Best Movers Near New York City, NY (2026 Reviews)
Zip to Zip Moving Inc is New York City's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.72/5 stars. Rankings are based on 57,007 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to New York City, NY, covering 163 local New York City movers.
Local movers in New York City 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 New York City, NY move
- moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple New York City mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
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Moving in New York City, 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 New York City 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 New York City, NY?
moveBuddha scored 163 New York City movers drawing on 57,007 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 4.37/5. Rankings include movers based in New York City and those serving the area from nearby locations.
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Seka Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- NYC Great Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Imperial Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Roadway Moving : 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Big Apple Moving and Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Zip to Zip Moving Inc 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. 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!"
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 intrastate moving and interstate 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."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 labor-only moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Dumbo Moving and Storage has about 55% positive reviews across roughly 2118 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
"Steven and Stefan—are excellent. They were efficient, incredibly strong, and excellent communicators throughout the entire process. They handled a 90-mile move with care, and not a single item was damaged when I unpacked. Highly recommend!"
"The team was very communicative and responsive throughout the entire process. They even provided a tracking link so I could see where the truck was while my belongings were in transit, which gave me great peace of mind."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 interstate moving and intrastate 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."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 international moving and office 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."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 small-scale 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."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Roadway Moving has been in business for 18 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Roadway Moving has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 790 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Roadway Moving .
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Roadway Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Roadway Moving made my move absolutely seamless! From start to finish, the process was incredibly clean, easy, and efficient. Their team was also very communicative and helpful every step of the way, and made sure that everything went smoothly."
"I had an amazing experience with Roadway! The guys were on time, handled all of my stuff with great care—wrapping everything securely to ensure nothing got damaged. Efficient with packing and unpacking, and made the process fun with their humor and positive attitudes."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Gentle Giant Moving Company has been in business for 43 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 96% positive reviews across roughly 128 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
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 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Gentle Giant Moving Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Tony and his team were professional, polite, and incredibly careful with every item. They made the process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend Gentle Giant Movers!"
"Movers were beyond amazing. They got the job done quickly and efficiently. Not one item was damaged! Worth every penny using Gentle Giant."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 labor-only 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."
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 labor-only 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!"
How do New York City, NY moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 98% | A- | |||
| 85% | A+ | |||
| 55% | A+ | |||
