10 best movers in Manhattan, New York

International Van Lines is the best long-distance mover for moving out of New York. Use the filters below to find other movers for a local move in the Manhattan area.

Long-distance movers in Manhattan

A long-distance move is when you move over 50 miles away or relocate to another state. Check that the mover you choose has the necessary federal licensing when moving across state lines. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To verify a carrier's licensing status, you can input the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

The reliable long-distance moving companies below have an active license. They can help get your belongings safely and smoothly across state lines.

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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?

The average hourly moving rate for relocating within or out of Manhattan is greater than the national average, making itfairly expensive. The higher moving rates make sense because the cost of living in Manhattan is above 99.9% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly, as there are many factors involved. Here are some common moving costs:

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

These extra factors can cause your total cost to rise even more:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are breakable, valuable or particularly bulky. Some items that can incur higher fees include these:

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

Find out from potential movers whether they move these items and if so, how much they charge.

Tipping your movers

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

Unexpected delays

Delays happen. Transportation emergencies, bad weather, traffic and limited supplies can all add time and money to your move. You can't avoid unexpected delays, but you can prepare for them by being flexible with your schedule and adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can save you money on moving in Manhattan.

Be communicative

Be communicative about any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid surprise charges on the day of your move. Tell them about additional items that weren’t 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 in advance. Additional fees may apply for large items, and your movers won’t start the move until you’ve consented to the charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Since reliable and cost-effective movers are in high demand, consider moving on a weekday or in the off-season to save some money while still booking your preferred moving company.

Movers are the most booked from May through September. You may get lower moving rates and less competition if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move during slower periods.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you have difficulty finding a cheap relocation service that works for you, there are alternative routes you can take.

Handling the move by yourself is an option. Before choosing this route, consider the labor required and the following costs:

• Moving truck rental
• Fuel
• Packing supplies

Getting help from family, friends or neighbors for moving heavy items such as furniture can make your move quicker and easier. Hiring movers is beneficial if you don't have the time or anyone who can help you move.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. Hiring hourly help can be more cost-effective, but freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Manhattan

What’s full-service moving?

When you choose full-service moving, your hired movers will take care of every part of the moving process. This includes providing packing supplies, packing your belongings, transporting them to the new location and unpacking everything for you.

Full-service moving costs more than standard moving services, which typically only cover loading and transporting your belongings. The price can be justified, considering the time and labor packers spare you, as well as the packing supplies costs it covers. Additionally, full-service moving may offer better insurance coverage compared to self-packed goods, which are usually only insured up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed goods can also be difficult.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will show proof of registration on their transport trucks, as well as on paperwork like quotes and agreements. If you're arranging an interstate move, confirm the company's USDOT and MC numbers on 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?

Determine the total worth of your belongings to accurately choose the best insurance policy. Every company should offer released-value coverage, which insures items at 60 cents per pound per item. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're transporting expensive goods — just be aware that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The hotter months between May and September is peak moving time, leading to limited availability of movers and boosted costs for moves both sizable and small. Understandably, the high-costs might discourage you from a summer relocation. However, you may want to steer clear of a winter move, too, as New York's icy conditions and snowy weather are far from ideal conditions for a move.

We recommend moving during the spring or early fall to experience the best possible weather and lower rates for service.

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

Load up your car with anything too valuable to lose, such as photographs, financial records, identification documents and electronics.

Moving businesses frequently limit insurance coverage on expensive goods, like jewelry and heirlooms. Keep irreplaceable and valuable possessions in your own car if you're concerned about loss or damage.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including the following:

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

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.