The Best Long-Distance Movers in Lancaster, PA
The best long-distance mover in Lancaster is The Armstrong Company (4.64/5) for in-state moves and Safeway Moving (4.9/5) for moves out of Pennsylvania, per moveBuddha's analysis of 105 Pennsylvania movers.
Who are the best interstate movers serving Lancaster?
moveBuddha's top-rated interstate movers for Lancaster residents moving out of Pennsylvania are Safeway Moving (4.9/5), American Van Lines (4.9/5), Allied Van Lines (4.2/5), BLVD Moving (4.3/5), and North American Van Lines (4.8/5). National carriers operate dedicated long-haul networks, carry interstate FMCSA authority, and price moves by weight and mileage, the standard model for cross-state relocations.
Who are the best long-distance movers in Lancaster for in-state moves?
The Armstrong Company (4.64/5) is moveBuddha's top-rated Lancaster-based mover for long-distance moves within Pennsylvania, followed by Fairprice Movers (4.48/5) and Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.56/5). Of the 34 intrastate-capable movers serving Lancaster, 32 offer full packing services, which can meaningfully reduce the physical load of a longer in-state move. Full rankings for local long-distance movers serving Lancaster are listed below.
Below are moveBuddha's top picks for long-distance movers that serve Lancaster but stay within Pennsylvania:
- The Armstrong Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Fairprice Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Forward Moving LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Movers & Co.: 4.28 out of 5 stars
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. The Armstrong Company has been in business for 76 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like and .
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. The Armstrong Company has about 91% positive reviews across roughly 225 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.5.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from The Armstrong Company.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. The Armstrong Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The movers arrived on time, were careful with my furniture, very efficient, and really nice guys. Very happy the move went so well."
"From start to finish, this company was accommodating, professional, patient, and efficient. I would use them again in a heartbeat."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Fairprice Movers has been in business for 15 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like and .
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Fairprice Movers has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 96 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Fairprice Movers.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Fairprice Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Fairprice Movers totally rocked my world. These guys were total pros from the get-go and got the job done like champs. Showed up right on time and handled all my stuff with care."
"I highly recommend FairPrice Movers to anyone in need of reliable and affordable moving services in the Lancaster area. They truly deserve the 5 stars for their exceptional service!"
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Zip to Zip Moving Inc has been in business for 6 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like and .
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Zip to Zip Moving Inc has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 278 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Zip to Zip Moving Inc, and Zip to Zip Moving Inc makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Zip to Zip Moving Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The crew was warm, courteous, and handled all of my belongings with great care. Their attention to detail and positive attitude made the whole experience stress-free. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them."
"They showed up on time, were professional and courteous. The guys unpacked and set everything up as we had instructed. And no damage to any items. Would use again."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Forward Moving LLC has been in business for 8 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like and .
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Forward Moving LLC has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 231 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.8.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Forward Moving LLC, and Forward Moving LLC makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like seniors.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Forward Moving LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The team arrived on time, handled my belongings with great care, and worked efficiently throughout the entire process. Every piece of furniture was carefully wrapped and protected, and nothing was damaged in transit."
"Best moving experience ever! Very professional people. My highest recommendation. Interstate move delivered the next day. Furniture was well protected with blankets and plastic wrap. Nothing was lost and nothing was damaged."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Movers & Co. has been in business for 11 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like and .
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Movers & Co. has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 225 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Movers & Co..
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Movers & Co. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Luis and his crew were amazing! They did such a fantastic job protecting everything and were extremely careful with all my belongings. Highly recommend!"
"The team at Movers and company were amazing! The movers knew what they were doing! I would most definitely recommend Movers and Co. to anyone needing help with moving!"
What add-on services do Lancaster movers offer?
Not every mover in Lancaster offers specialty services. Based on moveBuddha's review of 34 Lancaster movers, here is what is available and how often:
- Art handling: offered by 64.71% of Lancaster movers, compared to 50.48% statewide and 45.86% nationally.
- Junk removal: offered by 32.35% of Lancaster movers, compared to 33.33% statewide and 36.41% nationally.
