When is the Best Time to Move to NYC?

Posted on 12/11/202402/06/2025 by BigApple

Relocating to New York City is a thrilling adventure, but timing plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition. The best time to move to NYC varies based on personal preferences and priorities, but factors like weather, availability of rentals, and moving costs heavily influence the decision. Whether you’re planning to migrate to New York for work, education, or a new beginning, knowing the right time and tips for moving to New York. Let’s dive into the ideal seasons and helpful tips for moving to New York.

Best Time To Move In NYC

The best time to move to NYC depends on weather conditions, apartment availability, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of moving during different seasons, highlighting their pros and cons –

Moving in spring

Spring is one of the most suitable times to move to NYC. The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures making the physical aspect of moving much more comfortable. Also, relocating to New York in the spring months tends to be more available and flexible as compared to the summer months.

Schools consider it to be the best time of the year to go to NYC as there is less disruption and no interference with the beginning or end of the school year. However, some challenges include the possibility of rain in this season, but you can manage it all with proper planning and waterproof packing materials. To further streamline your move, consider incorporating junk removal services into your relocation plan. These services help you declutter before moving, ensuring you only take what you truly need.

Moving in the Summer

Summer marks the most popular time to move to NY as many people make the most of school vacations. Also, college students start vacating their dormitories or hostels, and many of them plan to move to apartments. Therefore, you can say that moving during the peak season leads to increased costs.

The significant challenges that movers encounter while moving in the summer are the heat and humidity. Doing it with proper planning, like protecting heat-sensitive items, and scheduling the move for early morning or late evening, can help make the summer move a favorable option for many families. To make your summer relocation smoother, consider taking time to declutter your home before moving. Decluttering not only reduces the items you need to pack but also helps organize your move more efficiently.

Moving in the Winters

Winters are the most discouraging months for the movers because moving in cold weather is a lot of hassle. You need extra packing of your belongings. Moreover, snow and icy conditions make the move physically challenging. But there is a flip side to the picture as well. One of the biggest benefits of moving to New York City in the winter months is the lower demand for movers, which further leads to cost savings.

Moreover, moving companies offer various discount packages during the off-season with more availability of your preferred dates. To make winter moves stress-free, consider opting for professional packing and unpacking services. Some steps to ensure your safety in the freezing temperatures while moving are wearing non-slippery footwear to prevent falls, using insulated blankets to protect your belongings, and keeping walkways clear of snow and ice to avoid any mishaps and accidents.

Things You Should Know Before Moving to NYC

Moving and relocating to New York City is an exciting journey, but preparation is key to navigating the challenges of such a dynamic metropolis. Here are the things to know before moving to New York to help you ease into your new lifestyle –

Picking your neighborhood

NYC has diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe. Choosing which neighborhood to migrate to in New York affects how your life is going to be in this Empire State. To add to your information, there are five boroughs, namely –

Each of them has a separate neighborhood. Furthermore, Brooklyn is the largest city by population, Queens is the largest by area, and Manhattan is the most expensive borough. Consider factors like amenities, commute times, and safety when you go through the moving checklist in NYC.

Searching for an apartment

Finding an apartment in NYC can be overwhelming. Rentals move quickly, so act fast once you find a suitable option. Use online platforms and work with local brokers for the best deals. Remember to budget for deposits, broker fees, and utilities when relocating to New York. And don’t forget to take the help of the movers, especially if it is a last-minute move, for relocating as this comes under one of the most vital tips for moving to New York.

Getting around

The next in the list of tips for moving to New York is how to get around. New York has an extensive public transportation system. And getting here takes a toll on your mind if you have a vehicle. Why is this so? Because it is a tiring task to find a free parking space here. So, what is advisable here is to invest in a metro card to get around the city. Besides, you can look for bike share programs, taxi services, and commuter rail lines for seamless navigation in every borough of New York.

