Moving is easier when you learn from the pros. Our team has completed thousands of moves across New York City, and we have compiled our best tips, techniques, and advice into this resource center. From packing fragile items to choosing the right box sizes, from navigating NYC building rules to planning your move timeline, these guides cover everything you need to know.
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Our packing crews have packed hundreds of thousands of boxes. Here are their top tips. Always start packing with a clean, flat surface — your bed or dining table works great. Keep a pair of scissors, a marker, and tape within arm's reach at all times. Wrap fragile items individually — never let two breakable items touch each other inside a box. Fill every box to the top. If there is space, use packing paper, bubble wrap, or soft items like towels and t-shirts to fill the gap. This prevents items from shifting during transport. Pack plates vertically, not flat. Vertical plates are less likely to break because the force of impact is distributed across the edge rather than the flat surface. Use the right size box. A common mistake is using large boxes for everything — they become too heavy and the bottoms fail. Heavy items go in small boxes, period.
NYC apartment moves come with unique challenges. Here is how to handle them like a pro. Check with your building about elevator reservations, move windows, and COI requirements at least two weeks before your move. If you are on an upper floor, find out whether you can reserve the freight elevator and for how long. Make sure pathways are clear from every room to the front door on move day. Remove any rugs, floor mats, or obstacles from hallways. If you have pets, arrange for them to be in a safe, closed room or with a friend during the move. Have your personal essentials bag (medications, chargers, toiletries, snacks) ready and set aside so it does not get loaded on the truck. Tip your movers if they did a great job — it is customary in NYC and always appreciated.
Even though our crews handle furniture protection, there are things you can do to help. Empty all drawers of heavy items — books, tools, and electronics should be boxed separately. Lightweight clothing can stay in drawers. Remove all items from the tops of dressers, desks, and tables. Take down wall-mounted TVs and shelves — while our crew can help, having them down beforehand speeds things up. If you have fragile items on top of or inside furniture (glass shelves in a bookcase, for example), remove and wrap them separately. Take photos of the back of your TV and electronics setup before disconnecting cables — this makes reconnection much easier.
Moving can be expensive, but there are smart ways to reduce costs without cutting corners. Declutter ruthlessly before your move — fewer items means a smaller move and a lower price. Pack yourself using our supply bundles ($85-$295) instead of paying for full packing service. Be flexible with your move date — mid-week and mid-month dates often have better availability. Avoid the last week of the month if possible, as this is the busiest time for NYC moves. Take advantage of our free COI service instead of paying another moving company that charges for it. Cancel subscriptions and memberships you will not use at your new address to avoid paying for services during the transition.
The move is done — now what? Unpack essentials first: bedding, toiletries, kitchen basics, and a few changes of clothes. You do not need to unpack everything on day one. Check that all boxes and items arrived by referencing your inventory or box count. Report any concerns to your moving company within 24 hours. Set up your bed first — after a long move day, having a made bed waiting is the best feeling. Walk around your new neighborhood to find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, laundromat, and coffee shop. Update your address with USPS, your bank, insurance companies, doctors, and subscriptions. Introduce yourself to your neighbors and building staff — good relationships with neighbors make NYC living so much better.
Our professional packers will carefully pack every item in your home using premium materials, saving you time and stress.
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Learn More →Rent sturdy, reusable plastic moving bins delivered right to your door. A greener, easier alternative to cardboard boxes.
Learn More →We deliver boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and all the packing supplies you need right to your doorstep before move day.
Learn More →Artwork, antiques, electronics, and other high-value items receive custom packing solutions to ensure maximum protection during transit.
Learn More →From uprights to grand pianos, our trained specialists use the right equipment and techniques to move your piano safely.
Learn More →Whether you need to store a few items or an entire household, our climate-controlled storage facilities in NYC are the perfect solution. We offer flexible short-term and long-term options with 24/7 security monitoring and easy access to your belongings whenever you need them.
GET A STORAGE QUOTENeed to move at night, on a weekend, or over a holiday? We are available 24/7, 365 days a year to help you move on your schedule.
Learn More →Moving within NYC? Our local residential movers handle apartments, condos, townhouses, and homes with expert care and efficiency.
Learn More →Whether you are moving across state lines or across the country, our long distance moving services ensure a smooth, stress-free transition.
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Learn More →Have just a few items to move? Our small move service is perfect for studio apartments, dorm rooms, or partial moves at competitive rates.
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