Best Movers Near Manhattan, KS (2026 Reviews)

Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. is Manhattan's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.36/5 stars. Rankings are based on 51 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Manhattan, KS, covering 1 local Manhattan movers.

Local movers in Manhattan are priced hourly. The Kansas average is $110/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.

Why use moveBuddha for your Manhattan, KS move

  • moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Manhattan mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
  • Book a moveBuddha Certified Manhattan mover and get an extra $1,000 in move coverage plus dedicated support throughout your move.
  • If something goes wrong, moveBuddha steps in with direct dispute mediation between you and your Certified mover.

 Moving in Manhattan, KS right now: Peak summer moving season is here. The 4th of July is one of the busiest moving weekends of the year. Prices spike and availability drops sharply around the holiday. If your Manhattan move is scheduled near that window, you should already have a mover locked in. If not, move quickly.

What are the top-rated moving companies in Manhattan, KS?

moveBuddha scored 1 Manhattan movers drawing on 51 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 4.36/5. Rankings also draw on moveBuddha's reviews of 21 Kansas movers and 11,663 verified Kansas customer reviews to surface the closest and highest-rated companies serving Manhattan from nearby locations.

  1. Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc.: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  4. Thomas Transfer & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
1
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Careful handling
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
77%
Years active
117
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moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.1
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Yelp logo
2.7
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BBB logo
Grade A+
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Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. has been in business for 117 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 3.8

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. has about 77% positive reviews across roughly 51 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.7.

Quote accuracy 4.3

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc..

Customer service 4.1

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Worked with this moving company to help move apartment furniture into my new home. Responsive and transparent service, quick and efficient movers, and affordable pricing. Highly recommend for local moves!"

"Everyone was professional and polite for the whole experience. Helped me move in 100-degree heat. Nothing got damaged and the price was very decent. Would absolutely use them again!"

DOT number
2869109
Address
414 S 5th St, Manhattan, KS, 66502
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card • Money Order
2
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
95%
Years active
7
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moveBuddha logo
4.4
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Google logo
4.9
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Yelp logo
2.8
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Estate moves
  • Debris removal
  • Junk removal
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been in business for 7 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and small-scale moving.

Review quality 3.8

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 235 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Caleb, Troy and Devante were kind and did a great job with our move! They were careful with all of our items and patient with our decision making in the midst of a move. Would for sure recommend!"

"They worked efficiently and quickly and were able to finish significantly sooner than the time estimated to complete my move. Thank You College Hunks for the best moving experience!"

DOT number
3286258
Address
5606 Topeka Boulevard, Suite B, Topeka, KS, 66609
Payment methods
Credit Card
3
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
77%
Years active
4
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.3
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Google logo
4.5
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Yelp logo
4.2
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Debris removal
  • Junk removal
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.4

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for 4 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 3.8

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 77% positive reviews across roughly 91 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Our 3 guys that moved us were GREAT. They were timely, very careful with our items, very efficient - they finished earlier than predicted which, when you are moving, you REALLY APPRECIATE. I liked that there is always polite office staff to speak with."

"We used Two Men and a Truck to move our parents across town! These three guys were AMAZING! Very prompt, very polite and very personable. They made the move so smooth and calming, to know my parents possessions were in such good care."

DOT number
2527384
Address
1570 SW Wanamaker Rd #130, Topeka, KS, 66604
Payment methods
Credit Card
4
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Helpful movers
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
63%
Years active
77
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.3
link icon
Google logo
3.8
link icon
Yelp logo
3.7
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Estate moves
  • Debris removal
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full valuation coverage
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Thomas Transfer & Storage has been in business for 77 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Thomas Transfer & Storage has about 63% positive reviews across roughly 41 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.7.

Quote accuracy 3.7

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Thomas Transfer & Storage.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Thomas Transfer & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

"This warehouse and team is awesome. Definitely would recommend this establishment. We had to pick up a shipment and it was well staged. The warehouse was well organized and clean. Made loading extremely fast and easy. Thank you for being prepared and so helpful."