| 95% | A+ | |||
| 90% | A+ | |||
| 62% | A+ | |||
| 92% | A+ | |||
| 96% | A+ | |||
| 95% | B | |||
| 95% | A+ |
Proximity to New York City 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
- Albany movers
- Amherst movers
- Amsterdam movers
- Arcadia movers
- Auburn movers
- Aurora movers
- Babylon movers
- Baldwin movers
- Ballston movers
- Batavia movers
- Bath movers
- Bay Shore movers
- Beacon movers
- Bedford movers
- Beekman movers
- Bellmore movers
- Bethlehem movers
- Bethpage movers
- Binghamton movers
- Blooming Grove movers
- Brentwood movers
- Brighton movers
- Bronx movers
- Brookhaven movers
- Brooklyn movers
- Brunswick movers
- Buffalo movers
- Camillus movers
- Canandaigua movers
- Carmel movers
- Catskill movers
- Centereach movers
- Central Islip movers
- Cheektowaga movers
- Chenango movers
- Chestnut Ridge movers
- Chili movers
- Cicero movers
- Clarence movers
- Clarkstown movers
- Clay movers
- Clifton Park movers
- Cohoes movers
- Colonie movers
- Commack movers
- Copiague movers
- Coram movers
- Corning movers
- Cornwall movers
- Cortland movers
- Cortlandt movers
- De Witt movers
- Deer Park movers
- Depew movers
- Dix Hills movers
- Dobbs Ferry movers
- Dryden movers
- Dunkirk movers
- East Fishkill movers
- East Glenville movers
- East Greenbush movers
- East Hampton movers
- East Islip movers
- East Massapequa movers
- East Meadow movers
- East Northport movers
- East Patchogue movers
- East Rockaway movers
- Eastchester movers
- Eggertsville movers
- Elma movers
- Elmira movers
- Elmont movers
- Elwood movers
- Endicott movers
- Endwell movers
- Evans movers
- Fairmount movers
- Fallsburg movers
- Farmington movers
- Farmingville movers
- Fishkill movers
- Floral Park movers
- Fort Drum movers
- Franklin Square movers
- Fredonia movers
- Freeport movers
- Fulton movers
- Garden City movers
- Gates movers
- Geddes movers
- Geneseo movers
- Geneva movers
- German Flatts movers
- Glen Cove movers
- Glens Falls movers
- Glenville movers
- Gloversville movers
- Goshen movers
- Grand Island movers
- Great Neck movers
- Greece movers
- Greenburgh movers
- Greenlawn movers
- Guilderland movers
- Halfmoon movers
- Hamburg movers
- Hampton Bays movers
- Harrison movers
- Hauppauge movers
- Haverstraw movers
- Hempstead movers
- Henrietta movers
- Hicksville movers
- Highlands movers
- Holbrook movers
- Holtsville movers
- Horseheads movers
- Huntington movers
- Huntington Station movers
- Hyde Park movers
- Inwood movers
- Irondequoit movers
- Islip movers
- Ithaca movers
- Jamestown movers
- Jefferson Valley-Yorktown movers
- Jericho movers
- Johnson City movers
- Kenmore movers
- Kent movers
- Kings Park movers
- Kingsbury movers
- Kingston movers
- Kirkland movers
- Kiryas Joel movers
- La Grange movers
- Lackawanna movers
- Lake Grove movers
- Lake Ronkonkoma movers
- Lancaster movers
- Lansing movers
- Latham movers
- Le Ray movers
- Levittown movers
- Lewisboro movers
- Lewiston movers
- Liberty movers
- Lindenhurst movers
- Lloyd movers
- Lockport movers
- Long Beach movers
- Loudonville movers
- Lynbrook movers
- Lysander movers
- Malone movers
- Malta movers
- Mamakating movers
- Mamaroneck movers
- Manhattan movers
- Manlius movers
- Manorville movers
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- Mastic movers
- Mastic Beach movers
- Medford movers
- Melville movers
- Merrick movers
- Middle Island movers
- Middletown movers
- Miller Place movers
- Milton movers
- Mineola movers
- Monroe movers
- Monsey movers
- Montgomery movers
- Moreau movers
- Mount Kisco movers
- Mount Pleasant movers
- Mount Sinai movers
- Mount Vernon movers
- Myers Corner movers
- Nanuet movers
- Nesconset movers
- New Cassel movers
- New Castle movers
- New City movers
- New Hartford movers
- New Hyde Park movers
- New Paltz movers
- New Rochelle movers
- New Windsor movers
- Newburgh movers
- Niagara Falls movers
- Niskayuna movers
- North Amityville movers
- North Babylon movers
- North Bay Shore movers
- North Bellmore movers
- North Bellport movers
- North Castle movers
- North Greenbush movers
- North Hempstead movers
- North Lindenhurst movers
- North Massapequa movers
- North Merrick movers
- North New Hyde Park movers
- North Tonawanda movers
- North Valley Stream movers
- North Wantagh movers
- Oceanside movers
- Ogden movers
- Olean movers
- Oneida movers
- Oneonta movers
- Onondaga movers
- Ontario movers
- Orange Lake movers
- Orangetown movers
- Orchard Park movers
- Ossining movers
- Oswego movers
- Owego movers
- Oyster Bay movers
- Parma movers
- Patchogue movers
- Patterson movers
- Pearl River movers
- Peekskill movers
- Pelham movers
- Penfield movers
- Perinton movers
- Pittsford movers
- Plainview movers
- Plattekill movers
- Plattsburgh movers
- Pomfret movers
- Port Chester movers
