How Much Do Movers Cost in New York?

đź’ˇHere’s the bottom line: Local moves in New York typically cost $479 – $1,491 depending on size and time. Long-distance moves out of the Empire State range from $2,467 – $5,384 based on mileage, weight, and services.

We recommend getting free quotes from multiple New York movers to get the most accurate estimate.


Compare the cost of New York movers by type:


Moving Cost Factors in New York

  • Distance: Longer moves are more expensive because of higher fuel use, longer driver hours, and possible toll fees. Local moves are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves depend on weight and distance.
  • Home size and volume of belongings: Bigger homes take more time to move and need more movers and a larger truck, leading to higher labor and equipment costs.
  • Access challenges: Additional charges might be added for long-distance carries, stairs, elevators, or limited parking that needs a shuttle. Movers increase their fees when it’s hard to access your home.
  • Specialty items: Transporting pianos, antiques, safes, or artwork usually needs special care or crating, increasing your total cost.
  • Add-ons and services: Optional services such as packing, unpacking, storage, or furniture disassembly and reassembly will cost more but can save you time and reduce stress.
  • Season and timing: Moving during summer, weekends, and the end of the month is costly due to high demand. You’ll usually find better rates on weekdays or during off-peak times like winter.
  • Insurance coverage: Basic coverage is usually included, but you can get better protection for valuable items with full-value protection or third-party insurance at an extra cost.
  • Storage needs: If you need storage for a short or long time, be prepared to pay more, especially if you want climate control or need it for a long period.

Tips To Cut Moving Costs in New York

  • Move during the off-season. Movers usually cost more in the summer and on weekends. To save money, try to move between mid-September and early May when demand is lower.
  • Declutter before you pack. The less you move, the less you’ll pay, especially for long-distance moves where costs depend on weight. Get rid of items you don’t need by donating, selling, or throwing them away. A yard sale or online sales can help reduce your moving expenses.
  • Do your own packing. Hiring movers to pack is convenient, but it can be expensive. Save money by packing yourself with supplies you already have or by getting free boxes from local stores or friends.
  • Compare quotes from multiple movers. Obtain quotes from a minimum of three licensed companies to compare prices, services, and availability. Some movers might match competitors’ prices or offer bundled discounts.
  • Ask about available discounts. Many movers provide discounts for students, military members, seniors, educators, and first responders. They might also have seasonal promotions, so it’s worth asking about them when you request a quote.


Cost of Local New York Movers

The cost of local movers in New York varies based on where you live in the state, as well as your home size, and the services you select. On average, expect to pay $482 – $1487 for a local move in cities like New York City.

The prices below are estimates for local moves (typically 50 miles or less) and are based on the average hourly rate of $130.88 for a moving crew in New York.

Home size Avg. total cost # of movers # hours
Studio $393 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $524 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $654 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $1047 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $1178 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $1309 5 movers 10 hours

Top Local Movers in New York

Men On The Move

150 Crossways Park Drive West, Woodbury, NY, 11797
Our Score:
4.96 / 5.0
With an impressive track record dating back to 1987, Men On The Move has earned a solid reputation as a trusted moving company in Woodbury, NY. They stand out among their competitors by offering a wide spectrum of services, including local, long-distance, and even international residential moving services. Not limited to just residential, they also extend their expertise to office moving. Their comprehensive service list doesn’t end there – they offer packing, unpacking, crating, and labor-only services too. Precious items such as pianos, art pieces, and antiques are in safe, experienced hands with Men On The Move. Hassle-free payment options through cash and credit cards, combined with an upfront deposit requirement, make the process smooth for customers. They provide full valuation insurance coverage, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind. The company’s reputation is mirrored in its positive customer reviews, boasting a high 4.0 average on Yelp from 225 reviews, and an even higher 4.9 on Google My Business from 68 reviews. Moreover, its A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau further attests to their commitment to customer satisfaction and service excellence. In comparison to other nearby moving companies, Men On The Move consistently scores higher on customer feedback, making it a clear choice for all your moving needs.
Get A Quote (516) 373-7077

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 244
  • Founded: 1988
  • State License: 11671
  • Phone: (516) 373-7077
  • Address: 150 Crossways Park Drive West, Woodbury, NY, 11797

