Local moving companies in Pennsylvania

  1. Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. The Armstrong Company: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. South Hills Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Don Farr Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/ZiptozipMoving/, https://twitter.com/ZiptoZipMoving1
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Helpful movers
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers describe Zip to Zip Moving Inc as fast, attentive, and exceptionally careful with belongings. Most feedback highlights efficient moves, respectful and friendly staff, and responsive communication at every step. Movers frequently go above expectations, helping with setup and accommodating last-minute changes. Transparent pricing and straightforward booking set them apart from many competitors, with positive input from more than 97% of reviewers. Some customers encountered much higher-than-expected charges, felt pressured into tipping or leaving positive reviews, and noticed final costs far outstripped initial quotes. A handful mentioned issues with communication or left items. The company's overwhelmingly positive reputation signals strong reliability, but a few outlier experiences suggest confirming pricing details and service expectations in writing is wise.
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Company Info

State license #: 8925314

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 2969363


Zip to Zip Moving Inc has been a trusted local residential moving company in and around Exton, PA since 2018. With an impressive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, safes, and antiques, they outshine many nearby competitors. Their stellar reputation is backed by numerous positive reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and a perfect score of 5.0 on Google. Additionally, their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further cements their standing as a reputable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/GoArmstrongLancaster/, https://twitter.com/Arm_Lancaster
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Hard-to-resolve claims
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Customers often call Armstrong Relocation the gold standard of moving. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, more than 90% featured positive feedback. Most praise the team's professionalism, attention to detail, speed, careful handling, and responsive communication. Crews consistently arrive on time, treat belongings and homes with respect, and finish quickly. Many note estimates are accurate, and several say Armstrong's pricing beats competitors. On the downside, a handful of customers report property damage and long waits for claim resolution. Some cite trouble reaching staff or unexpected extra costs. Compared with industry standards, Armstrong receives far fewer serious complaints, and its teams are routinely described as the most professional movers customers have hired. The company earns strong trust and repeat business, with negative feedback mostly centered on damage claims, rare billing issues, or isolated incidents of poor communication.
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Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 74

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage


Armstrong Relocation, a local moving company in Mount Joy, PA, has been providing residential moving services since 1950. They distinguish themselves with a broad range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, as well as the expertise to move pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike many nearby competitors, Armstrong Relocation accepts credit cards and requires no deposit. With an impressive 205 reviews on Google averaging 4.7 stars and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their strong reputation is a testament to their reliability and customer satisfaction.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/CollegeHunksPittsburgh/, https://twitter.com/CollegeHunks
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Friendly and approachable staff
  • Careful handling
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Unprofessional behavior
Review Analysis
Outstanding teamwork sets College Hunks apart, with feedback from 290 reviews showing nearly 75% of experiences rated positively. Customers praise their efficient service, professional and polite crews, speedy moving process, friendly staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many mention attentive communication and moves finished much faster than expected, making the process less stressful compared to other companies. On the downside, about one in four reviews cite serious issues such as property damage, trouble getting claims or concerns addressed, and, in some cases, unprofessional behavior from the moving team. Complaints focus on damaged furniture, poor follow-up from management, and occasional lapses in customer service. While the majority experienced reliable, friendly moves delivered at an impressive pace, there is significant risk of poor outcomes. Compared to similar movers, College Hunks earns high marks for efficiency but needs to tighten up communication and damage resolution to match the best in the field.
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Company Info

State license #: 8919262

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: BLL Charles Inc


College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been serving the Glenshaw, PA area with reliable local residential moving services since 2018. Renowned for its comprehensive offerings, such as office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, this company stands out among local competitors. Clients appreciate their no-deposit policy and credit card payment options, evidenced by an impressive 4.7-star average from 853 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though Yelp reviews are more mixed. Overall, College Hunks offers a trustworthy and versatile moving experience.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/SouthHillsMovers/, https://twitter.com/southhillsmover
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Real experiences tell the story at South Hills Movers: Out of 180 customer inputs, nearly three-quarters gave glowing reviews. Customers praise the professional, polite teams, reliable communication, efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Fast service and responsiveness set South Hills Movers apart from many competitors, making moving smoother for homes and businesses alike. Despite standout professionalism, some feedback highlighted damages to property or items, slow or difficult complaint resolution, and problems with on-time arrival. These issues appeared less often, but claims processes and damage handling need attention. Compared to other moving companies, South Hills Movers earns stronger marks for staff demeanor, service quality, and efficient processes, but consistent follow-through on problems would improve the experience even more.
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Company Info