Pricey and competitive

New York is believed to be a popular place because of its high cost of living. That is why most New Yorkers prefer living with roommates so that the cost of living can be divided between them. The favorable thing to do here is to plan your finances carefully so that you will be able to cover the rental prices, groceries, and transportation easily. No wonder the city is pricey and competitive in nature, but you can tackle it with resilience and adaptability, which is worth the effort.

Are You Ready to Move to NYC

If you are wondering whether I should move to NY, then let me tell you, it is both exhilarating and challenging. You have to find the right support in the form of professional movers, and it will be a seamless transition.

Big Apple Moving specializes in meeting all your relocation needs, whether you are looking for residential move or commercial move. From packing to long-distance moves to interstate moves to international relocations and many others, you can rely on us for proven and testable results in moving. We ensure hassle-free relocation tailored to your needs. In addition, we provide the required storage solutions, furniture moving, junk removal, and packing and unpacking services to help you focus on settling into your new NYC adventure.

Final Thoughts

The best time to move to NYC depends on your preferences and is an unforgettable experience that opens doors to countless opportunities. Regardless of the season, preparation and the right moving partner can make all the difference.

So contact Big Apple Moving right now and make an effortless move. Get a free quote and make moving to New York City a journey filled with confidence.

Long Distance Moving Tips: A Complete Guide.

Posted on 12/03/202402/06/2025 by BigApple

Moving across cities, states, or even countries can feel like embarking on an exciting yet daunting adventure. The promise of new beginnings often comes with the challenge of meticulous planning and execution. Whether you’re relocating for a dream job, pursuing education, or chasing a fresh start, a long-distance move requires more than just packing boxes—it demands a strategic approach to ensure everything goes smoothly.

This blog will tackle the hurdle of how to move long distances with ease. Without any ado, let’s dive into the long-distance moving tips –

Tips to Help You Pack for Your Long-Distance Move

Packing for a long-distance move is not just about boxing up your belongings; it’s about doing so strategically. Use these tips for moving long distances to make the process efficient and stress-free.

Plan Meticulously

You are planning a residential move. And a challenging task like moving requires a meticulous plan. You will have to write down or prepare a spreadsheet about how to make a long-distance move and how to move your belongings, pets, vehicles, and household items. A successful move requires thorough planning and preparation. So, consider your moving date and budget, and research your destination about the essential aspects like schools, cost of living, and neighborhoods to make a successful move.

Get Rid of Unnecessary Items

The lesser belongings you have, the easier and less expensive it is to move. The most important trick to follow here is to declutter your home before you make your move. Check out all your belongings and sort them into piles of “Keep, Donate, and Sell.” Lightening the load of your belongings reduces the moving costs and makes packing more manageable.

Find a Good Long Distance Moving Company

Get free moving quotes from different companies and compare their prices. Check if the moving company you are choosing is licensed, provide every kind of moving services like long distance moving services, residential moving services etc. and has good online reviews. There is no denying the fact that affordability is the most vital aspect of choosing a moving company, but keep in mind that the cheapest doesn’t always mean the best. So, choose a moving company wisely, and you will free yourself from the worry of logistics and heavy lifting and bring some peace of mind.

Make an inventory list

The next step in the list of long-distance moving tips is to make an inventory list. Count the number of rooms you have and then the belongings in those rooms. Include all the valuables in the inventory. Use a labeling system to ensure everything is placed in the correct room, For instance – Pack all your essentials in one and label all the boxes as “Essentials”. Show extra care while packing kitchen & fragile items. Making an inventory list goes a long way in streamlining your long-distance move.

Priorities Items to Keep With You

Pack a separate bag or box with essentials you’ll need during the move and in the first few days at your new home. Include items like medications, toiletries, basic tools, and important documents you need while moving. Keeping these essentials with you ensures easy access when needed.

Tips for Preparing a Long-Distance Move

Let’s get into tackling the more critical aspect of this process with these moving long-distance trips –

Move during off-season

Moving rates are lower during the off-season, and moving companies are less busy. So, if possible, schedule your move during the off-season. It also allows for more flexibility.

