Empire Movers review 2026 (New York, NY)
In business since 2007 · Updated
Empire Movers, a New York, NY moving company, ranks #66 of 520 movers in New York, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.36/5.
78% of Empire Movers' 484 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its affordable rates, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
Empire Movers has been in business since 2007. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Empire Movers measures up
Across 484 reviews, Empire Movers in New York, NY is rated 3.7/5 on Yelp (238 reviews) and 4.4/5 on Google (205 reviews), and has a D- rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Empire Movers ranks #66 out of 520 movers in New York with a moveBuddha Score of 4.36 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.36.
- Website
- 5.0
- Customer service
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Review quality
- 4.5
- Brand
- 4.0
Google rating
Based on 205 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 238 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Empire Movers moveBuddha Certified?
Empire Movers is not moveBuddha Certified. Certified movers are licensed carriers vetted by moveBuddha and spot-checked every quarter. They meet higher standards for insurance, pricing transparency, and customer care.
With a Certified mover, moveBuddha does the vetting for you and provides added protection. Empire Movers hasn't gone through that certification process, so it's important to check licensing, insurance, estimates, and claims policies yourself before booking.
What movebuddha certified movers offer
- Up to $1,000 in added move coverage*. Extra protection for eligible moves.
- Vetted for licensing and insurance**. We verify state-required insurance for local movers and liability and cargo coverage for interstate movers.
- Dedicated moveBuddha support. Help through the move process.
- Dispute mediation. moveBuddha steps in if issues arise.
Before you book, check:
- USDOT and MC numbers. Look up the license and complaint history on FMCSA's site.
- Insurance coverage. Ask for proof of liability and cargo insurance.
- A written estimate. Binding or not-to-exceed, with every fee listed.
- The claims process. Ask how damage claims are filed and how long they take.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind. About moveBuddha Certified
** Local movers must hold insurance that meets state requirements for local moves. Interstate movers must carry auto liability of at least $750,000, general liability of at least $1M, and motor truck cargo coverage at or above $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurrence.
What do customers say about Empire Movers?
Out of 484 verified reviews, 78% of customers left a positive review about Empire Movers in New York, NY. 21.1% of reviews are negative and 1.2% are neutral. Empire Movers has a 10% lower positive review percentage than the average New York moving company (78% vs the New York state average of 88%).
- Positive77.7%(376)
- Neutral1.2%(6)
- Negative21.1%(102)
Based on 484 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Empire Movers
Affordable rates
Many reviewers found Empire Movers to be more budget-friendly than competitors without sacrificing quality.
Flexibility
Clients liked that Empire Movers was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Respectful of property
Customers appreciated how carefully Empire Movers's team maneuvered furniture through tight spaces without damaging walls or floors.
Quick moving process
The team at Empire Movers often gets the job done faster than expected, saving clients time.
Careful handling
Belongings are treated with caution, and many customers report zero damage thanks to Empire Movers's attention to detail.
What positive reviewers say
“Empire movers did an excellent job. They moved everything out in two hours, wrapped everything up and were extremely polite.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Booked my move with Virgil well in advance and he was responsive and professional. The team took care of our stuff, and the price guarantee was met. No extra charges.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Everyone at Empire is amazing. My move-in date was uncertain, and the company was patient and accommodating. The movers were kind and SO FAST without being sloppy or reckless with my items.”
Cam LiebersonVerified ReviewerGoogle“I just had my apartment relocated from Astoria to Whitestone NY. They disassembled and reassembled all our large furniture. Smooth and seamless process. Fantastic pricing compared to competitors.”
Nicholas NionakisVerified ReviewerGoogle“They were very friendly and respectful. They worked fast and did a great job…”
Niriksha ChandraniVerified ReviewerGoogle
What mixed reviewers say
“Excellent packing and unloading job but damaged our hard wood floors and never returned our calls.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Moving services were ok. They did damage one of my suitcases (deeply dented now).”
Adekunle BalogunVerified ReviewerGoogle“All of my things arrived safely, but communication was frustrating. I could not get a straight delivery date, and the lone mover needed me to hire extra help.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Very nice professional workers, but a few problems. They broke down my furniture for storage without telling me, then left 3 huge boxes unpacked.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about Empire Movers
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
Delayed arrival or delivery
Several reviewers experienced frustrating delays either on moving day or with final delivery.
Broken promises
Customers noted instances where Empire Movers failed to deliver on services that were initially guaranteed.
What negative reviewers say
“While I thought the two movers did a good job once they finally showed up, I was quoted a price and billed over $100 more than the quote. The movers arrived 1 hour and 15 minutes late.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “They picked my stuff up on 5/29 and were contractually obligated to deliver it by 6/16. It is now 6/21 and they aren't returning my calls.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “My move was to take 6 hours. They sent 2 guys instead of 4. It took 18 hours and they broke many dishes, scratched some tables, and management was unresponsive.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The movers did damages to my furniture, and screws were missing. They promised to refund me for the damages, but took away the refund after I posted a bad review.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
Empire Movers
4.36New York, NYSince 2007
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Empire Movers
4.36
New York, NY · Since 2007
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Empire Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in New York.
Compare prices side by side
See where Empire Movers lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
What services does Empire Movers offer?
Empire Movers covers moving (local moves and long-distance moves), packing (custom crating), and storage.
Services offered
Is Empire Movers licensed and insured?
Registered with the FMCSA
US DOT 1795794. Operating status is not on this profile. Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Empire Movers is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 1795794. It also holds a New York intrastate license, number 40607.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Empire Movers holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 40607Issued by New York. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- FMCSA safety rating
- Not ratedMost carriers are unrated. A rating is only assigned after a compliance review. It is not a failed one.
How much does Empire Movers cost?