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Climate controlled storage
  • Crating
  • Deposit required
  • Full service
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Labor only
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Piano
  • Small moves
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

Great Movers

58 2nd Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11215
Our Score:
4.9 / 5.0
Great Movers, serving Brooklyn, NY since 2011, has established themselves as a premier choice for residential and office moving in the community and beyond. A versatile service provider, they offer not only local, but also long-distance and international moving services, standing out from other nearby companies. Unique to their services, they are experts in moving specialty items like pianos, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes. The company offers an all-inclusive approach, providing packing, unpacking, and crating services to simplify the moving process. Payments are flexible, with options for cash, credit cards, and a deposit system for securing services. With full valuation insurance coverage, customers’ belongings are protected throughout their journey. Great Movers boasts an impressive online reputation, highlighted by a Yelp average rating of 4.7 from 478 reviews, and a Google My Business average rating of 4.9 from 1899 reviews. Coupled with their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, this positions them as a top competitor amongst local moving companies.
Get A Quote (718) 306-9980

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 532
  • Founded: 2012
  • State License: 39493
  • Phone: (718) 306-9980
  • Address: 58 2nd Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11215

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Crating
  • Deposit required
  • Full service
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Piano
  • Safes
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

Mabey’s Moving & Storage

515 Third Avenue Extension, Rensselaer, NY, 12144
Our Score:
4.86 / 5.0
Mabey’s Moving & Storage, a well-established moving company since 1957, offers a comprehensive range of services that set them apart from many other local movers in Rensselaer, NY. Uniquely, they cater not only to local and long-distance residential moves but also extend their expertise to international relocations and office transfers. The convenience of their all-inclusive services, which spans from packing to unpacking, is a standout feature in comparison to many nearby companies. Mabey’s Moving & Storage is also unique in its no-deposit requirement, further easing the financial pressures of moving. Their online reputation is robust, with a 4.0 rating on Yelp from 14 reviews, and a much higher 4.8 score from a considerable 325 Google My Business reviews. Furthermore, their A+ Better Business Bureau rating underscores their commitment to excellent customer service, situating Mabey’s Moving & Storage as a top choice amongst Rensselaer moving companies.
Get A Quote (518) 283-0017

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 29
  • Founded: 1959
  • State License: 623
  • Phone: (518) 283-0017
  • Address: 515 Third Avenue Extension, Rensselaer, NY, 12144

Services Offered

  • Cancellation policy
  • Full service
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

Dumbo Moving and Storage

15 N Oxford St, Brooklyn, NY, 11205
Our Score:
4.86 / 5.0
Dumbo Moving and Storage is a trusted name in the moving business, providing an extensive range of services around Brooklyn, NY and beyond since 2007. Compared to many local moving companies, Dumbo offers not only local and long distance residential moving, but also international moving services. This company stands out for not only making office moves easier but also providing packing and unpacking services, with an option for delicate items packing. Their versatility extends to labor-only services and the flexibility to handle specialized items such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, and safes. Payments can be made conveniently via credit card while a deposit gives assurance of commitment. Complete peace of mind is offered through full valuation insurance coverage. With 1587 Yelp reviews and a 3.0 rating, plus 2706 Google My Business reviews with a 4.4 rating, Dumbo Moving and Storage exhibits a solid presence in the online space. Although their Better Business Bureau rating of B could be better, they demonstrate a strong commitment to customer satisfaction compared to other local moving companies.
Get A Quote (718) 222-8282

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A
  • Reviews analyzed: 1890
  • Founded: 2007
  • State License: 36990
  • Phone: (718) 222-8282
  • Address: 15 N Oxford St, Brooklyn, NY, 11205

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Climate controlled storage
  • Deposit required
  • Fragile only packing
  • Full service
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Hot tub
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Labor only
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Pay by credit card
  • Piano
  • Pool table
  • Safes
  • Small moves
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

