Best Movers Near Philadelphia, PA (2026 Reviews)
Gentle Giant Moving Company is Philadelphia'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 Philadelphia, PA, covering 105 local Pennsylvania movers.
Local movers in Philadelphia on average charge $130/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
Why use moveBuddha for your Philadelphia, PA move
- moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Philadelphia mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
- Book a moveBuddha Certified Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, PA?
moveBuddha scored 68 Philadelphia movers drawing on 12,952 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 4.31/5. Rankings include movers based in Philadelphia and those serving the area from nearby locations.
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Keep It Moving, LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Stellar Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Superior Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- BR Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Flex Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Isaac's Moving and Storage Inc: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Show details Hide details
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 interstate moving and international 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."
Show details Hide details
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 office 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."
Show details Hide details
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 office moving and estate 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%."
Show details Hide details
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 interstate moving and office 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."
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. All My Sons Moving & Storage has been in business for 27 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. All My Sons Moving & Storage has about 47% positive reviews across roughly 410 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.2.
Quote accuracy 3.8
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from All My Sons Moving & Storage, and All My Sons Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All My Sons Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Thomas Daniel's and Taejon Moore were excellent movers! They were friendly and courteous. They were very respectful of our belongings and were more than helpful when we thought we lost an important item. Would definitely hire them again."
"Dylan Marino and Oscar portada are the best movers that we could have hired for the situation. They packed very quickly very efficiently we were in and out in record time and had everything moved."
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Superior Moving & Storage has been in business for 45 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Superior Moving & Storage has about 63% positive reviews across roughly 60 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Superior Moving & Storage.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Superior Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Hyim, Ryan and Howard were wonderful. They took care of my furniture like it was made out of porcelain. They were polite and on time. Moved everything in a flash!"
"Hard working, efficient and all around great. Would recommend them to anyone who needs a mover."
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.1
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. BR Moving has been in business for 16 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. BR Moving has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 187 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from BR Moving.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. BR Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The movers were so efficient and helpful, and moved my apartment so quickly and easily! Thank you for making everything so easy and efficient."
"I was extremely pleased with BR movers for my recent move. Everything from start to finish was excellent. The estimate they gave was accurate. The communication was smooth & crystal-clear. The day-of experience was the best I have ever had."
Show details Hide details
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 office 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!!"
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Flex Moving & Storage has been in business for 3 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like estate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Flex Moving & Storage has about 75% positive reviews across roughly 132 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.2.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Flex Moving & Storage. Discounts may be available for groups like military, seniors.
Customer service 3.8
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Flex Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"James and Mike C went above and beyond for my move, hauling items up four flights of stairs and being friendly and easy to communicate with."
"James C and Micheal were awesome in helping me move to my first apartment. Everything went smooth and they went above and beyond making sure everything was how I wanted it."
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Isaac's Moving and Storage Inc has been in business for 33 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 3.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Isaac's Moving and Storage Inc has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 219 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.2.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Isaac's Moving and Storage Inc.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Isaac's Moving and Storage Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The movers were prompt, professional, and handled my items with care. Absolutely zero damage! I highly recommend Isaac’s to anyone moving—couldn’t be happier with their service."
"Alex, Milton, David, and Rafael were warm, friendly, and packed/moved everything with extreme care. Worth every penny! This is our second move with Isaac’s—they are our go-to movers."
How do Philadelphia, PA moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 98% | A+ | |||
| 70% | F | |||
| 92% | A+ | |||
| 88% | NR | |||
| 47% | A | |||
| 63% | A+ | |||
| 88% | A+ | |||
| 95% | A+ | |||
| 75% | NR | |||
| 88% | A+ |
Proximity to Philadelphia 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.