- Fragile-only packing: offered by 29.41% of Lancaster movers, compared to 27.62% statewide and 23.81% nationally.
- Storage: offered by 91.18% of Lancaster movers, compared to 86.67% statewide and 84.88% nationally.
- Hot tub relocation: offered by 20.59% of Lancaster movers, compared to 22.86% statewide and 21.99% nationally.
- Piano moving: offered by 76.47% of Lancaster movers, compared to 74.29% statewide and 72.72% nationally.
Specialty service costs below use moveBuddha's pricing dataset adjusted for Lancaster's cost of living.
Does Lancaster have movers that offer art handling?
Art handling is available from 22 of 34 Lancaster movers (64.71%), compared to 50.48% statewide and 45.86% nationally. The Armstrong Company (4.64/5) and Fairprice Movers (4.48/5) rate highest for art handling in Lancaster. Per-piece handling runs $50 to $500, with custom crates adding $150 to $200 per item.
| Art handling in Lancaster | Details |
|---|---|
| Lancaster movers offering this | 22 of 34 (64.71%) |
| Pennsylvania statewide | 53 of 105 (50.48%) |
| National average | 45.86% |
| Top-rated Lancaster art movers | The Armstrong Company, Fairprice Movers |
| Per-piece handling fee | $50 to $500 |
| Custom crating per item | $150 to $200 |
Archival materials and custom crates prevent UV exposure, humidity damage, and impact fractures that standard moving blankets cannot guard against for framed artwork and sculpture. Confirm the mover has direct experience with similar media before booking.
Does Lancaster have movers that offer junk removal?
Junk removal is available from 11 of 34 Lancaster movers (32.35%), compared to 33.33% statewide and 36.41% nationally. Forward Moving LLC (4.52/5) and Zippy Shell (4.52/5) rate highest for junk removal in Lancaster. Standalone junk removal typically runs $150 to $500 per load.
| Junk removal in Lancaster | Details |
|---|---|
| Lancaster movers offering this | 11 of 34 (32.35%) |
| Pennsylvania statewide | 35 of 105 (33.33%) |
| National average | 36.41% |
| Top-rated Lancaster junk removal movers | Forward Moving LLC, Zippy Shell |
| Typical cost per load | $150 to $500 |
| Single large item | $75 to $150 |
Scheduling junk removal before your move date reduces the total weight of your shipment, which directly lowers costs on weight-based long-distance quotes. Movers that offer junk removal as an add-on can often coordinate pickup on the same day as loading, eliminating the need to schedule a separate crew.
Does Lancaster have movers that offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 10 of 34 Lancaster movers (29.41%), compared to 27.62% statewide and 23.81% nationally. The Armstrong Company (4.64/5) rate highest for fragile-only packing in Lancaster. Full professional packing runs $0.15 to $0.21 per pound; fragile-only packing covers dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps at a fraction of that total.
| Fragile-only packing in Lancaster | Details |
|---|---|
| Lancaster movers offering this | 10 of 34 (29.41%) |
| Pennsylvania statewide | 29 of 105 (27.62%) |
| National average | 23.81% |
| Top-rated Lancaster providers | The Armstrong Company |
| Full professional packing rate | $0.15 to $0.21 per pound |
Not every item needs professional packing. Dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps are the items most likely to break in transit and the items most worth paying a crew to pack. Fragile-only packing covers exactly those categories without a full-service packing contract, keeping the per-pound packing cost contained to the portion of the shipment that actually needs it.
Does Lancaster have movers that offer storage?