Be aware of your move-in situation

Do you have full knowledge of the logistics of moving into your new home? Well, you must have full information on this, like whether there are any parking restrictions, whether you will need a permit for the moving truck, etc. Knowing all these details in advance will keep you away from unexpected hiccups that might arise on moving days.

Check your Belongings Before you Move

Double-check everything before you make the actual move. Before the arrival of the professional movers, check if you have packed and labeled everything securely. Click pictures of all your belongings and valuable items for documentation.

Get Ready for Your Long-Distance Move With Big Apple Moving

The answer to how to move a long distance can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Big Apple Moving specializes in making cross-country moves seamless and stress-free.

With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer –

Our team ensures your belongings are packed securely for the journey, and hence, we even offer additional packing services like junk removal, unpacking, furniture assembly and disassembly, and more. We guarantee safe and timely delivery of your items through our reliable transportation. Our long-distance movers take care of everything from packing to unloading and make comprehensive moving plans. Whether you’re moving fragile items or large furniture, we have the expertise and tools to transport them safely. Additionally, we have no hidden fees—just honest, competitive rates for exceptional service.

When you choose Big Apple Moving, you’re not just hiring a moving company; you’re partnering with a team dedicated to making your transition as smooth as possible. Let us take the stress out of your long-distance move so you can focus on settling into your new home.

Final Thoughts

Long-distance moving is a significant undertaking, but with proper planning and the right support, it can be a rewarding experience. By following these long-distance moving tips, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of relocation.

When it comes to making your move effortless, Big Apple Moving is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our long-distance moving services and get a free quote. Let us make your move a breeze!

10 Things to Know Before Moving to New York

Posted on 06/10/202409/25/2024 by BigApple

New York is not just a state in the US. Rather, it’s a whole world. Better food, better entertainment, better job opportunities, and everything you can expect here. However, you may face a little tough time getting used to it, especially if you are coming from a smaller space. So, for anyone who has decided to move to New York, you are in the right place. We have come up with a list of things to know before moving to New York to plan your move efficiently.

Things to Know Before Moving to New York

The top 10 tips for moving to NYC listed here are your key to unlocking a world of opportunities in the new place. Without any further ado, let’s get to know them.

1) Expensive

Most New Yorkers prefer having roommates with them to share the cost of living. It is hugely insane. And it is not just limited to housing. All your bills come out to be higher in here, starting from groceries to alcohol to entertainment. After relocating to New York, your budget will increase substantially. So, plan everything before moving to New York City.

2) Highest taxes in the US

Some of the highest tax rates in the US exist in NYC. People living here have to pay different taxes including federal income tax, state income tax, and the city income tax. You might be surprised to know that this could get as high as 50% depending upon their income. The tax filing deadline in New York follows the rules of the federal tax schedule.

3) Five Boroughs

Choosing the right neighborhood largely impacts how your life in New York can turn out to be. There are a total of 5 boroughs – Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island. Each borough has its city along with separate neighborhoods. The largest by area is the Queens. The largest city by population is Brooklyn, and the most expensive is Manhattan. Getting to know about each borough can help you make the right choice of where to live. If you are unable to make a decision, you can get a short-term lease in any of the neighborhoods and see if the vibes of that area match with you or not.

4) Aggressive drivers

Whether you are driving down the road or walking across a side street in New York, always pay attention and be careful. Most New York drivers flaunt their speed limits and surpass stop signs. Before moving to New York City, prepare yourself to hear a lot of honking. However, if you don’t, you will ultimately become used to it.

5) Rental Process

You have decided to come here. One of the tips for moving to NYC is to keep your paperwork ready. This is advisable because you can quickly submit your application the moment you come across a home you love. The application includes employment letters, bank statements, payment slips, and referrals from the previous landlords. The rule of thumb says that renters need to make 40 times the rent to qualify for a lease. Otherwise, they require a guarantor who can fulfill the condition of meeting the minimum threshold. So, get to know the rental process before getting a home on rent in NYC.

