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($757) Cost to Move From Buffalo, NY to Detroit, MI

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 255 miles from Buffalo to Detroit has an average cost ranging from $320 to $3,860. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–four days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Buffalo 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 Buffalo to Detroit

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Buffalo to Detroit. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 5 interstate moving companies in Buffalo. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Detroit.

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 Buffalo to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 255-mile move from Buffalo to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $791 – $2,993
  • Moving Container $789 – $1,447
  • Rental Truck $276 – $502
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,333 – $3,860
  • Moving Container $1,093 – $2,047
  • Rental Truck $320 – $644
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,871 – $5,186
  • Moving Container $1,413 – $2,485
  • Rental Truck $400 – $766
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.
Budget Truck Rental
West Seneca, NY Maybee, MI
3 Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
Roadway Moving
Lackawanna, NY Village of Grosse Pointe Shores, MI
Studio apartment
Oct 18, 2025
PODS
Fredonia, NY Farmington Hills, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Lyndonville, NY Ann Arbor, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 17, 2025
North American Van Lines
Medina, NY Woodhaven, MI
3 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
United Van Lines
Lockport, NY South Lyon, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 28, 2025
American Van Lines
Sloan, NY Lincoln Park, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
Safeway Moving
Niagara Falls, NY Gibraltar, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Buffalo, NY Lake Orion, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 05, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Lancaster, NY St. Clair Shores, MI
3 Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Buffalo to Detroit moves

Organizing a move from Buffalo to Detroit can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating five local movers in Buffalo known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

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

  1. Wayfinder Moving Services : 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  4. Best Buffalo Movers : 3.98 out of 5 stars
  5. Pryority Movers : 4.02 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
4.4% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently high marks set Corrigan Moving Systems apart in a crowded industry. Out of 224 reviews analyzed, 95.5% provided enthusiastic positive feedback, with most customers praising the professionalism and courtesy of the staff. Customers frequently highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and swift, organized moving processes, all supported by helpful movers throughout stressful situations. Minor dissatisfaction centers around unexpected charges, missing or lost items, and—less often—damage to property, representing only 4% of feedback. Only one neutral input offers no details about the service. Corrigan Moving’s reputation stands stronger than most moving companies, where negative feedback typically runs higher. The clear majority recommend Corrigan for efficient and professional moving experiences, though a small number note issues with billing or claims processes.
Get a Quote (716) 897-0700

Company Info

State license #: 779

Years in Business: 97

DOT #: 77949

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.9% of all reviews were positive
21.1% 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.
Get a Quote (716) 245-4275

Company Info

State license #: 40835

Years in Business: 0

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Bulldog Movers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.5% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word spreads fast when a moving company stands out. Out of 71 pieces of customer feedback analyzed, 91.5% gave Best Buffalo Movers glowing reports. Clients rave about efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, fair pricing, and clear communication. Teams routinely arrive on time and handle possessions with attention, which sets them apart from many competitors. Affordable rates and responsiveness add further appeal, making moves less stressful for clients. Some negative input focuses on unprofessional interactions, delays with no-shows, or poor follow-up, with a few mentioning lost items or incomplete deliveries. Such issues were rare but reflect a stark contrast to the otherwise high standards noted throughout the reviews. Compared to most moving companies, Best Buffalo Movers delivers quality service more consistently, rarely missing a beat on the aspects customers care about most.
Get a Quote (716) 442-3195

Company Info

Years in Business: 28

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Safes
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
40.0% of all reviews were positive
60.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standing out for both impressive and problematic feedback, Pryority Movers receives strong compliments for professional, polite staff, efficient moves, careful handling, and helpful movers. Customers note friendliness and readiness to handle challenging items. In contrast, several people claim the company added unexpected charges, showed up late, and treated clients rudely, with some describing unethical billing and unprofessional encounters. While some praised the team’s speed and support, more than half of the input described delayed service and billing disputes. Compared to other moving companies, customer experience with Pryority Movers has more pronounced concerns with honesty and reliability.
Get a Quote (716) 717-5084

Company Info

State license #: 41063

Years in Business: 6

Alternate Names: Pryority Delivery Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card

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

On average, moving companies in New York charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $757 – $2,607 $614 – $1,449 $273 – $513
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,333 – $3,860 $1,093 – $2,047 $320 – $644
4+ bedrooms $1,871 – $5,186 $1,413 – $2,485 $400 – $766
*Estimated cost ranges for a 255-mile move from Buffalo to Detroit are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Buffalo to Detroit

When planning a move to Detroit from Buffalo, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $757 and $2,607. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,333 and $3,860 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $1,871 to $5,186.

