How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Buffalo
Make an informed choice by considering the following crucial factors when deciding on a mover in Buffalo.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Buffalo charge an average hourly rate of $52. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,044 in total. Your actual cost will depend on your home size, the season, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, and move distance.
We advise obtaining quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. Be sure to request written estimates. These should detail the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays an important role for moving companies. You can find moving companies that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, social media, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Buffalo must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, make sure your mover holds a New York Department of Transportation license.
If you're moving interstate, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which you can use on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Assessing whether the mover provides the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Prepare for the quote process by making a comprehensive inventory of your possessions and writing down any services you may need. Inform your moving company representative about any special conditions or needs to determine if the company can provide satisfactory service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers include the following basic services as a part of their base price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you need additional services from your moving company, share these during the quote process. Services that can lead to higher pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Buffalo, NY
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Buffalo.
Schedule an Early Move
Buffalo sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Being stuck in traffic can lead to delays and significantly impact your budget since local movers charge by the hour. Arranging your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers arrive before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is lighter.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the fairly hot temperatures in Buffalo. This can negatively impact your move. If you plan far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the season. However, the movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only move items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should have everything boxed up before they arrive. You should start packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes each day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have some spare boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t count on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Buffalo, NY
Movers in Buffalo cost $2,572 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,362 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
| Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 250 miles | $2,572 | $2,743 | $6,362 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,182 | $3,329 | $9,916 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,209 | $3,860 | $9,938 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,065 | $4,909 | $12,039 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Buffalo
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How much would it cost to complete a move in Buffalo for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
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