The average cost of hiring movers in Washington, D.C., ranges from $139 to $260 per hour, resulting in an average total moving cost between $417 and $3,108.
These moving expenses depend on the size of your home, the distance, the number of items, and the complexity of the move.
Before packing your bags for the capital, you might first wonder, ‘How much do professional movers cost in Washington, D.C.?’
The advantages of moving to Washington, D.C., include access to the city’s old-town charm, a strong economy, no income tax issues, and a vibrant culture.
In addition to the basics, the Federal City is everyone’s favorite because of its unmissable spots for diverse culinary experiences, renowned universities, and iconic landmarks, including the Washington Monument, The White House, and the Smithsonian Museums.
Before we proceed, let’s review the breakdown of costs, the expenses associated with relocating to other U.S. metropolitan areas, and some money-saving tips at the end.
What’s Included in the Hourly Rate for Moving in Washington, D.C.?
The moving services in D.C. are different for different moving companies. The hourly rate of movers in Washington, D.C., averages between $139 and $260, which includes:
- Two movers and one truck
- Moving supplies, furniture assembly and disassembly, loading and unloading
The cost of moving increases when you add extra services such as extra fees for moving items up or down stairs, heavy item fees, or additional mover or service.
The formula for calculating the cost of movers is typically as follows:
(Moving Company Rate x Number of Hours) + Additional Charges = Final Moving Cost
The Average Cost of Hiring Local Movers in Washington, D.C.
The average cost of hiring local movers in Washington, D.C., is $139 per hour, which might increase depending on how many movers and hours you need to complete the move.
Keep in mind that a local move covers distances under 100 miles, while long-distance moves are those exceeding 100 miles, which leads to higher moving costs.
No two moves are the same, and no two moving companies offer the same price. Therefore, before you ask yourself (or others), “How much does a local move cost in Washington, D.C.?” make sure to do your due diligence in finding the right mover.
Next, use a moving cost calculator to estimate your moving expenses accurately while budgeting for your move. This will help you avoid last-minute surprises and establish a realistic moving budget.
Here is a breakdown of the moving expenses you can expect when moving to Washington, D.C.
| Size of the home | Average Hourly Cost | Number of Movers | Number of Hours | Average Moving Cost in Washington, D.C. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio apartment | $139 | 2 movers + 1 truck | 3 hours | $417 |
| 1 Bedroom | $139 | 2 movers + 1 truck | 4 hours | $556 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $199 | 3 movers + 1 truck | 5-7 hours | $995-$1,393 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $199 | 3 movers + 1 truck | 8-10 hours | $1,592-$1,990 |
| 4 or more bedrooms | $259 | 4 movers + 1 truck | 10- 12 hours | $2,590-$3,108 |
Out-of-State Moving Cost from Washington D.C. to Other Major U.S. Cities
It’s true when they say change is the only constant.
Whether that change involves moving out of Washington, D.C., for work, a change of scenery, an affordable cost of living, or personal reasons, it’s important to plan ahead.
Planning ahead not only saves money on long-distance moves but also prepares you for essential tasks, such as changing your address, updating utility companies, and securing the necessary moving supplies on time.
Here’s how much you can expect to pay when you hire movers in Washington, D.C., for your out-of-state moves.
How Much Do Movers Charge for a Move from Washington, D.C. to New York City, NY?
The average cost of moving from D.C. to New York City ranges from $834 to $3,614. This 228-mile move typically takes between 6 hours and one day. The cost of moving to NYC largely depends on additional movers, fuel charges, lodging expenses, and other logistical challenges.
How Much Do Movers Charge for a Move from Washington, D.C. to Phoenix, AZ?
The average cost of hiring professional movers to move from D.C. to Phoenix is between $6,672 and $9,035. The cost of moving to Phoenix is not fixed, as it depends on the weight and number of your items, the number of rooms to move, the number of additional movers, and lodging expenses. The move might take 2-3 days to complete and cover 2,300 miles.
How Much Do Movers Charge for a Move from Washington, D.C. to Houston, TX?
The cost of hiring movers from Washington, D.C., to Houston, TX, averages between $3,614 and $6,811. The cost of moving to Houston varies as it takes about 1-2 days to complete a 1,400-mile move. The final bill depends on additional services you add, lodging and fuel charges, or when a heavy item is involved.
How Much Do Movers Charge for a Move from Washington, D.C. to Virginia?
The cost of moving services to complete a 180-mile move from Washington, D.C., to Virginia averages between $695 and $3,336. The cost of moving to Virginia can vary due to logistical challenges, any extra services or movers, and the complexity of the move.
