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($987) Cost to Move From Albany, NY to Detroit, MI

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Estimated cost & time: For a 540 mile move from Albany to Detroit, costs typically range from $459 to $4,824. Plan for the travel time to be around one–six days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Albany to Detroit

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Albany to Detroit

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Albany to Detroit, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 6 interstate moving companies located in Albany, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Detroit seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Albany to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 540-mile move from Albany to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,064 – $3,498
  • Moving Container $976 – $1,753
  • Rental Truck $401 – $760
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,787 – $4,824
  • Moving Container $1,154 – $2,351
  • Rental Truck $459 – $957
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,264 – $6,668
  • Moving Container $1,537 – $2,936
  • Rental Truck $584 – $1,153
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
United Van Lines
East Nassau, NY Oak Park, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 21, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Johnstown, NY New Baltimore, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 16, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Ravena, NY Belleville, MI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Round Lake, NY Grosse Pointe Woods, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 29, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Amsterdam, NY Bloomfield Hills, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 22, 2025
PODS
Bethlehem, NY Pleasant Ridge, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 18, 2025
Safeway Moving
Preston-Potter Hollow, NY Ecorse, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
American Van Lines
Glenville, NY Birmingham, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
Roadway Moving
Saratoga Springs, NY Highland Park, MI
3 Bedrooms
Aug 07, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Brunswick, NY Trenton, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 06, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Detroit, MI to Albany, NY guide.

The best local movers for Albany to Detroit moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Albany that also handles long-distance moves to Detroit. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated eight local movers in Albany who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Albany to Detroit.

  1. Mabey’s Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Clark Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Don’s Moving & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  4. Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  5. All-Ways Moving & Storage Co: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.5% of all reviews were positive
7.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Mabey’s Moving & Storage stands out with an impressive 92.5% positive feedback from 254 reviews, setting a high bar for moving companies. Customers consistently describe the staff as professional, respectful, and attentive, praising the team’s careful handling of belongings and efficient work ethic. Many highlight smooth communication, quick processes from booking to move day, and successful management of complex or long-distance moves. Most clients recommend Mabey’s without hesitation, citing reliable estimates and stress-free experiences as major strengths. Negative input, making up about 7% of feedback, points to issues like damaged items, discrepancies in final costs versus estimates, and communication shortfalls in rare cases. Complaints sometimes reference insurance limitations or mishandling claims. A single neutral review notes both prompt reimbursements and delays during delivery. Compared to typical industry standards, Mabey’s earns stronger praise for care, politeness, and problem resolution, though accurate cost estimation remains an area for improvement. The company’s reputation for professionalism and reliability is consistently reinforced by customer input.
Get a Quote (518) 283-0017

Company Info

State license #: 623

Years in Business: 68

DOT #: 125550

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.5% of all reviews were positive
17.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Clark Moving & Storage stands out for delivering reliable results and excellent service, supported by feedback from 81 reviews with over 81% positive ratings. Customers consistently praise their professional and polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, and quick moving process. Many highly recommend the company for making stressful moves feel smooth and straightforward. Numerous reviewers note clear communication, organized packing, and affordable pricing compared to other moving companies. Some even highlight the movers’ thorough preparation and respect for customers’ belongings. On the downside, less than one in five reviewers cite problems such as damaged items, unexpected charges, or lack of communication. Negative input describes instances where items were broken or missing, or costs changed without warning. By comparison, Clark Moving & Storage regularly delivers a higher level of care and professionalism than most moving companies in the region, though a few dissatisfied customers experienced avoidable setbacks. Clark is a strong option for quality moving services, with overwhelmingly positive feedback and only minor recurring problems.
Get a Quote (518) 370-4100

Company Info

State license #: 37553

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 125563

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

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.8% of all reviews were positive
4.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Don’s Moving & Storage scores high marks from customers, with nearly 95% of input expressing satisfaction. Clients single out the team’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of items, quick moves, and a positive, friendly staff as defining traits. Movers consistently offer supportive care during stressful transitions and make a point of being courteous and respectful. Negative feedback, in contrast, centers largely on unexpected or high final costs, occasional damage to items, and rare instances of unprofessional or dismissive behavior. Communication around pricing and damage claims draws the most frequent complaints. Compared to competitors, Don’s stands out for reliability, speed, and a personable touch, though clients recommend clarifying terms in advance for the smoothest results. With over 250 positive reviews, most customers consider Don’s a top choice for moving in the region.
Get a Quote (518) 492-1041

Company Info

State license #: 1462

Years in Business: 75

DOT #: 134890

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
64.3% of all reviews were positive
34.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Arnoff Moving & Storage stands out for its consistently professional, courteous staff, efficient moving teams, and excellent care in handling belongings—earning praise in nearly two-thirds of the 238 customer feedback items reviewed. Customers frequently commend their strong communication, punctual crews, and smooth, quick-moving experiences. People highlight Arnoff’s attention to detail, competitive pricing, and a willingness to answer questions or resolve logistical challenges, often noting how their movers made stressful moves less overwhelming. Yet, nearly one in three customers report serious complaints, with the chief frustrations being damaged or lost items, lengthy delivery delays, and poor follow-up when problems arise. Reports include mishandling of valuable furniture, missed scheduling windows, and a lack of responsiveness from support staff. A few critics point to problems with insurance claims for damage or missing property, suggesting performance can be inconsistent, especially for large or high-value moves. Compared to similar moving companies, Arnoff generally exceeds expectations for professionalism and efficiency, but the risk of communication breakdowns and damaged goods appears higher than average. Prospective customers seeking attentive and careful handling will likely be pleased, but those with complex, valuable shipments should confirm all details ahead and document any special requirements.
Get a Quote (518) 463-5525

