The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Albany, NY

Quick answer: After comparing prices, services, quality ratings, and customer satisfaction, we recommend Safeway Moving as the top long-distance moving company in Albany, NY. Safeway Moving provides the best overall value, thanks to its balance of stellar service and reasonable rates.

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We know that every move is different. Jump to a mover that fits your unique needs:
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best long-distance movers in Albany for those moving out of state

If you’re moving out of New York, here are our top picks for best interstate moving companies in Albany:

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 825-0554
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
(866) 825-0554
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
(866) 935-3437
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Best long-distance movers in Albany for those staying in state

Even if you’re just relocating from Albany to another New York city, your move could still be a couple hundred miles or more. In that case, you’ll want to hire one of the top long-distance movers.

Here are the best long-distance moving companies that are located within Albany:

  1. Mabey's Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Clark Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Don's Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Schaap Moving Systems Inc: 4.04 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/mabeys/, https://twitter.com/mabeysmoving?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (28%)
  • Professional and polite staff (26%)
  • Careful handling (24%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (21%)
  • Unexpected charges (19%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (18%)
Review Analysis
Mabey's Moving & Storage stands out with an impressive 92.5% positive feedback from 254 reviews, setting a high bar for moving companies. Customers consistently describe the staff as professional, respectful, and attentive, praising the team's careful handling of belongings and efficient work ethic. Many highlight smooth communication, quick processes from booking to move day, and successful management of complex or long-distance moves. Most clients recommend Mabey's without hesitation, citing reliable estimates and stress-free experiences as major strengths. Negative input, making up about 7% of feedback, points to issues like damaged items, discrepancies in final costs versus estimates, and communication shortfalls in rare cases. Complaints sometimes reference insurance limitations or mishandling claims. A single neutral review notes both prompt reimbursements and delays during delivery. Compared to typical industry standards, Mabey’s earns stronger praise for care, politeness, and problem resolution, though accurate cost estimation remains an area for improvement. The company's reputation for professionalism and reliability is consistently reinforced by customer input.
Get a Quote (518) 283-0017

Company Info

State license #: 623

Years in Business: 66

DOT #: 125550


Mabey's Moving & Storage has been serving the Rensselaer, NY area with local residential moving services since 1958, establishing a solid reputation in the community. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an average Google rating of 4.8 from 325 reviews, they stand out among nearby movers for their reliability and customer satisfaction. Beyond local moves, they offer comprehensive services, including packing and unpacking, without requiring a deposit upfront, making the moving process seamless for their clients. Though their Yelp reviews are more mixed, their long-standing presence and high customer ratings make them a trusted choice for local relocations.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/clarkmovingandstorage/, https://twitter.com/clarkmovinginc?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Efficient service (25%)
  • Careful handling (22%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
  • Lack of communication (16%)
Review Analysis
Clark Moving & Storage stands out for delivering reliable results and excellent service, supported by feedback from 81 reviews with over 81% positive ratings. Customers consistently praise their professional and polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, and quick moving process. Many highly recommend the company for making stressful moves feel smooth and straightforward. Numerous reviewers note clear communication, organized packing, and affordable pricing compared to other moving companies. Some even highlight the movers’ thorough preparation and respect for customers’ belongings. On the downside, less than one in five reviewers cite problems such as damaged items, unexpected charges, or lack of communication. Negative input describes instances where items were broken or missing, or costs changed without warning. By comparison, Clark Moving & Storage regularly delivers a higher level of care and professionalism than most moving companies in the region, though a few dissatisfied customers experienced avoidable setbacks. Clark is a strong option for quality moving services, with overwhelmingly positive feedback and only minor recurring problems.
Get a Quote (518) 370-4100

Company Info

State license #: 37553

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Clark Moving and Storage, Clark Moving and Storage of Albany


