Moving Costs From DC | How Much Do DC Movers Cost?
Published by Chris Townsend
Carrying For many individuals, moving is an experience that one rarely looks forward to. And when you’re transferring to Washington, D.C., you’ll experience certain obstacles that you normally wouldn’t in other cities that are similar in size. Although hauling to the nation’s capital can be challenging, Three Movers, a reputable shifting agency, can help alleviate your stress by providing the services you need to make this a hassle-free experience. Remember, being prepared is 80% of the battle whenever you're carrying. And for the rest, our professional relocators can handle it with ease.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Washington, D.C.?
If you’ve been living in D.C. for any length of time, you’re probably familiar with the high cost of housing and living, the stress level, and the terrible traffic. So, hats off to you for hanging in there. Even though you’ve succeeded at coping with these issues, relocating to this city can test a person’s patience and ability to stay calm and level-headed.
When it comes to moving to this city, our Three Movers representative will consider the following factors when preparing your cost estimates:
Distance of the Move
A local move will be much cheaper than cross-country or long-distance moves.
Nature, Number, and Total Weight of Items Being Carried
The estimated cost will be significantly more to move a 4-bedroom home than a studio or one-bedroom apartment. The size of your apartment will determine the size of the moving truck that will be required.
Labor Charges
The larger the home, the more movers will be needed. For instance, you’ll need a minimum of 4 haulers if you have a 3—or 4-bedroom home, whereas two movers would be sufficient to move you from a studio or 1-bedroom apartment. You can use the moving cost calculator on our website to estimate the cost of partial full-service shifters for your apartment.
Total time involved
Two movers can load and unload a studio or one-bedroom apartment in roughly 3 to 4 hours. On the other hand, it would take 7-10 hours to load and unload a four-bedroom home. Remember that this is just the time it would take for all the carriers to load and unload. You would have to factor in additional time if the Three Movers crew also helps with the packing and unpacking.
In addition to these factors, other factors will impact the cost of your move in Washington, D.C. as well, including:
- 3rd party insurance
- cost of fuel used during the moving process
- disassembling and re-assembling furniture
- liability and valuation coverage
- Packing materials such as boxes
- Additional moving services, such as packing and unpacking
- Heavy lifting
- storage (if needed)
- time of the year
What Should I Do to Prepare for My Movement?
As mentioned above, preparation is 80% of the battle, whether you’re moving within or outside the D.C. limits. Remember that carrying day will creep up quickly and you don’t want to forget any of your essential items. Here are five helpful suggestions that will enable you to plan and prepare for your pending move successfully:
Get an Early Start
Even if you’re just moving a block or two down the street, relocating takes lots of effort, and time will escape you if you don’t get started early. Take it from us: This will alleviate a lot of stress.
Get the Supplies
Make sure you have plenty of packing supplies. You can either purchase these from Home Depot or U-Haul or save money by visiting the local grocery and liquor stores for boxes they’re discarding. Additionally, you will need bubble wrap and tape to protect the delicate items.
- Outline your moving plan. Careful planning is a crucial component of preparation. Be as specific and detailed as possible. Your plan should contain every element required to get you from your current home to your new home.
- Start preparing your new home—Although your focus is on everything in your current home, don’t lose sight of the fact that you must also prep your new home. Get your utilities activated before shipment and submit your change of address so you can start receiving mail there ASAP.
- Decide what to do about extra help. It would be best if you decided on who you want to help with the move. You can enlist family members, friends, and fellow employees or, if your budget allows for it, hire professional help.
Our company has helped innumerable people relocate in and around Washington, D.C., and we’d be happy to extend our services to you. We offer competitive pricing and a trained crew to handle all aspects of your move.
Call Three Movers today for additional information about the cost of carrying in Washington, D.C., or to have one of our moving specialists provide a FREE estimate. Our business representatives are available to assist with your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some estimated ranges for long-distance moves from Washington, DC:
- Studio apartment: $1,500 - $3,000
- 2-bedroom apartment: $2,500 - $5,000
- 3-bedroom house: $4,000 - $8,000
- 4-bedroom house: $5,000 - $10,000+
These are just rough estimates; your actual cost may be higher or lower. Be sure to get quotes from several movers and compare prices and services before deciding.
It depends on a few factors! Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
Hire professional movers:
- Pros:
- Save time and effort: Movers handle everything, from packing and loading to unloading and setup. You can relax and focus on other aspects of your move.
- Reduce stress: Moving can be a stressful experience, but movers can take the pressure off.
- Minimize damage: Movers are trained and experienced in safely handling furniture and fragile items.
- Insurance: Most moving companies offer insurance for your belongings in case of damage.
- Cons:
- Cost: Hiring professional movers is the more expensive option.
- Limited control: You may have less control over how your belongings are packed and shipped.
- Scheduling: You may need to be flexible with your moving date to accommodate the movers' schedule.
Rent a moving truck:
- Pros:
- Cost-effective: Renting a truck is typically cheaper than hiring movers, especially for small moves.
- Flexibility: You have more control over your moving schedule and how your belongings are packed.
- Personal touch: You can pack your belongings and care for special needs yourself.
