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Best Moving Companies in New York (July 2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

From a pool of 146 movers working across New York, we identified the providers that balance cost, transparency, and reliability. Browse the options below to stack up quotes, review available services, and find the right match for your move.

Colonial Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty services
  • Highly trained crews
  • In-app booking

Safeway Moving

4.5 / 5
  • Veteran-owned
  • Price matching
  • Verified accurate quotes

American Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty moves
  • Trained & certified crews
  • Flat-rate quotes

Hi, I'm Michael Marshall from FreightWaves

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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?

At FreightWaves Checkpoint, we routinely evaluate more than 4,000 moving companies across the country using a data-driven scoring system built around performance, accountability, and overall customer experience. Our editorial team assigns weighted scores to the factors that matter most to consumers planning a move.

Here’s how we rank movers:

Customer feedback (40%): Verified consumer reviews carry the most weight in our methodology. We evaluate overall ratings, review volume, consistency across platforms, and patterns in customer experiences to measure satisfaction and service reliability.

Complaint track record (20%): While issues can arise in any move, resolution matters. We review complaint history through public consumer databases, focusing on frequency, severity, and how proactively a company works to address and resolve disputes.

Pricing transparency (15%): Clear estimates, well-defined deposits, and straightforward contracts score higher in our system. We prioritize movers that make it easy to understand what you’ll pay — without hidden fees or vague pricing language.

Service offerings (12%): Companies that provide a wide range of services — including full packing, specialty item handling, storage solutions, and interstate moving — earn stronger marks for flexibility and convenience.

Online experience (8%): We look at how easy a company makes it to get information, request a quote, and understand its services online. Up-to-date websites, clear contact details, and responsive review engagement all factor into the score.

Company track record (5%): Longevity, proper licensing, and overall business stability also play a role. Movers with a consistent operating history and verified credentials receive higher marks.

Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect new data, evolving consumer feedback, and shifts in company performance — helping you compare movers with confidence.

Top Local Movers in New York

After evaluating 146 moving companies in New York, Roadway Moving earned top marks for reliable short-distance shipping of household goods, as well as clear pricing, and customer care. Their moving experience makes them a standout for local relocations.

See our complete list of trusted movers within NY:

Roadway Moving

845 3rd Avenue, New York, NY, 11232
5.0 / 5.0

Roadway Moving (DOT: 1854436) offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including full-service, interstate, and international moves. Customers can benefit from their climate-controlled storage options and specialized services like piano moving and crating. Although they provide junk removal and unpacking services, they do not offer specific discounts, such as those for seniors or students, which might be a drawback for some. Additionally, they ensure a seamless process by accepting payments via credit card and providing an instant email quote.

"Roadway Moving made my move absolutely seamless! From start to finish, the process was incredibly clean, easy, and efficient. Their team was also very communicative and helpful every step of the way, and made sure that everything went smoothly."

Get a Quote (646) 969-9849

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Unexpected charges

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Junk hauling
  • Full unpacking
  • Labor-only
  • Piano
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

Dumbo Moving and Storage

15 N Oxford St, Brooklyn, NY, 11205
4.96 / 5.0

Dumbo Moving and Storage (DOT: 1543241) offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including full-service and interstate moves, as well as international relocations. Specializing in handling delicate items, they provide fragile-only packing, and cater to specific needs such as hot tub and piano moving.

While they boast climate-controlled storage and unpacking services for added convenience, customers seeking crane vans will find this option unavailable. Additionally, they enhance service accessibility with the acceptance of credit card payments and by offering instant email quotes.

"Steven and Stefan—are excellent. They were efficient, incredibly strong, and excellent communicators throughout the entire process. They handled a 90-mile move with care, and not a single item was damaged when I unpacked. Highly recommend!"

Get a Quote (718) 222-8282

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Unfriendly or rude staff

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Full unpacking
  • Labor-only
  • Piano
  • Offsite storage
  • Heavy safes
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

Shleppers Moving & Storage

434 East 165th Street, Bronx, NY, 10456
4.9 / 5.0

Shleppers Moving & Storage (DOT: 1611225) provides a comprehensive range of services, including full-service moves, interstate transport, and specialized handling of antiques and pianos. They also offer packing and unpacking services, making relocations smoother and more convenient for their customers.

One point to note is that they do not provide international moving services, which may be a downside for clients planning to relocate overseas. However, their active status and email support ensure that clients can easily contact them for more information or specific needs.

"They arrived on time, were professional, courteous, and efficient. They wrapped my fragile items, packed the moving truck efficiently, and unpacked with care. I’d recommend them to anyone needing a professional mover."

