 4.56 | 2,656 | 4.6 | 1.9 | A+ |
| 2 | Gentle Giant Moving CompanyProvidence | 4.56 | 447 | 4.9 | 4.6 | A+ |
| 3 | Correira Brothers' Moving & StorageProvidence | 4.50 | 787 | 4.6 | 2.5 | A+ |
| 4 | Economy Movers & Storage IncCranston | 4.44 | 226 | 4.6 | 4.7 | A+ |
| 5 | Scott Relocation Services, Inc.Seekonk | 4.42 | 47 | 4.7 | 4.0 | A+ |
| 6 | Lawton Moving & StorageThis mover · ranks #6 | 4.28 | 106 | 4.4 | 3.0 | A+ |
How does Lawton Moving & Storage compare to other Rhode Island movers?
- moveBuddha score#6 of 27(better than average)
4.28vs 3.72 avg
Lawton Moving & Storage scores 4.28, above the Rhode Island average of 3.72, and ranks #6 of 27 Rhode Island movers.
- Positive reviews#20 of 27(worse than average)
74%vs 84% avg
Lawton Moving & Storage has 74% positive reviews, below the Rhode Island average of 84%, and ranks #20 of 27 Rhode Island movers.
- Negative reviews#20 of 27(worse than average)
26%vs 16% avg
Lawton Moving & Storage has 26% negative reviews, above the Rhode Island average of 16%, and ranks #20 of 27 Rhode Island movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#13 of 27(worse than average)
106vs 322 avg
Lawton Moving & Storage has 106 reviews analyzed, below the Rhode Island average of 322, and ranks #13 of 27 Rhode Island movers.
- Yelp rating#5 of 27(level with average)
3.0vs 3.0 avg
Lawton Moving & Storage has a Yelp rating of 3.0, in line with the Rhode Island average of 3.0, and ranks #5 of 27 Rhode Island movers.
- Years in business#2 of 27(better than average)
81 yearsvs 43 years avg
Lawton Moving & Storage has been in business for 81 years, above the Rhode Island average of 43 years, and ranks #2 of 27 Rhode Island movers.
| Metric | This moverLawton Moving & Storage | Rhode Island avg | Rhode Island rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#6 of 27 in Rhode Island | 4.28 | 3.72 | #6 of 27 | +0.56(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#20 of 27 in Rhode Island | 74% | 84% | #20 of 27 | −10 pts(worse than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#20 of 27 in Rhode Island | 26% | 16% | #20 of 27 | +10 pts(worse than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#13 of 27 in Rhode Island | 106 | 322 | #13 of 27 | −216(worse than average) |
| Yelp ratingBased on only 42 reviews#5 of 27 in Rhode Island | 3.0 | 3.0 | #5 of 27 | ±0.0 |
| Years in business#2 of 27 in Rhode Island | 81 years | 43 years | #2 of 27 | +38(better than average) |
Compared with 27 Rhode Island movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in Rhode Island.
Lawton Moving & Storage
4.28Warwick, RISince 1945
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 Lawton Moving & Storage, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Warwick.
Compare prices side by side
See where Lawton Moving & Storage 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.
Lawton Moving & Storage
4.28
Warwick, RI · Since 1945
Final verdict: Lawton Moving & Storage
Lawton Moving & Storage earns a 4.28/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #6 among Rhode Island movers, with 74% positive feedback across 106 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its affordable rates and respect for property. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, crew professionalism, and reliable service experience.
With 3 trucks and a track record dating to 1945, it has more history than the average Rhode Island 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.
Lawton Moving & Storage
4.28
Warwick, RI · Since 1945
Why moveBuddha?
- 30%+Average savings
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before booking.
Calculate your Rhode Island 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.
Contact Lawton Moving & Storage
- Phone
- (401) 324-0454
- Website
- lawtonmoving.com
Helpful Rhode Island moving resources
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.