Top-rated movers in nearby Pennsylvania cities
- Abington movers
- Adams movers
- Allentown movers
- Allison Park movers
- Altoona movers
- Amity movers
- Antrim movers
- Ardmore movers
- Aston movers
- Baldwin movers
- Bensalem movers
- Berwick movers
- Bethel Park movers
- Bethlehem movers
- Bloomsburg movers
- Bristol movers
- Broomall movers
- Buckingham movers
- Butler movers
- Caln movers
- Carlisle movers
- Carnot-Moon movers
- Cecil movers
- Center movers
- Chambersburg movers
- Cheltenham movers
- Chester movers
- Chestnuthill movers
- Coal movers
- Coatesville movers
- College movers
- Colonial Park movers
- Columbia movers
- Concord movers
- Coolbaugh movers
- Cranberry movers
- Cumru movers
- Darby movers
- Derry movers
- Dingman movers
- Douglass movers
- Dover movers
- Doylestown movers
- Drexel Hill movers
- Dunmore movers
- East Bradford movers
- East Cocalico movers
- East Goshen movers
- East Hempfield movers
- East Lampeter movers
- East Norriton movers
- East Pennsboro movers
- East Whiteland movers
- Easton movers
- Easttown movers
- Elizabethtown movers
- Emmaus movers
- Ephrata movers
- Erie movers
- Exeter movers
- Fairview movers
- Falls movers
- Ferguson movers
- Forks movers
- Franconia movers
- Franklin Park movers
- Fullerton movers
- Greene movers
- Greensburg movers
- Guilford movers
- Hamilton movers
- Hampden movers
- Hampton movers
- Hanover movers
- Harborcreek movers
- Harrisburg movers
- Harrison movers
- Hatfield movers
- Haverford movers
- Hazle movers
- Hazleton movers
- Hempfield movers
- Hermitage movers
- Hershey movers
- Hilltown movers
- Hopewell movers
- Horsham movers
- Indiana movers
- Jefferson Hills movers
- Johnstown movers
- King of Prussia movers
- Kingston movers
- Lancaster movers
- Lansdale movers
- Lansdowne movers
- Lebanon movers
- Lehigh movers
- Lehman movers
- Levittown movers
- Limerick movers
- Logan movers
- Lower Allen movers
- Lower Burrell movers
- Lower Gwynedd movers
- Lower Macungie movers
- Lower Makefield movers
- Lower Merion movers
- Lower Moreland movers
- Lower Paxton movers
- Lower Pottsgrove movers
- Lower Providence movers
- Lower Salford movers
- Lower Saucon movers
- Lower Southampton movers
- Loyalsock movers
- Manor movers
- Marple movers
- McCandless movers
- McKeesport movers
- Meadville movers
- Middle Smithfield movers
- Middletown movers
- Milford movers
- Millcreek movers
- Monroeville movers
- Montgomery movers
- Montgomeryville movers
- Moon movers
- Mount Lebanon movers
- Mountain Top movers
- Muhlenberg movers
- Munhall movers
- Murrysville movers
- Nanticoke movers
- Nether Providence movers
- New Britain movers
- New Castle movers
- New Garden movers
- New Hanover movers
- New Kensington movers
- Newberry movers
- Newtown movers
- Norristown movers
- North Fayette movers
- North Huntingdon movers
- North Lebanon movers
- North Middleton movers
- North Strabane movers
- North Union movers
- North Versailles movers
- North Whitehall movers
- Northampton movers
- Palmer movers
- Patton movers
- Penn movers
- Penn Hills movers
- Peters movers
- Phoenixville movers
- Pine movers
- Pittsburgh movers
- Plum movers
- Plumstead movers
- Plymouth movers
- Pocono movers
- Pottstown movers
- Pottsville movers
- Progress movers
- Radnor movers
- Rapho movers
- Reading movers
- Richland movers
- Ridley movers
- Robinson movers
- Roslyn movers
- Ross movers
- Rostraver movers
- Salisbury movers
- Sandy movers
- Scott movers
- Scranton movers
- Shaler movers
- Sharon movers
- Shiloh movers
- Silver Spring movers
- Skippack movers
- South Fayette movers
- South Lebanon movers
- South Middleton movers
- South Park movers
- South Union movers
- South Whitehall movers
- Spring movers
- Spring Garden movers
- Springettsbury movers
- Springfield movers
- St. Marys movers
- State College movers
- Stroud movers
- Susquehanna movers
- Swatara movers
- Towamencin movers
- Tredyffrin movers
- Unity movers
- Upper Allen movers
- Upper Chichester movers
- Upper Darby movers
- Upper Dublin movers
- Upper Gwynedd movers
- Upper Macungie movers
- Upper Merion movers
- Upper Moreland movers
- Upper Providence movers
- Upper Saucon movers
- Upper Southampton movers
- Upper St. Clair movers
- Upper Uwchlan movers
- Uwchlan movers
- Warminster movers
- Warrington movers
- Warwick movers
- Washington movers
- Waynesboro movers
- Weigelstown movers
- West Bradford movers
- West Chester movers
- West Deer movers
- West Goshen movers
- West Hanover movers
- West Hempfield movers
- West Lampeter movers
- West Manchester movers
- West Mifflin movers
- West Norriton movers
- West Whiteland movers
- Westtown movers
- White movers
- Whitehall movers
- Whitemarsh movers
- Whitpain movers
- Wilkes-Barre movers
- Wilkinsburg movers
- Williamsport movers
- Willistown movers
- Willow Grove movers
- Woodlyn movers
- Worcester movers
- Wyomissing movers
- Yeadon movers
- York movers
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 Philadelphia, PA
Local movers in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, PA for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
|
|
|
|
How much do movers cost in Philadelphia, PA?
Local movers in Philadelphia charge $130/hour on average for a 2-person crew, compared to the Pennsylvania average of $128/hour. The actual cost depends on home size, hours on the clock, and any add-on services.
| Home size | Estimated local move cost in Philadelphia |
|---|---|
| Studio | $312 – $520 |
| 1 bedroom | $416 – $728 |
| 2 bedrooms | $624 – $1,040 |
| 3 bedrooms | $936 – $1,560 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,248 – $2,288 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Philadelphia's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare Philadelphia mover prices? See our full guide on Philadelphia, PA mover costs →
Which Philadelphia, PA movers offer specialty services?
Specialty moving services are not standard across every Philadelphia mover. Based on moveBuddha's review of 68 Philadelphia moving companies, here is what is available, how common each service is in this market, and which movers lead each category:
- Piano moving: 52 of 68 Philadelphia movers (76.47%) offer it. Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5) is Philadelphia's top-rated piano mover.