Get a Quote (212) 223-4004

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Senior moving
  • Full unpacking
  • Piano
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

NYC Great Movers

58 2nd Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11215
4.86 / 5.0

NYC Great Movers (DOT: 2180117) offers a range of services including full-service moving, interstate relocations, and junk removal. They provide climate-controlled storage options and cater to specific needs such as packing fragile items or moving pianos. Customers can benefit from their ethical incentive of a 5% discount on upcoming relocations. However, it might be a downside for some that NYC Great Movers does not offer international moving services.

"Amazing, professional service. My third time with them and would definitely book again. Company was responsive to all my questions, movers were quick and careful. All my stuff was transported and arrived safely with no damages or losses."

Get a Quote (718) 285-8565

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Junk hauling
  • Full unpacking
  • Piano
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

Gentle Giant Moving Company

100 Bowne Street, New York, NY, 11231
4.86 / 5.0

Gentle Giant Moving Company (DOT: 373544) offers a range of moving services including full-service moves, interstate and international relocations, and packing services. They also provide storage solutions and offer the convenience of crane vans and instant email quotes for potential customers.

However, the company does not offer services like climate-controlled storage or discounts for military personnel, seniors, or students, which may be a downside for some clients. Additionally, they do not accept payments by cryptocurrency, which could limit payment options for tech-savvy customers.

"Tony and his team were professional, polite, and incredibly careful with every item. They made the process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend Gentle Giant Movers!"

Get a Quote (718) 907-1830

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication

Cons

  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication

Services

  • Full-service
  • Out-of-state
  • Full unpacking
  • Piano
  • Offsite storage
  • In-state
  • Accepts credit cards
  • Full packing

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How Much Does It Cost To Hire Local Movers in NY?

The cost of a local New York move depends on crew size and time spent. Movers in New York charge an average hourly rate of $131 per hour, and you’ll want to budget for several hours depending on the size of your place. Take a look at what it typically takes to move different home sizes so you can better budget for your local NY move:

Home Size Crew Size Move Time Estimated Cost
Studio/1 BR 2 movers 3–4 hours $785 – $1,047
2 BR 3 movers 4–5 hours $1,571 – $1,963
3 BR 4 movers 6–7 hours $3,141 – $3,665
4+ Bedroom 4–5 movers 8+ hours $4,188 – $5,890
 

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Best Long-Distance Movers in New York

Colonial Van Lines took the lead among 146 long-distance moving companies in New York. Their blend of competitive pricing and dependable service made them a standout in a crowded field.

Here’s who made our list of best movers in NY:

Colonial Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty services
  • Highly trained crews
  • In-app booking

Safeway Moving

4.5 / 5
  • Veteran-owned
  • Price matching
  • Verified accurate quotes

American Van Lines

5.0 / 5
  • Specialty moves
  • Trained & certified crews
  • Flat-rate quotes

Colonial Van Lines

Our Score:
5.0 / 5.0

Colonial Van Lines (USDOT: 1434373) is a full-service moving company based in Pompano Beach, Florida, that handles long-distance moves across 48 states. With more than 50 years in the business and over 12,000 moves completed each year, they know their way around an interstate move. Colonial offers packing, storage, and long-distance transport throughout the continental US, all handled by highly trained crews. Their easy-to-use mobile app makes getting a quote quick, and customers often highlight the company’s friendly, professional, and reliable customer service.

Get A Quote (866) 377-8209

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Expert in-house crews
  • Home electronics setup
  • Trash & debris removal

Cons

  • No local or international moves
  • Not available in AK or HI

Services

  • Long-distance moving (nationwide service across contiguous 48 states; excludes Alaska & Hawaii)
  • Cross-country & interstate moving (full-service coordination from packing to delivery)
  • Professional packing & unpacking (trained packers, specialty blankets, shrink-wrap, custom crating)
  • Moving storage services (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled storage options)
  • Corporate & commercial relocation (efficient packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
  • Full-service moving (end-to-end handling by CVLU-trained professionals)
  • Customizable quotes via moving app or specialist (accurate, transparent estimates with virtual inventory)
  • Colonial Moving App (virtual estimates, inventory updates, checklists, and box ordering)
  • Colonial Van Lines University training (movers with 2–4 week curriculum and ~10-year average experience)
  • Family-owned national service (50+ years, 250k+ moves, 4.6 Trustpilot rating)

Safeway Moving

Our Score:
4.5 / 5.0

Safeway Moving (USDOT: 3756000) is a veteran-owned moving company built around the idea of military-level precision. Thanks to its nationwide network of truck capacity, Safeway is able to offer very competitive pricing without cutting corners. The company also uses a multi-stage quality assurance process to keep moves on track from pickup through delivery. That combination of accurate pricing and consistent quality is a big reason Safeway earned a spot on our list.