Empire Movers does not publish hourly rates or flat fees publicly. Based on moveBuddha's data on moving companies operating in New York, you can expect to pay approximately $139/hr. Total local-move costs from similar movers typically run $400–$750 for a studio or 1-bedroom, $850–$1,750 for a 2-3 bedroom, and $1,700–$3,400 for a 4+ bedroom home. Long-distance (500-1,000 mi) 2-3 bedroom moves from similar movers typically run $4,500–$7,500.
What similar movers typically bill for a local move
Full-service New York moving companies similar to Empire Movers typically bill the amounts below using a $139/hr rate for a 2-person crew and scaling up for larger homes that need more movers and hours.
| Home size | Typical total | Time and crew |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $400–$750 | 3–5 hours, 2 movers |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $850–$1,750 | 5–8 hours, 2–3 movers |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,700–$3,400 | 8–12 hours, 3–4 movers |
What similar movers typically bill for a long-distance move
Empire Movers offers interstate moves, which are typically priced by weight and distance. Ranges below reflect totals from similar full-service New York moving companies.
| Home size | Distance | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $4,500–$7,500 |
| 4+ bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $7,000–$11,500 |
What payment options and discounts does Empire Movers offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
- Discounts
- Mover’s own offer
Empire Movers accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
Empire Movers also offers discounts on request. It also lists: When inquiring about storage rates in New York City, be sure to specify the duration for which you require storage, as you may be eligible for significant discounts on extended storage periods. Furthermore, it's essential to note that long-term storage differs significantly from short-term options, as it necessitates guarantees of the safety and security of your belongings over the course of several months. Ask what you qualify for and how much you could save before you book.
How does Empire Movers compare to other New York movers?
- moveBuddha score#66 of 520(better than average)
4.36vs 3.62 avg
Empire Movers scores 4.36, above the New York average of 3.62, and ranks #66 of 520 New York movers.
- Positive reviews#378 of 520(worse than average)
78%vs 88% avg
Empire Movers has 78% positive reviews, below the New York average of 88%, and ranks #378 of 520 New York movers.
- Negative reviews#381 of 520(worse than average)
21%vs 11% avg
Empire Movers has 21% negative reviews, above the New York average of 11%, and ranks #381 of 520 New York movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#58 of 520(better than average)
484vs 285 avg
Empire Movers has 484 reviews analyzed, above the New York average of 285, and ranks #58 of 520 New York movers.
- Yelp rating#79 of 520(level with average)
3.7vs 3.7 avg
Empire Movers has a Yelp rating of 3.7, in line with the New York average of 3.7, and ranks #79 of 520 New York movers.
- Years in business#82 of 520(worse than average)
19 yearsvs 30 years avg
Empire Movers has been in business for 19 years, below the New York average of 30 years, and ranks #82 of 520 New York movers.
| Metric | This moverEmpire Movers | New York avg | New York rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#66 of 520 in New York | 4.36 | 3.62 | #66 of 520 | +0.74(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#378 of 520 in New York | 78% | 88% | #378 of 520 | −10 pts(worse than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#381 of 520 in New York | 21% | 11% | #381 of 520 | +10 pts(worse than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#58 of 520 in New York | 484 | 285 | #58 of 520 | +199(better than average) |
| Yelp rating#79 of 520 in New York | 3.7 | 3.7 | #79 of 520 | ±0.0 |
| Years in business#82 of 520 in New York | 19 years | 30 years | #82 of 520 | −11(worse than average) |
Compared with 520 New York movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in New York.
Empire Movers
4.36New York, NYSince 2007
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Empire Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in New York.
Compare prices side by side
See where Empire Movers lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
Empire Movers
4.36
New York, NY · Since 2007
Final verdict: Empire Movers
Empire Movers earns a 4.36/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #66 among New York movers, with 78% positive feedback across 484 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its affordable rates and flexibility. It is best for customers prioritizing helpful crews, careful handling of belongings, and reliable service experience.
With a track record dating to 2007, it has less history than the average New York mover, and the most common complaint is damage to items.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
Empire Movers
4.36
New York, NY · Since 2007
Why moveBuddha?
- 30%+Average savings
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before booking.
Calculate your New York moving cost - $1,000Added move coverage*
When you choose a moveBuddha Certified mover, you get $1,000 in added move coverage*, plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- 1-on-1Dispute mediation
If something goes wrong, moveBuddha provides dispute mediation with Certified movers to help resolve the issue and protect your move.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind.
How we score moving companies
Every mover on moveBuddha is scored on the same six factors, weighted by how much each one changes a move.
- Quotes & payment optionsWeighs most
The heaviest factor, because price certainty is where moves go wrong. We reward estimates you can hold a mover to, and terms disclosed before you pay.
- Online reputationMajor factor
An objective read from third parties rather than from the mover. The Google rating for the company's headquarters sets the band; Trustpilot, BBB, and independent review sites are read alongside it.
- ServicesMajor factor
The range a mover can actually cover, scored across seven categories, with extra credit for the uncommon ones most companies hand off to a subcontractor.
- Customer supportSupporting factor
How easily you can reach a human, and how clearly the mover sets expectations before, during, and after the move. Verified against company documentation and direct outreach.
- Review feedbackSupporting factor
A company's share of positive customer feedback, converted straight to points, with no curve and no editorial adjustment.
- State availabilityMinor factor
The lightest factor, and deliberately so: wide coverage helps more readers reach a mover, but it says nothing about how good the move will be.
What the scores are built on
- 4,500+Moving companies analyzed
- 1M+Authenticated reviews
- 25+Independent data sources
- 1,000+Live price points a month
- $0Paid for a ranking
- MonthlyRefreshed and re-verified
Written by
Ryan CarriganCo-founder, moveBuddha
Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.