"Day 2 of using Thomas Storage and Moving. Today’s moving team was excellent. Extremely professional, efficient, and caring. Outloaded my house very quickly and with great care. No damage to the house. Highly recommend."

DOT number
153146
Address
906 E. 6th Street, Emporia, KS, 66801
State license
153146

How do Manhattan, KS moving companies compare?

Company Our rating Positive reviews BBB Quote
star star star star star
4.36
77% A+
star star star star star
4.42
95% A+
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
4 years in business
star star star star star
4.3
77% A+
Thomas Transfer & Storage
77 years in business
star star star star star
4.34
63% A+

Proximity to Manhattan is a ranking factor, so a mover appearing higher on the list may have a lower score than one listed below it. A nearby company can outrank a higher-scored mover based further out. Each company's positive review rate and BBB rating are included so you can compare quality and reputation side by side.

Popular moving routes from Manhattan, KS

Local movers in Manhattan are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-35 and I-70. For longer moves, you need a full-service interstate carrier with USDOT authority, binding estimate practices, and the logistics to handle cross-country delivery. See our guide to the best long-distance movers from Manhattan, KS for route-specific recommendations and pricing.

Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
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  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

How much do movers cost in Manhattan, KS?

Local movers in Manhattan are priced hourly. The Kansas average is $110/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.

Home size Estimated local move cost in Manhattan
Studio $249 – $415
1 bedroom $332 – $581
2 bedrooms $498 – $830
3 bedrooms $747 – $1,245
4+ bedrooms $996 – $1,826

Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Manhattan's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.

Ready to compare Manhattan mover prices? See our full guide on Manhattan, KS mover costs →

Which Manhattan, KS movers offer specialty services?

Specialty moving services are not standard across every Manhattan mover. Based on moveBuddha's review of 1 Manhattan moving companies, here is what is available, how common each service is in this market, and which movers lead each category:

What movers in Manhattan offer piano moving?

Piano moving is available from 1 of 1 Manhattan movers (100.0%). Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. (4.36/5) is Manhattan's top-rated piano mover.

Piano moving in Manhattan Details
Manhattan movers offering this 1 of 1 (100.0%)
Top-rated Manhattan piano movers Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc., TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Upright piano $664 to $1,245
Baby grand piano $996 to $2,075
Grand piano $1,494 to $2,905

Piano weight (300 to 800 lbs for uprights, 500 to 1,200 lbs for baby grands, over 1,200 lbs for concert grands) is the primary cost driver, as heavier instruments require more crew and specialized equipment. Bundling a piano into a full household move is usually cheaper than booking a piano-only carrier. See moveBuddha's guide to the best piano movers for vetted options and how to pack and move a piano for prep tips.

What movers in Manhattan offer fragile-only packing?

Fragile-only packing is available from 1 of 1 Manhattan movers (100.0%). Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. (4.36/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in Manhattan.

Fragile-only packing in Manhattan Details
Manhattan movers offering this 1 of 1 (100.0%)
Top-rated Manhattan providers Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc.,
Full professional packing rate $0.15 to $0.21 per pound

Fragile-only packing costs less than full-service packing because it covers only breakables: dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps. It's the most cost-effective way to add professional packing without paying to have the whole home packed. See how to pack breakables for what movers look for and how to prepare.

Apartment and high-rise moving in Manhattan

Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Manhattan adds logistical steps that ground-floor moves don't require. Before booking, confirm the following with your mover:

  • Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Manhattan apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
  • Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
  • Labor-only movers: 100% of Manhattan movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. is Manhattan's top-rated labor-only provider.

If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Manhattan apartment moves before committing.

DIY moving options in Manhattan, KS

Not every Manhattan move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:

Rental trucks

The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Manhattan, KS are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes. Use moveBuddha's moving truck size guide to match the right truck to your home size before booking.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Moving containers

The best moving container companies available in Manhattan, KS are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size, or the moving container sizes guide to find the right unit for your load.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • Flexible timelines
  • Local franchise support
  • Fits tight spaces
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Labor-only movers + rented truck

The best labor-only movers in Manhattan, KS start with Reliable Transfer & Storage, Inc. (4.36/5) and College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.42/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.36 / 5
  • 77% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.42 / 5
  • 95% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
  • 77% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+

Moving in Manhattan, KS: what you need to know

A Manhattan move involves logistics that go beyond booking a crew and loading a truck. The checklist below covers the practical steps specific to moving in this market.