- Port Washington movers
- Poughkeepsie movers
- Putnam Valley movers
- Queens movers
- Queensbury movers
- Ramapo movers
- Red Hook movers
- Ridge movers
- Riverhead movers
- Rochester movers
- Rockville Centre movers
- Rocky Point movers
- Roessleville movers
- Rome movers
- Ronkonkoma movers
- Roosevelt movers
- Rotterdam movers
- Rye movers
- Salina movers
- Salisbury movers
- Saratoga Springs movers
- Saugerties movers
- Sayville movers
- Scarsdale movers
- Schenectady movers
- Schodack movers
- Scotchtown movers
- Seaford movers
- Selden movers
- Shawangunk movers
- Shirley movers
- Sleepy Hollow movers
- Smithtown movers
- Somers movers
- South Farmingdale movers
- South Huntington movers
- Southampton movers
- Southeast movers
- Southold movers
- Spring Valley movers
- St. James movers
- Staten Island movers
- Stony Brook movers
- Stony Point movers
- Suffern movers
- Sullivan movers
- Sweden movers
- Syosset movers
- Syracuse movers
- Tarrytown movers
- Terryville movers
- Thompson movers
- Tonawanda movers
- Troy movers
- Ulster movers
- Union movers
- Uniondale movers
- Utica movers
- Valley Stream movers
- Van Buren movers
- Vestal movers
- Victor movers
- Wallkill movers
- Wantagh movers
- Wappinger movers
- Warwick movers
- Watertown movers
- Watervliet movers
- Wawarsing movers
- Webster movers
- West Babylon movers
- West Haverstraw movers
- West Hempstead movers
- West Islip movers
- West Seneca movers
- Westbury movers
- Wheatfield movers
- White Plains movers
- Whitestown movers
- Wilton movers
- Woodbury movers
- Woodmere movers
- Wyandanch movers
- Yonkers movers
- Yorktown movers
Popular moving routes from New York City, NY
Local movers in New York City 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 New York City, NY for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
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How much do movers cost in New York City, NY?
Local movers in New York City 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 New York City |
|---|---|
| Studio | $516 – $860 |
| 1 bedroom | $688 – $1,204 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,032 – $1,720 |
| 3 bedrooms | $1,548 – $2,580 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,064 – $3,784 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for New York City's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare New York City mover prices? See our full guide on New York City, NY mover costs →
Which New York City, NY movers offer specialty services?
Specialty moving services are not standard across every New York City mover. Based on moveBuddha's review of 163 New York City moving companies, here is what is available, how common each service is in this market, and which movers lead each category:
- Piano moving: 144 of 163 New York City movers (88.34%) offer it. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) is New York City's top-rated piano mover.
- Antique handling: 117 of 163 New York City movers (71.78%) offer it. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for antique care in New York City.
- Art packing: 124 of 163 New York City movers (76.07%) offer it. Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for art packing in New York City.
- Climate-controlled storage: 69 of 163 New York City movers (42.33%) offer it. Dumbo Moving and Storage (4.66/5) is New York City's top-rated provider.
- Fragile-only packing: 35 of 163 New York City movers (21.47%) offer it. Seka Moving (4.66/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in New York City.
What movers in New York City offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 144 of 163 New York City movers (88.34%). Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) is New York City's top-rated piano mover.
| Piano moving in New York City | Details |
|---|---|
| New York City movers offering this | 144 of 163 (88.34%) |
| Top-rated New York City piano movers | Zip to Zip Moving Inc, Seka Moving |
| Upright piano | $1,376 to $2,580 |
| Baby grand piano | $2,064 to $4,300 |
| Grand piano | $3,096 to $6,020 |
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 New York City offer antique handling?
Antique handling is available from 117 of 163 New York City movers (71.78%). Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for antique care in New York City.
| Antique handling in New York City | Details |
|---|---|
| New York City movers offering this | 117 of 163 (71.78%) |
| Top-rated New York City antique movers | Zip to Zip Moving Inc, Seka Moving |
| Added cost to a household move | $1,720 to $4,300 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $86 to $860 |
| Custom crating per item | $258 to $344 |
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 New York City offer art packing?