Company Info

State license #: 35196

Years in Business: 99

DOT #: 1566123

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

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.8% of all reviews were positive
3.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about All-Ways Moving & Storage Co, consistently praising their professionalism, efficient service, and fast-moving crews. Nearly all customer input is positive, with 97% giving glowing feedback out of 62 reviews. Clients highlight good communication, quick moving processes, and highly recommend the staff for moves big and small. The team’s attention to detail, careful handling, and flexible approach set them apart from other moving companies, especially when accommodating date changes or special requests. Some customer input shines a light on billing often coming in below initial estimates and on the team’s respectful handling of property. On the downside, a small portion of feedback points to concerns with inaccurate estimates, occasional communication breakdowns, and isolated incidents of damage to belongings. Unlike many competitors, All-Ways Moving has a reputation for exceeding expectations and building trust, making them a go-to choice for stress-free relocations.
Get a Quote (413) 499-1577

Company Info

Years in Business: 48

DOT #: 55254

Alternate Names: All-Ways Moving & Storage Co.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Albany to Detroit?

The average hourly rate for movers in New York is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $987 – $2,855 $706 – $1,668 $413 – $823
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,787 – $4,824 $1,154 – $2,351 $459 – $957
4+ bedrooms $3,264 – $6,668 $1,537 – $2,936 $584 – $1,153
*Approximate cost ranges for a 540-mile move from Albany to Detroit are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Albany to Detroit

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Albany to Detroit will cost between $987 and $2,855. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Albany to Albany will range from $1,787 to $4,824, and a large move from Albany to Detroit will cost from $3,264 to $6,668.

Cost of moving containers from Albany to Detroit

If you’re moving from Albany to Detroit, expect to pay between $706 and $1,668 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,154 up to $2,351. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,537 and $2,936. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Albany to Detroit

Renting a moving truck from Albany to Detroit is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $413 and $823. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $459 and $957. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $584 up to $1,153 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Albany to Detroit

The cost of Albany movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,346, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,049.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Albany, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($413–$1,060) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Albany to Detroit

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Detroit runs about 39% higher for singles and 59% higher for families than Albany.

Singles spend around $2,500 in Albany versus $1,801 in Albany; families pay $6,687 compared with $4,205.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Albany Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $1,426 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $2,900 $2,542
Average home value $281,584 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $66,546 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $1,801 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $4,205 $6,687
Unemployment rate 7.1% 9.06%
Sales tax 8.0% 6.0%
State income tax 10.9% 4.25%
  • If you’re heading to Detroit from Albany, you’ll find that rent is roughly 14% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 74% less in Detroit than in Albany.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 43% lower in Detroit compared to Albany.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Detroit, since the cost of living for a single person in Detroit is 39% higher than in Albany. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Detroit, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Detroit is 59% greater than in Albany.
  • In Detroit, the unemployment rate is approximately 28% higher than in Albany, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes drop 25% in Detroit compared to Albany, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • Income taxes are 61% less in Michigan than in New York. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Albany and Detroit:

Living Expense Albany Detroit
Basic utilities $203.15 $251.12
Cell phone plan $57.53 $55.77
Dozen eggs $4.71 $3.52
Loaf of bread $3.93 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $79.50 $68.50
Gym membership $31.25 $43.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Albany than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Albany than in Detroit.
  • Eggs cost more in Albany than in Detroit.
  • Bread is more expensive in Albany than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Albany than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Albany than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Albany than in Detroit.

How life is different in Albany vs. Detroit

Albany Detroit
Population 99,224 639,111
Transportation score 8 7
Walkability score 65 51
Bike friendliness score 55 52
Crime index 10.0 72.92
Safety index 49.65 27.08
Air quality Good Good
  • Detroit’s population is about 544% greater than Albany.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Albany’s score of 8.
  • Detroit is less walkable than Albany with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Albany’s 65 out of 100.
  • Both Detroit and Albany have similar bike-friendliness scores (55 vs 52), meaning Detroit is about as safe for cyclists as Albany. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Albany with a score of 72.92 compared to Albany’s 10.0. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Albany with a score of 27.08 vs Albany’s 49.65.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Albany it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Albany to Detroit move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Michigan 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: 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 Detroit. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Detroit

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to America’s Comeback City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Detroit.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Corktown
  • Brush Park
  • Woodbridge
  • Downtown
  • Lafayette Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Sherwood Forest
  • Palmer Woods
  • University District
  • Corktown
  • Lafayette Park

Things to do in Detroit

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Detroit, such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Albany to Detroit?

The best time to move from Albany to Detroit is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Albany.

When is the cheapest time to move from Albany to Detroit?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Albany to Detroit, 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 Albany to Detroit take?

Moving from Albany, NY to Detroit, covers 540 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Albany movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Detroit.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Albany?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 4 movers in Albany advertise piano moving expertise. 3 movers in Albany provide antique moving services. State totals show 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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