How much do movers cost in D.C.?
The estimated cost of the top local movers in D.C. ranges from around $70 to $80 per hour. But, this cost might vary depending on the time of the year, the weight of the shipment, how far you’re moving and whether you decide to hire flat-rate movers instead of hourly movers.
How do I choose the best moving company in D.C.?
It’s important to read reviews of all the top-rated moving companies in D.C. before you hire movers. When reading online reviews, check for feedback regarding the movers’ punctuality, efficiency and communication. If you’re considering hiring interstate movers, make sure they’re properly licensed with the federal government -- they should have a U.S. DOT number.
and quotes. You can find more tips on how to hire movers in Thumbtack's smart hiring guide.
Where can I get moving boxes in D.C.?
Start by checking with hardware stores and local businesses in the D.C. area, including grocery stores, pharmacies, bookstores, liquor stores, fast food places and bars. Many retailers want to get their boxes off their hands, so you might be able to pick them up for free at the right time. Because you’ll probably need more moving supplies than just boxes, check out online listings to find people who are giving away or selling their moving supplies in the D.C. area. Just be sure that the boxes are still in good enough condition to protect your goods. You can also contact moving companies in D.C. to see if they sell or offer moving boxes as one of their services.
Where can I rent a moving truck in D.C.?
You can rent a moving truck from several companies located in D.C. or nearby cities. But if you have a big move and need help with loading and unloading a moving truck, you might want to consider hiring a professional moving company in D.C. that can provide movers and a moving truck for your move.
Do I need a parking permit for my moving truck in D.C.?
Yes, Washington, D.C., requires you to have a public space permit to park a moving truck on the street. If you need Emergency No Parking signs, they will be provided with the permit. The cost of the permit is $50, with possible added fees if you’re parking by a parking meter. Reach out to the District Department of Transportation for more details and information.
How far in advance should I hire movers?
Book movers at least two months in advance for a local move and at least four months in advance for a cross-country move. If you’re moving during the off-season, it’s best to book movers about four to eight weeks in advance. Factor in an extra two to three weeks if you have antiques or valuables that are difficult to transport.
May through September is typically considered peak moving season. If you’re moving during this time, hire movers as far in advance as possible.
How much do movers cost for a local move?
If you are paying movers to perform a local move, expect to pay between $72 and $135 per hour. To minimize the overall cost of the move, do as much preparatory work in advance as possible. Have your items packed, boxed and wrapped in protective wrapping. Also, have everything labeled with its location in your new home. If possible, move items toward the door or in a convenient location for the movers to grab as they remove them from the house.
Get price quotes from movers near you so you will know exactly how much a local move will cost.
What is considered a local move in DC?
A local move in Washington, DC, may include the areas between DC and Rockville, Alexandria and Fairfax. Local movers may also consider moves to cities like Chantilly and Bowie.
Reach out to the best moving companies in DC to find out if your move is considered “local” and get free estimates.
How much do you tip movers?
It’s recommended that you tip your movers individually around $4 to $5 per hour. For example, if a team of four movers spends a half-day (four hours) on your move, tip each mover $20. Or, some people tip 5% to 10% of their total bill for small moves and 15% to 20% for larger moves.
If you’re moving across state lines, you may hire different crews to load and unload your goods. In that case, divide the tips between both crews. It’s also a good rule of thumb to add a bit extra for tipping movers if you have special circumstances that have made the move harder, like a spiral staircase or an exceptionally heavy sofa.
What is considered a local move vs. a long-distance move?
Local moves are among the most common moves. Unlike a long-distance move, a local move is typically less than 50 miles and does not cross state lines. Generally, a local move only takes one day, and movers tend to charge by the hour.
The definition of a long-distance move may vary depending on the moving company. Generally, a long-distance considered to be any move of 400 miles or more. However, some say a long-distance move is over 50-100 miles.
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Local Move |
A move under 50 miles |
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Long-Distance Move |
A move over 50-100 miles or over 400 miles; may also be called an “interstate move” or “out-of-state move” |
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Out-of-State Move |
A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “interstate move” or “long-distance move” |
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Interstate Move |
A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “out-of-state move” or “long-distance move” |
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Intrastate Move |
A move that begins and ends in the same state, typically beyond 50 miles |
Interstate moves require additional legal preparation and will incur additional costs for distance, the amount and weight of your items, the preparation required and various other factors. Moving companies tend to do an initial weighing of the truck, which you should be present for.
A move that crosses state lines is considered an interstate move or an out-of-state move. Contrast this with an intrastate move, which begins and ends in the same state, but is typically above 50 miles.
To determine whether your move is local or long-distance, contact the best movers in your area.
