Best Movers Near Manhattan, NY (2026 Reviews)

Zip to Zip Moving Inc is Manhattan's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.72/5 stars. Rankings are based on 57,428 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Manhattan, NY, covering 165 local Manhattan movers.

Local movers in Manhattan are priced hourly. The New York average is $131/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.

Why use moveBuddha for your Manhattan, NY move

  • moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Manhattan mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
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 Moving in Manhattan, NY right now: Peak summer moving season is here. The 4th of July is one of the busiest moving weekends of the year. Prices spike and availability drops sharply around the holiday. If your Manhattan move is scheduled near that window, you should already have a mover locked in. If not, move quickly.

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

moveBuddha scored 165 Manhattan movers drawing on 57,428 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 4.37/5. Rankings include movers based in Manhattan and those serving the area from nearby locations.

  1. Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  4. Seka Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  6. White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  7. Imperial Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  8. NYC Great Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  9. Liberty Moving & Storage Co., Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  10. Shleppers Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
1
checkmark Efficient service
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checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Helpful movers
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
98%
Years active
7
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moveBuddha logo
4.7
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Google logo
5.0
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Yelp logo
4.7
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BBB logo
Grade A-
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Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Safe moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Zip to Zip Moving Inc has been in business for 7 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Zip to Zip Moving Inc has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 744 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.

Quote accuracy 4.0

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Zip to Zip Moving Inc, and Zip to Zip Moving Inc makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Zip to Zip Moving Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Moving made easy! The team was fantastic, very communicative, and worked so quickly. Nothing was damaged, and they built everything for us in our new space. Everything was done in less than 4 hours."

"George and Mike did wonderful work, they were efficient and professional! They worked quickly and were very pleasant to work with. I will recommend them to anyone looking for a good moving company!"

DOT number
2969363
Address
218 Withers St Apt. 1A, Brooklyn, NY, 11211
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card • Money Order
State license
9229
2
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Highly recommended
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
95%
Years active
46
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
5.0
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Yelp logo
3.8
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Safe moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full valuation coverage
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc. has been in business for 46 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like international moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc. has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 298 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.8.

Quote accuracy 4.2

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc..

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

"I recently had the pleasure of engaging Big Apple Movers for my relocation. Their team demonstrated professionalism and care, turning a stressful move into a seamless one. I wholeheartedly recommend Big Apple Movers!"

"David's crew was absolutely GREAT!!! They arrived on time prepared to work. They wrapped the furniture and protected it appropriately. I am truly happy at how fast they worked to remove all my furniture. Thank you Big Apple Moving!"

DOT number
382368
Address
750 Lexington Ave, New York, NY, 10022
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
382368
3
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Transparent pricing
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
47%
Years active
19
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
4.8
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Yelp logo
3.1
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Safe moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Dumbo Moving and Storage has been in business for 19 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like international moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.6

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Dumbo Moving and Storage has about 47% positive reviews across roughly 149 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 instant email quotes from Dumbo Moving and Storage, and Dumbo Moving and Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Dumbo Moving and Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Crew 121 was great - they were on time and finished quickly. They took care in transporting my belongings!"

"Recently booked Dumbo Moving & Storage for me and my sisters move and had a great experience with the team, specially Nick from Truck 55 - these guys were very nice, professional, and quick. They made sure all of our furniture items were properly secured for the move. We had quite a few items and they unloaded and loaded everything under 4 hours. I’d highly recommend them!"

DOT number
1543241
Address
2001 42nd St, North Bergen, NJ, 07047
Payment methods
Credit Card
4
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
85%
Years active
7
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
5.0
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Yelp logo
4.2
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Grandfather clock moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Seka Moving has been in business for 7 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and labor-only moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Seka Moving has about 85% positive reviews across roughly 495 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.

Quote accuracy 4.0

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Seka Moving, and Seka Moving makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Seka Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Movers were prompt, efficient, and took great care of our things. Everything arrived without a scratch, and they were friendly throughout. Price was exactly as quoted. Would highly recommend SEKA to anyone looking for reliable movers!"

