BEST MOVERS IN PITTSBURGH PA

Here are the vetted, researched and trusted movers in Pittsburgh. Please leave a review for any moving companies in Pittsburgh PA so we can continue our evaluation.

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Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored moving companies in Pittsburgh on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best. Learn about our process.

South Hills Movers

South Hills Movers

Services: Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Packing, Storage, Office Moving, Decommissioning, Residential Moving, Commercial Moving

In 1925, E. Lee Jr. laid the foundation for South Hills Movers, a humble local moving and storage company nestled in the picturesque South Hills of Pittsburgh, PA. Over the years, their exceptional management and top-notch service have propelled them to become one of the nation’s leading independent moving and storage enterprises. 

Moving Reviews:

Thank you to the fantastic team from South Hills movers who moved us this week! Randy and his crew were polite, efficient and took great care of our stuff and both of our homes. I really appreciated that they were polite but not too chatty. They were focused on doing their job efficiently but without causing any damage. Jill (our coordinator) was also super helpful along the way! Best movers I have ever used – thank you! 9/2024, A. Pincus | Read More South Hills Moving Reviews

SOUTH HILL MOVERS LOCATION

PITTSBURGH MOVERS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN MOVING IN THE STEEL CITY : Permits | Parking | Low Bridges | Moving Trucks

Moving To Pittsburgh 2024

Pittsburgh, often referred to as the “Steel City,” is known for its stunning river views, historic neighborhoods, and complex network of bridges. Moving to or within Pittsburgh presents unique challenges, from navigating its hilly terrain to dealing with low-clearance bridges. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth move to Pittsburgh, PA.


Pittsburgh is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own character and logistical considerations. Whether you’re moving to the bustling Strip District or the quiet streets of Squirrel Hill, careful planning is essential.

Tips for Moving in Pittsburgh:

  • Parking Permits: In Pittsburgh, securing a Temporary No Parking Permit is crucial if you need to reserve space for your moving truck. You can apply for this permit through the City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works.
    • How to Apply: Visit the City of Pittsburgh’s Public Works website or call (412) 255-2739 for more details. Permits should be requested at least a few days in advance.
  • Traffic Considerations: Pittsburgh’s traffic can be unpredictable, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM). Moving during off-peak hours or on weekends is ideal to avoid delays.
  • Historic and Narrow Streets: Many of Pittsburgh’s historic neighborhoods have narrow, winding streets that can be challenging for large moving trucks. Consider using a smaller truck or scheduling multiple trips to accommodate these conditions.

Low Bridges in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s infrastructure is well-known for its numerous bridges, some of which have low clearances that can be problematic for moving trucks. Here are some of the low-clearance bridges to be aware of:

  • Birmingham Bridge (South Side): 13’0″
  • South Negley Avenue Bridge (Shadyside): 12’6″
  • Liberty Bridge (connecting Downtown to the South Side): 14’6″
  • Glenwood Bridge (Hazelwood to Hays): 14’9″
  • 30th Street Bridge (The Strip District): 13’9″

Avoiding Low-Clearance Bridges:

  • Before your move, use GPS and mapping tools that allow you to enter the height of your vehicle to avoid routes with low-clearance bridges.
  • Consult with your moving company to ensure they are aware of these obstacles and can plan a suitable route.

Choosing the Right Pittsburgh Moving Company

Selecting a moving company that understands Pittsburgh’s unique challenges, from hilly terrains to bridge clearances, is essential. Look for movers who have experience navigating the city and its surrounding areas.


Emergency Numbers for Pittsburgh

Having local emergency contacts at hand during your move is crucial for peace of mind.

Pittsburgh Emergency Contacts:

  • Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911
  • Pittsburgh Police Department (Non-Emergency): (412) 323-7800
  • Pittsburgh Fire Department (Non-Emergency): (412) 255-2860
  • UPMC Presbyterian Hospital: (412) 647-2345

These contacts ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situations that might arise during your move, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home in Pittsburgh.

 

Movers Near Me Pittsburgh

Protect Yourself

If you’re moving locally, or at least within the same state, you’ll want to hire a reputable local moving company to get the job done safely. Interstate movers are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, but local moving companies often only have to comply with state regulations; it may be beneficial to learn the licensing process in your state in order to find a company you can trust. Another good way to ensure that your selected moving company is properly licensed is by looking through our top picks.

If you’re moving across state lines, you won’t just have to verify that a company is licensed locally. They’ll need to have the legal authority to operate in any of the states you’ll be crossing. Many local moving companies partner with van lines to make sure they can pass regulatory hurdles and can facilitate your move smoothly, no matter the distance.

What is considered long-distance moving?

Generally, if a move is over 150 miles, it’s considered a long-distance move, but the definition varies between moving companies. Some consider a long-distance move to be one that takes the cargo across state or international borders. There are significant differences in cost and regulatory clearance between a long-distance move and a local move.

How far in advance should I hire movers?

Hiring a mover at least four weeks in advance ensures that a variety of reputable options will be available. In some regions or during the summer when movers are busier, it’s recommended that anyone looking for a licensed mover arrange the booking two to three months from the moving date.

Do you pay movers before or after?

You may be asked to pay a small deposit before your move, but payment in full happens after the move is complete and your possessions are inside your new home. This ensures that the movers complete the job to your satisfaction before getting paid.

How much does a moving company cost?

On average, the cost of a local move (intrastate or under 150 miles) is around $1,700. This includes labor, fuel, insurance, and several other factors. If a move is considered to be long-distance, it will likely be around $5,400, with a wider variance based on the specific demands involved.

How much do I tip movers?

Based on the performance of the movers and the difficulty of the job, you should tip anywhere between 5% and 20% of the total cost of your move. Most people recommend tipping in cash at the end of the final day of the move.

How much is it to rent a moving van?

The cost to rent a moving van without a crew to assist in the move depends on the size, the length of the rental, and the distance it is being driven. The average cost of renting a van ranges anywhere from $200 for a local move to $2,000 for long-distance.

Other Popular Moving Questions

What should I do if my belongings are damaged during the move?

  • If items are damaged, document the damage immediately and file a claim with the moving company. Most companies offer limited liability coverage, but purchasing additional insurance might be necessary for high-value items.

What items are movers not allowed to transport?

  • Movers typically do not transport hazardous materials, perishable goods, or plants. It’s important to discuss any special items with your moving company beforehand to avoid issues on moving day.

PA Moving Scam Alerts:

1. Several moving companies in Philadelphia have been using fake locations to increase local search presence. These movers will charge travel time to/from their location adding hundreds of dollars to your bill in travel fees. Make sure to check the location of your PA moving company.