Best Movers Near Upper Darby, PA (2026 Reviews)
Gentle Giant Moving Company is Upper Darby's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.52/5 stars. Rankings are based on 12,952 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Upper Darby, PA, covering 68 local Upper Darby movers.
Local movers in Upper Darby are priced hourly. The Pennsylvania average is $128/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
Why use moveBuddha for your Upper Darby, PA move
- moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Upper Darby mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
- Book a moveBuddha Certified Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby, PA 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 Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby, PA?
moveBuddha scored 68 Upper Darby movers drawing on 12,952 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 4.31/5. Rankings include movers based in Upper Darby and those serving the area from nearby locations.
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Keep It Moving, LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Litemovers.com, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Stellar Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Hughes Relocation Services: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Ramsey's Moving System: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Nicky's Moving & Storage: 4.42 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. Gentle Giant Moving Company has been in business for 46 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Gentle Giant Moving Company has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 242 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.8.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Gentle Giant Moving Company.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Gentle Giant Moving Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Gentle Giant was incredibly efficient and careful with my move. Not one item was damaged and they finished under estimate. I couldn’t be happier—highly recommend!"
"Scott and Jon were friendly, fast, and helpful. They treated our belongings with such respect and made the entire process stress-free. We will definitely use Gentle Giant for all future moves."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and estate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 276 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.7.
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 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Richard and Eric came and helped us move today these guys are the best I have no complaints what so ever keep up the great work thanks again"
"We had a great move. They were professional, efficient and friendly. Would highly recommend Jose Sr., Jose Jr., and Aidan!!"
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Keep It Moving, LLC has been in business for 19 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Keep It Moving, LLC has about 70% positive reviews across roughly 164 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.1.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Keep It Moving, LLC.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Keep It Moving, LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The movers were professional, courteous and considerate, which made my move go spectacular. I would use them again and refer any to use them for all their moving needs."
"Excellent, all of my belongings were wrapped, and arrived unharmed, I highly recommend these guys, they work efficiently and effectively."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Litemovers.com, LLC has been in business for 18 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Litemovers.com, LLC has about 100% positive reviews across roughly 21 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Litemovers.com, LLC.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Litemovers.com, LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Awesome experience! Ed and his team were efficient and flawless. Not a scratch on any of our furniture or walls... Pricing was very fair and transparent... no surprises..."
"Ed and his team did an excellent job... The crew arrived on time, worked efficiently, and took great care wrapping and protecting our furniture... Pricing was great..."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Stellar Movers LLC has been in business for many years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Stellar Movers LLC has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 175 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.4.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Stellar Movers LLC.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Stellar Movers LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Stellar Movers showed up on time, worked quickly and efficiently, were friendly and did an excellent job. I will definitely use them again!"
"We were paranoid our move would take forever but the crew was efficient, friendly and careful. No damage to anything."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Transtar Moving Systems has been in business for 64 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Transtar Moving Systems has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 257 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.5.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Transtar Moving Systems.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Transtar Moving Systems emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The crew was incredibly professional, polite, and handled our things with great care. Not a single scratch or dent, and they finished ahead of schedule. Completely took the stress out of our move! Highly recommend."
"Andy, Kyle, Cristian and Christian were AMAZING!!! They were clean, careful, prompt, professional, and VERY VERY HELPFUL! We recommend them 1,000%."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Hughes Relocation Services has been in business for 43 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and international moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Hughes Relocation Services has about 91% positive reviews across roughly 244 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.4.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Hughes Relocation Services.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Hughes Relocation Services emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
"The movers were so friendly and efficient—they took great care wrapping & packing our items to keep everything safe. The process from setup to move was seamless. Highly recommend."
"Highly recommend Hughes to anyone looking to move. Fair pricing and the crew was amazing. I couldn’t imagine doing it without them."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Ramsey's Moving System has been in business for 24 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Ramsey's Moving System has about 82% positive reviews across roughly 181 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.9.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Ramsey's Moving System.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Ramsey's Moving System emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The only guys I ever used because they're the best. Fast, efficient, professional and careful with your belongings."
"They were professional, friendly, and easy to work with. Protected all my belongings. Quick service. Highly recommend Ramsey's Moving!"
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport has been in business for 10 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport has about 89% positive reviews across roughly 379 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The best moving company in Philadelphia and Delaware County by far. They were so professional and easy to work with. Moving is stressful enough on its own but they made the whole process so easy and pain free."
