Moving to a new home in a busy city like New York can be an exciting but stressful experience. With so many moving companies to choose from, how do you know which one is right for your move? As NYC moving experts, we have researched and reviewed the top moving companies in New York City to help you find the perfect match. Whether you need help moving across town or across the country, this guide will provide an in-depth look at the best NYC moving companies based on reputation, services, and value.
What Makes a Moving Company the Best in NYC?
Choosing the best moving company in NYC depends on your specific needs and priorities. When evaluating moving companies, here are some of the key factors to consider:
Reputation and Experience
- How long has the company been in business? Established companies with 5+ years of experience are ideal. This indicates they have a proven track record.
- What is their rating on review sites like Yelp? Look for companies with consistently positive feedback. This suggests they provide a quality service.
- Do they have certifications from organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association? This shows commitment to industry standards.
Services
- Local vs long distance – Determine whether you need a local NYC moving company or one that specializes in long distance/interstate moves.
- Packing services – Some companies only handle transportation while others provide full packing services. Consider what level of assistance you need.
- Specialty items – If you’re moving specialty items like pianos, safes, art etc., make sure the company has experience with those types of moves.
- Storage – If you need temporary storage, some moving companies can store your belongings before/after the move.
Value and Cost
- In-home estimates – Companies should do an in-person assessment of your household goods to give an accurate estimate. Be wary of quotes without a home visit.
- Binding vs non-binding estimates – A binding estimate locks in the quoted price, while a non-binding estimate could change. Understand the company’s estimating practices.
- Hourly vs fixed fee – Hourly rates offer more flexibility for shorter/smaller moves while a fixed fee may offer more predictability for long distance moves.
- Insurance & valuation – Make sure the company offers full insurance coverage to protect your items from damage or loss.
Top 11 Moving Companies in NYC
Based on extensive research and client reviews, here are the top moving companies in New York City:
1. FlatRate Moving
With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and hundreds of 5 star reviews, FlatRate Moving is widely regarded as the best moving company in NYC. As an agent for United Van Lines, they provide seamless local, long distance, and international moves. Their certified moving consultants schedule in-home assessments to create customized moving plans. Their all-inclusive pricing covers boxes, packing, transportation, even tips so you know the final cost upfront. They also offer specialty moving services for pianos, art, and other high value items. If you want stress-free moving from a reputable company, FlatRate Moving is a top choice.
Services: Local, long distance, international, packing, specialty items
Coverage: Greater NYC area
Price: $$-$$$
2. Great Movers NYC
For affordable local NYC moves, Great Movers NYC is a great option. Their experienced movers provide loading, transportation, unloading, and even light packing services. They offer an upfront quote with no hidden fees based on an in-home estimate. While they don’t handle full packing or long distance relocations, Great Movers is perfect for budget-friendly NYC apartment and home moves.
Services: Local moves, loading/unloading, light packing
Coverage: NYC boroughs
Price: $-$$
3. Oz Moving & Storage
In business for over 100 years, Oz Moving & Storage is one of New York’s most established moving companies. They offer a wide range of services, from basic transportation to full-service packing. With a real-time GPS tracking system, you can monitor your move every step of the way. Oz Moving also stands out for their hands-on claims process – if any damage occurs, they walk customers through the claims resolution. Their long track record of quality makes them a reliable choice.
Services: Local, long distance, international, storage, packing
Coverage: East Coast
Price: $$-$$$$
4. Time Moving & Storage
Known for their swift moving process, Time Moving & Storage is one of the fastest moving companies in New York City. They use innovative tools like virtual surveys to provide upfront pricing after assessing your belongings through video chat. On moving day, their experienced movers use advanced techniques like color-coded mapping to expedite the moving process. Their rapid service makes Time Moving ideal for New Yorkers who want their move done efficiently.
Services: Local, long distance
Coverage: NYC Tri-State Area
Price: $$-$$$
5. FlatRate International Moving
For those relocating abroad, FlatRate International Moving simplifies overseas moves. As an affiliate of the renowned FlatRate Moving, their overseas moving crew leverages the company’s knowledge of NYC transportation logistics. They coordinate every element of international relocations including freight, customs clearance, storage, and insurance. Whether you need international moving services to or from New York City, FlatRate International is a trusted provider.
Services: International household goods moving
Coverage: Worldwide
Price: $$$$
6. Big Apple Moving
Offering flexible hourly rates, Big Apple Moving is a flexible option for New York moving day labor. Their crew of movers will load, transport, and unload your belongings at an affordable price point. They bring basic moving equipment and can also supply boxes or packing supplies as needed. For New Yorkers tackling the packing themselves but needing help on moving day, Big Apple Moving has the affordable workforce to get you moved.