6) Getting around

Getting around New York City is challenging if you have a vehicle. Because you will have a hard time finding the free parking space. The truth is, if you don’t use the vehicle daily, it is wise to save some insurance costs. What you can do is use your metro card and get around the city using public transportation. Most riders have fares of $2.75, or even unlimited ride packages are available. In addition, you can find thriving bike share programs, commuter rail lines, and taxi services in every borough of New York.

7) Apartments

The peak rental season in NYC is summer. The rules and regulations pertaining here are made with the interests of the tenants in mind. It makes the tenants pay capping application fees and requires the landlords to hold their security deposit in interest. This security deposit is returned to the tenants when they move out of the apartment. Many times, you may need to pay a broker’s fee, which is nearly 10-15% of the annual rent. All in all, we can say that New York’s rental market can be crazy at times.

8) Everyone walks fast

The next in the list of tips for moving to NYC is to find a good park. People here walk so fast that they are not going to apologize to you if you feel they are coming in your way. You may be surprised to know that they can even ignore the lights and cross the roads as fast as avoiding what the cars are doing.

9) Rent a storage unit

Apartments in New York are small. And if you are used to living in larger homes in the Midwest or South, you probably have to cut down on your stuff when moving to New York. What you can do here is to either donate some stuff or rent a storage unit that comes in your monthly budget. If you believe that you can do well without some of your stuff, then you can avoid renting a storage unit too.

10) The economy and job market are diverse

The GDP of New York is continuously rising. In 2023, it was $1.78 trillion. The state is called the global hub for business and commerce. You will get ample opportunities if you are planning to come here. To date, Wall Street is the financial heartbeat of the place that attracts investors across the globe. Talking about the tech industry, Silicon Valley has seen some explosive growth. The job market is booming, paving the way for individuals to get jobs across various sectors. Despite the high cost of living, NYC is like a magnet for ambitious professionals worldwide.

Final Words

Moving to a new place is great for your personal as well as professional growth. And if you have made up your mind to move to New York, you must read about things to know before moving to New York.

Hire our moving company – “Big Apple Moving” to deal with your relocation needs seamlessly. We assure you that provide the best quality moving services making your moving experience as comfortable as ever before. Let our experienced and responsive staff handle your move in the best way possible. Contact us for more information.

Moving to the Big Apple from Abroad – Tips and Tricks

Posted on 06/26/202207/01/2022 by BigApple

Those that were once bitten by the travel bug will constantly strive toward feeding this addiction. Whenever an opportunity for international, overseas, relocation shows – you will grab it! The next frontier – moving to the Big Apple from abroad! Be it because of a job opportunity, or simply a lifelong dream – it’s a big bite to take. There are numerous things to consider if you are going to do this right. The Big Apple is entirely different from anything you’ve ever seen. This is why this city requires some very extensive preparation. Continue reading “Moving to the Big Apple from Abroad – Tips and Tricks”

NYC Culture Shock For Newcomers

Posted on 06/20/202201/25/2024 by BigApple

You are here, which means that you have probably experienced some type of cultural shock when visiting another country or even a city. That is completely normal, especially when you’re coming from a small city to a big, hectic, fast-paced one. That is New York.

This is one of the cities where life is faster. Every day is a challenge in a good way and in a bad way. So, if you are coming to New York from another country to visit, or you are moving to New York for a job, you are in for some serious culture shock.

New Yorkers have their way of life and you can say that is somewhat different from everyone else’s. NYC culture shocks for newcomers are real as they get. Here we will mention some that you will probably experience yourself when you come to one of the coolest cities in the world.

NYC Newcomer Culture Shock Is Real

So, as you probably already know New York is made of five pretty awesome boroughs:

Queens
Brooklyn
Bronx
Staten Island
And last, but not least Manhattan

These boroughs are here and there different from one another, but it is all New York. So, whatever borough you choose to go to, you won’t run away from NYC culture shocks for newcomers. It is bound to happen, one way or another. This is nothing to be scared of.

Cultural shock means that you will find strange some things that New Yorkers find pretty normal. That is all there is to it. If you stay long enough in New York at one point something that you find strange, will probably become completely normal for you, which will mean that you are a New Yorker now. So, let’s see what are the cultural shocks that you may experience.

