Best 5 Movers in Washington, DC

How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Washington

You should consider several key factors when choosing a mover. Here are some things to keep in mind when hiring movers in Washington.

Determine Your Budget

A local move costs $97 per hour on average. Based on this, a standard two-bedroom move costs around $4,311 in total. Your move distance, move date, home size, and any additional services you need will affect your actual cost.

Consider getting quotes from three or more reputable moving companies in your area to make an informed choice. Written estimates are essential in this process. They should have a total cost breakdown, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is done.

Read Customer Reviews

Solid customer feedback is essential for all moving companies. Looking at customer reviews on forums such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and social media will indicate which movers prioritize positive customer experiences. We recommend thoroughly researching customer reviews before selecting a moving company.

Ensure Proper Licensing

Moving companies in Washington must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within District of Columbia, your mover does not need a license so long as they stay within the Washington, D.C. Commercial Zone.

The requirements are a bit different if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a moving company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also have active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can see a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.

Services

Assess whether the mover can provide the specific services you need during the quote process. Compile a list of any basic or add-on services you might need and take a comprehensive inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Inform the moving company about any specific needs to determine if the company is a good fit.

Types of Moving Services

Full-service movers include the following standard services as a part of their base price:

• Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
• Loading and unloading
• Released liability coverage for loss or damage

Make sure that your moving company is informed of any special services you need while going through the quote process. Services that can contribute to higher pricing include:

• Crating for art or antiques
• Extra flights of stairs
• Long carries
• Packing
• Piano moving
• Storage
• Unpacking
• Vehicle shipping

Tips To Consider When Moving in Washington, DC

Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Washington.

Schedule an Early Move

Washington sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Getting stuck in traffic can lead to delays and significantly impact your budget, as local movers charge by the hour. Aim to arrange your move either several hours before or after the morning rush hour to prevent this issue.

Avoid Busy Season

Moving season peaks between May and September. In Washington, this time corresponds to hot summer weather, which can delay or worsen your moving experience. You should be able to secure your preferred moving company by contacting companies at least eight weeks before your move. However, keep in mind that the heat may still present challenges for your movers.

Pack in Advance

We suggest you begin packing about six weeks in advance to avoid stressing over last-minute packing when moving day comes. Packing some items each day can get it done without overwhelming you. Most moving companies won't transport items that aren't packed by the time your move begins.

How Much do Movers Cost in Washington, DC

Movers in Washington cost $2,664 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,492 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.