Cost of moving containers from Buffalo to Detroit

When you’re heading from Buffalo to Detroit, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $614 and $1,449. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,093 and $2,047. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,413 to $2,485. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from New York easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Buffalo to Detroit

A moving rental truck from Buffalo to Detroit is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $273 to $513. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $320 to $644, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Buffalo to Detroit costs around $400 to $766.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Buffalo to Detroit

The cost of Buffalo movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Buffalo to Detroit may only cost $1,057, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $4,297.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Buffalo.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($273–$667), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Buffalo to Detroit

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Detroit runs about -3% higher for singles and 17% higher for families than Buffalo.

Singles spend around $2,500 in Buffalo versus $2,589 in Buffalo; families pay $6,687 compared with $5,720.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Buffalo Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $1,567 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $2,075 $2,542
Average home value $213,418 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $63,443 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $2,589 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $5,720 $6,687
Unemployment rate 9.5% 9.06%
Sales tax 8.75% 6.0%
State income tax 10.9% 4.25%
  • Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to Detroit from Buffalo with rent being about the same in each state.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 66% cheaper in Detroit than in Buffalo.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 40% less in Detroit than in Buffalo.
  • As the cost of living for a single person differs by around 5% between Detroit and Buffalo, you likely won’t feel a significant change.
  • When considering a family move to Detroit, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 17% higher than in Buffalo.
  • Detroit and Buffalo have roughly the same unemployment rate (within about 5%), so you likely won’t see a major shift in job availability or competition from what you’re used to.
  • Sales taxes are 31% cheaper in Detroit compared to Buffalo. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 61% less in Michigan compared to New York, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Buffalo versus Detroit:

Living Expense Buffalo Detroit
Basic utilities $251.62 $251.12
Cell phone plan $46.65 $55.77
Dozen eggs $3.96 $3.52
Loaf of bread $3.89 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $30.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $85.00 $68.50
Gym membership $33.67 $43.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Buffalo than in Detroit.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Buffalo than in Detroit.
  • Eggs cost more in Buffalo than in Detroit.
  • Bread is more expensive in Buffalo than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Buffalo than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Buffalo than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Buffalo than in Detroit.

How life is different in Buffalo vs. Detroit

Buffalo Detroit
Population 278,349 639,111
Transportation score 7 7
Walkability score 67 51
Bike friendliness score 63 52
Crime index 8.0 72.92
Safety index 53.55 27.08
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Detroit’s population is about 130% greater than Buffalo.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Buffalo, making them very similar.
  • Detroit is less walkable than Buffalo with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Buffalo’s 67 out of 100.
  • Detroit has a bike-friendliness score of 52 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Buffalo, which has a score of 63.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Buffalo with a score of 72.92 compared to Buffalo’s 8.0. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Buffalo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Buffalo with a score of 27.08 vs Buffalo’s 53.55.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Buffalo it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Buffalo to Detroit move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Buffalo and Detroit are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • 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: 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Michigan, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Michigan, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Detroit. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Detroit

With your sights set on America’s Comeback City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider 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

With your move to Michigan complete, you can dive right into experiencing Detroit. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Detroit is home to museums and cultural arts centers like 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 — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team 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 Buffalo to Detroit?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Buffalo to Detroit. 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 Detroit?

Want to save on your move from Buffalo to Detroit? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Buffalo to Detroit take?

The 255-mile move from Buffalo, NY, to Detroit, , takes one to four days. Some Buffalo movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Detroit.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Buffalo?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 4 movers in Buffalo provide piano moving services. Statewide, there are 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

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