How to Move Plants in NYC (Without Killing Them)


Moving in New York City is already stressful—but if you have houseplants, it adds a whole different layer.


Between elevators, heat, tight hallways, and long move times, plants can go into shock fast if you don’t handle them properly.


This guide breaks down exactly how to move plants safely in NYC apartments, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring movers.

Can Movers Move Plants?



Short answer: yes—but most don’t want to.

Here’s why:


  • Plants are fragile and unpredictable


  • Soil can spill and damage other items


  • Temperature and light changes can kill them quickly


Some moving companies will transport plants, but usually with limited liability (meaning they won’t cover damage).


If you have valuable or sentimental plants, it’s almost always better to move them yourself in your car.


How to Move Houseplants in an Apartment (Step-by-Step)


1. Prep Your Plants Before Moving Day


A few days before your move:


  • Lightly prune dead or weak leaves


  • Clean dust off leaves (helps with recovery)


  • Check for pests


  • Water plants 2–3 days before the move (not the day of)


Why this matters:


Wet soil + movement = root damage and rot.


2. Pack Plants the Right Way


  • Use open-top boxes (never seal plants shut)


  • Line boxes with paper or towels


  • Group smaller plants together so they don’t tip


  • Wrap pots to prevent cracking


  • For tall plants (like snake plants or bird of paradise):


  • Gently tie or wrap leaves upward
  • Use a stake if needed


Pro tip: poke holes in boxes for airflow if they’ll be inside for a while.


3. Transporting Plants in NYC


This is where most damage happens.


  • Keep plants upright at all times


  • Load them last into the truck, first out


  • Avoid leaving them in hot trucks or cold weather


  • If possible, transport them in your personal vehicle


NYC-specific tip:


Apartment lobbies and elevators can create sudden temperature changes—keep plants covered briefly when moving through these areas.


4. After the Move: Prevent Plant Shock


Once you arrive:


  • Place plants in similar lighting conditions as before


  • Don’t repot immediately


  • Expect some drooping or yellowing (normal)


  • Water lightly only if soil is dry



Most plants bounce back within 1–2 weeks if handled correctly.

Moving With Plants in NYC: Common Mistakes



Avoid these and you’ll save most of your plants:


  • Watering right before the move


  • Sealing plants in boxes with no airflow


  • Leaving plants in a truck for hours


  • Exposing them to extreme heat or cold


  • Stacking items on top of them 



Should You Hire Movers or Do It Yourself?


If you only have a few plants → DIY is best.


If you have a large collection:


  • Movers can handle logistics
  • You handle plant transport separately


For local moves like Manhattan to Queens, many people combine both:


  • Movers handle furniture
  • Plants go in your car


If you’re planning a move to Queens, check out our page.

Hiring a Mover Vs Moving a Plant Yourself

When it comes to moving houseplants in NYC, one of the biggest decisions is whether to handle them yourself or trust a moving company.


The truth is—it depends on how many plants you have and how valuable they are.


Moving Plants Yourself (Best for Most People)


For most NYC moves, transporting your plants in your own car is the safest option.


You have full control over:

  • Temperature (no overheating or freezing)
  • Light exposure
  • Keeping plants upright and stable


This is especially important for:

  • Large plants (like bird of paradise or fiddle leaf figs)
  • Rare or expensive plants
  • Sentimental plants you don’t want to risk


If you’re moving from Manhattan to Queens or nearby, it’s usually easy to do one or two trips just for plants.


Bottom line:
If you care about your plants, moving them yourself gives you the highest chance they survive without stress.


Using a Moving Company (When It Makes Sense)


For most NYC moves, transporting your plants in your own car is the safest option.


You have full control over:

  • Temperature (no overheating or freezing)
  • Light exposure
  • Keeping plants upright and stable


This is especially important for:

  • Large plants (like bird of paradise or fiddle leaf figs)
  • Rare or expensive plants
  • Sentimental plants you don’t want to risk



If you’re moving from Manhattan to Queens or nearby, it’s usually easy to do one or two trips just for plants.


Bottom line:
If you care about your plants, moving them yourself gives you the highest chance they survive without stress.


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FAQs

Below is a list of Commonly Asked Questions when moving a plant in NYC.

  • Can you move plants with a moving company?

    Yes, but many movers limit liability for plants. It’s safer to transport valuable plants yourself.

  • How do you move plants without killing them?

    Prepare them in advance, avoid overwatering, keep them upright, and protect them from extreme temperatures.

  • Is it safe to move plants in a moving truck?

    It can be risky due to heat and lack of airflow. A personal vehicle is usually safer.

  • When should you water plants before moving?

    Water them 2–3 days before moving day—not immediately before.