Of course, it all depends on you, where are you coming from, because some people even though they are coming to New York from a country that is very different from America, or a city that is very different from New York in so many things, find everything in New York completely normal. What you do have to do, is to use experienced moving companies in order to move here without any issues whatsoever.

Prices

Newcomers to NYC may experience culture shocks, particularly when it comes to the prices of things. Almost everything you can imagine is likely to be much more expensive than what you are accustomed to. For instance, having a rent-controlled apartment is considered a significant achievement in New York, whereas it is a common occurrence in other cities. This is due to the intense competition for housing in NYC.

Rents are getting higher because boroughs are becoming more and more popular. It is not all about moving in Manhattan anymore. The solution for this pricey problem would be to have a roommate in NYC or even more than one. So, this can be tricky and it can go under NYC culture shocks for newcomers because your jaw will drop when you go to see some apartment, that is not that pretty or spacious, but the price is.

You Don’t Want To Have A Car

Yes, you read it right. You don’t want to have a car in New York. Traffic jams can be ballistic in New York. If you live in Brooklyn, and you have to be in Manhattan at nine, there is no right advice to tell you when to go. However, by using the subway you can be there in a matter of half an hour. Another thing that can be so frustrating in New York is looking for a parking space. Mission, well, probably impossible. Sometimes it takes more time to find a parking spot than to drive to the wanted place.

Also, if you do have a car, you will have to be somewhat of a driving ninja to manage to park in the smallest parking spot available. So, it is all up to you, but this can definitely go under NYC culture shocks for newcomers. Except if you are coming from a city where the situation is similar.

Cultural Diversity

New York has many cultures in one city. It feels great to experience this. If you can live in New York, you will enjoy the best of many cultures, especially in food and language. You will eat, drink, and learn a new language while living in New York.

This probably shouldn’t go under NYC culture shocks for newcomers, because it is not a shock, but it is something great and different. Where else can you eat something, you have never tried before? Drink some traditional drink from a country far away, and learn some new, wanted language. Sounds amazing, right?

NYC culture shocks for newcomers vary from moving companies prices to the way New Yorkers talk and act. When you are coming to a completely new and not familiar city, it is completely normal to find some things a bit strange for you. Nothing to be worried about, and everything that you may find strange will eventually grow on you and you will find yourself wondering why did you ever find anything so strange. Enjoy New York. It is one of the most wanted and most exciting cities in the world.

How To Overcome The Culture Shock Of new York City?

Moving to NYC for the first time can be one of the most exciting events in your life. A city that never sleeps will let you have as much time as you need to get used to it. Here are some tips and tricks on how to overcome culture shock when you move to NYC.

Find A Job: As soon as you learn about your relocation to NYC, we suggest that you start looking for a job here. This is crucial, even before hiring a moving company. The crucial question is how to get a job in NY as a newcomer. Since the employment process may take a couple of months, especially for senior roles, it is never too early to apply. When you have a job waiting for you, the prices of NYC will not come as such a great shock.

Spend Time Outside: Explore your new neighborhood once you’ve settled in. Discover the top spots for coffee, meet your neighbors, take a stroll in the nearby park, or rent a bike to learn more about your surroundings. Spending ample time outdoors is key to effectively adapting to the new culture.

Find A Roommate: Living alone has its benefits, but having a roommate in the Big Apple is certainly desirable unless, of course, you are moving with children to New York City. If you are moving to NYC with a family, make sure you explore the best New York City neighborhoods for families before you relocate. If you are single, whether a student or an employee, it is good to have someone to share the price of the NYC apartment with. But it is not all just about the price, it is good to have someone by your side as you explore this amazing city.

Hiring a Mover: Pros & Cons of Flat Rate Pricing

Posted on 06/14/202211/27/2023 by BigApple

Moving doesn’t need to be stressful as long as you conduct your budget and take enough time for planning and organization. The whole situation can get out of hand if you plan on moving with your children, as you will need quite a bit of energy to conduct the move in the best possible manner.