Services: Loading/unloading, transportation
Coverage: NYC boroughs
Price: $-$$
7. Royal Moving Group
Known for providing customized moves, Royal Moving Group offers everything from basic transportation to full-service packing and storage. As an agent for Mayflower and United Van Lines, they have a large fleet to handle any size relocation. All Royal Moving crews are fully licensed and insured. Their move coordinators provide personal guidance from quote to delivery to meet your unique moving requirements.
Services: Local, long distance, packing, storage
Coverage: East Coast
Price: $$$
8. Careful Carriers & Moving Services
Utilizing green moving practices, Careful Carriers & Moving Services promotes eco-friendly relocations in New York. Their biodiesel trucks and reusable crates/totes reduce waste on moving day. They also offset carbon emissions from moves by planting trees. Beyond their sustainability focus, they provide reliable NYC moving services including packing, moving, and storage for residential and corporate clients.
Services: Local, long distance, green
Coverage: Nationwide
Price: $$
9. Sweet Olive Moving NYC
Female-owned and operated, Sweet Olive Moving NYC provides a spa-like moving service in New York. Their team of professional female movers delivers packing, loading, transportation, and unloading with a gentle, stress-free touch. They handle fragile items with care and keep communication positive throughout the move. Sweet Olive Moving specializes in assisting women through times of transition with their signature mindful moving process.
Services: Local, long distance
Coverage: NYC Tri-state region
Price: $$
10. Dependable Moving and Storage
From basic transportation to full-service moves, Dependable Moving and Storage is a versatile mover in NYC. As an agent for United Van Lines, they handle out-of-state relocations in addition to local moving. Their experienced moving teams provide packing, loading, transport and unloading services for homes and corporate offices. They also facilitate warehouse storage when needed for moves. Customers praise their consistent reliability and integrity.
Services: Local, long distance, storage
Coverage: East Coast
Price: $$
11. AAA All State Movers
As one of the most affordable movers in New York, AAA All State Movers provides budget-minded transportation services. While they don’t handle packing or cross-country moves, their experienced movers carefully load, haul, and unload your in-city belongings for an economical price. They also offer same day/last minute moves to accommodate urgent timelines. If you are moving on a budget within NYC, AAA All State delivers inexpensive prices and reliable service.
Services: Local loading/transportation
Coverage: NYC boroughs
Price: $
How Much Do Moving Companies Cost in NYC?
Moving costs in New York City vary greatly based on the specifics of your move, including:
- Distance – Local moves within NYC are more affordable vs long distance moves to other states.
- Services – Basic loading/transportation is cheaper than full-service packing and unpacking.
- Timeframe – Summer and end of month moves are often more expensive due to high demand.
- Supplies – Providing your own packing supplies can save money.
- Amount of belongings – Moving a fully furnished 4 bedroom home costs more than a 1 bedroom apartment.
For local NYC moves, you can expect to pay:
- Studio apartment – $350 to $850
- 1 bedroom apartment – $400 to $1,000
- 2 bedroom apartment – $550 to $1,500
- 3+ bedroom home – $650 to $2,500+
Long distance interstate moves from New York City often range from $2,000 to $10,000+ depending on distance. Overseas moves generally start around $5,000 – $8,000.
Always request an in-home estimate to get an accurate moving quote tailored to your specific relocation needs.
Key Services NYC Moving Companies Offer
To make your move stress-free and smooth, the best moving companies in New York provide a diverse range of services. Here are some key offerings to look for:
Packing Services
Full packing services where the movers supply boxes and carefully pack every item can relieve the burden of packing yourself. They often use color coded labeling systems to streamline unpacking. Some companies offer specialty packing for fragile items like artwork, mirrors, and breakables.
Loading & Unloading
Professional loading techniques protect your belongings and your home’s walls/floors. Look for companies experienced in carrying large, unwieldy items like pianos, safes, and appliances. Unloading and furniture placing get your new home move-in ready.
Transportation
Your belongings should be safely transported in clean, secure vehicles that protects them from weather and road hazards. Make sure the company has a fleet large enough to handle the size of your move without overstuffing.
Storage
If you need short or long term storage before, during, or after your move, some companies offer climate controlled warehouse storage to protect your belongings.
Assembly & Disassembly
Movers who offer assembly/disassembly will take apart and reassemble large furniture like beds and desks as needed for moving. This prevents damage that can occur moving pre-assembled bulky items.
Crating Service
For extra protection of fragile or valuable items, companies may create custom wooden crates around furnishings, artwork, mirrors etc. This provides more security than traditional packing methods.
Long Distance Moves
Long distance movers coordinate out of state moves across the country. They arrange transportation and provide services like SUV/trailer rental, temporary storage, and property protection plans.
International Moves
International movers handle global moves, working closely with you on logistics, freight forwarding, customs paperwork, crating, and insurance for seamless overseas relocation.