Clark Moving & Storage has been serving Schenectady, NY, and surrounding areas with local residential moving services since 1994. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer a wide range of services, including packing and unpacking, as well as office moving. They stand out with their no-deposit-required policy and acceptance of credit cards, making the process easier for customers. While consumer reviews on Yelp indicate room for improvement with an average rating of 2.4, their Google My Business profile tells a more favorable story with a 4.3 average rating, and their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau underscores their commitment to quality and reliability.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/DonsMovers/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (35%)
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
  • Damage to items (18%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (15%)
Review Analysis
Don's Moving & Storage scores high marks from customers, with nearly 95% of input expressing satisfaction. Clients single out the team's efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of items, quick moves, and a positive, friendly staff as defining traits. Movers consistently offer supportive care during stressful transitions and make a point of being courteous and respectful. Negative feedback, in contrast, centers largely on unexpected or high final costs, occasional damage to items, and rare instances of unprofessional or dismissive behavior. Communication around pricing and damage claims draws the most frequent complaints. Compared to competitors, Don’s stands out for reliability, speed, and a personable touch, though clients recommend clarifying terms in advance for the smoothest results. With over 250 positive reviews, most customers consider Don’s a top choice for moving in the region.
Get a Quote (518) 492-1041

Company Info

State license #: 1462

Years in Business: 73

DOT #: 134890


Don's Moving & Storage, a trusted name in Albany, NY, has been providing local residential moving services since 1951. Renowned for its outstanding customer satisfaction, Don's boasts an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and an impressive 4.8 on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other nearby movers, Don's also offers specialized services, including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them a versatile choice for various moving needs. With decades of experience and a stellar reputation, Don's Moving & Storage stands out as a reliable and comprehensive option for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/ArnoffMoving/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (34%)
  • Professional and polite staff (29%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (38%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (30%)
  • Lack of communication (25%)
Review Analysis
Arnoff Moving & Storage stands out for its consistently professional, courteous staff, efficient moving teams, and excellent care in handling belongings—earning praise in nearly two-thirds of the 238 customer feedback items reviewed. Customers frequently commend their strong communication, punctual crews, and smooth, quick-moving experiences. People highlight Arnoff’s attention to detail, competitive pricing, and a willingness to answer questions or resolve logistical challenges, often noting how their movers made stressful moves less overwhelming. Yet, nearly one in three customers report serious complaints, with the chief frustrations being damaged or lost items, lengthy delivery delays, and poor follow-up when problems arise. Reports include mishandling of valuable furniture, missed scheduling windows, and a lack of responsiveness from support staff. A few critics point to problems with insurance claims for damage or missing property, suggesting performance can be inconsistent, especially for large or high-value moves. Compared to similar moving companies, Arnoff generally exceeds expectations for professionalism and efficiency, but the risk of communication breakdowns and damaged goods appears higher than average. Prospective customers seeking attentive and careful handling will likely be pleased, but those with complex, valuable shipments should confirm all details ahead and document any special requirements.
Get a Quote (518) 463-5525

Company Info

State license #: 35196

Years in Business: 99

DOT #: 1566123

Alternate Names: Arnoff Moving & Storage (poughkeepsie, Ny)


Arnoff Moving & Storage has been serving the Malta, NY area with local residential moving services since 1985, making them a long-standing player in the local moving market. They also offer a range of specialized services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and storage options, and can handle delicate items such as pianos, antiques, and art. While their Yelp reviews average a 2.2 rating and Google reviews sit at 3.4, they hold a strong A rating with the Better Business Bureau, suggesting a mixed but generally positive reputation. Compared to other local movers, Arnoff offers comprehensive service options and has a wealth of experience, although their customer reviews are varied.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Local-Business/Schaap-Moving-Systems-Inc-1541830379271476/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (31%)
  • Professional and polite staff (27%)
  • Good communication (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (27%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (25%)
  • Lack of communication (22%)
Review Analysis
Schaap Moving Systems Inc stands out for delivering efficient service with professional, polite staff and careful handling. Most people praised their quick moves, strong communication, and attention to detail. Flexible scheduling and transparent quoting helped ease stressful moves. Input highlighted responsive coordination, organized packing, and respectful treatment of possessions. While 77% of feedback is positive, 21% describes serious communication breakdowns, inaccurate estimates, delayed deliveries, and unresolved claims—especially regarding damaged items or lack of follow-up. Negative experiences show frustration when issues arise and customer support doesn't respond promptly. Compared to similar moving companies, Schaap impresses with speed, professionalism, and care—yet complaints make clear that reliable customer support and clearer estimates would improve trust and satisfaction.
Get a Quote (518) 459-2220

Company Info

State license #: 294

Years in Business: 102

DOT #: 31675

Alternate Names: Go Minis


Schaap Moving Systems Inc has been a cornerstone in the Colonie, NY community, offering reliable local residential moving services since 1923. Unlike many nearby competitors, Schaap Moving Systems also provides specialized services such as packing, unpacking, and the careful handling of fragile items, pianos, art, and antiques. Despite mixed consumer reviews, with an average rating of 1.8 on Yelp, the company holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a strong commitment to customer service and trustworthiness. For those seeking a versatile and historically reputable local moving company, Schaap Moving Systems Inc stands out as a solid choice.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Best long-distance movers in Albany for small moves

Many full-service moving companies have a 3,000-pound minimum requirement and may not be able to help you if you are moving a college dorm or studio apartment — or have decided to just take a few items with you.