- Cons:
- Time and effort: Moving yourself takes a lot of time and effort. You must pack, load, unload, and drive the truck.
- Risk of damage: You're responsible for any damage to your belongings during the move.
- Physical labor: Moving can be physically demanding, especially if you have many heavy items.
Ultimately, hiring professional movers or renting a moving truck is up to you. Consider your budget, needs, and physical abilities to make the best decision.
The cost of renting a moving truck can vary greatly depending on several factors, including:
Truck size: Smaller pickup trucks or cargo vans generally start around $20-$30 per day, while larger box trucks can range from $60-$100 per day.
Distance: Mileage fees often add up quickly and vary by company and distance. Some companies charge a flat rate per mile, while others have tiered pricing based on mileage.
Time of year: Peak seasons (summer and weekends) typically see higher rates than off-season times.
Company: Different companies have different pricing structures and may offer discounts or promotions.
Additional services: Insurance, dollies, furniture pads, and other rental equipment can add to the total cost.
Getting quotes from several moving truck rental companies is best to get a more accurate estimate.
Here's a rough estimate for local moves within Washington, DC, excluding additional services:
One-bedroom house:
- Hiring movers: $400-$700
- Renting a truck: $75-$150 (plus mileage fees)
Two-bedroom house:
- Hiring movers: $600-$1000
- Renting a truck: $100-$200 (plus mileage fees)
Three-bedroom house:
- Hiring movers: $900-$1500
- Renting a truck: $150-$250 (plus mileage fees)
The average cost of living in Washington, DC, is notoriously high compared to the national average. Here's a breakdown of some key figures:
The overall cost of living:
- 52% higher than the national average means everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities will be significantly more expensive in DC.
- Estimated monthly costs for a family of four: $5,957 without rent (Numbeo, Dec 2023).
- Estimated monthly costs for a single person: $1,642 without rent (Numbeo, Dec 2023).
Housing:
- A major contributor to the high cost of living: The median home price in DC is a staggering $1,160,186 (RentCafe, Dec 2023).
- Average monthly rent: $2,422 (RentCafe, Dec 2023), 148% higher than the national average (PayScale).
Other key expenses:
- Groceries: 5% higher than the national average (Expatistan, Dec 2023).
- Transportation: 11% higher than the national average (Expatistan, Dec 2023).
- Utilities: 3% lower than the national average (PayScale).
- Reputation and Reviews: Look for local movers with a strong reputation and positive customer reviews. Check online review platforms, such as Yelp or Google, to get an idea of their track record.
- Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the moving company is properly licensed and insured. This will protect you in case of any damage to your belongings during the move.
- Services Offered: Consider the range of services offered by each moving company. Some may only offer basic loading, transportation, and unloading, while others may provide additional services like packing, storage, or specialty item handling.
- Experience: Find out how long the moving company has been in business and their experience handling moves similar to yours. An experienced mover will likely have a better understanding of the local area and potential challenges that may arise during the move.
- Pricing: Obtain detailed quotes from multiple moving companies and compare their prices. Be cautious of meager prices, which may indicate poor service quality or hidden costs. Look for transparent pricing and ask about any additional fees or charges.
- Availability and Flexibility: Check the moving company's availability and ability to accommodate your preferred moving dates. Additionally, consider their flexibility in case you need to reschedule or make changes to your moving plans.
- Equipment and Resources: Inquire about the moving company's equipment and resources. Ensure they have the necessary tools, vehicles, and manpower to handle your move safely.
- Customer Service: Evaluate the level of customer service provided by each moving company. Friendly and responsive communication, promptness in addressing queries or concerns, and a willingness to provide references or answer any questions can indicate good customer service.
- Local Knowledge: Local movers who are familiar with the Washington, DC, area will likely have a better understanding of traffic patterns, parking regulations, and any other logistical challenges specific to the region. This can help ensure a smoother and more efficient move.
- Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently moved in or out of Washington, DC. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
Many local movers in Washington, DC, provide packing services.
Specific regulations and licenses are required for local movers in Washington, DC. The District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) regulates and licenses moving companies in the District. Movers must obtain a Motor Carrier Permit from DDOT to operate legally. Additionally, they must have liability insurance coverage and submit proof of insurance to DDOT. Movers must also have a valid business license issued by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). Customers need to ensure that the relocators they hire is properly licensed and insured to protect their belongings during the move.
- Studio or 1-bedroom: A local move for a smaller residence generally takes 4-6 hours with professional movers or potentially a full day if you're doing it yourself.
- 2-bedroom apartment or house: Expect 6-8 hours with movers or full day-to-day and a half-yourself for this size.
- 3-bedroom house or larger: This can take 8-12 hours with professionals or up to two days if you're handling it yourself.
Local movers in Washington, DC, typically offer insurance options for your belongings. You must inquire about the specific coverage options and costs with your chosen moving company. Some movers may include primary liability coverage in their standard rates, while others may offer additional insurance options for an extra fee. It is recommended to carefully review the terms and conditions of the insurance coverage provided by the moving company to ensure it meets your needs and adequately protects your belongings during the move.
