Top-rated movers to make your Philadelphia to Chapel Hill move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Philadelphia that offers long-distance services to Chapel Hill can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 68 top local movers in Philadelphia who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 125550
Years in Business: 51
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Anchor Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 10
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 44
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 39PC00058806
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 939629
Alternate Names: A Action Family Moving Company, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill?
In Pennsylvania, moving services typically cost around $143 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,020 – $2,923 | $651 – $1,547 | $365 – $637 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,799 – $4,690 | $1,111 – $2,304 | $396 – $770 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,933 – $6,369 | $1,457 – $2,915 | $487 – $990 |
Cost to hire movers from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chapel Hill from Philadelphia, you can expect prices to land between $1,020 and $2,923. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,799 to $4,690 for the trip from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,933 and $6,369.
Cost of moving containers from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill
Moving containers from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill will cost you $651 to $1,547 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,111 to $2,304. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,457 to $2,915. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill
Renting a moving truck from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $365 and $637 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $396 to $770. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $487 to $990.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Philadelphia to Chapel Hill move
The cost of Philadelphia movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,387 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,631 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Philadelphia.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $365 to $902, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill
Many movers find Chapel Hill easier on the wallet than Philadelphia – roughly 12% less for singles and 23% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,248 for one person in Chapel Hill versus $2,541 in Philadelphia. For a family of four, it’s $4,790 compared with $6,190.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Philadelphia | Chapel Hill | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,791 | $1,325 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,116 | $3,433 |
| Average home value | $216,914 | $592,460 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $65,621 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,541 | $2,248 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,190 | $4,790 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 3.2% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 4.5% |
- Planning a move to Chapel Hill? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 15% higher than in Philadelphia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Chapel Hill are about 173% higher than those in Philadelphia.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 7% lower in Chapel Hill compared to Philadelphia.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Chapel Hill, as the cost of living for a single person is 12% lower compared to Philadelphia.
- A move to Chapel Hill can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 23% less than what it costs in Philadelphia.
- The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is about 70% lower than in Philadelphia. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 6% less in Chapel Hill relative to Philadelphia. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in North Carolina are 47% above those in Pennsylvania. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Philadelphia and Chapel Hill:
| Living Expense | Philadelphia | Chapel Hill |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $269.29 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.40 | $55.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.30 | $4.53 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.04 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $90.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $48.67 | $42.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Philadelphia than in Chapel Hill.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Philadelphia than in Chapel Hill.
- Eggs are less expensive in Philadelphia than in Chapel Hill.
- Bread is more expensive in Philadelphia than in Chapel Hill.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Philadelphia than in Chapel Hill.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Philadelphia than in Chapel Hill.
- Gym memberships cost more in Philadelphia than in Chapel Hill.
How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Chapel Hill
| Philadelphia | Chapel Hill | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,603,797 | 63,764 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 75 | 34 |
| Bike friendliness score | 67 | 50 |
| Crime index | 66.09 | 26.42 |
| Safety index | 33.91 | 73.58 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Chapel Hill’s population is about 96% less than Philadelphia.
- Chapel Hill’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Philadelphia’s score of 9.
- Chapel Hill is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Philadelphia’s 75 out of 100.
- Chapel Hill has a bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Philadelphia, which has a score of 67.
- Chapel Hill’s crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 26.42 compared to Philadelphia’s 66.09. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
- Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 73.58 vs Philadelphia’s 33.91.
- Air quality in Chapel Hill is Moderate, and in Philadelphia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Philadelphia to Chapel Hill move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: North Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: North Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Chapel Hill. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Chapel Hill
Planning your move to Southern Part of Heaven? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Chapel Hill.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Chapel Hill
- Franklin Street Area
- Carrboro
- Midtown Chapel Hill
- East 54
Best neighborhoods for families
- Meadowmont
- The Oaks
- Winmore
- The Preserve at Jordan Lake
- Southern Village
- Briar Chapel
- Dunhill
- Governor’s Club
- Westfall
- Claremont/Claremont South
Things to do in Chapel Hill
After settling into your new North Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chapel Hill has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Chapel Hill features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, and Kidzu Children’s Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill?
Planning your move from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Philadelphia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill?
Because most people are moving from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Philadelphia to Chapel Hill take?
The 415-mile journey from Philadelphia, PA to Chapel Hill, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Philadelphia offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chapel Hill.
Are there special savings available from movers in Philadelphia?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Philadelphia?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Philadelphia, 53 movers can manage piano relocations. 41 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Pennsylvania has 77 piano movers and 55 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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