Storage is available from 31 of 34 Lancaster movers (91.18%), compared to 86.67% statewide and 84.88% nationally. The Armstrong Company (4.64/5) and Fairprice Movers (4.48/5) rate highest for storage in Lancaster. Storage-in-transit runs about $0.50 per cubic foot per month, putting a 1-bedroom load (about 514 cu ft) at roughly $257/month.
| Storage in Lancaster | Details |
|---|---|
| Lancaster movers offering this | 31 of 34 (91.18%) |
| Pennsylvania statewide | 91 of 105 (86.67%) |
| National average | 84.88% |
| Top-rated Lancaster storage movers | The Armstrong Company, Fairprice Movers |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $257 |
| 2-3 bedroom monthly estimate (~1,000 cu ft) | $500 |
At $0.50 per cubic foot per month, storage-in-transit for a 1-bedroom load of about 514 cubic feet costs approximately $257 per month in Lancaster. A 2 to 3 bedroom load near 1,000 cubic feet runs roughly $500 per month. The key question to ask any mover: does your valuation coverage extend to items held in storage?
Does Lancaster have movers that offer hot tub relocation?
Hot tub relocation is available from 7 of 34 Lancaster movers (20.59%), compared to 22.86% statewide and 21.99% nationally. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.56/5) and Zippy Shell (4.52/5) rate highest for hot tub moves in Lancaster. Hot tub moves typically run $150 to $400 per item when bundled with a full-service move.
| Hot tub relocation in Lancaster | Details |
|---|---|
| Lancaster movers offering this | 7 of 34 (20.59%) |
| Pennsylvania statewide | 24 of 105 (22.86%) |
| National average | 21.99% |
| Top-rated Lancaster hot tub movers | Zip to Zip Moving Inc, Zippy Shell |
| Bundled with full-service move | $150 to $400 |
| Standalone hot tub move | $300 to $800 |
Hot tub moves require full drainage, a crew of at least 3, and specialized equipment including a flatbed dolly rated for the unit's weight. Empty hot tubs range from 500 to 1,000 lbs, and access conditions such as stairs, narrow gates, or sunken decks can add crane or shuttle fees that significantly raise the total cost. Confirm access logistics with the mover before the quote is finalized to avoid day-of surcharges.
Does Lancaster have movers that offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 26 of 34 Lancaster movers (76.47%), compared to 74.29% statewide and 72.72% nationally. The Armstrong Company (4.64/5) and Fairprice Movers (4.48/5) rate highest for piano moving in Lancaster. A standalone piano move typically costs $800 to $3,500, depending on instrument type.
| Piano moving in Lancaster | Details |
|---|---|
| Lancaster movers offering this | 26 of 34 (76.47%) |
| Pennsylvania statewide | 78 of 105 (74.29%) |
| National average | 72.72% |
| Top-rated Lancaster piano movers | The Armstrong Company, Fairprice Movers |
| Upright piano | $800 to $1,500 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,200 to $2,500 |
| Grand piano | $1,800 to $3,500 |
Upright pianos weigh 400 to 800 lbs. Grand pianos exceed 1,200 lbs. Trained crews use piano boards, straps, and padded blankets to prevent structural damage that standard moving equipment cannot safely manage. Bundling a piano into a household move with full-service movers is usually cheaper than hiring a piano-only carrier.
Who are the best movers in Lancaster for small long-distance moves?
Zip to Zip Moving Inc leads Lancaster's small-move providers with a 4.56/5 moveBuddha score, followed by Zippy Shell at 4.52/5. DIY options like moving containers and rental trucks reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving and are worth comparing for loads under 3,000 pounds.
What are the best moving containers for long-distance moves from Lancaster?
Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), U-Pack (5.0/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5) are moveBuddha's top-rated container options for moves out of Lancaster. Moving containers reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, making them the most cost-effective option for Lancaster residents who can handle their own loading and unloading. Container pricing varies by distance, container size, and the number of units required, so use the moveBuddha cost calculator to compare quotes for your specific move before committing to a provider.
What are the best labor-only movers in Lancaster?
14 of 34 Lancaster movers (41.18%) offer labor-only services, compared to 39.05% statewide and 54.58% nationally. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.56/5) is moveBuddha's top-rated labor-only mover in Lancaster, followed by Forward Moving LLC (4.52/5). Labor-only movers handle loading and unloading without providing a truck, making them the right fit for Lancaster residents who plan to drive themselves or who have rented their own vehicle. Combining a labor-only crew with a rental truck or moving container reduces total move cost by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's pricing dataset.