"Showed up right on time, worked quickly and carefully, and wrapped all furniture very well. Provided free wardrobes and didn't add any surprise charges. Would definitely use again."

DOT number
3014539
Address
48 Wall St #1100, New York, NY, 10005
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card • Money Order
State license
40118
5
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
95%
Years active
8
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
link icon
Google logo
4.8
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Yelp logo
4.6
link icon
BBB logo
Grade B
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage has been in business for 8 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 8977 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.

Quote accuracy 4.0

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Piece of Cake Moving & Storage, and Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"My movers were perfect from start to finish. Fast and efficient and very friendly! I would recommend them to anyone trying to move"

"Just moved from NJ to Philadelphia. The move went so smoothly! The movers that were helping me were kind, efficient, and careful with all of my items."

DOT number
3066988
Address
287 Park Avenue South, New York, NY, 10010
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
40244
6
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
90%
Years active
30
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moveBuddha logo
4.7
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Google logo
4.7
link icon
Yelp logo
4.4
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Grandfather clock moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Crane/hoisting vans
  • Debris removal
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Full valuation coverage
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. White Glove Moving & Storage has been in business for 30 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and international moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. White Glove Moving & Storage has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 741 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.4.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from White Glove Moving & Storage.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. White Glove Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Stone and his crew took extra care with our belongings, arrived early, and worked efficiently. Nothing was damaged in either house. We recommend White Glove for any move!"

"Professional, friendly, and super speedy. They kept in touch before arrival, wrapped all our furniture, and placed everything exactly where we wanted. Worth every penny for such great movers."

DOT number
648262
Address
235 W 1st St, Bayonne, NJ, 07002
Payment methods
Credit Card
7
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Helpful movers
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
62%
Years active
21
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
link icon
Google logo
4.4
link icon
Yelp logo
2.7
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Hot tub moving
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Imperial Moving and Storage has been in business for 21 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. Imperial Moving and Storage has about 62% positive reviews across roughly 695 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.7.

Quote accuracy 4.2

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Imperial Moving and Storage.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Imperial Moving and Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

"Best moving experience ever and I am 65 years old. Javier and his team were amazing. Very efficient and very careful with everything. Extremely helpful packing the miscellaneous loose items. Price was better than two other movers."

"Doctor and his team were professional, courteous, efficient, friendly, and overall took great care in handling our things. They finished our 4 bedroom / 3 story walk-up move in a little over 3 hours."

DOT number
1422485
Address
83 Washington Pl, New York, NY, 10011
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
32647
8
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
95%
Years active
14
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.7
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Piano moves
  • Junk removal
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. NYC Great Movers has been in business for 14 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. NYC Great Movers has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 221 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.

Quote accuracy 4.2

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from NYC Great Movers.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. NYC Great Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

"Amazing, professional service. My third time with them and would definitely book again. Company was responsive to all my questions, movers were quick and careful. All my stuff was transported and arrived safely with no damages or losses."

"I’ve used NYC Great Movers for two moves within Brooklyn, and both experiences were great. Communicative, friendly, and fast. No damage to my belongings or buildings."

DOT number
2180117
Address
58 2nd Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11215
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
39493
9
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Quick moving process
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
82%
Years active
88
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.7
link icon
Yelp logo
3.5
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Grandfather clock moving
  • Piano moves
  • Pool table moving
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full valuation coverage
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Liberty Moving & Storage Co., Inc. has been in business for 88 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. Liberty Moving & Storage Co., Inc. has about 82% positive reviews across roughly 162 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.5.

Quote accuracy 4.1

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

Customer service 5.0

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

Recent reviews

"The movers were professional and very efficient throughout the whole process. Liberty was able to have an exact delivery date for us, which was very important. Our furniture was handled carefully and wrapped in padded blankets."

"I highly recommend them and I would use them again and again. They showed up prepared, took great care of all my belongings, were very professional and worked within my budget. 10/10 customer service!"