Preparing for a local move to Washington, DC, requires careful planning and organization. Here are some steps to help you prepare:
1. Research and plan: Start by familiarizing yourself with the layout of Washington, DC. Research the neighborhoods, transportation options, and local amenities. This will help you decide on the best location for your new home.
2. Budget and timeline: Create a budget for your move, including costs for hiring movers, packing supplies, and other expenses. Set a timeline for your move, considering factors like lease agreements, work schedules, and school calendars.
3. Declutter and organize: Go through your belongings and declutter before packing. Donate or sell items you no longer need or use. This will help reduce the amount of stuff you have to move and make unpacking easier.
4. Hire professional movers: Consider hiring professional movers specializing in local moves. Get quotes from multiple companies, read reviews, and choose a reputable and reliable moving company that fits your budget.
5. Pack strategically: Start packing well in advance, beginning with items you use less frequently. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. Pack fragile items with care using bubble wrap or packing paper. Use sturdy boxes and packing tape to ensure the safety of your belongings.
6. Change your address: Notify the post office, banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other relevant institutions about your change of address. Update your address on official documents and subscriptions.
7. Transfer utilities and services: Contact utility companies (electricity, water, gas, internet, etc.) to schedule disconnection at your current address and connection at your new address. Inform service providers like cable, internet, and phone companies about your move to ensure a smooth transition.
8. Familiarize yourself with local regulations: Washington, DC, has specific rules regarding parking, moving permits, and building access. Check the local government website for any requirements or restrictions that may affect your move.
9. Pack an essentials box: Pack a separate box with essential items you'll need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies. Keep this box easily accessible for quick access.
10. Explore your new neighborhood: Once you've settled into your new home, take the time to explore your new neighborhood. Locate nearby grocery stores, healthcare facilities, schools, parks, and other places of interest.
Remember to stay organized and allow yourself enough time to complete each task. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful local move to Washington, DC.
If you need to move a large, expensive item like a piano or antique desk, then we will help with that. We have experience in moving pianos or antique desks.
Local movers in Washington, DC, typically have specific protocols to handle fragile or valuable items with extra care. Here are some common practices followed by local movers:
1. Packing Materials: Movers use high-quality packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and sturdy moving boxes to protect fragile items adequately. They ensure that each item is securely wrapped and cushioned to prevent any damage during transportation.
2. Special Handling: Fragile or valuable items are often given special attention by movers. They may be labeled as "fragile" or "handled with care" to ensure the movers know their delicate nature. Movers may also use custom crates or boxes to protect extremely fragile or valuable items.
3. Experienced Staff: Local movers employ trained and experienced staff skilled in handling fragile or valuable items. They know about proper lifting techniques, loading and unloading processes, and maneuvering items safely through narrow hallways or staircases.
4. Disassembly and Reassembly: Movers may disassemble them before transporting delicate furniture or valuable items that cannot be moved. This helps reduce the risk of damage and ensures that the items can be safely loaded and unloaded. Movers will then reassemble the items at the new location.
5. Insurance Coverage: Reputable local movers often offer insurance coverage options to protect valuable or fragile items during the moving process. Discussing insurance options with the moving company is advisable to ensure that you have adequate coverage for your valuable possessions.
6. Communication and Coordination: Movers maintain open lines of communication with the client to understand their specific requirements for fragile or valuable items. This helps in planning and executing the move more efficiently. Clients are encouraged to provide detailed instructions or any particular concerns they may have regarding these items.
It is important to note that while movers take precautions to handle fragile or valuable items carefully, accidents can still occur. Therefore, properly pack and label such things yourself, and if possible, transport them personally to ensure their safety.
If you experience delays on the day of your local move to Washington, DC, here are a few steps you can take:
1. Communicate with the moving company: Contact the shifters and inform them about the delay. They might already know the situation, but keeping them updated is essential. Ask for an estimated arrival time or any alternative plans they might have.
2. Assess the situation: Determine the cause of the delay. Is it due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances? Understanding the reason behind the delay can help you plan accordingly.
3. Adjust your schedule: If the delay is significant, you might need to adjust your schedule. If you had planned to move into your new home on the same day, consider alternative accommodation options such as a hotel or staying with friends or family until the process can resume.
4. Stay calm and patient: Delays can be frustrating, but remaining calm and patient is essential. Getting stressed or upset won't speed up the process. Take this opportunity to relax, take a break, or explore the neighborhood if you have extra time.
5. Stay in contact with the moving company: Contact the carriers for updates throughout the delay. They should be able to provide you with the latest information and any changes to the schedule.
6. Plan for contingencies: If the delay is extensive and you need to make alternative arrangements, consider having a backup plan. This might involve rescheduling utility connections, notifying the landlord or real estate agent about the delay, or adjusting any other appointments related to your move.
7. Take necessary precautions: If you have any valuable or fragile items, ensure they are properly secured and protected during the delay. If needed, ask the moving company for guidance on how to handle specific items.
Remember, delays can happen, and being prepared and adaptable is important.
Many local movers in Washington, DC, offer disassembly and reassembly services for furniture. Discuss this with your movers before sending the quotation to you.
