Top local movers for Seattle to Buffalo moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Seattle that also provides long-distance services to Buffalo can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 63 local movers in Seattle who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Seattle to Buffalo.
- Eco Movers Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- On The Go Moving and Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Seattle Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Hansen Bros Moving and Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 3227005
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3227005
Alternate Names: GS Moving Services LLC , Eco-Movers , The Big Guys , The Big Guys Home Delivery , Eco Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: HG064180
Pricing: $180/hr
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2120054
Alternate Names: On The Go Moving and Storage , On The Go Moving & Storage Bellevue , On The Go Moving & Storage Redmond , On The Go Moving & Storage Seattle
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Offices
- Antiques
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 19251
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: CHHJ Seattle, LLC. , College Hunks Hauling Junk Seattle
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: HG063388
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1731101
Alternate Names: Express Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 1782
Years in Business: 134
DOT #: 8257
Alternate Names: Peasley Transfer & Storage , Hansen Bros Moving and Storage , Peasley Transfer and Storage , Hansen Bros Transfer and Storage Co , PortaBox Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
How much does it cost to move from Seattle to Buffalo?
Movers in Washington generally charge an average of $143 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,518 – $6,194 | $1,330 – $3,375 | $1,368 – $2,788 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $4,081 – $8,782 | $2,290 – $4,963 | $1,605 – $3,385 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,148 – $13,596 | $3,317 – $6,753 | $2,009 – $4,071 |
Cost to hire movers from Seattle to Buffalo
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Seattle to Buffalo typically costs between $1,518 and $6,194. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,081 and $8,782 when moving from Seattle to Buffalo. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Seattle to Buffalo, you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,148 up to $13,596.
Cost of moving containers from Seattle to Buffalo
If you’re relocating from Seattle to Buffalo, you’ll typically spend between $1,330 and $3,375 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,290 up to $4,963. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,317 and $6,753. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Seattle to Buffalo
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Seattle to Buffalo move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,368 and $2,788. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,605 to $3,385. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,009 and $4,071.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Seattle to Buffalo
The cost of Seattle movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Seattle to Buffalo might be as low as $2,989, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,751.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Seattle.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,368 to $3,605 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Seattle to Buffalo
Many movers find Buffalo easier on the wallet than Seattle – roughly 31% less for singles and 42% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,589 for one person in Buffalo versus $3,740 in Seattle. For a family of four, it’s $5,720 compared with $9,801.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Seattle | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,306 | $1,567 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,655 | $2,075 |
| Average home value | $842,068 | $213,418 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,845 | $63,443 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,740 | $2,589 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,801 | $5,720 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.8% | 9.5% |
| Sales tax | 10.35% | 8.75% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 10.9% |
- Good news! When moving to Buffalo from Seattle, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 39% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 75% cheaper in Buffalo, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 19% lower in Buffalo than in Seattle.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Buffalo. The cost of living for a single person is 31% less compared to Seattle.
- Relocating to Buffalo could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 42% lower than in Seattle.
- The unemployment rate in Buffalo exceeds that of Seattle by about 98%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 15% lower in Buffalo than Seattle, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- New York has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Seattle and Buffalo, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Seattle | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $250.22 | $251.62 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.15 | $46.65 |
| Dozen eggs | $6.07 | $3.96 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.84 | $3.89 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $30.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $85.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.35 | $33.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Seattle than in Buffalo, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Seattle than in Buffalo.
- Eggs cost more in Seattle than in Buffalo.
- Bread is more expensive in Seattle than in Buffalo.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Seattle than in Buffalo.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Seattle than in Buffalo.
- Gym memberships cost more in Seattle than in Buffalo.
How life is different in Seattle vs. Buffalo
| Seattle | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 737,015 | 278,349 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 7 |
| Walkability score | 74 | 67 |
| Bike friendliness score | 71 | 63 |
| Crime index | 58.88 | 8.0 |
| Safety index | 49.23 | 53.55 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Buffalo’s population is about 62% less than Seattle.
- Buffalo’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Seattle’s score of 8.
- Buffalo is less walkable than Seattle with a score of 67 out of 100 vs Seattle’s 74 out of 100.
- Buffalo has a bike-friendliness score of 63 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Seattle, which has a score of 71.
- Buffalo’s crime rate is lower than Seattle with a score of 8.0 compared to Seattle’s 58.88. This means that Buffalo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
- Buffalo is considered to be safer than Seattle with a safety index of 53.55 vs Seattle’s 49.23.
- Air quality in Buffalo is Moderate, and in Seattle it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Seattle to Buffalo move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a New York moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in New York, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Buffalo without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Buffalo
Ready to relocate to Queen City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Buffalo.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Allentown
- Delaware District
- Lower West Side
- Elmwood Strip
- Downtown
- Parkside
- West Side
- North Park
- First Ward
Best neighborhoods for families
- Williamsville
- Clarence Center
- Eggertsville
- Harris Hill
- East Aurora
- Kenmore
- Grandyle Village
- Billington Heights
- Rapids
- Lancaster
Things to do in Buffalo
Now that you’ve made the move to New York, it’s the perfect time to explore Buffalo. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Buffalo include museums and art centers like the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, Pierce-Arrow Museum, Albright-Knox Art Gallery, and Buffalo Museum of Science.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, The Buffalo Zoo, Delaware Park, and Erie Basin Marina, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Buffalo BanditsBuffalo BeautsBuffalo Bills (AAFC)Buffalo Bisons (AHL)Buffalo Bisons (minor league)Canisius Golden GriffinsColumbus Destroyers game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Seattle to Buffalo?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Seattle to Buffalo. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Seattle.
When is the cheapest time to move from Seattle to Buffalo?
With many people choosing to move from Seattle to Buffalo in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Seattle to Buffalo take?
Covering 2,588 miles, the move from Seattle, WA to Buffalo, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Seattle movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Buffalo can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Seattle offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers provide military discounts. 3 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Seattle can handle specialty items for my move to Buffalo?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Seattle, 48 movers can handle pianos. 36 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of WA, there are 73 piano movers and 46 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
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