There’s no single best option for every physician, but you can identify top nationwide relocation services by checking for medical-specific experience, broad geographic coverage, and clear support for licensing and credentialing. You should expect a provider to coordinate state-by-state requirements, arrange temporary housing, and help manage the moving logistics so you can focus on patient care and contract details.
You will find three main categories of providers: national moving companies with healthcare divisions, physician placement and recruitment firms, and specialized physician relocation companies. National movers such as United Van Lines or Allied Van Lines provide consistent coast-to-coast household moves and storage. Recruitment firms like Merritt Hawkins or AMN Healthcare offer placement plus relocation stipends and transition assistance tied to hiring packages. Physician relocation specialists and some locum tenens agencies add credentialing, licensure transfer, and onboarding help specific to medical practice.
You should prioritize services that include licensing and credentialing assistance, malpractice and contract coordination, and support for transporting medical equipment or office furnishings. You will want help with temporary housing, school and neighborhood research for your family, and spousal employment resources if offered. You should confirm HIPAA-compliant procedures for any patient records transfer and ask whether the provider handles interstate medical records logistics or refers you to trusted partners.
You will also want transparent pricing and clear timelines. Ask for a written scope that covers pick-up and delivery windows, insurance coverage for household goods and specialty items, and fees for storage or long-distance transport. Request client references, sample checklists, and case studies of physician moves similar to your situation. You should check online reviews and professional forums where other physicians discuss relocation experiences.
You can use specific questions to vet vendors: Do you maintain a national network for interstate moves and credentialing? How many physician relocations do you handle annually? Will you coordinate license applications across states and assist with board or hospital credential packets? What are your SLA guarantees for timelines and damage claims? What post-move support do you offer for settling into a new practice?
You will likely achieve the best nationwide support by combining a reputable national mover for household logistics with a physician-focused recruiter or relocation specialist for licensure, credentialing, and practice transition work. You should require clear contracts and point-of-contact continuity so state-level tasks and clinical obligations transfer with minimal disruption to your practice and personal life.