DOT number
325439
Address
216 E 45th St Ste 902, New York, NY, 10017
Payment methods
Credit Card
10
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Professional and polite staff
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
80%
Years active
47
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
4.4
link icon
Yelp logo
2.3
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Shleppers Moving & Storage has been in business for 47 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.6

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Shleppers Moving & Storage has about 80% positive reviews across roughly 258 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.3.

Quote accuracy 3.9

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

Customer service 5.0

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

Recent reviews

"They arrived on time, were professional, courteous, and efficient. They wrapped my fragile items, packed the moving truck efficiently, and unpacked with care. I’d recommend them to anyone needing a professional mover."

"Shleppers Moving Company was amazing from start to finish! Movers were helpful and friendly, handling everything with care and efficiency. Communication was excellent, keeping me updated every step of the way. Highly recommend for a smooth moving experience."

DOT number
1611225
Address
434 East 165th Street, Bronx, NY, 10456
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
37133

How do Manhattan, NY moving companies compare?

Company Our rating Positive reviews BBB Quote
Zip to Zip Moving Inc
7 years in business
star star star star star
4.72
98% A-
star star star star star
4.62
95% A+
Dumbo Moving and Storage
19 years in business
star star star star star
4.64
47% A+
Seka Moving
7 years in business
star star star star star
4.66
85% A+
star star star star star
4.62
95% B
White Glove Moving & Storage
30 years in business
star star star star star
4.76
90% A+
Imperial Moving and Storage
21 years in business
star star star star star
4.62
62% A+
NYC Great Movers
14 years in business
star star star star star
4.66
95% A+
star star star star star
4.56
82% A+
Shleppers Moving & Storage
47 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
80% A+

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

Top-rated movers in nearby New York cities

Popular moving routes from Manhattan, NY

Local movers in Manhattan are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-87, I-90, 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 Manhattan, NY for route-specific recommendations and pricing.

Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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  • Certified crews
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  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
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  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

How much do movers cost in Manhattan, NY?

Local movers in Manhattan are priced hourly. The New York average is $131/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.

Home size Estimated local move cost in Manhattan
Studio $300 – $500
1 bedroom $400 – $700
2 bedrooms $600 – $1,000
3 bedrooms $900 – $1,500
4+ bedrooms $1,200 – $2,200

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

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

Which Manhattan, NY movers offer specialty services?

Specialty moving services are not standard across every Manhattan mover. Based on moveBuddha's review of 165 Manhattan moving companies, here is what is available, how common each service is in this market, and which movers lead each category:

  • Piano moving: 143 of 165 Manhattan movers (86.67%) offer it. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) is Manhattan's top-rated piano mover.
  • Antique handling: 116 of 165 Manhattan movers (70.3%) offer it. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for antique care in Manhattan.
  • Art packing: 123 of 165 Manhattan movers (74.55%) offer it. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for art packing in Manhattan.
  • Climate-controlled storage: 69 of 165 Manhattan movers (41.82%) offer it. Dumbo Moving and Storage (4.64/5) is Manhattan's top-rated provider.
  • Fragile-only packing: 35 of 165 Manhattan movers (21.21%) offer it. Dumbo Moving and Storage (4.64/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in Manhattan.

What movers in Manhattan offer piano moving?

Piano moving is available from 143 of 165 Manhattan movers (86.67%). Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) is Manhattan's top-rated piano mover.

Piano moving in Manhattan Details
Manhattan movers offering this 143 of 165 (86.67%)
Top-rated Manhattan piano movers Zip to Zip Moving Inc, Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc.
Upright piano $800 to $1,500
Baby grand piano $1,200 to $2,500
Grand piano $1,800 to $3,500

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

What movers in Manhattan offer antique handling?

Antique handling is available from 116 of 165 Manhattan movers (70.3%). Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for antique care in Manhattan.

Antique handling in Manhattan Details
Manhattan movers offering this 116 of 165 (70.3%)
Top-rated Manhattan antique movers Zip to Zip Moving Inc, Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc.
Added cost to a household move $1,000 to $2,500
Per-piece handling fee $50 to $500
Custom crating per item $150 to $200

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 Manhattan offer art packing?

