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Best Moving Companies in Philadelphia, PA

We compared 38 companies and chose the top movers

    • Best overall
      Agility Van Lines
      5.0(134)
    • Customer service
      Zip to Zip Moving
      5.0(343)
    • Value
      International Van Lines
      4.7(1,406)
    Author picture
    By: Cassidy McCants
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Matt Zane

    Best Moving Companies in Philadelphia, PA

    After evaluating verified reviews from local customers, Agility Van Lines is our pick for the best moving company in Philadelphia. If you want clear communication every step of the way,Zip to Zip Moving is a great fit. International Van Lines is a strong option for budget-conscious customers making long-distance moves.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,874,919 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
    • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    Our 4 moving company picks in Philadelphia

    1. Best overall: Agility Van Lines
    2. Best customer service: Zip to Zip Moving
    3. Best value: International Van Lines
    4. Best moving crews: New Start Relocation

    To help you zero in on the best movers, we researched companies available in Philadelphia and analyzed ratings and reviews from local customers on ConsumerAffairs. Our review process also considered costs, how estimates and deposits work, and what kinds of packing and storage services are available. 

    You can read our full methodology below for more information. Some of our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — our opinions and rankings are not influenced by this.

    Compare moving companies

    Our 4 Philadelphia moving company picks

    Explore our recommendations for the best moving companies in Philadelphia, based on verified local and Pennsylvania-wide reviews on ConsumerAffairs.

    Best overall

    Agility Van Lines

    Agility Van Lines
    5.0
    134 reviews
    Deposit
    Varying percentage
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    2564711
    Read Reviews

    Agility Van Lines stands out by keeping every part of your move in-house, never handing your belongings off to subcontractors. The same team that provides your quote is the one loading and delivering your items, so miscommunication is far less likely. This approach eliminates confusion and increases accountability for your stuff.

    Best for: People who distrust brokers

    Pros
    • Family-owned carrier
    • No subcontractors
    • Storage included often
    • Personalized service
    Cons
    • Limited service area
    • Smaller fleet size
    • Longer lead times
    • Long-distance moving
    • Local moving
    • Auto transport
    • Storage
    • Packing
    • Quote type: Binding (locked-in price)
    • Deposit: Varying percentage
    • Discounts: None specified

    Reviewers in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania collectively portray Agility Van Lines as an exceptionally reliable, transparent and customer-focused moving company. They praise it for accurate pricing, careful packing, friendly and skilled crews, great communication and consistently smooth long-distance moves.

    “I had a positive experience at every step of the way with Agility Van Lines. From Shane and Denise in the office to my movers Jenson and Nick everyone was extremely professional, honest, and kind. … I would recommend them to anyone.”
    Meghan Philadelphia, PA
    “I can’t say enough about the care taken to ensure my furniture was not damaged. … The price for this excellent service was very reasonable. I highly recommend Agility Van Lines.”
    Lachrisah Philadelphia, PA
    Best customer service

    Zip to Zip Moving

    Zip to Zip Moving
    5.0
    343 reviews
    Deposit
    Undisclosed
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    2969363
    Read Reviews

    Zip to Zip Moving gets our nod because its local teams consistently receive compliments for professionalism and efficiency. Customers say the movers are not just fast, but also thoughtful about protecting your belongings and keeping you informed throughout your move. That polite, straightforward approach helps reduce the stress during a chaotic day.

    Best for: Northeast relocations

    Pros
    • Top-rated local service
    • Carrier owns trucks
    • Polite crews
    • Efficient packing
    Cons
    • Regionally limited
    • Small fleet
    • Premium local pricing
    • Local moving
    • Long-distance moving
    • Packing
    • Storage
    • Commercial moving
    • Quote type: Online and phone
    • Deposit: Undisclosed
    • Discounts: Referral

    Philadelphia reviewers describe Zip to Zip as an exceptionally reliable and professional moving company, with crews repeatedly praised for their speed, care, communication and organization.