When you’ve set your budget, it’s time to decide on the preferred moving method: whether to opt for a DIY move or hire professional movers to take care of the whole thing for you. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, but hiring a professional moving company might be a good idea for people who don’t have enough time and energy.

If you have made the decision to engage the services of professional movers, it is advisable to weigh the option of hiring movers with flat rate pricing versus those who charge hourly rates. It is understandable that you may be uncertain about the advantages and disadvantages of each option. However, we are pleased to offer our assistance in this regard. Please peruse the following text for further information.

Set Your Budget

First things first, you need to set your priorities straight. In order to do that, you need to conduct your budget in a timely manner. We recommend taking at least a week or two to carefully think thru how much money you are willing to spend on the move. Make sure to leave 10%-15% of your budget for additional expenses.

You’d be surprised how often things don’t go according to plan, leading to excessive expenses, meaning that if you didn’t prepare emergency money, things could get more complicated. In order to avoid any hassle related to unforeseen expenses, set your budget first.

Pros of Flat Rate Guarantee Pricing

Long-Distance Moves

If you are moving long-distance, chances are the transport itself will take up the whole day, meaning that if you opt for paying per hourly rates, the moving expense can be massive. When hiring movers using a flat rate pricing, the cost of the move will be known before the moving actually starts meaning that you can be stress-free when talking about money, of course.

It is always advised to get a couple of moving estimates, and you should know that the quote will usually be made a day before the move. A flat-rate pricing is based on the number of belongings you need help with.

Additional Factors

In many cases, additional factors like traffic jams, delays, elevator issues, etc., can influence the move, and if you opt for hourly rate moves, this can add up to a much bigger expense than you expected. If you choose to hire movers using flat rate pricing, these unforeseen events won’t influence the moving costs NYC.

These additional factors won’t make too big of a difference when moving to another neighborhood. However, this is not the case when moving long-distance, meaning that if you are, for example, cross country moving, we definitely advise you to go for flat rate pricing model with movers that specialize in cross county moves.

Faster Move

When you opt for hourly rates, most movers will take as much time as they need meaning that the cost of the move might add up to a pretty big expense, especially if you hire the first company that comes into your mind. You can only hope to find a company that won’t take advantage of your situation, meaning that you can never be sure about the final price.

In the event of a traffic delay, it is important to note that any additional time incurred will result in additional charges. Conversely, opting for the moving services of flat rate pricing model guarantees a fixed price, incentivizing them to expedite the moving process to avoid any financial loss. This translates to a faster move, a significant advantage, particularly for long-distance relocations.

Watch Out

Failing to conduct a comprehensive background check may result in encountering unscrupulous movers. These individuals employ inexpensive estimates to entice a significant clientele. Regrettably, upon completion of the relocation, exorbitant fees will be levied upon the customer.

So, you need to take extra caution while looking for a reputable and affordable moving company. There are a couple of steps you can take, including taking enough time to research the market, look for recommendations, and perform a background check. Also, remember to get a couple of estimates before making the final decision.

Cons of Hiring Movers with Flat Rate Pricing

There are certainly some disadvantages to look out for, like every decision you make.

Too Fast

Although the fact the movers will perform the whole move in a fast manner is a good thing, especially if you are on a very tight budget, in some cases, the movers might be too fast, resulting in a lot of hassle, and in the worst case, damage to your belongings. The best way to prevent any type of inconvenience is to get an insurance policy, and we recommend doing so in agreement with the desired moving company.

Evaluation

If you are moving a small studio apartment, chances are the moving company will only offer an hourly rate move which can be a good thing if you hire a reputable move. Since these moves are very short, especially if you are moving nearby, it is actually a far better option. However, in certain cases, especially when dealing with a rogue company, they will try to get out of you as much as possible.

Hiring Professional Movers

The best way to get the most out of the move is to make sure you hire a professional NYC moving company that might be hard, especially if you have no prior experience on the subject. So, when deciding whether to hire a mover with a flat rate pricing option or go for hourly rates, take all important factors into consideration.