Local moving companies in Buffalo

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  2. Sheridan Brothers Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Interior Moving Services Inc: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Wayfinder Moving Services : 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/bellhopmoving?lang=en
20% of all reviews were positive
80% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving feedback tells a clear story: out of 10 recent reviews, only 20% are positive while 80% express serious issues. Happy customers highlight efficient service, organization, affordable pricing, friendliness, and quick moves—qualities that stand out compared to many moving companies. Unfortunately, the majority of feedback points to crews arriving unprepared, inexperience among movers, and property damage.
Complaints also detail missing equipment, inadequate packing, late arrivals, and incomplete jobs, resulting in extra costs and disrupted plans. While a few clients were pleased with affordability and a seamless process, most experienced frustration, unreliability, or damages—much higher than typically seen in the industry.
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Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/SheridanBrothersMoving/, https://twitter.com/sheridanbros
71% of all reviews were positive
28% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sheridan Brothers Moving stands out for their swift service, professional staff, and consistent care in handling belongings. Analyzing 291 pieces of feedback, about 71% of customers detailed positive experiences, often highlighting polite movers, efficient teamwork, and careful attention to property. Many clients mention that their moves finished faster than expected and rates were transparent.
Still, nearly 28% of input describes issues such as damaged belongings, unfriendly or inattentive staff, and difficulties reaching the company for follow-up or claims—complaints that are more frequent here than with some top-rated national competitors. While most customers praise the team's courteous attitude and work ethic, a notable share express frustration with damage claims being unresolved or interactions that felt disrespectful. Sheridan Brothers excels at delivering prompt and friendly moves, but reliability around damage handling and communication would improve customer trust.
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Get a Quote (585) 254-9000

Company Info

State license #: 34026

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2256609


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/InteriorMovingServices/?ref=hl, https://twitter.com/InteriorMoving1
94% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day becomes a breeze for most clients who choose Interior Moving Services Inc, based on 256 pieces of input. A remarkable 94% describe positive experiences—much higher than typical for the moving industry. Customers frequently mention efficient service, professional and courteous staff, careful handling of belongings, quick moving times, and genuinely friendly crews as standouts.
Many appreciate how movers arrive prepared, communicate clearly, and handle even tricky items with skill and respect. Although most feedback celebrates seamless moves and competitive pricing, several clients highlight shortcomings like damage to belongings, higher bills than expected, and rare unprofessional conduct. Some mention slow work or equipment issues as negatives. Compared to other companies, Interior Moving Services earns impressive loyalty and frequent recommendations, with only a small fraction reporting unreliable or unsatisfactory experiences. Their consistent track record of punctual, personable service and safe, efficient moves clearly sets them apart.
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Get a Quote (585) 288-8000

Company Info

State license #: 32014

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 1498819


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/WayfinderMoving/, https://twitter.com/wayfindermoving
92% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple—Wayfinder Moving Services receives glowing feedback in 91.6% of the 227 reviews analyzed. Customers frequently praise the professionalism of the staff, speedy moves, careful item treatment, and clear communication. Many say their crews are friendly, efficient, and take time to protect belongings.
Wayfinder stands out by delivering consistently well-organized and courteous service, with jobs often completed quickly and at or below the quoted price. Some reviews mention affordable rates and a stress-free process. Negative input, though rare, points to damage to items, high or inaccurate estimates for certain moves, and a few cases of delayed arrivals or lack of response when issues arise. Neutral feedback highlights missed expectations for care or timing on specific jobs. Compared with other movers, Wayfinder is described as more reliable and more professional, but a few customers recommend monitoring high-value items and clarifying estimates and policies. Most found Wayfinder exceeded expectations, but details matter for the few with problems.
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Get a Quote (716) 832-6683

Company Info

State license #: 40318

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3104397


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TMTBUFFALONY/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenAndATruck?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
79% of all reviews were positive
21% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently praised for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earns strong feedback from those seeking reliable movers. Out of 246 customer reviews analyzed, nearly 79% were positive, reflecting above-average satisfaction compared to similar companies. Clients frequently highlight quick moves, polite teams, and clear communication.
Many mention staff going the extra mile—protecting fragile items, accommodating changes, and delivering on timing. A smaller portion of feedback centers on problems such as damaged belongings, unexpected additional charges, or difficulty reaching the company regarding concerns. The most frequent issues involve property damage and dissatisfaction with billing. Customers expecting transparent costs and responsive complaint handling may encounter challenges. Positive input, however, overwhelmingly notes prompt, respectful service and movers’ attention to detail, which stands out in the industry.
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Get a Quote (716) 245-4275

Company Info

State license #: 40835

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Bulldog Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Key factors that impact the cost of your Buffalo to Chicago movetoggle

The cost of Buffalo 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 Buffalo to Chicago can be as low as $1,274 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $7,288.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Buffalo 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 $528 to $1,226. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Buffalo to Chicago

Moving from Buffalo to Chicago comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Chicago is generally more expensive than Buffalo, 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:

Buffalo Chicago
Average rent cost $1,200 $2,045
Average home value $213,418 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $63,443 $71,566
Cost of living (single person) $2,589 $3,648
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,720 $9,266
Unemployment rate 9.5% 9.0%
Sales tax 8.75% 10.25%
State income tax 10.9% 4.95%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Chicago, since prices are typically 70% higher than in Buffalo.
  • The home prices in Chicago are 38.6% higher than in Buffalo, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You’re likely to make a higher income living in Chicago, where incomes are, on average, 12.8% higher than in Buffalo. Major employers in Chicago include U.S. Government, Chicago Public Schools, and City of Chicago.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Chicago, since the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 40.9% higher than in Buffalo. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Chicago, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 62.0% higher than in Buffalo.
  • The unemployment rate in Chicago is 5.26% lower than in Buffalo.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Chicago, since its sales taxes are 17.14% higher than what you are paying in Buffalo.
  • One perk of moving to Chicago is paying less in state income taxes, which are 54.59% lower than in Buffalo.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,227.11 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Buffalo.

How life is different in Buffalo vs. Chicago

Chicago Buffalo
Population 2,746,388 278,349
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 7
Walkability score 77 67
Bike friendliness score 72 63
Crime Index 35.19 8.0
Safety Index 33.87 53.55
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Chicago's population is about 887% greater than Buffalo.
  • Chicago's public transportation has a score of 9 out of 10 versus Buffalo's lower score of 7.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Buffalo with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Buffalo's 67 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Buffalo, which has a score of 63 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Chicago's crime rate is higher than Buffalo with a score of 35.19 compared to Buffalo's 8.0. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Buffalo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
  • Chicago is considered to be less safe than Buffalo with a score of 33.87 vs Buffalo's 53.55.
  • Air quality in Chicago is good, and in Buffalo it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Buffalo vs. Chicago move

  • Weather: Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Illinois moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Illinois doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Chicago. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Chicago

Now that you've decided to make the move to Chi-Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chicago.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Lake View
  • Lincoln Park
  • The Loop
  • Near North Side
  • West Town

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Beverly
  • Edison Park
  • Lincoln Park
  • North Center
  • West Loop

Things to do in Chicago

Now that you've made the move to Illinois it's the perfect time to explore Chicago From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Chicago features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago History Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Cubs (MLB), Chicago White Sox (MLB), or Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) game.

FAQ

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

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Buffalo to Chicago. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Buffalo.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Buffalo to Chicago moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Buffalo to Chicago take?

Covering 533 miles, the move from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL typically takes one to six days. Some Buffalo movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chicago can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources