Photo by Artem Podrez: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-carrying-boxes-beside-a-van-5025669/

When you think of fast-growing industries, logistics and moving services might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But here’s the truth: the U.S. moving industry generates over $18 billion annually—and that figure keeps climbing. Behind every residential move, corporate relocation, or cross-country haul is a complex network of planning, technology, and operations. In short, it’s big business.

And for students—especially at a university like WSU, located in a logistics-heavy region of the Pacific Northwest—this industry offers real career potential. Whether you’re looking to take over a family moving company, work in transportation logistics, or eventually launch your own business, the path starts here.

What the Moving Industry Actually Involves

At first glance, moving might seem like a hands-on, blue-collar job. And yes, there’s certainly a physical side to it. But dig deeper, and you’ll find a multi-layered industry powered by logistics coordination, customer service, business strategy, marketing, and technology.

There are two primary segments:

• Residential Moving: Helping families and individuals relocate—locally, cross-state, or cross-country.

• Commercial Moving: Coordinating office moves, equipment transfers, or large-scale relocations for businesses, schools, and government agencies.

Some local movers in DC even specialize in climate-controlled storage, small moves for students, last-minute moves, international relocations, or corporate contracts—each requiring a unique skill set and business model.

Why Students Should Pay Attention

The moving and storage industry isn’t just about trucks and boxes—it’s about project management, leadership, logistics optimization, and entrepreneurship.

Here’s why it’s a smart career move:

• Consistent demand – No matter the economy, people and businesses still need to move.

• Entrepreneurial opportunities – Many companies are family-run or started by first-generation business owners.

• Room for innovation – From digital inventory apps to carbon-neutral fleets, younger professionals can modernize a traditional field.

• Versatile career paths – You could work in operations, marketing, fleet logistics, customer service, or even tech development for the industry.

What Should You Study?

If you’re serious about a career in this space, your academic path can give you a major advantage. The most relevant degrees include:

• Logistics & Transportation
  Teaches you the science behind route planning, warehousing, freight systems, and distribution networks.

• Business Administration or Management
  Prepares you for leadership, budgeting, marketing, and overall strategy—ideal for running or scaling a moving company.

• Operations Management
  Focuses on improving efficiency, managing people and processes, and maximizing profits.

• Industrial Engineering or Supply Chain Management
  Great if you’re interested in systems thinking, data analytics, or tech-driven logistics.

If your major isn’t a perfect match, you can still build a foundation by taking electives in project management, entrepreneurship, or communications, and gaining real-world experience on the side.

Hands-On Experience: Your Secret Weapon

Want to stand out after graduation? Start getting experience now.

• Intern locally: In Washington state, you’ll find companies like Piece of Cake (DC), Hansen Bros. (Seattle), Chipman Relocation & Logistics (Tacoma), or Bekins Northwest (multiple locations). These firms often hire students for summer help, warehouse support, or entry-level logistics roles.

• Join student organizations: Groups like Cougar Entrepreneurs, SCM Club (Supply Chain Management), or the Carson College of Business host events and networking opportunities with local businesses.

• Work part-time in the industry: Hands-on work builds both your resume and your confidence, whether it’s on campus during dorm move-outs or helping with event logistics.

• Ask about co-ops or internships through WSU’s Handshake platform – set alerts for jobs tagged under “logistics,” “operations,” or “moving services.”

Thinking Long-Term: Want to Run the Business One Day?

Many students enter the industry because their families already own moving companies. If that’s your situation, studying logistics and business is a smart way to future-proof your leadership role.

You’ll bring new energy, digital thinking, and efficiency strategies to a traditional business—whether it’s:

• Launching an online booking system

• Adding GPS fleet tracking

• Streamlining operations with new software

• Expanding into B2B or climate-controlled storage

Even if you’re not stepping into a family business, the potential for starting your own company is real—and there are thousands of underserved local markets where new movers with fresh ideas can thrive.

Pro Tips for Students Who Want to Break In

1. Learn moving and logistics software (MoveitPro, SmartMoving, or Oncue)

2. Get certified – Project Management (PMP) or Supply Chain certifications look great on a resume.

3. Hone your soft skills – Clear communication, leadership, and time management are essential in this fast-paced industry.

4. Stay curious – Follow industry news, read small business blogs, or even shadow a local mover for a day.

Final Thoughts: Big Industry, Big Opportunity

Logistics and moving may not be the flashiest career path, but they’re undeniably essential—and surprisingly lucrative. This industry is wide open to students who want a hands-on, high-impact career where they can lead, innovate, and grow.

So don’t overlook it. Whether you’re aiming to climb the ranks or build something of your own, now’s the perfect time to get moving—literally.