Before move day

  • Update your address: file a change of address with the USPS before your move date. Manhattan residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with Kansas DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Manhattan buildings require a COI from your moving company before granting loading dock or elevator access. Request this from your mover as soon as you book. It's a standard document and any licensed mover should provide it free of charge.
  • Reserve your elevator: if you're in a building with a service elevator, reserve a time window as early as possible. Weekend and month-end slots fill fast.
  • Get a binding estimate: a binding estimate locks your final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. Always confirm in writing before signing.

Timing your move

  • Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. Manhattan's summer highs reach 90°F, which pushes prices up and crew availability down. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead during this window.
  • Off-peak savings: moves booked in October–April, on weekdays, or mid-month typically cost 10%–20% less. If your schedule is flexible, ask movers about off-peak pricing. See moveBuddha's best time to move guide for a month-by-month breakdown.
  • Winter conditions: Manhattan's winter lows reach 17°F. Winter moves are cheaper but require planning for ice, snow delays, and longer loading times. Confirm your mover's weather policy before booking.

Kansas moving regulations and your rights

  • Verify your mover is licensed: all Kansas movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at Kansas's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
  • In Kansas, the Transportation Division of the Kansas Corporation Commission monitors, licenses, and regulates intrastate motor carriers like movers. The state’s Corporation Commission issues moving companies operating authority in the form of KCC Numbers, which customers can verify online here before hiring a mover.
  • Released-value coverage: movers are required to offer basic protection at $0.60 per pound per item at no extra cost. This covers almost nothing on high-value items. Ask about full valuation coverage before signing.
  • Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
  • Your rights as a shipper: for interstate moves, the FMCSA requires movers to provide "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before your move. Read it. It covers estimates, liability, dispute resolution, and the 110% rule. Download it at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
  • Industry oversight: Kansas Motor Carriers Association sets professional standards for Kansas movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.

Frequently asked questions: moving in Manhattan, KS

How much do movers cost in Manhattan, KS?

Local movers in Manhattan, KS charge by the hour. The Kansas average is $110/hour for a 2-person crew.

Key cost factors for a Manhattan move, based on moveBuddha's review data:

  • Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
  • Deposit requirement: many Manhattan movers require a deposit to secure your booking. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: available from select Manhattan movers. The default released-value protection covers only $0.60 per pound. Full valuation coverage costs extra and covers replacement value.
  • Hours on-site: local moves bill by the clock. Home size, floor access, elevator waits, and how much packing work the crew handles are the primary time drivers.
  • Long-distance pricing: moves leaving Manhattan across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 100% of Manhattan movers (1 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: 100% of Manhattan movers (1 companies) offer full packing. Professional packing adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound on average.

DIY options like a rental truck or moving container reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's analysis. Use the moving cost calculator to get a market-specific baseline before collecting quotes.

What do full-service movers in Manhattan include, and what costs extra?

A standard full-service move in Manhattan, KS includes loading, transport, and unloading. Basic furniture padding and simple disassembly/reassembly for bed frames and standard furniture pieces are included in the base rate. Packing, valuation upgrades, storage, crating, and specialty-item handling are add-ons billed separately. The table below shows what Manhattan movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.

Add-on service % of Manhattan movers Typical cost impact
Full packing 100% (1 companies) +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average
Storage 100% ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$213/month
Crating (fragile/high-value items) 100% (1 companies) $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances)
Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) 100% (1 companies) Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge
Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) Situational $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200

Every add-on above requires written confirmation before booking. A binding estimate locks the final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. See the hidden and unexpected moving costs guide for a full breakdown of what to request in writing.