Years in Business: 94

DOT #: 98045


South Hills Movers, a trusted name in Bethel Park, PA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1931. With an impressive array of offerings that include packing, unpacking, and specialized services for moving pianos, art, and antiques, they cater to a wide range of customer needs. While their Yelp profile shows a modest rating, they boast a stronger 4.1 average on Google and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a generally positive reputation. Compared to other nearby movers, South Hills Movers stands out for their long history and comprehensive service options, making them a reliable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/donfarrmoving, https://twitter.com/DonFarrMoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Customer feedback on Don Farr Moving & Storage makes one thing clear: performance at the curb doesn’t always match the service on the sales call. Out of 415 reviews, just over half (50.8%) praised their efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite crews. Many highlighted reliable, friendly staff, quick moving processes, and helpful movers who eased the stress of relocation. On the downside, 46.5% of reviewers recounted damage to items, delays, and frustrating complaint processes, especially with broken or lost belongings and claims that left customers dissatisfied. Poor follow-up and slow, incomplete responses dominated the negative feedback. In comparison to other moving companies, Don Farr’s staff impresses with politeness and care during the move, but post-move support and damage resolution fall short. If efficient, capable teams matter most, customers might be satisfied, but those seeking assurance on item safety and resolution for damages should proceed with caution.
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Company Info

State license #: 8922932

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 345157

Alternate Names: Exclusive Services, Inc.


Don Farr Moving & Storage, a trusted name in West Mifflin, PA since 1982, specializes in local residential moving services. While consumer reviews are mixed, with average ratings of 2.2 on Yelp and 3.6 on Google, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau stands out. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Compared to other nearby movers, Don Farr's extensive experience and variety of services make them a solid choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

Things to know before moving from Pennsylvania to Lancaster, CA

Cost of living: Pennsylvania vs Lancaster, CA

Pennsylvania Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,110 $2,600
Average home value $268,824 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $73,170 $74,723
Unemployment rate 3% 16%
State income tax 3% 13%
  • Rent is about 134% more expensive in Lancaster than in Pennsylvania.
  • Home prices are about 76% higher in Lancaster than in Pennsylvania.
  • The average income is about 2% higher in Lancaster than in Pennsylvania.
  • Lancaster has a higher unemployment rate than Pennsylvania by about 359%.
  • Income taxes are 333% higher in Lancaster than in Pennsylvania.

How life is different in Lancaster from Pennsylvania

Lancaster Pennsylvania
Population 173,516 12,961,683
Political leaning Democratic 58-38 Republican 51-49
Summer high 98ºF 83ºF
Winter low 31ºF 19ºF
Annual rain 8" 44"
Annual snow 1" 38"
Crime index 45.5 17.62
  • The population of Lancaster is approximately 99% lower than the population of Pennsylvania.
  • In the last presidential election, Lancaster voted Democratic and Pennsylvania voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in Lancaster is 98ºF and in Pennsylvania, it’s 83ºF.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Lancaster reaches the temperature of 31ºF and Pennsylvania gets down to 19ºF.
  • You can expect about 8 inches of annual rainfall in Lancaster vs 44 inches of rainfall in Pennsylvania.
  • In Lancaster, it snows about 1 inch annually vs 38 inches of snow in Pennsylvania.
  • Lancaster has a higher crime rate than Pennsylvania with a crime index of 45.5 vs 17.62.

Things to do in Lancaster

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Lancaster.

Museums in Lancastertoggle

  • Lancaster Museum of Art & History
  • Western Hotel Museum
  • Boyle Heights History Studios & Tours

Parks in Lancastertoggle

  • Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
  • Apollo Community Regional Park
  • Saddleback Butte State Park
  • Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park
  • Sgt. Steve Owen Memorial Park
  • Tierra Bonita Park

Universities in Lancastertoggle

  • Antelope Valley College

Other considerations when moving to Lancaster, CA

  • Weather: If you're looking to move to Lancaster, consider doing this on the months of May, October and April. Summers are hot and nearly rainless while winter could be mildly cold.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

FAQ

How long does a move from Pennsylvania to Lancaster take?

The time frame for a move from Pennsylvania to Lancaster, CA, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in Pennsylvania, the longer the drive time to Lancaster will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.

With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Lancaster from Pennsylvania can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Pennsylvania to Lancaster?

Because of the 2592-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Pennsylvania to Lancaster as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Lancaster, CA?

With the summer highs of 98ºF and the winter lows of 31ºF, most people move to Lancaster from Pennsylvania during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Lancaster during summer or winter.

Helpful moving resources