10 best movers in Ithaca, New York

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for moving out of New York. If you're moving in the Ithaca area, use the filters below to find other local moving companies.

Long-distance movers in Ithaca

A long-distance move means moving more than 50 miles away or from one state to another. Make sure the moving company you choose has the necessary federal licensing when crossing state boundaries. Interstate movers are required to have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name to confirm a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

We’ve confirmed that the long-distance movers below are actively licensed. These experienced movers can help get you and your belongings safely and smoothly to your new home.

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

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3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

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Why is moving so expensive?

Moving is expensive, but the average hourly moving rate in Ithaca is below the national average. Although the cost of living in Ithaca is higher than 87.5% of the country, moving prices in the area are more affordable than expected.

Moving costs add up quickly based on what services you need. The following are typical moving expenses:

• Professional labor
• Fuel
• Packing
• Storage
• Junk removal
• Supplies

These extra factors can cause your final moving bill to climb even more:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring a moving companiy, you may have to pay more for moving fragile, valuable or very bulky items. These items typically are more expensive to move:

• Safes
• Pianos
• Family heirlooms or antiques
• Artwork and sculptures
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology

If you need to move any of these items, ask potential movers whether they charge extra for them.

Tipping your movers

Giving your movers a tip is optional but common if they provide quality service. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Bad weather, transportation emergencies, traffic and limited supplies can all delay your move and increase the time and cost. There’s no way to combat delays, but you can prepare for them by keeping a flexible schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can lower your moving expenses in Ithaca.

Be communicative

Communicate any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. Notify them about additional items that weren’t included in the initial inventory you gave the movers.

While small items can typically be accommodated without a problem, larger pieces such as new appliances or furniture should be discussed ahead of time. The movers may need to charge more for those additions and won’t begin your move until you’ve agreed to the additional cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Move in the off-season or during the week to lower the cost and book your movers of choice.

Movers are busiest between May and September. If you have a flexible timeline, consider moving outside of those months, as there may be less competition or lower rates.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

Consider taking an alternative route if you can't find an economical moving team that meets your needs.

One alternative is handling the move on your own. Consider the amount of labor required and the following costs when deciding between professional movers and moving by yourself:

• Moving truck rental
• Fuel
• Packing supplies

Getting help from friends, family or neighbors for moving bulky items such as furniture can make your move faster and easier. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you lack the time or support to commit to moving yourself.

You can also hire movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. While hiring hourly help can be more cost-effective, these independent contractors may not have proper licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Ithaca

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers tackle the entire moving process for you. They supply packing materials, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving is more expensive than standard moving services, which typically only cover the loading up and transport of your belongings. The price can be worth it, considering the time and labor packers save you, as well as covering the cost of packing supplies. Full-service moving may also provide better insurance coverage. Self-packed items are usually only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these items can be challenging to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will display their proof of registration on physical trucks and official files. If you're making an out of state move, you should screen companies for valid USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in New York are also required to have a license from the New York Department of Transportation.

How does moving insurance work?

Check what insurance policies your movers provide. All movers should offer released-value coverage, which pays 60 cents per pound per item. If you're moving high-value items, request information on your mover's full-value protection policies. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're moving high-worth goods — just be aware that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The warmer months from May to September is the optimal time to move. This means a limited supply of available moving companies, and higher costs for moves of any size. The steep seasonal prices may prevent you from choosing a summer move.

We suggest scheduling your move in the spring or early fall months to take advantage of pleasant weather and lower costs for moving services.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

To be safe, keep essential financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your own car. We also recommend keeping expensive technology with you while moving.

Moving businesses frequently cap insurance coverage on costly items, like jewelry and heirlooms. Take irreplaceable and valuable belongings in your own car if you're nervous about loss or damage.

There are certain goods and materials that moving companies aren't allowed to move. These include the following:

• Batteries
• Aerosols
• Perishable foods and produce
• Plants
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Fertilizers
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Fuel sources

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.