Get A Quote (866) 989-1425

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
  • Long distance and cross country moves only
  • A portion of every move is donated to charity
  • Verification process to guarantee pricing and quality of service
  • High level of customer service and support
  • Veteran owned company

Cons

  • Require a deposit at booking
  • No local moving services offered

Services

  • Long-distance moving (all 50 states, GPS tracking, barcode-scanned inventory)
  • Flat-rate pricing (virtual walk-throughs, no hidden fees)
  • Price matching (meets or beats quotes from qualified competitors)
  • Comprehensive insurance ($6/lb full-value protection option)
  • Packing and unpacking services (includes last-minute packing for an extra charge)
  • Custom crating (for fragile, heavy, or high-value items like art and electronics)
  • Storage options (30 days free, climate-controlled, long-term available, prorated billing)
  • International moving (limited info online, contact customer service)
  • 24/7 customer service (available by phone at all times)

American Van Lines

Our Score:
5.0 / 5.0

American Van Lines (USDOT: 614506) is a long-distance moving company known for its hands-on approach and experienced crews. Based in Florida, the company handles interstate moves nationwide and stands out for using full-time, background-checked movers rather than temporary labor. American Van Lines offers packing, storage, and specialty services for items like antiques and pianos, with a strong focus on careful handling. Customers often point to the company’s professionalism and attention to detail as key reasons it earns high marks.

Get A Quote (866) 264-7086

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent customer service
  • Last-minute moves
  • Private storage options
  • Handles antiques, pianos & fine art
  • Flat-rate pricing

Cons

  • May require a deposit at booking
  • Automated calls may be overwhelming

Services

  • Local moving (affordable hourly rates, packing, custom crating)
  • Long-distance moving (nationwide service, excludes Alaska and Hawaii)
  • Packing services (upgrade to include professional wrapping, packing, inventorying)
  • Antique and piano moving (specialized handling of fragile/oversized items, custom crating available)
  • Military moves (in-home estimates, discounts, packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
  • Corporate relocation (commercial moving, furniture disassembly/reassembly, storage)
  • Storage options (secure, private units with surveillance, climate control, fire/storm protection)
  • Moving boxes and supplies (available for purchase from AVL)

Allied Van Lines

Our Score:
5.0 / 5.0

Allied Van Lines (USDOT: 076235) is one of the most recognizable names in the moving industry, with a nationwide and global network backed by more than 80 years of experience. Alongside full-service local, long-distance, and international moves, Allied offers Allied Express, a portable container option that includes professional loading and unloading. With packing, storage, and specialty services also available, Allied provides flexible solutions for a wide range of moving needs.

Get A Quote (866) 377-8153

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Specialty packing services
  • Short- and long-term storage
  • Appliance disconnection & reconnection
  • International shipping

Cons

  • Pricing is generally higher than other van lines
  • Pricing estimates can take 3-5 days

Services

  • Household moving (local, long-distance, cross-country — packing, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking)
  • Long-distance & interstate moving (contiguous U.S.; full-service options)
  • International moving (130+ countries; online tracking, customs clearance, destination services)
  • Military moves (PCS, deployment; temporary/in-transit storage; compliance with DoD regulations)
  • Corporate & office relocation (employee moves, office packing, furniture disassembly/reassembly)
  • Packing & unpacking services (professional crews, specialty materials, custom crating for fragile/odd items)
  • Moving supplies & kits (boxes, shrink-wrap, moving kits available)
  • Storage solutions (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled units with security)
  • Portable storage containers (rentable containers for packing/storing during move)
  • Full-service moving coordinators & 24/7 support (dedicated move coordinator, transparent pricing, no hidden fees)

BLVD Moving

Our Score:
4.2 / 5.0

BLVD Moving (USDOT: 3342827) is a long-distance moving company that puts a strong emphasis on clear pricing and customer communication. The company coordinates interstate moves nationwide and is known for assigning a dedicated move coordinator to guide customers through each step of the process. With professional packing, storage options, and a focus on consistency from pickup to delivery, BLVD Moving is a solid choice for customers who want a more organized, transparent moving experience.