    “They worked very quickly and delivered all of my belongings with everything packed in a professional manner. … I truly appreciate the service and would definitely recommend this company.”
    Bill Philadelphia, PA
    “George, Soso and Alex made my move a piece of cake. They came earlier than they said (which was good in my case). Everything was safe and sound, they put everything where I wanted. I will use this company again for sure. Recommend for everyone.”
    Curt Philadelphia, PA
    “They were good. Team arrived on time. Crew leader George explained everything in details. … Absolutely recommend this company to everyone who wants stress free moving.”
    Bev Philadelphia, PA
    Best value

    International Van Lines

    International Van Lines
    4.7
    1,406 reviews
    Deposit
    Varies (25% is common)
    Local moves
    Limited
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    2293832
    Get a Quote Read Reviews

    International Van Lines is a strong fit for Philadelphians who are planning international or cross-country relocations and want competitive pricing. By bundling moves and optimizing routes, it is often able to negotiate better rates with overseas shippers — and passes those savings on to customers.

    Best for: Long-distance and overseas movers

    Pros
    • International moving expertise
    • Nationwide domestic coverage
    • 24/7 customer support
    • Ocean and air freight
    Cons
    • 25% deposit required
    • Broker and carrier hybrid model
    • Domestic ratings vary
    • International moving
    • Long-distance moving
    • Auto transport
    • Air freight
    • 30 days free storage
    • Quote type: Binding and nonbinding
    • Deposit: Varies (25% is common)
    • Discounts: None specified

    Pennsylvania reviewers praise International Van Lines for professionalism, care, communication, punctuality and smooth handling of moves — especially for long-distance or complex relocations.

    “We needed to move quite a lot of pricey camera equipment quickly. … When I called, they knew exactly what steps needed to be taken to ensure the delicate cargo was shipped safely. I am sure they also are knowledgeable about handling other oddball moving requests too!”
    Michael Philadelphia, PA
    “I contacted them, and they were pleasant and helpful in arranging all the details of our move. When moving day arrived, everything was executed perfectly. … Finally considering how efficient they were, the cost was very reasonable.”
    Paul Folcroft, PA
    “Having moved a few times previously, I can confidently say this was one of the most stress-free experiences I’ve had. I highly recommend International Van Lines and wouldn’t hesitate to use their services again in the future.”
    Aniyah Collingdale, PA
    3x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service, Best Moving Experience and Best Overall Value
    Best moving crews

    New Start Relocation

    New Start Relocation
    3.9
    1,101 reviews
    Deposit
    Undisclosed
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    3545015
    Read Reviews

    New Start Relocation screens its partner movers for customer service skills, not just for muscle. If you care about having a team that listens, communicates and treats your home with respect, this company emphasizes those qualities when matching you with a moving crew. The process is focused on pairing you with movers who are courteous and willing to answer your questions.

    Best for: Anxious first-time movers

    Pros
    • Fast response to inquiries
    • Personalized planning support
    • Helpful sales representatives
    • Storage options available
    Cons
    • Broker only outsources moves
    • Service area can be unclear
    • Variable service quality
    • Local moving in Florida
    • Long-distance moving
    • Office relocation
    • Storage services
    • Packing assistance
    • Quote type: Nonbinding (estimate only; final price may vary)
    • Deposit: Undisclosed
    • Discounts: None specified

    Customers in Philadelphia consistently praise New Start for professionalism, clear communication and reliability. Movers are described as friendly, efficient, careful with belongings and experienced, making complex or long-distance moves seamless and stress-free.

    “They showed up exactly when scheduled, communicated throughout the process, and handled my belongings with care. Everything arrived on time and in perfect condition. A dependable service I’d recommend to anyone.”
    Levi Philadelphia, PA
    “The movers were friendly, efficient, and clearly experienced. Everything was packed with care and labeled properly, which made unloading so much easier. The process was seamless, and I didn’t have to stress over a single thing.”
    Connor Philadelphia, PA
    “They answered all my questions before moving day, didn’t try to upsell anything, and delivered exactly what they promised. The move went as expected, and in my experience, that’s the best outcome you can ask for.”
    Cameron Philadelphia, PA
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Moving Experience

    » MORE: Best movers in Pennsylvania

    Best moving companies in nearby cities

    Moving Companies in Philadelphia Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Agility Van Lines logo
    Zip to Zip Moving logo
    International Van Lines logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Find a team that works for you & enjoy a stress-free move.

      Moving in Philadelphia is a test of patience with narrow one-way streets. You must get a temporary 'No Parking' permit from the Streets Department at least four days in advance to reserve a spot for the truck. Row homes often mean tight stairwells, so measure furniture beforehand. Read on for more info on how to make the most of your move in Philadelphia.

      Key insights

      PA movers must be licensed by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Look for a PUC number (A-89XXXXXX) on their truck and website.