What are the best moving truck rentals for long-distance Lancaster moves?
Budget Truck Rental, Penske Truck Rental, and U-Haul Truck Rental are moveBuddha's top-rated rental truck options for a DIY move out of Lancaster. A truck rental is the cheapest way to move out of state for those willing to handle both the loading and the driving. For moves over 500 miles, a local mover and a national mover price a rental truck the same, so distance alone does not change which provider to choose. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to compare total DIY costs against container and full-service quotes before committing.
How much does it cost to hire long-distance movers in Lancaster?
Moving costs across Pennsylvania range from $476 for a studio (2 movers, 3 hours at $179/hour) to $4,224 for a 5+ bedroom home (5 movers, 10 hours), according to moveBuddha's analysis of Pennsylvania mover quotes. The table below shows Pennsylvania statewide averages by home size. Your actual cost in Lancaster will vary based on distance, access conditions, and your mover's pricing model.
Use our free moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate for your move.
| Home size | Estimated interstate cost from Pennsylvania* |
|---|---|
| Studio apartment | $476 |
| 1-bedroom home or apartment | $655 |
| 2-bedroom home or apartment | $1,049 |
| 3-bedroom home | $2,401 |
| 4-bedroom home | $2,751 |
| 5+ bedroom home | $4,224 |
*Estimated costs above are based on varying types of moves that cross state lines in Pennsylvania. All exceed 150 miles, but might remain below 1,500. Your price depends on inventory, distance, timing, service level, and more.
Data reflects Pennsylvania statewide averages based on moveBuddha's analysis of mover quotes collected.
What affects moving costs in Lancaster?
Here are some additional cost considerations for your long-distance Lancaster move:
- Distance: The farther you move from Lancaster, the more you pay. A short intrastate move costs far less than a cross-country relocation. Once you cross state lines, pricing structure changes entirely and costs rise considerably.
- Home size and weight: Movers price local moves by the hour and interstate moves by total shipment weight. Downsizing before your move reduces both your bill and your packing time.
- Move type: Full-service movers handle everything but cost the most. DIY options like rental trucks or moving containers reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service, according to moveBuddha data.
- Add-on services: Professional packing adds an average of $0.15–$0.21 per pound. Shuttle service, if required, adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums often starting around $200.
- Timing: Summer moves (May through September) carry the highest rates. Mid-month and mid-week bookings are consistently cheaper than weekend or month-end dates.
FAQs about the best long-distance movers in Lancaster
What licenses does a long-distance mover in Lancaster need?
27 of the 34 movers moveBuddha has reviewed in Lancaster hold a valid FMCSA registration and USDOT number — the 2 federal credentials required before any company can transport household goods across state lines. All movers recommended on this page carry both. Confirm any company's status independently in the FMCSA's carrier database.
The FMCSA's Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move covers what to expect during an interstate move and what protections apply at every stage.
Should I hire locally or go national when moving from Lancaster?
Local Lancaster movers offer the best value for moves within Pennsylvania, across the 34 movers moveBuddha has reviewed in the area. 27 of those hold FMCSA interstate authorization for cross-state routes. The top-rated options on this page cover both.
For moves that cross into another state, national carriers bring purpose-built long-distance logistics, a meaningful advantage when coordinating a move over a long distance.
When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Lancaster?
Movers in Lancaster run slowest in November and December, when temperatures drop to an average low of 21°F and moving demand falls well below its summer peak. Reduced competition for mover calendars creates a genuine window to push back on the initial estimate. Off-peak moves in Lancaster typically come with better availability and shorter booking lead times than any other time of year.
What are the cheapest ways to move out of Lancaster?
DIY moving is the most affordable option out of the The Red Rose City, especially within 50 miles. moveBuddha's research shows that rental trucks and moving containers reduce costs by roughly 30% versus full-service movers. The cheapest options are renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. For longer moves, our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state covers additional cost-cutting strategies.