Quick answer: The cost to move from Lansing to Buffalo ranges from $427 to $6,328 and the journey will take approximately one to four days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 329-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Buffalo to Lansing guide.

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

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Lansing to Buffalo

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Lansing to Buffalo isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to NY movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 45 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The best local movers servicing Lansing to Buffalo moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Lansing that offers long-distance services to Buffalo can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Lansing who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Lansing to Buffalo.

  1. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. M & M Moving and Storage: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  4. MASS Movers LLC: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  5. Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Home-Mover/Kingsley-Moving-Systems-1038493709523061/,
89% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Kingsley Moving Systems LLC feels smooth for the vast majority of customers. Analyzing 179 pieces of customer input, 89% reflected positive experiences. Customers often praised Kingsley’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speedy moves, and reasonable rates—a combination rarely matched by competitors.
Friendly staff and attention to property safety stood out repeatedly. A minority of clients encountered problems, especially damage to items, late arrivals without timely updates, and occasionally unfriendly staff. Negative feedback emphasized issues with fragile belongings, scheduling problems, or less-than-courteous service, raising caution for those transporting valuable or sensitive possessions. Kingsley outpaces typical moving companies on promptness and affordability, yet potentially risks client trust with rare but significant mishaps. Customer feedback positions them as a top choice for value and efficiency, so long as you get clear expectations for special care needs or timing.
Show more
Get a Quote (517) 372-7200

Company Info

State license #: 34172

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1890987


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TMTLansing/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenAndATruck?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Two Men and a Truck feels like enlisting a team known for speed, professionalism, and careful handling. Of 262 pieces of feedback analyzed, over three-quarters rated their experience as positive. Customers consistently highlight efficient service, polite staff, extra care with belongings, a quick moving process, and clear communication.
Moves often finish ahead of schedule, furniture arrives undamaged, and staff adapt to customer needs. On the downside, a notable portion of input points to damage to items, surprise charges, and communication issues with scheduling or billing. These issues account for most of the dissatisfaction. Compared to other moving companies, Two Men and a Truck stands out for reliable and efficient crews, but struggles with follow-through on damage claims and billing accuracy. For those seeking prompt, respectful service, they lead the pack, but anyone concerned about cost transparency or item safety should review all details closely before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (517) 306-2441

Company Info

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/MMMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/mmmovinglansing
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently praise M & M Moving and Storage for courteous, professional service and careful handling of belongings. Most input describes efficient, prompt movers who work quickly without sacrificing attention to detail. The team earns high marks for being friendly, keeping rates affordable, and making the moving process less stressful.
Common highlights include punctual arrivals, well-protected items, and competitive, transparent pricing. Some feedback reveals dissatisfaction, mostly about significantly higher final bills than initial quotes, and occasional damage to belongings. Compared to many moving companies, M & M stands out for positive customer interactions and reliability, but a few have experienced cost discrepancies or property mishaps.
Show more
Get a Quote (517) 977-8859

Company Info

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 2194234


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/corriganmoving/, https://x.com/Corriganmoving
97% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Corrigan Moving Systems, citing professional and polite crews, excellent care with belongings, prompt communication, and quick, efficient moves. Most feedback highlights trustworthiness, with staff treating possessions as their own. Movers consistently arrive on time, handle property carefully, and communicate support throughout each stage.
A small number of negative reviews mention poor packing quality, lack of follow-through on promised services, and occasional issues with estimates or unresolved complaints. Compared to typical moving companies, Corrigan receives much higher rates of positive feedback, thanks to consistent professionalism, responsive communication, and careful handling of possessions. Out of 87 reviews, 96.6% are positive and major customer concerns are rare.
Show more
Get a Quote (810) 235-9700

Company Info

Years in Business: 74

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Corrigan Moving Systems, Midland Moving & Storage Company, Corrigan United Moving & Storage Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage

How much does it cost to move from Lansing to Buffalo?