Art packing is available from 123 of 165 Manhattan movers (74.55%). Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for art packing in Manhattan.

Art packing in Manhattan Details
Manhattan movers offering this 123 of 165 (74.55%)
Top-rated Manhattan art movers Zip to Zip Moving Inc, Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc.
Per-piece handling fee $50 to $500
Custom crating per item $150 to $200

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 Manhattan offer climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled storage is available from 69 of 165 Manhattan movers (41.82%). Dumbo Moving and Storage (4.64/5) is Manhattan's top-rated provider.

Climate-controlled storage in Manhattan Details
Manhattan movers offering this 69 of 165 (41.82%)
Top-rated Manhattan providers Dumbo Moving and Storage, Piece of Cake Moving & Storage
Storage-in-transit rate About $0.50 per cubic foot per month
1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) $257

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 Manhattan offer fragile-only packing?

Fragile-only packing is available from 35 of 165 Manhattan movers (21.21%). Dumbo Moving and Storage (4.64/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in Manhattan.

Fragile-only packing in Manhattan Details
Manhattan movers offering this 35 of 165 (21.21%)
Top-rated Manhattan providers Dumbo Moving and Storage, Seka 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 Manhattan

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

  • Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Manhattan apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
  • Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
  • Labor-only movers: 38% of Manhattan movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Zip to Zip Moving Inc is Manhattan's top-rated labor-only provider.

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

DIY moving options in Manhattan, NY

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

Rental trucks

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

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

Moving containers

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

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

Labor-only movers + rented truck

The best labor-only movers in Manhattan, NY start with Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) and Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc. (4.62/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.72 / 5
  • 98% positive reviews
  • BBB: A-
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.62 / 5
  • 95% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.64 / 5
  • 47% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+

Moving in Manhattan, NY: what you need to know

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

Before move day

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

Timing your move

  • Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. 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.

New York moving regulations and your rights

  • Verify your mover is licensed: all New York movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at New York's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
  • New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state's safety, insurance, and operational regulations.
  • 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.
  • Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They're responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • 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: New York State Movers & Warehousemen’s Association sets professional standards for New York movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.

Frequently asked questions: moving in Manhattan, NY

How much do movers cost in Manhattan, NY?

Local movers in Manhattan, NY charge by the hour. The New York average is $131/hour for a 2-person crew.

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

  • Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
  • Deposit requirement: 25% of Manhattan movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: 53% of Manhattan movers (88 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 Manhattan across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 91% of Manhattan movers (150 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: 98% of Manhattan movers (162 companies) offer full packing, and 36% 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 Manhattan include, and what costs extra?

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

Add-on service % of Manhattan movers Typical cost impact
Full packing 98% (162 companies) +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average
Packing materials 36% Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking
Storage 93% ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$257/month
Full valuation coverage 53% (88 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) 78% (129 companies) $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances)
Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) 38% (62 companies) Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge
Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) Situational $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200

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

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

Manhattan movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 46,251 verified customer reviews across New York. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 Manhattan mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Manhattan movers are excluded. NY state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.

Discount type % of Manhattan movers # of movers Manhattan movers offering it Data source
Senior 6% 10 -- Manhattan
Military 5% 9 -- Manhattan
AAA 1% 2 -- Manhattan
Student 2% 3 -- Manhattan
Law enforcement 1% 1 -- Manhattan

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 Manhattan?

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

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

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

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

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

Are movers in Manhattan licensed and insured?

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

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

How long does a local move take in Manhattan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peak season runs May through September. Manhattan's summer highs reach 85°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.

Winter moves are the most affordable but require contingency planning. Manhattan's winter lows reach 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 Manhattan's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How moveBuddha selects and reviews Manhattan, NY moving companies

moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 146 New York moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Rankings for Manhattan draw on 46,251 verified customer reviews across New York: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  1. Verify your mover's license and insurance. New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state's safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Verify a license.
  2. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Manhattan building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
  3. Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Manhattan street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
  4. Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Manhattan movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.

The final verdict: moving in Manhattan, NY

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.