Get A Quote (844) 794-6004

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Full-time professional crews
  • Flexible rescheduling
  • Last-minute services

Cons

  • Limited insurance options
  • Limited pricing on website

Services

  • Long-distance moving (nationwide interstate relocations coordinated across the contiguous US), Cross-country & interstate moving (full-service coordination from packing through delivery), Professional packing & unpacking (trained crews, high-quality materials, specialty packing for fragile items), Moving storage services (short- and long-term storage options through partner facilities), Dedicated move coordinator (single point of contact from quote to delivery), Transparent pricing model (detailed estimates based on virtual or phone inventory reviews), Carrier-vetted moving network (licensed and insured interstate carriers meeting BLVD’s service standards), Specialty item moving (oversized furniture, antiques, and delicate household goods), Customer support throughout the move (proactive communication and scheduling updates from pickup to drop-off)

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How New York Movers Stack Up

  • Total movers: Of the 3,130 total professional moving companies in the U.S., 146 are located in NY.
  • Average rating: 4.34 stars — compared to the national average rating of 4.32 stars.
  • Mover associations: New York has one in-state mover association, New York State Movers & Warehousemen’s Association, providing centralized support for industry standards and advocacy.

Specialty Services Offered

Service NY Movers NY % National Movers National %
Antiques 82 56.16% 1,452 46.39%
Art 91 62.33% 1,437 45.91%
Climate-Controlled Storage 64 43.84% 1,042 33.29%
Debris Removal 28 19.18% 805 25.72%
Fragile-Only Packing 27 18.49% 745 23.8%
Labor-Only 53 36.3% 1,705 54.47%
Office Moving 131 89.73% 2,669 85.27%
Small Moves 59 40.41% 1,531 48.91%
Total Movers 146 100% 3,130 100%

Discounts Offered

Discount Type NY Movers NY % National Movers National %
AAA Discount n/a n/a 36 1.15%
Military Discount 8 5.48% 134 4.28%
Senior Discount 7 4.79% 157 5.02%
Student Discount 2 1.37% 36 1.15%
Teacher Discount n/a n/a 9 0.29%
Total Movers 146 100% 3,130 100%

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Some New York movers offer special pricing. See which ones match your move.

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What Impacts the Cost of New York Long-Distance Moves?

  • The date of your move: Expect to pay more if you're moving during peak season, especially late spring through early fall.
  • Move distance: Longer moves increase fuel usage, road time, and logistics coordination — all of which raise costs.
  • Optional add-ons: In New York, 97.26% of movers offer packing services, and 130 companies offer storage. These services aren’t included in your base quote and will cost extra.
  • How much you are moving: More furniture and boxes mean more work for the crew and more space in the truck, which increases the final price.

How To Choose the Right New York Mover

Choosing a mover in New York isn’t just about the lowest price — it’s about trusting a company to safely ship your belongings. The best movers bring transparency, reliability, and responsive service to the table.

Here are a few key things to check before booking:

  • Licensing and credentials: Make sure the company is FMCSA-licensed to transport household goods and properly insured for interstate shipments.
  • Pricing and estimates: Get in-person or video walkthroughs for more accurate quotes. It’s smart to collect at least three estimates before deciding.
  • Discounts and price matching: Ask about deals — 8 NY movers offer military discounts, and 7 provide special rates for seniors. Many movers will match a lower quote, too.
  • Service and reviews: Look for movers with strong online ratings and consistent customer feedback. It’s a good sign they treat shipments with care.
  • Booking and flexibility: Review availability, rescheduling options, and cancellation policies in advance.

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FAQs

What’s included in a full-service move?

Full-service moves usually cover loading, transport, and unloading. Sometimes, short-term storage is included. Packing and unpacking is typically available for an additional charge. The transport portion includes moving your household goods in a dedicated or shared truck, depending on the size of your move.

How is the weight of my move determined?

Movers weigh the truck before and after loading (a process called tare weight and gross weight). The difference is your shipment weight, which affects your final cost.

Do movers consolidate shipments of household goods?

Yes, especially for smaller moves. Some companies use freight-style consolidation to combine multiple moves headed in the same direction. This can lower costs but add time to delivery.

Is it cheaper to move with a container or a moving truck?

It depends. Containers may offer more flexibility and lower upfront costs, but full-service movers often handle the logistics of transporting household goods more efficiently for long-distance relocations.

Thinking About Moving to New York?

Starting fresh in New York? We’ll give you a quick look at what life here is like, from housing costs and crime levels to weather patterns and career opportunities.

Life in New York: What To Expect

  • New York has a cost of living index of 100, right on par with the national average. Rent averages $1,507, and home values sit near $482,742.
  • The job market in New York is more competitive, with an unemployment rate of 4.4%. Top industries include Finance and insurance ($309.2 billion), Real estate and rental and leasing ($238 billion), and Professional and business services ($218.1 billion).
  • Recreation options in New York include attractions like Times Square and Statue of Liberty, outdoor escapes such as Brooklyn Bridge Park and Central Park, and museums like The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum and The Strong National Museum of Play.
  • Sports lovers can cheer on teams like Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA) and Buffalo Bills (NFL), which draw fans from across the state.
Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.