Lansing movers charge $240 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,296 - $3,924 $739 - $1,896 $401 - $784
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,210 - $6,328 $1,381 - $2,764 $427 - $893
4+ bedrooms $3,227 - $8,458 $1,845 - $3,310 $524 - $1,069
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 329 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Michigan to New York

Planning a move from Michigan to New York? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,296 and $3,924. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,210 and $6,328 for the same journey (MI to NY). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,227 to $8,458.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to New York

If you're moving from Michigan to New York, expect to pay between $739 and $1,896 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,381 up to $2,764. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,845 and $3,310. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to New York

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you'll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $401 and $784. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $427 to $893. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $524 and $1,069.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors that influence moving costs from Lansing to Buffalotoggle

The cost of Lansing movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Lansing to Buffalo can be as low as $1,296 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $7,482.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Lansing so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $401 to $965. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Lansing to Buffalo

Moving from Lansing to Buffalo comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Buffalo is generally more expensive than Lansing, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Lansing Buffalo
Average rent cost $1,129 $1,200
Average home value $148,542 $213,418
Average income (per capita) $64,729 $63,443
Cost of living (single person) $1,595 $2,589
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,199 $5,720
Unemployment rate 7.4% 9.5%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.75%
State income tax 4.25% 10.9%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Buffalo, since prices are typically 6% higher than in Lansing.
  • The home prices in Buffalo are 43.7% higher than in Lansing, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in Buffalo is 2.0% lower than in Lansing, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Buffalo — including UBS, Delaware North, and Human — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Buffalo, since the cost of living for a single person in Buffalo is 62.3% higher than in Lansing. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Buffalo, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Buffalo is 36.2% higher than in Lansing.
  • The unemployment rate in Buffalo is 28.38% higher than in Lansing.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Buffalo, since its sales taxes are 45.83% higher than what you are paying in Lansing.
  • State income taxes in Buffalo are 156.47% higher than in Lansing.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,869.59 in Buffalo to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Lansing.

How life is different in Lansing vs. Buffalo

Buffalo Lansing
Population 278,349 112,644
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 7 5
Walkability score 67 46
Bike friendliness score 63 55
Crime Index 8.0 48.66
Safety Index 53.55 51.34
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • The population of Buffalo is about 147% greater than Lansing, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Buffalo offers better access to buses and trains than Lansing, based on public transportation ratings. Buffalo has a transit score of 7 out of 10 compared to 5 in Lansing. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Buffalo means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Lansing. Buffalo is considered more walkable than Lansing, with a score of 67 out of 100 versus 46 out of 100 in Lansing. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Buffalo is considered more bike-friendly than Lansing in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Buffalo has a bike-friendliness score of 63 out of 100, while Lansing is rated as 55 out of 100.
  • Buffalo has a lower crime rate than Lansing based on scores of 8.0 and Lansing's 48.66, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • Buffalo is generally as safe as Lansing, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
  • The air quality in Buffalo isn't as good as it is in Lansing, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. Buffalo has an air quality rating of Moderate, and Lansing is considered to be good. Cities with good to moderate air quality may have varying levels of minor potential for health risks for certain people. Beyond the moderate rating, those health risks increase in severity and the amount of residents affected.

Other things to consider for your Lansing vs. Buffalo move

  • Weather: Best months to move to Buffalo are August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Buffalo, while January and December are the least comfortable months due to extreme winter weather.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a New York moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in New York, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Buffalo Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Buffalo

With your sights set on Queen City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Buffalo.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Allentown
  • Delaware District
  • Lower West Side
  • West Side
  • First Ward

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Eggertsville
  • Harris Hill
  • Grandyle Village
  • Rapids
  • Lancaster

Things to do in Buffalo

Once you're settled into your new home in New York, it's time to get out and discover what Buffalo has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Buffalo include museums and art centers like the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, Pierce-Arrow Museum, Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo Museum of Science, and Burchfield Penney Art Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, The Buffalo Zoo, Delaware Park, and Erie Basin Marina — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Buffalo Bandits, Buffalo Beauts‎, Buffalo Bills (AAFC)‎, or Buffalo Bisons (AHL)‎ game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Lansing to Buffalo?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Lansing to Buffalo are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Lansing. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Lansing to Buffalo?

Because most people are moving from Lansing to Buffalo in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Lansing to Buffalo take?

Moving from Lansing, MI to Buffalo, NY covers 329 miles and usually takes one to four days Need to move faster? Some Lansing movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Buffalo.

Helpful moving resources