Art packing is available from 124 of 163 New York City movers (76.07%). Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) rates highest for art packing in New York City.
| Art packing in New York City | Details |
|---|---|
| New York City movers offering this | 124 of 163 (76.07%) |
| Top-rated New York City art movers | Zip to Zip Moving Inc, Seka Moving |
| Per-piece handling fee | $86 to $860 |
| Custom crating per item | $258 to $344 |
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 New York City offer climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is available from 69 of 163 New York City movers (42.33%). Dumbo Moving and Storage (4.66/5) is New York City's top-rated provider.
| Climate-controlled storage in New York City | Details |
|---|---|
| New York City movers offering this | 69 of 163 (42.33%) |
| Top-rated New York City providers | Dumbo Moving and Storage, NYC Great Movers |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $442 |
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 New York City offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 35 of 163 New York City movers (21.47%). Seka Moving (4.66/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in New York City.
| Fragile-only packing in New York City | Details |
|---|---|
| New York City movers offering this | 35 of 163 (21.47%) |
| Top-rated New York City providers | Seka Moving, Dumbo Moving and Storage |
| 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 New York City
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in New York City 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 New York City 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: 37% of New York City 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 New York City's top-rated labor-only provider.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar New York City apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in New York City, NY
Not every New York City move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in New York City, 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.
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Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in New York City, 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.
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Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in New York City, NY start with Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5) and Seka Moving (4.66/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.
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Moving in New York City, NY: what you need to know
A New York City 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. New York City residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with New York DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Parking and permits: When moving in New York City with a commercial truck, remember these key regulations to avoid tickets and parking issues: You have a maximum of three hours for loading or unloading on both ends of your move. Ensure someone stays with the truck at all times to comply with the rules and protect your belongings. Also, don't block the bike lane. These regulations typically apply from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but outside of these hours, you'll have more flexibility. Specific areas like Midtown, the Garment District, and the Lower Manhattan Blue zone have stricter rules, so check them out. Finally, familiarize yourself with basic parking rules provided by the DOT for a smoother moving experience.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many New York City 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 New York City, NY
How much do movers cost in New York City, NY?
Local movers in New York City, NY charge by the hour. The New York average is $131/hour for a 2-person crew.
Key cost factors for a New York City 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 New York City movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: 55% of New York City movers (90 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 New York City across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 93% of New York City movers (151 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 98% of New York City movers (160 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 New York City include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in New York City, 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 New York City movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of New York City movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 98% (160 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 ~$442/month |
| Full valuation coverage | 55% (90 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) | 80% (130 companies) | $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances) |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 37% (60 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 New York City offer senior, military, or other discounts?
New York City 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 New York City mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed New York City movers are excluded. NY state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.
| Discount type | % of New York City movers | # of movers | New York City movers offering it | Data source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior | 6% | 10 | -- | New York City |
| Military | 6% | 9 | -- | New York City |
| AAA | 2% | 3 | -- | New York City |
| Student | 2% | 3 | -- | New York City |
| Law enforcement | 1% | 1 | -- | New York City |
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 New York City?
Book New York City 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 New York City movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City?
Local New York City moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's New York City-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 New York City movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most New York City 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 New York City
- 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 New York City 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 New York City?
The cheapest time to move in New York City 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. New York City's summer highs reach 84°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. New York City'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 New York City's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews New York City, 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 New York City 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 New York City's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from moveBuddha's #1-ranked New York City movers →
How to move in New York City: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in New York City, NY, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- 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.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your New York City 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 New York City street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 New York City 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 New York City, NY
- Best overall: Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5), moveBuddha's #1-ranked New York City mover.
- Best runner-up: Seka Moving (4.66/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: Zip to Zip Moving Inc (4.72/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: hourly; get 3 binding estimates to set your baseline.
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.