Do movers in Manhattan offer senior, military, or other discounts?

moveBuddha found no confirmed senior, military, AAA, student, teacher, or law enforcement discounts among the Manhattan movers in its database. That does not mean discounts are unavailable. Ask each mover directly at the quote stage, since some companies offer unpublished rates for eligible groups. Confirm any discount in writing before signing.

How far in advance should I book movers in Manhattan?

Book Manhattan movers at least 4–6 weeks ahead during peak moving season (May through September) and on month-end dates. For off-peak moves (October through April, mid-month, or on a weekday), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (under 1 week) are possible but limit your options to movers with open capacity, which may not include your preferred company or the best-rated crews.

Once you have a date, request a binding written estimate before paying any deposit. Confirm the mover's cancellation and reschedule policy in writing at booking. Some Manhattan movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.

What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Manhattan movers provide one?

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from your mover's insurance carrier that names your building as an additional insured and confirms the mover carries active liability coverage. Many Manhattan apartment buildings, condos, and commercial properties require a COI before they'll permit a moving crew to use service elevators or loading docks.

Any licensed, insured Manhattan mover should provide a COI at no charge. Request it as soon as you book. Your building management may need it 5–10 business days before your move. If a mover hesitates or charges for a COI, that is a red flag worth taking seriously.

Are movers in Manhattan licensed and insured?

Kansas requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the Kansas licensed movers directory. For interstate moves (crossing state lines), movers must also hold a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify any USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov.

Always ask your Manhattan mover for their license number and USDOT number before signing. moveBuddha verifies licensing and insurance status for all movers in its database as part of the review process.

How long does a local move take in Manhattan?

Local Manhattan moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Manhattan-area data:

  • Studio/1 bedroom: 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 2 bedrooms: 4–6 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 3 bedrooms: 6–8 hours with a 3-person crew
  • 4+ bedrooms: 8–12 hours with a 3–4 person crew

These are averages. Actual time increases with stairs, elevator waits, long carries from truck to door, and the amount of packing the crew handles. Pre-packing boxes, reserving an elevator, and ensuring a clear loading path are the most effective ways to keep hourly costs on track.

Do Manhattan movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?

Yes. Most Manhattan movers regularly handle apartment and high-rise moves. When evaluating a mover for this type of move, ask specifically about their experience with:

  • Service elevator scheduling and building move-in procedures in Manhattan
  • Providing a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for building management
  • Shuttle vehicles or alternative loading setups when a truck can't park close to the entrance
  • Stair carries if the service elevator is unavailable or too small for large pieces

A mover with genuine Manhattan apartment experience will ask about your building's move-in process during the quoting stage, not after you've signed. If they don't ask, bring it up yourself before committing.

What is the best time of year to move in Manhattan?

The cheapest time to move in Manhattan is October through April, particularly on weekdays and mid-month dates when mover demand drops. Moving during this window can reduce your total cost by 10%–20% compared to peak summer rates.

Peak season runs May through September. Manhattan's summer highs reach 90°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.

Winter moves are the most affordable but require contingency planning. Manhattan's winter lows reach 17°F. Confirm your mover's weather delay policy before booking a winter move.

Regardless of season, booking 4–6 weeks ahead gives you the best pick of Manhattan's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How moveBuddha selects and reviews Manhattan, KS moving companies

moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 21 Kansas moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Rankings for Manhattan draw on 11,663 verified customer reviews across Kansas: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.

That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
  • Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.

Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.

See how Manhattan's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from moveBuddha's #1-ranked Manhattan movers →

How to move in Manhattan: permits, COI, and city logistics

A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Manhattan, KS, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.

  1. Verify your mover's license and insurance. In Kansas, the Transportation Division of the Kansas Corporation Commission monitors, licenses, and regulates intrastate motor carriers like movers. The state’s Corporation Commission issues moving companies operating authority in the form of KCC Numbers, which customers can verify online here before hiring a mover. Verify a license.
  2. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Manhattan building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
  3. Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Manhattan street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
  4. Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Manhattan movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.

The final verdict: moving in Manhattan, KS

Collect at least 3 binding estimates, confirm your mover's license and insurance, and request a COI if your building requires one. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to set your budget baseline before reaching out to movers.