      Jump to insight

      Movers must provide an 'Information for Shippers' form 48 hours before the move. This document outlines your rights and the approved rates.

      Jump to insight

      Get your parking permit early. In South Philly or Fishtown, double-parking a moving truck is a guaranteed way to get ticketed or blocked in by angry neighbors.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a mover in Philadelphia

      Choosing a mover in Philadelphia means thinking through your needs, checking credentials and comparing detailed quotes. Start by figuring out what type of move you have, then screen at least three licensed companies by getting written estimates and reading independent feedback to spot issues like hidden costs or complaints about item handling.

      Hiring the right moving company is one of the largest expenses of your relocation, so it's worth taking the time to research carefully. Here are the key steps for evaluating movers and finding the best fit for your needs:

      1. Determine your move type

      Begin by deciding whether your move is local within Philadelphia or long-distance. Will you need help with packing everything, or just loading and unloading? Do you have fragile, bulky or specialty items requiring extra care? 

      Understanding your needs lets you focus on companies that actually provide those services, and means your quotes will be more accurate. Full-service movers do all the packing, transport and setup. Self-service or labor-only options cost less but require more work from you.

      2. Research movers in your area

      Ask people you trust for recommendations and look up online reviews from customers in Philadelphia. The most common complaints about moving companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

      • Damage to belongings during transit: Many customers report that their items are delivered scratched, broken or otherwise damaged, and find it difficult to resolve claims with the company. Some movers offer only minimal reimbursement or challenge your damage report.
      • Hidden fees and cost overages: Customers often discover the final bill is much higher than what was originally quoted, sometimes due to fees for stairs, fuel or additional labor not disclosed in advance. Some are asked to pay more on moving day or risk not getting their belongings.

        Boyd from Philadelphia had this issue: “The quote which I was very specific with was about $1200 off of the final amount that they made me pay. The fact that you have to pay by cash check or money order should say it all… Driver up charged massively.”

      • Poor crew quality and unprofessional conduct: Some crews show up late, work slowly or seem careless when handling boxes and furniture. Rude or dismissive responses to customer questions or concerns also appear in reviews.
      • Unmet delivery dates and communication breakdowns: Customers sometimes wait days or weeks past the promised delivery window, and find it frustrating to get in touch with the company for updates or answers.

      3. Compare multiple quotes

      Contact at least three moving companies and ask for written, detailed estimates. In-home surveys lead to more accurate quotes since the crew can see access points and count your actual items. 

      Review all estimates closely — not just the lowest price, but what each includes. Quotes that are much lower than others may leave out key services or signal a less reliable company.

      4. Ask about extra services

      Find out in advance what it would cost to add services like packing, handling heavy items, short-term storage or help with unusual access (tight stairs, no elevator, etc). This makes it easier to create a budget for your move and helps you avoid getting surprised by add-on fees.

      5. Verify credentials

      Any moving company you hire should be licensed and insured in Pennsylvania. For any move crossing state lines, check that the company has a USDOT number and is listed with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Ask about coverage for your items and how to file a claim if anything gets damaged.

      How much do movers cost in Philadelphia?

      The cost to move in Philadelphia can range from a few hundred dollars for a small local job to several thousand for a bigger or long-distance move. Your total depends on how far you’re moving, how much stuff you have and what services you need.

      You must receive the 'Information for Shippers' form 48 hours before moving.

      Common factors influencing your price:

      • Distance: Staying local by moving from Fishtown to Manayunk is more budget-friendly than a cross-country trek.
      • Volume: The more belongings you have, the more time and truck space you need.
      • Services: Extra services like packing, unpacking or special handling increase your total.
      • Timing: Moving in the summer or on weekends costs more. Spring and winter are usually 20 to 30% cheaper.
      • Deposits: Brokers often ask for 20 to 50% upfront as a booking fee, while carriers may require less.

      Rates average $120 to $160 per hour for a three-person crew. Row homes almost always require a third mover to manage the 'bucket brigade' up narrow stairs. If you have a spiral staircase, warn the movers — they may need a hoisting fee to pull furniture through a second-floor window.

      Average cost for moving services from and within Philadelphia

      The figures below are based on current (as of publishing) industry estimates for a three-bedroom home with no additional services.

      Should you tip your movers?

      While not mandatory, tipping is expected and appreciated. A standard moving tip is $20 to $50 per mover for local jobs. For long-distance moves, you might tip a percentage of your total or give more based on the amount of work. Offering water or snacks is also a nice gesture.