5 Factors Impacting the Moving Cost in Washington, D.C.
Every move has unique needs, including moving with valuable items, moving with a fish tank, or moving with pets.
Whether you handle the move yourself or hire professional movers, no two moves are the same.
If you hire professional movers in Washington, D.C., the moving cost will depend on critical factors.
1. Distance of the Move
Hiring Washington movers for local moves will cost you less than long-distance moves. The cost to move a one-bedroom apartment within Washington, D.C., will be approximately $556, with two movers and a truck.
Moving a one-bedroom apartment over 250 miles will cost between $973 and $1,112 on average.
2. Additional Services
The cost of movers in Washington, D.C., will increase with any extra services you select. The most popular services that people often add include packing furniture, storage, and junk removal.
Other factors that affect the moving cost include parking permits, elevator restrictors, the flight of stairs itself, and an additional mover. Furthermore, your bill may increase significantly if you add specialty items such as moving a pool table, a piano, or artwork.
3. Peak Season
Summer is the peak season when you can expect to pay 20-30% more due to higher-than-average moving costs.
It is important to know the best and worst months for moving. For example, moving costs might dramatically increase from May to September compared to the colder months.
4. Tipping Movers
In most cases, a good rule of thumb for tipping movers is to give between 10% and 20% of the total bill. This is another significant factor that increases your moving costs.
5. Size of the Home
The most common question people ask when moving is, “How much do movers cost for a one-bedroom apartment?”
Not every move will cost you an arm and a leg, but some relocations can significantly impact your moving expenses. For instance, hiring movers for a one-bedroom averages between $695 and $835, while relocating a two-bedroom apartment ranges from $995 to $1,592.
How to Save Money When Hiring Movers in Washington, D.C.
Moving isn’t as inexpensive as you might think, but a few savvy tips can help you save a considerable amount of money.
Here are a few tips for saving money on long-distance moves and local home or office relocation.
1. Free Moving Boxes
If you have fewer items to carry and pack, consider searching for free moving boxes at local grocery stores. Additionally, ask friends and family for boxes and supplies to save money. However, if you need to transport valuable items, buy suitable moving boxes from reputable sources nearby, as you wouldn’t want to damage your belongings.
2. Scout for Multiple Quotes from Different Movers
Comparing quotes from at least three moving companies can assist you in deciding on services, prices, and the company’s overall billing structure. A reputable moving company will have no hidden fees, reflecting honesty and transparency. Therefore, conduct your research to find the right mover.
3. Look for Discounts
If you are a student, a member of the military, a senior citizen, or an AAA member, you can benefit from seasonal promotions and discounts offered by movers in Washington, D.C.
Additionally, you can inquire about customer referral discounts by asking your friends and family who have moved.
4. Pack Yourself
Another way to save moving costs in Washington, D.C., is to pack yourself and leave the heavy lifting to the professional movers. You can simply reach out to a labor-only
relocation service rather than a full-service moving company, which can significantly reduce your expenses.
Conclusion: What is the Cost of Hiring Professional Movers in Washington, D.C.?
To make a long story short, the cost of moving to Washington, D.C., depends on several factors. Key considerations include the volume of items, the number of movers, any additional services you opt for, and the distance involved. Generally, the average hourly rate for hiring movers in Washington, D.C., is $139. Remember that every move and city is unique, so do thorough research to find the best moving company that meets your specific needs.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to move to Washington, D.C.?
The average total moving cost in Washington, D.C., ranges from $417 to $3,108. Keep in mind that costs can vary based on any additional services you choose, such as moving heavy items or signing up for storage services.
2. What is the cheapest way to move in Washington, D.C.?
The most affordable way to relocate to the Federal City is to handle the move yourself. DIY, or Do-It-Yourself, moving saves you from paying hourly rates to professional movers and gives you complete ownership of your belongings. However, if the move is complex and you need to complete it in less time, consider hiring professional movers.
3. Can you negotiate with a mover for your Washington, D.C. move?
While most people may not realize it, you can indeed negotiate with movers. A smart approach is to use a moving cost calculator for a rough estimate, consult at least three movers, and choose your top option. You can simply ask your preferred mover to match the prices of their competitors to secure a great deal.
4. Are moving expenses tax deductible in the U.S.?
For most taxpayers, moving expenses are not deductible until 2025. According to IRS guidelines, taxpayers can no longer claim moving expenses as a deduction on their federal returns unless they are active-duty military members undergoing a permanent change of station.
