Out of State Moving Companies
- Stress-free moving
- Streamlined booking
iMoving
- Easy quote process
- Useful website
Adams Van Lines
- Flexible pricing options
- Experienced Staff
When you commit to a move in NYC, you’ll have to do hours of research and shopping around for the right mover. And if you decide to DIY, you’ll need to deal with hauling, parking, shuttles… the list goes on. Moving is stressful, and moving in New York is extra stressful.
Moving APT has done plenty of research (and face-to-face business) with movers in NYC. We cultivated a network of qualified movers so you know who you can trust with your move, and it’s all based on our key criteria:
- Clear Communication.
- Punctual and Professional Service.
- Fair Pricing.
- Attentive Staff.
In this article, we’ll go over what you should look for in the best movers, and a handpicked, fully-vetted list of the best movers in NYC. We’ll also walk you through what makes New York moves so pricey, and answer some frequently-asked questions from clients like you.
In this article
How Much Does It Cost to Hire Movers in New York City?
On average, NYC movers will charge between $90 and $165 per hour.
The general rule of thumb is that each individual mover will cost about $45 per hour, and you’ll need one mover per room.
Moving Costs in NYC Based on the Size of Your Home (for local moves)
| Home Size | No. of Movers | # Hours | Ave Cost / Hr | Average Price |
| Studio | 2 movers | 2 – 4 hours | $115/hr | $400 – $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | 2 movers | 3 – 6 hours | $115/hr | $600 – $1000 |
| 2 Bedroom | 3 movers | 4 – 8 hours | $165/hr | $950 – $2200 |
| 3 Bedroom | 4 movers | 6 – 12 hours | $195/hr | $1500 – $3700 |
| 4 Bedroom | 4 movers | 8 – 14 hours | $195/hr | $1,800 – $5100 |
| 5 Bedroom+ | 5 movers | 10 – 16 hours | $235/hr | $2500 – $6500 |
Several factors can increase your moving costs in or out of New York: Travel fees (like fuel or tolls), walk-up buildings with steps, wraps or felt pads, seasonal trends (summer is often a busy moving season), day of the week etc..
What to Look for in NYC Movers
Whether you’re looking to move inside or out of New York, local or long-distance, this article will help. But what should you look for when you’re shopping for movers? Finding reliable movers near me is the first step to ensuring a smooth and stress-free move.
- Valid Licenses. Professional moving companies in NYC need to have a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) license to certify that they’re legally permitted to move your stuff. Moving APT’s network includes only certified movers, who are insured, licensed, and legit.
- Recent Activity. If you want a professional mover, they need to have the background to prove they’re ready for the task at hand. You should check to see when they were established, and see how old their most-recent reviews are, as well.
- Binding Quotes/Estimates. There are different types of moving quotes movers may provide, but a binding quote won’t change after it’s been provided. If you want to avoid any surprise fees, you’ll want a binding quote from your mover – and Moving APT will make sure you get one.
- Reviews. Checking customer feedback will give you a good idea of what to expect from a moving company. You’ll be able to see whether or not anyone had problems with moves that are similar to yours, and you’ll get a better idea of what you can expect in terms of customer service.
- Referrals. When you’re shopping for the best NYC movers, you should only consider companies that have been vetted by someone you trust, or industry insiders with several years of experience.
Compare Moving Companies in NYC
| Company |
|  | 
| 
| 
|
| Rating | 4.4 4.4/5 | 4.2 4.2/5 | 4.9 4.9/5 | 4.9 4.9/5 | 4.5 4.5/5 |
| Avarage Price (2-3 Bed) | $3210- $7320 | $3300- $7900 | $2950 - $6650 | $3050 - $6820 | $2900- $8250 |
| Superlative | Most Experienced Movers | Best for Local | Best For Long Distance | Best Customer Service | Most Affordable |
| Get a Quote | Get a Quote | Get a Quote | Get a Quote | Get a Quote |
The 5 Best Moving Companies in NYC
Moving is hard enough as it is. That’s why Moving APT streamlined the process of choosing an NYC mover for you with this well-researched list. Don’t miss the expert tips and insider info below the list to help guide your move as well.