Piece of Cake Moving & Storage

287 Park Avenue South, New York, NY, 10010
Our Score:
4.8 / 5.0
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage has quickly risen to prominence in the New York moving scene since their establishment in 2018. They not only provide local residential moving services but also long-distance options, a feature not all nearby companies offer. Beyond basic moving services, they shine in offering packing, unpacking, and custom crating services, making life easier for their clients. Unique to Piece of Cake Moving & Storage, they provide fragile-only packing and have expertise in moving uniquely challenging items such as pianos, art, and antiques. While many competitors require deposits, they are a credit card-accepting, no-deposit business. Their reputation precedes them with an impressive A- rating from the Better Business Bureau and an average rating of 4.7 across more than 3,000 reviews on Yelp and Google My Business combined.
Get A Quote (212) 651-7273

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: B
  • Reviews analyzed: 2015
  • Founded: 2019
  • State License: 40244
  • Phone: (212) 651-7273
  • Address: 287 Park Avenue South, New York, NY, 10010

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Climate controlled storage
  • Crating
  • Deposit required
  • Fragile only packing
  • Full service
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Labor only
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Pay by credit card
  • Piano
  • Small moves
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

See a list of all the best movers in New York


Cost of Long-Distance Moves in New York

Long-distance moves in New York are calculated based on weight, mileage, and the selected services and add-ons like packing. The cost for a move within 500 miles ranges from $2,475 – $4,492, while moves over 1,000 miles may cost up to $6,000 or more.

Top Interstate Movers in New York

1. Safeway Moving

Started in Florida in 2020, Safeway Moving has rapidly gained a reputation as a popular and trusted moving company. Safeway is known for its efficient and timely moves at fair prices. Along with their full-service options, they offer 24/7 customer support, flat-rate pricing, a price-match guarantee, and special discounts and resources for seniors.

The company can handle long-distance relocations in all 50 U.S. states, as well as international moves.


2. International Van Lines

International Van Lines, established in 2000, is a top moving company with operations in more than 180 countries. They handle local, long-distance, and international moves, provide packing services, car transport, and offer 30 days of free storage. IVL is recognized for great customer service, fair prices, and discounts for seniors and veterans.


3. Mayzlin Relocation

Mayzlin Relocation, a family-owned moving company, has locations on the East Coast. They focus on customer satisfaction by offering 24/7 support, flat-rate pricing, 30 days of free storage, and full refunds for cancellations made a week in advance. They manage long-distance moves in 48 states and local moves in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas. With 24/7 support, Mayzlin ensures reliable communication.


4. BLVD Moving

BLVD Moving, located in California, handles both local and long-distance moving across the U.S. As a family-owned business, they focus on affordability, offering binding estimates and same-day quotes. Their services cover packing, furniture assembly, storage coordination, and the care of fragile items. BLVD uses full-time professional movers and does not rely on subcontractors. They offer flexible rescheduling and are known for their efficient quoting process and dependable service.


5. American Van Lines

American Van Lines, based in Florida, is a full-service moving company with skilled crews and expertise in long-distance moves. They offer packing, storage, and special handling for items like antiques and pianos. They serve the entire continental U.S. and guarantee flat-rate pricing to prevent unexpected charges.


Cost of Small Load Movers in New York

Small load movers are ideal for moves under 2,000 pounds, such as a studio or small one-bedroom apartment. Costs range from $306 – $1489, depending on the specifics of your move. Factors like how far you’re moving, the types of items you have, and whether you choose any add-on options will impact your price.

Top Small Load Movers in New York

1. U-Pack

U-Pack is a top option for small-load moves thanks to its flexible pricing. You only pay for the space you fill in their containers. The “you load, we drive” system is affordable and perfect for moving minimal items. U-Pack provides quick delivery, serves the entire country, and offers online tracking for convenience and reliability. However, it doesn’t cover local moves, limits loading and unloading to three business days, and charges a fee if you cancel within a week of your move.


2. Transit Systems Inc.

Transit Systems, Inc. (TSI) from Pennsylvania focuses on small moves, long-distance relocations, and shipping delicate, valuable, oversized, or heavy items. They offer a range of services such as white-glove packing, custom crating, car shipping, and guaranteed delivery dates. Since 1989, TSI has been reliable and known for great customer service in the contiguous U.S. Perfect for one- to two-bedroom moves, they offer clear pricing with customized quotes.