"Suburban Solutions delivered exceptional service. The business team was responsive while scheduling and the moving team arrived right on time. They worked safely, efficiently...avoided damage...and went above and beyond."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Nicky's Moving & Storage has been in business for 34 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Nicky's Moving & Storage has about 72% positive reviews across roughly 88 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.6.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Nicky's Moving & Storage.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Nicky's Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Movers were friendly and cordial despite the weather conditions. Everything was done in a timely manner. I would recommend them highly. My furniture was wrapped and well taken care of along with my tvs."
"My moving experience was great. The crew worked efficiently and placed everything where I needed it. Professional and organized. Highly recommended."
How do Upper Darby, PA moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 98% | A+ | |||
| 95% | A+ | |||
| 70% | F | |||
| 100% | A+ | |||
| 88% | NR | |||
| 92% | A+ | |||
| 91% | A+ | |||
| 82% | C+ | |||
| 89% | A+ | |||
| 72% | A+ |
Proximity to Upper Darby 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.
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Pennsylvania is among the top 10 most outbound states in 2026, with more people searching to leave than arrive. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are the primary sources of outbound moving activity in the state. See moveBuddha's full 2026 Moving Trends Report →
Popular moving routes from Upper Darby, PA
Local movers in Upper Darby are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-76, I-78, I-80, and I-95. 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 Upper Darby, PA for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
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How much do movers cost in Upper Darby, PA?
Local movers in Upper Darby are priced hourly. The Pennsylvania average is $128/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.
| Home size | Estimated local move cost in Upper Darby |
|---|---|
| Studio | $321 – $535 |
| 1 bedroom | $428 – $749 |
| 2 bedrooms | $642 – $1,070 |
| 3 bedrooms | $963 – $1,605 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,284 – $2,354 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Upper Darby's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare Upper Darby mover prices? See our full guide on Upper Darby, PA mover costs →
Which Upper Darby, PA movers offer specialty services?
Not every Upper Darby mover handles specialty items. moveBuddha tracked 68 Upper Darby moving companies across 5 specialty service categories. The breakdown below shows availability rates for this market and the top-rated mover in each category:
- Piano moving: 52 of 68 Upper Darby movers (76.47%) offer it. Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5) is Upper Darby's top-rated piano mover.
- Antique handling: 41 of 68 Upper Darby movers (60.29%) offer it. Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5) rates highest for antique care in Upper Darby.
- Art packing: 37 of 68 Upper Darby movers (54.41%) offer it. Litemovers.com, LLC (4.48/5) rates highest for art packing in Upper Darby.
- Climate-controlled storage: 18 of 68 Upper Darby movers (26.47%) offer it. Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) is Upper Darby's top-rated provider.
- Fragile-only packing: 13 of 68 Upper Darby movers (19.12%) offer it. Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in Upper Darby.
What movers in Upper Darby offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 52 of 68 Upper Darby movers (76.47%). Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5) is Upper Darby's top-rated piano mover.
| Piano moving in Upper Darby | Details |
|---|---|
| Upper Darby movers offering this | 52 of 68 (76.47%) |
| Top-rated Upper Darby piano movers | Gentle Giant Moving Company, Litemovers.com, LLC |
| Upright piano | $856 to $1,605 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,284 to $2,675 |
| Grand piano | $1,926 to $3,745 |
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 Upper Darby offer antique handling?
Antique handling is available from 41 of 68 Upper Darby movers (60.29%). Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5) rates highest for antique care in Upper Darby.
| Antique handling in Upper Darby | Details |
|---|---|
| Upper Darby movers offering this | 41 of 68 (60.29%) |
| Top-rated Upper Darby antique movers | Keep It Moving, LLC, Litemovers.com, LLC |
| Added cost to a household move | $1,070 to $2,675 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $54 to $535 |
| Custom crating per item | $161 to $214 |
Custom crating and per-piece handling fees are the main cost factors. Standard released-value coverage ($0.60/lb) is inadequate for high-value antiques, so full-value protection adds to the total. The more pieces requiring individual crating, the higher the cost. See moveBuddha's guide to best antique moving companies for specialists in this market.
What movers in Upper Darby offer art packing?
Art packing is available from 37 of 68 Upper Darby movers (54.41%). Litemovers.com, LLC (4.48/5) rates highest for art packing in Upper Darby.
| Art packing in Upper Darby | Details |
|---|---|
| Upper Darby movers offering this | 37 of 68 (54.41%) |
| Top-rated Upper Darby art movers | Litemovers.com, LLC, Stellar Movers LLC |
| Per-piece handling fee | $54 to $535 |
| Custom crating per item | $161 to $214 |
Cost scales with piece count and crating complexity. Framed canvases and sculptures require custom-built crates at $150 to $200 each. Confirm the mover has handled similar media before booking. See how to pack and move art for what to verify before signing.