Moving across town? Let’s start with a brief look at the top 5 moving companies in NYC:
Out of State Moving Companies does more than just interstate moving. They can handle local moves, corporate relocations, and more. They offer a wide variety of different services to suit your needs, and they go the extra mile so you don’t have to.
One of the most striking positives about Out of State Moving Companies is their commitment to convenience. From their online search utility to their easy booking, they’re all about making your move as stress-free as possible. This also means you can get a completely full service move on moving day!
Pros
- Stress-free relocations
- Experienced out of state movers
- Custom moves available
- Excellent customer support
- Professional and punctual movers and haulers
Cons
- Limited available in some parts of the US
Why We Recommend Out of State Moving Companies
If you’re looking for an interstate mover (or just a mover that makes life easier), we’re always happy to recommend Out of State Moving Companies.
We appreciate their approach to stress-free moving, which includes attentive customer support, and a completely customizable moving plan.
Licenses Info:
DOT#: N/A
MC#: N/A
iMoving.com is one of the best platforms to find moving companies in New York City and around the country due to their streamlined website and online booking process.
Their website serves as a one-stop portal for all things moving, making it the a fast and easy resource.
Pros
- Local and international moves
- Easy online quote process
- Simple add-on services
- Useful website
- Wide range of services
Cons
- None currently
Why We Recommend iMoving:
iMoving is your go-to place for all kinds of related services like disposal, long-distance moves, storage, and more for both commercial and residential customers. They can also handle the packing, storage, assembly, and disassembly of furniture, pianos, art, and more.
Adams Van Lines has over 18 years of experience with long-distance moves, offering a wide range of services to make your move easier. As an added bonus, Adams Van Lines provides flexible pricing options to better cater to your moving needs.
Pros
- Experienced and professional staff
- Wide range of services offered
- Flexible pricing options
Cons
- Online quotes aren’t available
Why We Recommend Adams Van Lines:
When you’re moving long-distance, additional services can seriously reduce your stress. Fortunately, Adams Van Lines provides loading and unloading, packing, transportation, and storage – all in one, convenient, NY moving company.
As their name implies, FlatRate Moving is one of the first NYC moving companies to offer FlatRate services for local moves.
FlatRate Moving also offers nice extras like upcycling, electronic installation, antique moving, white-glove service, military relocation services (with special pricing), and much more.
Pros
- Professional employees
- All-inclusive flat-rate pricing
- Online resources and dedicated app
- Trusted by US military and UN
Cons
- Lengthy quote process
- Unclear on the cost of flat-rate pricing comparatively
Why We Recommend FlatRate Moving:
Based on Moving APT’s expert research of FlatRate Moving, we’ve found that the company and its employees are safe, efficient, and put a lot of care into each and every one of their moving jobs – whether it’s across town or just down the block.
Since 1993, Oz Moving has built a reputation as one of the largest and most reputable moving companies in New York City. If you’re considering a move away from the city (or just to a different borough), they take care of it with professionalism and expertise.
Pros
- Customizable moving plan
- Expansive services
- Custom crating
- Useful website
Cons
- Incomplete quoting form
- Low online presence
Why We Recommend Oz Moving:
Oz Moving will work with you to put together an ideal moving plan for your situation and budget, right down to the add-on services and transparent insurance. They also provide extra services such as disassembly, reassembly, arranging furniture and decor, and more.
What Factors Contribute to New York City Moving Costs?
Wondering what factors into the average costs to move to New York City? First, think about the services you’ll need like transportation, labor, or specialty packing. Quantity matters too: large homes or businesses require more labor, costing more for the same services.
- Insurance – While movers are careful with your items, there’s always the chance of an accident. Expect to pay around $10 for every $1000 of your valued possessions, with a base $250 deductible.