- Antique handling: 41 of 68 Philadelphia movers (60.29%) offer it. Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5) rates highest for antique care in Philadelphia.
- Art packing: 37 of 68 Philadelphia movers (54.41%) offer it. Transtar Moving Systems (4.52/5) rates highest for art packing in Philadelphia.
- Climate-controlled storage: 18 of 68 Philadelphia movers (26.47%) offer it. Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) is Philadelphia's top-rated provider.
- Fragile-only packing: 13 of 68 Philadelphia movers (19.12%) offer it. Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in Philadelphia.
What movers in Philadelphia offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 52 of 68 Philadelphia movers (76.47%). Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5) is Philadelphia's top-rated piano mover.
| Piano moving in Philadelphia | Details |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia movers offering this | 52 of 68 (76.47%) |
| Top-rated Philadelphia piano movers | Gentle Giant Moving Company, Transtar Moving Systems |
| Upright piano | $832 to $1,560 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,248 to $2,600 |
| Grand piano | $1,872 to $3,640 |
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 Philadelphia offer antique handling?
Antique handling is available from 41 of 68 Philadelphia movers (60.29%). Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5) rates highest for antique care in Philadelphia.
| Antique handling in Philadelphia | Details |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia movers offering this | 41 of 68 (60.29%) |
| Top-rated Philadelphia antique movers | Keep It Moving, LLC, Transtar Moving Systems |
| Added cost to a household move | $1,040 to $2,600 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $52 to $520 |
| Custom crating per item | $156 to $208 |
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 Philadelphia offer art packing?
Art packing is available from 37 of 68 Philadelphia movers (54.41%). Transtar Moving Systems (4.52/5) rates highest for art packing in Philadelphia.
| Art packing in Philadelphia | Details |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia movers offering this | 37 of 68 (54.41%) |
| Top-rated Philadelphia art movers | Transtar Moving Systems, Stellar Movers LLC |
| Per-piece handling fee | $52 to $520 |
| Custom crating per item | $156 to $208 |
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 Philadelphia offer climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is available from 18 of 68 Philadelphia movers (26.47%). Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) is Philadelphia's top-rated provider.
| Climate-controlled storage in Philadelphia | Details |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia movers offering this | 18 of 68 (26.47%) |
| Top-rated Philadelphia providers | Stellar Movers LLC, All My Sons Moving & Storage |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $267 |
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 Philadelphia offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 13 of 68 Philadelphia movers (19.12%). Stellar Movers LLC (4.42/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in Philadelphia.
| Fragile-only packing in Philadelphia | Details |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia movers offering this | 13 of 68 (19.12%) |
| Top-rated Philadelphia providers | Stellar Movers LLC, BR Moving |
| 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 Philadelphia
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Keep It Moving, LLC is Philadelphia's top-rated labor-only provider.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Philadelphia apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in Philadelphia, PA
Not every Philadelphia move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Philadelphia, 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.
|
|
|
|
Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in Philadelphia, 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.
|
|
|
|
Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in Philadelphia, PA start with Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5) and Transtar Moving Systems (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.
|
|
|
|
Moving in Philadelphia, PA: what you need to know
A Philadelphia 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. Philadelphia residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with Pennsylvania DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Parking and permits: Moving Truck = $50.00 (Center City and University City) and $25.00 (All other areas), per 40 feet of space, per day (40 feet of space is the equivalent of two (2) parking spaces) Moving/Portable Storage Container = $50.00, per container (maximum of 5 calendar days). Temporary Dumpster = $40.00, per dumpster (maximum of 7 calendar days).
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Philadelphia 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. Philadelphia'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 Philadelphia, PA
How much do movers cost in Philadelphia, PA?
Local movers in Philadelphia, PA charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 3 Philadelphia movers, hourly rates range from $120/hour to $140/hour, with a median of $120/hour.
Key cost factors for a Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: 37% of Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 88% of Philadelphia movers (60 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 97% of Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of Philadelphia 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 ~$267/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 Philadelphia offer senior, military, or other discounts?
Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Philadelphia movers are excluded. PA state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.
| Discount type | % of Philadelphia movers | # of movers | Philadelphia movers offering it | Data source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior | 3% | 2 | Flex Moving & Storage | Philadelphia |
| Military | 3% | 2 | Flex Moving & Storage | Philadelphia |
| AAA | 1% | 1 | -- | Philadelphia |
| Student | 1% | 1 | -- | Philadelphia |
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 Philadelphia?
Book Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
Local Philadelphia moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Philadelphia-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 Philadelphia movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia
- 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
The cheapest time to move in Philadelphia 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. Philadelphia'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. Philadelphia'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 Philadelphia's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from moveBuddha's #1-ranked Philadelphia movers →
How to move in Philadelphia: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, PA
- Best overall: Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5), moveBuddha's #1-ranked Philadelphia mover.
- Best runner-up: Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): Gentle Giant Moving Company (4.52/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: Keep It Moving, LLC (4.52/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: $130/hour for a Philadelphia moving 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.