Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Jan, 04 2026
long-distance moving from new jersey to Virginia
It’s great that you’ve chosen to relocate from New Jersey to Virginia. Although the two states are only about 355 miles apart (the shortest route by road), Virginia offers a lower cost of living while guaranteeing plenty of jobs in multiple sectors. Indeed, Northern Virginia is home to 20 of the highest-income counties in the US.
The Old Dominion’s healthcare, culture, and social life are also praised as some of the best in the United States.
Wondering where to start your preparations? How about doing the preliminary work on finding the right mover? The following are a few considerations to help you get started.
What’s the Cost of Moving from New Jersey to Virginia?
The average cost to relocate a studio apartment or one-bedroom house from New Jersey to Virginia is $960 to $1,170. However, we must mention that very few movers charge below $1,000. You’re most likely to pay around $1,100.
Prices increase as the volume of your items increases. For instance, it costs $1,250 to $1,530 to relocate a two-bedroom house over the same route. Relocating a 4-bedroom plus will cost you up to $2,350.
Remember that you can always bring down the cost by opting for DIY packing and loading. Bringing your own packing supplies can also lower the total relocation costs. Alternatively, consider renting a moving truck or getting a container. It completely eliminates moving labour charges.
What Makes a Great Apartment Relocator?
The best apartment movers are defined by many traits, including experience, professionalism, reliability, and knowledgeability. Longevity is also vital as it brings with it greater wisdom. However, we advise focusing on three critical factors;
- Licensing and insurance
Although it may seem obvious, some interstate movers aren’t properly registered. Others are also operating on expired licenses and insurance covers. Both scenarios leave you at significant risk. So, begin your checks by verifying the licensing and insurance status of each candidate.
- Professional accreditation
All the best movers are members of distinguished professional associations. For instance, nearly every major long-distance mover in the US is a member of the American Movers and Storage Association. Don’t settle for less. Make sure the mover you ultimately select is accredited by a well-known professional association.
- A strong reputation
Public opinion is very important when evaluating an apartment mover’s credentials. If everyone on Facebook says the company lost their item or went missing after deposit payment, take it very seriously. The same applies if the company consistently attracts negative comments on the Better Business Bureau website. It’s usually a sign of what to expect.
Take These Steps to Protect Yourself From Moving Scams
You’ve likely read or heard about people losing items during apartment relocations. Others have also lost monies, especially deposits. Don’t be the next victim. Here’s what to do;
- Get recommendations: Ideally, you want to get a go-ahead from your local or state moving association. If the association has never heard about the mover, find someone else.
- Do due diligence: Even after getting recommendations, dig deeper to find out more about the company. Do they have a website? Do they have a physical address? Who are the managers? These are just some of the questions to ask.
- Note down everything: Record every event throughout the relocation process for ease of tracing if you lose any items or money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most New Jersey to Virginia moves cost between $1,200–$3,500 for a 1–3 bedroom home. Pricing is driven by distance (250–400 miles), home size, 2–4 movers, packing needs, stairs or elevators, long carries, and timing. This is an interstate move regulated by FMCSA, so fuel, labor hours, and delivery windows apply. Partial packing and flexible dates can reduce totals. Interstate pricing details are outlined on the interstate movers page.
Transit typically takes 1–3 days after loading, with total delivery windows of 2–5 days depending on routing and consolidation. Dedicated trucks move faster than shared loads. Timing is affected by I-95 congestion, weather, crew availability, and building access limits. Larger homes require longer loading windows, which can push delivery later, especially during peak summer season.
Yes. Any move crossing state lines is legally classified as an interstate move, regardless of mileage. New Jersey to Virginia relocations must follow FMCSA and DOT rules, including written estimates, valuation coverage, and delivery window disclosures. These requirements differ from in-state relocations and affect pricing structure and liability protections compared with local moving companies.
The primary corridor is I-95, which sees heavy congestion near Newark, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia. Rush-hour restrictions, tolls, bridge traffic, and construction zones regularly extend transit times. Summer storms and winter ice can also disrupt schedules. Professional movers plan off-peak loading and may stagger delivery windows to avoid metro-area delays.
Virginia utilities often require proof of residency, ID verification, and deposits before activation. Electricity, water, gas, and internet should be scheduled 7–14 days before delivery. Utility management varies by county and city. USPS address changes, Virginia DMV updates, and voter or school registrations should be completed shortly after arrival to avoid service interruptions.
Begin 3–4 weeks ahead by decluttering, inventorying rooms, and separating essentials. Confirm loading windows, parking permits, elevator reservations, and HOA rules at both locations. Clearly label boxes and keep valuables with you. Interstate moves involve longer handling cycles, so coordinating professional packing through full service movers can reduce damage risk and delays.