- Packing & unpacking services – Even if you’re renting your own truck, you’ll still have to pack your stuff. Fortunately, some movers provide packing/unpacking services. It can cost anywhere from $100 to more than $1000 depending on the quantity of your items.
- Furniture disassembly/assembly – Some furniture is too clumsy to be moved without disassembly. If a mover doesn’t provide assembly or disassembly services, you may have to check out Task Rabbit if you’re really trying to avoid taking down furniture yourself. Expect to tack on another $50 – $200.
- Junk removal – Junk happens. Over the course of your packing and sorting, you might take the opportunity to get rid of some of that clutter. It may run you $100 – $600, but minimizing is priceless.
- Stairs – You’re moving in New York. There’s going to be stairs. If your movers need to carry your stuff to the tenth floor and the elevator’s busted, you’ll have to pony up some extra cash. It’s usually $50 – $100 per flight.
- Elevator – Just like stairs, you may have to pay extra if a move involves using an elevator. While it’s much easier than hauling a sofa up some stairs, it can still set you back anywhere from $50 – $100.
- Long carries – Do your movers need to carry your stuff a long distance? There’s a fee for that, as well. As with stairs and elevators, it may set you back $50 – $100
- Appliances – Appliances are some of the biggest items you’ll need to move, and they call for a pretty hefty pricetag for disconnection and reconnection. Expect to pay $100 – $200 for each appliance.
- Parking – If you’re lucky enough to be on a street that allows semi-trucks and moving vans, you’ll still have to pay for parking. Depending on the location, you may need to get a special parking permit. These can set you back $20 – $200.
- Shuttle fees – That big semi won’t be allowed everywhere. If you’re moving to New York (or getting out of here) you’ll have to pay a shuttle fee for a smaller truck to transport your stuff to where the larger truck is parked. It’s a pain, and it hits your wallet hard, too. Shuttle fees can start at $125, but there’s no top end. You may even pay thousands if your move is big enough.
How Much Does a Long Distance DIY Move Cost?
DIY your move and renting a truck for a cross-country move can cost anywhere from $1600 to $5200 and up – and that’s not including room and board, food, and gas.
Even if you use a moving container that you’ll load up on your own time, you’re looking at $2000 to $8200. While moving DIY may be cheaper, the price of rentals really stacks up.
| Type of Service | 1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedrooms | 4-5 Bedrooms |
| DIY/Truck Rental | $400 – $2300 | $750 – $4150 | $1500 – $4900 |
| Moving Container | $700 – $2800 | $1100 – $4950 | $2300 – $7800 |
A DIY move is also incredibly stressful. You’ll have to haul your stuff in a truck you aren’t familiar with driving, and you’ll have to pack, load, and unload every single item you need to take from point A to point B. Have anything heavy?
Better make sure you really like your family and friends, because they’ll have to go with you the whole trip.
While it can cost a more to contact a full-service long distance moving company (at least $2200 for a one-bedroom), you’re saving yourself tons of time, effort, and stress by leaving your long-distance move to the pros.
Sometimes, DIY is just a PITA. Save yourself the trouble and get in touch with a moving company in NYC instead.
How Much Does a Local DIY Move Cost?
If you need to rent a moving truck, expect prices that range from $70 a day all the way to $130 a day and more. As an alternative to a moving truck, you can rent a moving container that you can load up yourself before the container company relocates it to your new place.
The price of a moving container varies, ranging from $300 for a one-bedroom apartment up to $1400 for a 4 or 5-bedroom home.
| Type of Service | 1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedrooms | 4-5 Bedrooms |
| DIY/Truck Rental | $135 – $385 | $160 – $590 | $240 – $790 |
| Moving Container | $300 – $600 | $500 – $950 | $750 – $1300 |
Here’s How We Rank Our NYC Movers
Moving APT has 22 years of experience in the local and long-distance moving field, serving more than 22,000 clients to date. Unlike other recommendation sites, we do real, face-to-face business with the movers in our network.
This makes our data more in-depth and reliable than anything else you’ll find online.
Our rating methodology is based on the following:
Reviews
- Online Reputation: We sort through reviews and company profiles to make sure your movers are highly-rated and backed by plenty of experience.
