Top-rated local movers that handle Washington DC to Ann Arbor moves
When planning a move from Washington DC to Ann Arbor, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 82 local movers in Washington DC who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.
Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Washington DC to Ann Arbor.
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- BoxStar Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 70719
Years in Business: 32
DOT #: 70719
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 2005212
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 2005212
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2957382
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2957382
Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 45
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $145/hr
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 3455884
Alternate Names: BoxStar Moving Services , BoxStar Moving Services, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Washington DC to Ann Arbor?
Movers in Maryland charge $125 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,152 – $3,204 | $639 – $1,571 | $413 – $768 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,966 – $5,360 | $1,226 – $2,398 | $441 – $919 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,555 – $7,256 | $1,537 – $3,148 | $567 – $1,153 |
Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to Ann Arbor
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington DC to Ann Arbor, you can expect to spend between $1,152 and $3,204. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,966 to $5,360 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Washington DC to Ann Arbor typically runs between $3,555 and $7,256.
Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Ann Arbor
When moving from Washington DC to Ann Arbor, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $639 and $1,571. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,226 to $2,398. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,537 up to $3,148. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Maryland.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Ann Arbor
Renting a moving truck in Washington DC is usually your cheapest option to get to Ann Arbor. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $413 and $768. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $441 and $919. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $567 and $1,153.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors that impact moving costs from Washington DC to Ann Arbor
The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:
- The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,527, but larger homes can run up to $6,139.
- Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Washington DC.
- Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($413–$989) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Ann Arbor
Many movers find Ann Arbor easier on the wallet than Washington DC – roughly 45% less for singles and 52% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,176 for one person in Ann Arbor versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it’s $5,344 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Ann Arbor | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,831 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $3,763 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $474,909 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $66,964 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $2,176 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $5,344 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 3.5% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.25% |
- Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 6% lower in Ann Arbor than in Washington DC, giving you more disposable income monthly.
- Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 20% lower in Ann Arbor than in Washington DC.
- It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 34% less in Ann Arbor than in Washington DC.
- Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Ann Arbor, where the cost of living for a single person is 45% less than in Washington DC.
- Moving to Ann Arbor could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 52% less than in Washington DC.
- Ann Arbor experiences an unemployment rate that is about 50% lower than that of Washington DC. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
- Sales taxes are similar in Ann Arbor and Washington DC (within about 5%), meaning this is one less financial adjustment to worry about on your move.
- Income taxes are 26% lower in Michigan compared to Maryland. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.
The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Washington DC with Ann Arbor:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Ann Arbor |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $158.05 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $48.64 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $2.70 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $3.60 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $44.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Washington DC than in Ann Arbor.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Ann Arbor.
- Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Ann Arbor.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Ann Arbor.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Ann Arbor.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Ann Arbor.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Ann Arbor.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Ann Arbor
| Washington DC | Ann Arbor | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 123,851 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 7 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 52 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 71 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 31.0 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 79.18 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Ann Arbor’s population is about 82% less than Washington DC.
- Ann Arbor’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC’s score of 9.
- Ann Arbor is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 52 out of 100 vs Washington DC’s 77 out of 100.
- Both Ann Arbor and Washington DC have similar bike-friendliness scores (70 vs 71), meaning Ann Arbor is about as safe for cyclists as Washington DC. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Ann Arbor’s crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 31.0 compared to Washington DC’s 60.37. This means that Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Ann Arbor is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 79.18 vs Washington DC’s 39.63.
- Air quality in Ann Arbor is Moderate, and in Washington DC it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Ann Arbor move
- HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: While Michigan doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Ann Arbor smoothly. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Ann Arbor
Now that you’ve chosen Tree Town as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Ann Arbor to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Kerrytown
- Lower Burns Park
- Old West Side
- Northside/Lower Town
- Allen Creek/Old West Side
Best neighborhoods for families
- Burns Park
- Eberwhite
- Water Hill
- Ann Arbor Hills
- Dicken
Things to do in Ann Arbor
After getting comfortable in your new Michigan home, it’s time to see what Ann Arbor is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Ann Arbor offers cultural landmarks like the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, University of Michigan Museum of Art, University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, and Kelsey Museum of Archaeology.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gallup Park, Hudson Mills Metropark, County Farm Park, and Buhr Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Ann Arbor?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Washington DC to Ann Arbor are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Washington DC are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Ann Arbor?
Because spring and fall moves from Washington DC to Ann Arbor are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Washington DC to Ann Arbor take?
A move of 525 miles from Washington DC, MD to Ann Arbor, generally takes one to six days. Movers in Washington DC sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Ann Arbor is a good fallback if you need extra time.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Washington DC?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 7 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 13 extend savings to senior citizens.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Which movers in Washington DC offer piano or antique moving?
Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 58 movers in Washington DC have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 43 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across MD, there are 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.
Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Washington DC moving services
Popular Maryland routes
- Maryland to Michigan car shippers
- Maryland to California movers
- Maryland to Florida movers
- Maryland to Georgia movers
- Maryland to Illinois movers
- Maryland to Michigan movers
- Maryland to New York movers
- Maryland to North Carolina movers
- Maryland to Ohio movers
- Maryland to Pennsylvania movers
- Maryland to Texas movers
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!