      » COMPARE: The best national movers

      Tips for a Philadelphia move

      • Begin the process two months early: This timeline allows for gathering quotes and managing the logistics of your transition without rushing.
      • Establish a realistic moving budget: Account for storage, insurance, tips and supplies to ensure you aren't surprised by the total cost of the move.
      • Downsize your inventory: Save on labor and transport costs by donating, recycling or selling items you no longer need before the truck arrives.
      • Organize your packing by room: Use quality supplies for fragile items and ensure every box is clearly labeled for a smoother unpacking experience.
      • Assemble a first-night essentials kit: Keep your most important documents and daily necessities in a single, accessible box for the first 24 hours in your new home.
      • Verify mover contact details: Double-check the company’s arrival time and contact info to prevent communication breakdowns during the transition.
      Apply for a street parking permit 4+ days early to guarantee truck space.

      » MORE: Cheap ways to move across the country

      Moving regulations in Philadelphia

      Every moving company that works in the U.S. needs to be licensed and insured. If your move crosses state lines, your mover must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and have a valid USDOT number (which you can check on the FMCSA website).

      The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates movers. For moves under 40 miles, rates are hourly. Over 40 miles, they are by weight/distance. If the final bill exceeds the estimate by more than 10%, you can pay the estimate + 10% to get your goods delivered and pay the balance later.

      Moving within or to Pennsylvania?

      We’ve got some resources for you:

      FAQ

      What's included in a full-service move?

      A full-service move covers packing up your belongings, loading them into the truck, transporting everything to your new place and unloading. Some companies also offer unpacking for an extra fee. If you don’t choose full service, you’ll do the packing yourself, and the movers just handle loading and driving.

      Is moving insurance worth it?

      Most movers provide basic liability protection, but coverage is usually limited. If you have high-value items or want more protection, ask about purchasing additional insurance. Your moving company can share your options.

      Do movers charge extra for apartment buildings or parking restrictions in Philadelphia?

      Yes, movers may charge more for apartment buildings, parking restrictions or other complicating factors. Additionally, you’ll need a street parking permit ($25 to $50) for row house moves. Narrow streets mean the truck often blocks traffic, which can require police coordination.

      Why might a move in Philadelphia cost more or less than the state average?

      There are several reasons a move might cost more or less in Philly. Moves in Center City and Old City are particularly expensive due to complicated parking and elevators. South Philly requires permits for row homes. Northeast Philly tends to be easier and cheaper overall.

      Methodology: How we pick the top moving companies in Philadelphia

      To select our top moving companies, we start with reputable movers available in Philadelphia, then rank them based on how they actually perform in your area.

      Our approach: Local reviews and national standards

      We score each company by combining:

      • Local customer reviews (65%): What people in Philadelphia and nearby areas say about the company.
      • National track record (22%): How the company performs outside of Pennsylvania.
      • Service offerings and user experience (13%): An evaluation of each mover's logistical capabilities, cost transparency and ease of booking.

      This way, companies with strong national reputations are judged on their actual local performance.

      How we use local data

      We gather customer feedback in layers to make sure we have enough information to rank companies fairly:

      1. Reviews from your city: If a company has several reviews from Philadelphia, we use those (and weight them more heavily).
      2. Reviews from nearby areas: If not enough Philadelphia reviews exist, we look at reviews from the surrounding metro area.
      3. Statewide data: If regional data is still limited, we use the company's overall performance across the state.

      The more reviews we have, the more confident we are in the ranking. If lots of companies have reviews in a city, we prioritize them over companies that lack local reviews.

      We make sure our top picks are actually active in your area. Companies with solid local reviews rank higher than those relying only on national reputation, even if they perform well nationally.

      What we measure

      We analyze customer reviews for:

      • Moving crew quality
      • Customer service
      • On-time delivery
      • Packing and care
      • Quote accuracy
      • Damage prevention
      • Fair pricing

      We also research what pricing and services each company offers, including:

      • Quote for a 500-mile, 2-bedroom move
      • Storage options
      • Packing services
      • Available discounts
      • How easy it is to get an accurate quote
      • Types of moves offered (local, long distance, international)
      • Digital ease of use
      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this guide include:

      1. Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, “PUC Offers Consumer Tips Regarding Household Movers.” Accessed Dec. 17, 2025.

      Not sure how to choose?

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