3. uShip

uShip is a website that links customers with drivers and movers who have extra room in their trucks. It’s a budget-friendly choice for small moves, furniture, vehicles, or equipment transport. Customers can list their needs and receive bids through a pay-as-you-go system. uShip is great for those with flexible schedules and can save on long-distance and interstate moves. However, prices and service quality can differ based on the driver you choose.



Cost To Rent a Moving Truck in New York

Renting a truck in New York costs $30-$100 per day, plus mileage fees and fuel costs. Popular rental companies often charge additional fees for one-way trips.

Top Moving Truck Rentals in New York

1. Penske

Penske Truck Rental provides cost-effective and dependable moving trucks with roadside assistance and guaranteed reservations for both local and long-distance DIY moves. They offer clear pricing and unlimited mileage for one-way trips, eliminating any extra mileage fees. You can choose from a variety of truck sizes and add-ons, such as towing equipment and moving supplies. Penske also offers seasonal promotions and discounts for military, AAA members, and students, helping you save more on your move.


2. Budget

Budget Truck Rental has branches in every state and a simple online booking system, making DIY moving easier without extra fees. They offer some of the best base rates, including unlimited mileage for long-distance moves, and provide discounts for students, military members, and AARP members. Their trucks come in various sizes to fit everything from studio apartments to entire homes.


3. U-Haul

U-Haul makes renting a truck simple across the U.S. and Canada. With over 20,000 locations, they offer a wide range of vehicles, from cargo vans and pickups to 10- to 26-foot trucks. Local rentals charge by the mile, while long-distance rentals include a set mileage. You can also add trailer rentals, moving containers, and self-storage units to tailor your move.



Cost of Moving Containers in New York

Moving containers cost anywhere from $487 – $4,987, depending on factors like container size and distance.

Top Moving Container Companies in New York

1. PODS

PODS provides portable storage and DIY moving solutions, letting customers pack without tight deadlines. Their containers come in three sizes: eight, 12, and 16 feet, rented monthly. This pricing includes storage time, ideal for flexible moving schedules. PODS services cover local and long-distance moves across the U.S., except in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming.


2. U-Pack

U-Pack is available nationwide and has clear pricing, making it both affordable and convenient. Costs stay low because you pay only for the space you use in their 28-foot trailers or smaller ReloCubes. Unlike rental trucks, fuel, driving, and transport are included, so you only need to pack and unload. There are no monthly storage fees—pricing is based on the transit. U-Pack’s sturdy, weatherproof containers and fast delivery help ensure your items remain safe during the move.



New York Moving Regulations and Your Consumer Rights

If you’re hiring professional movers in New York, it’s important to understand your rights and what rules moving companies must follow. Knowing the basics can help you avoid scams, overcharges, and damaged items.

Licensing Requirements

All interstate moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid USDOT number. You can look up a mover’s credentials using the FMCSA’s mover search tool.

Estimate rules and pricing transparency

Movers are required to provide a written estimate — either binding (a fixed price) or non-binding (an estimate that may change based on actual weight and services). For interstate moves, FMCSA regulations apply. For local moves in New York, companies often charge by the hour, and you should receive a breakdown of labor, travel time, and any extra fees.

Your rights if something goes wrong

  • Loss or damage: All licensed movers are required to offer basic liability protection, which typically covers $0.60 per pound per item. This is minimal coverage, so you may want to purchase full-value protection for valuable belongings.
  • Filing a complaint: If you’re unsatisfied with your mover, you can file a complaint with the FMCSA for interstate moves or with the New York Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for in-state moves.
  • Dispute resolution: Reputable movers in New York will offer arbitration or formal dispute resolution for claims that can’t be resolved directly. Be sure to ask how they handle claims before signing a contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire professional movers in New York?

It costs $130.88 per hour, on average, to hire professional movers in New York. Your specific costs will depend on cost factors like how much stuff you have, as well as when and where you are relocating.

How much should I tip movers in New York?

You should tip movers between 10% and 20% of the total cost — or about $5-$10 per moving crew member for each hour they work. Tipping movers is not mandatory but is considered a customary gesture if you are satisfied with the service.

What is the cheapest way to move in New York?

The cheapest way to move in New York is to rent a moving truck and handle loading and transportation on your own.

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