In that case, you might be better off going with a long-distance company in Albany that specializes in small moves.

Here are our top suggestions:

Best for Small Moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • No minimum size
  • Top-quality materials
  • Full-service packing
read our full review
Check prices Check prices
best for small moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Check prices 800-626-1257
At A Glance
  • Specializes in small moves
  • Guaranteed delivery date
  • Online chatbot and resources for a seamless move
  • Car shipping services
  • Gives back with charitable donations
read our full review
Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Albany

A moving container can be a great solution if you want to save a little money on your move from Albany to another New York city or out of state. While you will have to handle the heavy lifting, you can load and unload containers at your preferred pace over several days or more. And the container company will still handle the driving for you.

Container costs vary depending on the distance of your move and the size and number of your containers, so it’s good to get multiple moving quotes to compare pricing for your specific relocation.

You can start with these two companies:

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices
Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
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Labor-only moving companies in Albany

If you don’t mind driving from Albany but want some helping hands in terms of loading and unloading, look into labor-only moving companies.

Here’s who we suggest:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Rental trucks in Albany for a total DIY long-distance move

While you’ll save some money with the two alternatives above, the cheapest way to move out of state is by handling all aspects — the heavy lifting and the driving — yourself. On average, a full DIY move from Albany costs $19–$39 a day for a truck rental, plus a per-mile fee of $0.69–$0.99.

Using moving rental trucks definitely requires the most work, but if budget is your biggest concern, check out these options:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Albany, NYtoggle

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best moving companies.

We look at:

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company is well regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
  • Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, expedited delivery, and more.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of long-distance movers in Albany

The average cost for professional movers in Albany is $115 per hour, but even the best interstate moving companies need more information about the distance and size of your move to give you a moving quote.

Factors that affect the cost of moving from Albany

  1. How far you’re moving: Distance is the most impactful cost factor. Naturally, the farther you are moving, the more it will cost. Relocating a couple hundred miles from Albany to another New York city will not be as expensive as a cross-country move.
  2. The moving option you choose: Your costs will vary significantly depending on whether you choose a full-service mover, a moving container, or a rental truck. Every move is different, so balance your needs and your budget when deciding on the best relocation method.
  3. The amount of belongings you have: Movers determine cost by the total estimated weight of your household items and furnishings, so be sure to itemize your belongings to get the most accurate quote. You may also want to consider downsizing before moving out of Albany to reduce your moving expenses.
  4. Any add-on services you choose: Additional services like third-party labor assistance or packing and unpacking help are convenient, but they will also contribute to your total moving costs.
  5. When you move: The time of the year, month, and even week can all affect what you pay. Summer moves are typically more expensive because they are the busiest season for movers. Moving between October and April can be more cost-effective. Mid-month and mid-week moves are also cheaper, since most people tend to move on the weekends around the start or end of the month.

To give you an accurate estimate, we’ve created a moving cost calculator to help you get a good idea of your long-distance move cost. Plus, we’ve put together a detailed post all about moving costs in Albany.

FAQs

What else should I know about moving out of New York?toggle

A moving company helping you move out of New York must be properly licensed and have a U.S. Department of Transportation number. Of course, all of the Albany movers we’ve included on this list have everything in order but you can check for yourself on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

If you’re moving from one state to another, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move document from the FMCSA.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving out of Albany?toggle

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Albany is going to be the most cost-effective approach. If you’re moving out of New York, using a national moving company comes with more experience, which may cost a bit more.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Albany?toggle

Moving companies in Albany are usually slower in November and December due to the average winter low of 15°F, the holidays and kids being in school, so you can negotiate with a mover more during those months and save some money.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Albany?toggle

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Albany. The cheapest options for moving out of the Smallbany are usually renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. We’ve also got a helpful guide if you’re looking for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

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