Are you planning on relocating to New York City? Whether you’re coming all the way from California or are making the move from New Jersey, Connecticut, or Washington D.C., long distance moves are always a significant undertaking. But don’t worry – as long distance moving experts, we’re here to help with tips for long distance moves that’ll get you to NYC with ease.
Long Distance Moving Advice: FAQs
Long distance moving involves careful planning, organization, and patience. You’ll need to sort through your belongings, deciding what to bring and what to leave behind. Navigating the logistics of moving large items can be challenging, particularly when moving into New York City’s typically smaller living spaces. So, we’re here to help with answers to common questions and long distance moving advice to help the transition.
What Is Considered a Long Distance Move?
A long distance move generally refers to moving over 100 miles away from your current location or moving across state lines, regardless of the distance. This type of move usually involves more planning and effort than a local move due to factors such as longer travel times and the need for careful packing to prevent damage during transit.
How Do You Move Things Long Distance?
There are a few ways to move your things:
- Hire a Professional Moving Company: This is one of the most common and stress-free ways to move long distances. Full-service movers will handle everything from packing your belongings to transporting and unloading them at your new location.
- Rent a Moving Truck: If you’re comfortable driving a large vehicle, you can rent a moving truck and handle the move yourself. This option can be more cost-effective but requires more work.
- Use a Portable Moving Container: Companies offer portable moving containers that they drop off at your home. You fill it with your belongings, and they transport it to your new location. Learn more about moving with PODS vs a moving company.
- Ship Your Belongings: For smaller moves or if you don’t need your items immediately, shipping your belongings can be a viable option.
- Hire a Freight Trailer: Similar to a moving container, a freight trailer company will drop off a trailer at your home for you to fill, and then they’ll drive it to your new location.
The best option for you depends on your budget, how much you’re moving, and your personal preferences.
Why Is Long Distance Moving So Expensive?
The cost of a long distance move is typically determined by the weight of your belongings and the distance of the move, rather than the amount of time it takes. Because of this, it can get pricey. Moving companies have to cover the cost of gas for long trips, and they also have to pay their employees for their time, which includes not only the time spent driving but also loading and unloading the truck. If you move yourself, you’ll still have to consider the cost of fuel and time off work, especially if it’s a multi-day trip.
How Much Do Long Distance Moving Services Cost in NYC?
On average, the cost of a long distance move from NYC could range anywhere from $750 to over $10,000. However, it’s important to note that these are just averages, and the actual cost could be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances. It’s always best to get a quote from several moving companies for the most accurate estimate.
8 Tips for Long Distance Moves to New York City
Regardless of how prepared you feel, moving from one state to another is no easy feat. Over the years, we tend to accumulate a lot of things with great sentimental value, and sometimes, with long distance moving, those things can’t go with us. Follow these tips for long distance moves to ensure you’re ready for the journey.
Visit the City
This is very important, as you’d be surprised how many people move to New York City without even knowing what they’re getting into. While there are many reasons to move to NYC, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. We highly recommend visiting the city to get a better idea of your surroundings and if it’s truly a place you want to live. Spend time there, move around, and visit the different neighborhoods and areas of the city to get the full picture.
Save Some Fall-Back Money
If you don’t already have a job lined up and you’re moving to New York City, you absolutely need to have some cash to fall back on, just in case. There are excellent, affordable living options in all boroughs. Don’t just focus on moving to Manhattan if your budget can’t handle it. You will find there are many reasons to live in Queens, Staten Island, and other boroughs that offer unique amenities that Manhattan doesn’t.
Know your City
When moving to New York, it is of the utmost importance that you get acquainted with the city’s layout. Learning how to get into the city and out, finding your way home from work and vice-versa, traffic details, how long will take you to go from point A to B, subway stops, where you’ll go grocery shopping, etc. is an effective way to plan out how your new routine will look.
Find the Perfect Neighborhood
Your heart may be set on living in Manhattan, but it may be a wiser decision to move to a more affordable borough so that you can have extra money to enjoy the city. Do thorough research to make sure the neighborhoods you prefer are within your price range and fit your lifestyle. Obviously, Manhattan is an exciting place to live, but there are gorgeous neighborhoods in The Bronx and Brooklyn that provide better living conditions for people with families or younger professionals. Use our guide to the boroughs of New York to seriously consider all of your options.
Don’t hesitate on a deal
When you’re moving to the suburbs, brokers will often tell you not to rush into anything and to take your time when buying a house. That’s not the case if you are moving to New York City. If you find an apartment you like, be ready to close the deal right then and there, or somebody more decisive than you might take it. A lot of people complain about the lack of apartment options in NYC. There are plenty of options, but they change so rapidly because of the sheer volume of people coming and going to and from the city. Be decisive and go with your gut.
Hire a reliable moving company
Long distance moving companies in New York can make your relocation way easier, as long as they are a reputable and insured moving company. The movers you choose should understand regulations like move-in dates, insurance certificates, and freight elevator negotiations, as well as the most effective way to move you and your belongings to their new home in the city.
Purge your belongings
Remember, the more stuff you have, the more you’ll have to move. This can be especially tricky in New York City, as every square foot of space is to be cherished and utilized. Decluttering your belongings is one of many ways to minimize stress during moving, but it can be one of the most cost-cutting moving strategies, too! Utilize Craigslist and eBay to sell belongings or consider donating them.
Label your Boxes
After you’ve decided what you’re bringing with you and what you’re leaving behind, be sure to label your belongings to avoid any problems with your moving company. New York City apartments can be small in size, so labeling your boxes is extra important for organizing your living space and for a quick and efficient move.
Choose When You Move Wisely
The best time to move in New York depends on factors such as your budget, housing options, and the weather. If you’re going for the cheapest option, move in the winter. If you want a wider selection of housing options, spring and summer are often the best times, as this is when most leases turn over. However, keep in mind that this is also peak moving season, so competition can be fierce, and prices may be higher. If you’re considering weather conditions, spring and fall offer milder temperatures which can make the physical process of moving more comfortable.
Metropolis Moving is One of the Best Long Distance Moving Companies in New York
And we’re not the ones saying it… our 250+ 5-star reviews speak for themselves. As long distance moving experts in NYC, we know how to make your move as seamless and stress-free as possible. We’ve assisted with long distance moves all across the Upper East Coast, including Connecticut, New Jersey, and beyond. Our team is dedicated to our customers’ satisfaction, providing competitive, flat-rate quotes and top-rated service. So whether you’re moving into a high-rise apartment in Manhattan or a charming house in the Hudson Valley, you can count on Metropolis Moving to get you there with ease and efficiency. Get a free moving quote today to get started.