Specialty Moving
Some companies specialize in safely moving unique items like pianos, safes, pool tables, artwork, medical equipment, wine collections, and other specialty belongings.
Green Moving
Eco-friendly companies focus on sustainability through practices like using biodiesel trucks, providing reusable crates and totes, recycling packaging, offsetting carbon emissions, and other green initiatives.
8 Questions to Ask NYC Moving Companies
Moving can be complicated, so asking the right questions upfront ensures you choose the best NYC moving company for your needs and stay informed throughout the process.
1. Are you licensed and insured?
Only work with fully licensed and insured moving companies to protect your belongings and avoid liability. Make sure they have a US DOT license number and carry both commercial general liability and cargo/property insurance.
2. Can I see proof of your company’s good standing?
Reputable movers should provide documentation like an active FMCSA safety certification, BBB accreditation, and positive online reviews upon request. This helps verify their standing.
3. Do you have references from past NYC customers?
Ask for 2 to 3 references from recent NYC area clients. Speaking with past customers provides insights into their experiences that company testimonials may not capture.
4. How long have you been in business in NYC?
Choose an established company with ample experience navigating NYC specifically. 5+ years in NYC is ideal as it indicates local knowledge and longstanding service.
5. How do you determine pricing?
Make sure they conduct in-home estimates to assess your belongings. Understand their rate structure – hourly, flat fee, or binding estimate. Get final pricing in writing before committing.
6. What is your claims process if any damage occurs?
Ask how they assess and handle damages transparently. Good companies will have formal protocols and responsive claims service.
7. Can you accommodate my desired moving timeline/schedule?
Discuss timeframes, availability constraints, and any flexibility to ensure they can realistically service your requested date(s).
8. What COVID-19 precautions are you taking?
Inquire about health/safety measures like required masks, sanitizing practices, and limited client contact to protect all parties during the current pandemic.
Asking thoughtful questions upfront ensures your move is in trusted, experienced hands.
5 Red Flags to Watch Out For
While most NYC moving companies are ethical, unfortunately there are some shady operators out there. Be wary of any movers displaying these red flags:
🚩 No US DOT license – Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and have a valid USDOT number. Avoid any company that can’t provide one.
🚩 Vague quotes – Beware if prices seem suspiciously low or the company avoids giving a binding quote after seeing your home’s contents.
🚩 Demanding deposits – Reputable movers typically don’t require large upfront deposits before the move.
🚩 Lack of branding – Legit companies have clearly marked trucks, uniforms, and professional websites/marketing. Plain white trucks and generic business names can be suspicious.
🚩 No company address – Check that the mover has a physical office location you can visit, not just a PO Box.
Defensive practices like checking federal license databases, reading reviews, requesting references, and comparing multiple quotes will help you avoid potential scams.
FAQs About Moving Companies in NYC
What should I tip movers in NYC?
Tipping movers is standard practice and a way to show your satisfaction with their service. In New York, tipping 10-15% of the total moving cost is considered an appropriate amount. Tips can be paid in cash on the moving day. Some companies include tipping in their packaged pricing so be sure to ask.
How soon should I book movers in NYC?
Ideally you want to book an NYC moving company 4-6 weeks in advance of your move. This ensures you can secure your ideal dates and take advantage of early booking discounts some companies offer. Last minute bookings can be much more costly.
What if I only need help loading or unloading the truck?
Many moving companies offer loading/unloading labor only without transportation. This hourly assistance with packing rented trucks, driving your own vehicle, or unloading rented pods and containers can provide more flexibility.
How can I get the most accurate quote?
Accurate quotes come from in-home assessments where movers physically see all your belongings and rooms. Virtual/video surveys can also help. Providing a detailed inventory list also allows companies to better estimate an accurate price.
Is it better to do it yourself or hire professional movers in NYC?
Considering the busy streets and stairs ubiquitous with NYC apartments, hiring professionals is best for most New Yorkers. Moving companies have the staffing and equipment to safely transport bulky items up and down stairs. Experienced movers also ensure a speedy process using efficient loading/unloading methods.
Key Takeaways – Choosing the Best NYC Moving Company
- Look for established companies like FlatRate Moving with 5+ years experience mastering NYC logistics
- Verify state licenses, insurance, and positive reviews that support their reputation
- Request an at-home estimate for the most precise quote
- Compare the scope of services offered to your needs – packing, long distance, specialty items, storage etc.
- Understand their pricing rate structure – hourly, binding, or non-binding
- Ask key questions about COVID precautions, references, claims processes, and red flag avoidance
- Book 4-6 weeks in advance for ideal date flexibility and potential discounts
- Tip movers 10-15% of total price
With proper diligence selecting a company that suits your move, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free moving experience in New York City. For personalized guidance finding the best NYC movers for your relocation, contact FlatRate Moving – the top moving company in NYC.