What movers in Upper Darby offer climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is available from 18 of 68 Upper Darby movers (26.47%). Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) is Upper Darby's top-rated provider.
| Climate-controlled storage in Upper Darby | Details |
|---|---|
| Upper Darby movers offering this | 18 of 68 (26.47%) |
| Top-rated Upper Darby providers | Stellar Movers LLC, Ramsey's Moving System |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $275 |
Cost is driven by unit size and duration. Longer storage gaps and larger loads raise the monthly total. Climate control is most relevant for wood furniture, electronics, and vinyl; standard units can handle hardier items at lower cost. See moveBuddha's climate-controlled storage guide for a full cost and provider breakdown.
What movers in Upper Darby offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 13 of 68 Upper Darby movers (19.12%). Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in Upper Darby.
| Fragile-only packing in Upper Darby | Details |
|---|---|
| Upper Darby movers offering this | 13 of 68 (19.12%) |
| Top-rated Upper Darby providers | Stellar Movers LLC, Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport |
| 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 Upper Darby
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby 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: 46% of Upper Darby movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving is Upper Darby's top-rated labor-only provider.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Upper Darby apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in Upper Darby, PA
Not every Upper Darby move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Upper Darby, PA 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.
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Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in Upper Darby, PA 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.
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Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in Upper Darby, PA start with College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.7/5) and Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5), 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.
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Moving in Upper Darby, PA: what you need to know
An Upper Darby 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. Upper Darby residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with Pennsylvania DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Upper Darby 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. Upper Darby's summer highs reach 87°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.
Pennsylvania moving regulations and your rights
- Verify your mover is licensed: all Pennsylvania movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at Pennsylvania's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
- For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly.
- 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.
- In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
- 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: Pennsylvania Moving & Storage Associates sets professional standards for Pennsylvania movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.
Frequently asked questions: moving in Upper Darby, PA
How much do movers cost in Upper Darby, PA?
Local movers in Upper Darby, PA charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 3 Upper Darby movers, hourly rates range from $120/hour to $140/hour, with a median of $120/hour.
Key cost factors for a Upper Darby 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: 19% of Upper Darby movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: 37% of Upper Darby movers (25 companies) offer it. 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 Upper Darby across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 88% of Upper Darby movers (60 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 97% of Upper Darby movers (66 companies) offer full packing, and 63% supply packing materials. 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 Upper Darby include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in Upper Darby, PA 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 Upper Darby movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of Upper Darby movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 97% (66 companies) | +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average |
| Packing materials | 63% | Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking |
| Storage | 90% | ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$275/month |
| Full valuation coverage | 37% (25 companies) | 1%–2% of declared shipment value (~$300–$600 on a $30,000 shipment); default released-value protection pays only $0.60/lb |
| Crating (fragile/high-value items) | 68% (46 companies) | $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances) |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 46% (31 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 Upper Darby offer senior, military, or other discounts?
Upper Darby movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 17,106 verified customer reviews across Pennsylvania. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 Upper Darby mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Upper Darby movers are excluded. PA state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.
| Discount type | % of Upper Darby movers | # of movers | Upper Darby movers offering it | Data source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior | 3% | 2 | -- | Upper Darby |
| Military | 3% | 2 | -- | Upper Darby |
| AAA | 1% | 1 | -- | Upper Darby |
| Student | 1% | 1 | -- | Upper Darby |
Ask each mover whether the discount applies to your specific move date, what proof of eligibility is required, and whether it stacks with seasonal pricing or off-peak rates. Discounts are not automatically applied. Request them at the quote stage, before signing.
How far in advance should I book movers in Upper Darby?
Book Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby licensed and insured?
Pennsylvania requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the Pennsylvania 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 Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby?
Local Upper Darby moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Upper Darby-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 Upper Darby movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby
- 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 Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby?
The cheapest time to move in Upper Darby 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. Upper Darby's summer highs reach 87°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. Upper Darby's winter lows reach 26°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 Upper Darby's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews Upper Darby, PA moving companies
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 105 Pennsylvania 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 Upper Darby draw on 17,106 verified customer reviews across Pennsylvania: 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 Upper Darby's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from moveBuddha's #1-ranked Upper Darby movers →
How to move in Upper Darby: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Upper Darby, PA, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- Verify your mover's license and insurance. For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Verify a license.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Upper Darby 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.
- 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 Upper Darby street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Upper Darby 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 Upper Darby, PA
- Best overall: Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5), moveBuddha's #1-ranked Upper Darby mover.
- Best runner-up: College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.7/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.7/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: $120/hour median for a Upper Darby crew.
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.