- Industry-Insider Information: We work with movers to get a full picture of the services provided by other companies across the field.
- Mystery Shopping: We make sure movers are giving you the same rate they give us. Sometimes we call and pose as complete strangers to make sure they’re honest.
licensing and Accreditation
- Arbitration Program: Movers are legally required to have an arbitration program in place to compensate for lost or damaged items. We make sure it’s up to date.
- Active Claim Department: We check to see if movers have any outstanding claims to see how they handle customers who’ve reported damages – and how quickly they help.
- Safety Record: The FMCSA’s Safety Measurement System provides us with up-to-date information about a mover’s safety track record, including accidents and inspections.
- Active Moving Insurance: Long-distance movers in NYC are legally required to provide full or released-value protection on all of your items. We make sure of it.
Client Feedback
- Video and phone reviews: We ask our own clients for short video testimonies detailing their experiences with their movers. It shows which movers are exceeding expectations.
- Online surveys: We take the time to read about each completed move to get the full picture of how a mover performed.
As a moving broker, Moving APT actually deals with drivers and movers on a daily basis. We negotiate deals for our clients and ensure that movers always honor their contracts – no last-minute upselling, no overcharging, and no funny business.
It’s how we help our clients get moved with minimal fuss, and it’s part of maintaining clear communication between clients and moving companies.
More customers for better movers If a mover is exceeding expectations, we send them more business. If a mover needs to improve, we don’t. It’s simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Should I Pay for Movers in NYC?
Your NYC movers can cost anywhere from $275 to $8000 and up. It all depends on what kind of apartment you have, how much stuff you need to move, and whether you’re moving cross-country or local. Local movers generally charge per hour, and cross-country movers charge by weight. And on top of the movers themselves, you may have to pay several hundred more dollars for special equipment, shuttles, and access fees.
Do You Tip NYC Movers?
Yes. As always, tips aren’t required, but they’ll be greatly appreciated by the people who are responsible for safely moving your furniture and other belongings. Budget for $6 to $12 per hour, and don’t forget to tip your driver as well. Movers do hard work, and it’s your stuff they’re hauling. Snacks and refreshments as well as tips will also keep them happy.
How Can I Move to NY on the Cheap?
There’s no limit to how cheap you can be, but there’s a definite limit to how much stress you can handle. It may be enticingly cheap to rent a van and buy some packing tape, but the last thing you want to do is get a moving van towed with half your stuff in it because you didn’t read up on the parking permit situation at your new place. Save yourself the trouble and pay a little extra.
What’s the Least Expensive Day for Moving?
When it comes to days of the week, move between Monday and Thursday to save some money. Many companies offer discounted weekday rates since they’re usually not as busy. Try to move during the week if you plan to move in the peak summer season.
What Should I Do Before Moving into an NYC Apartment?
New York City is expensive, and it’s cramped. If you’ve already found an apartment, take some steps to reduce how much you’ll have to move. Sell, donate, or throw away, or regift your clutter, and your wallet will thank you in the long run.
Do I Need a Parking Permit? How Do I Get that Big Truck on My Street?
In most of New York, you’re able to double park with a commercial vehicle. However, if you’ve got a semi-truck full of belongings, you may have to park it elsewhere and pay a shuttle fee for a smaller truck to ferry your stuff to and from the semi.
What is a Binding Moving Estimate?
A binding moving estimate is a set price that you’ll pay for a moving company’s services. If a moving company gives you a binding moving estimate, it means they’re won’t make any surprise adjustments or last-minute changes to the price. What you see is what you’ll pay.
Start Your Search for the Best Moving Companies in NYC
At Moving APT, we have all the insider knowledge, resources, and connections you need to find the best moving companies in NYC and beyond. Whether you’re planning a local move or need to pull off something long-distance, you’ll find the best movers in New York and plenty of tips for smooth sailing.
Take it one step at a time with the Moving APT Moving Planner to get you organized and prepared.
