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($1,080) Cost to Move From Washington DC, MD to Knoxville, TN

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Estimated cost & time: For a 486 mile move from Washington DC to Knoxville, costs typically range from $437 to $4,883. Plan for the travel time to be around one–four days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Washington DC to Knoxville

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Washington DC to Knoxville

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Washington DC to Knoxville, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 73 interstate moving companies located in Washington DC, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Knoxville seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Washington DC to Knoxville

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 486-mile move from Washington DC to Knoxville using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,185 – $3,814
  • Moving Container $917 – $1,592
  • Rental Truck $409 – $705
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,029 – $4,883
  • Moving Container $1,210 – $2,265
  • Rental Truck $437 – $898
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,446 – $7,139
  • Moving Container $1,515 – $2,908
  • Rental Truck $544 – $1,081
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Safeway Moving
Randallstown, MD Townsend, TN
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 06, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Mount Airy, MD Sweetwater, TN
4 Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
Mayflower Transit
White Oak, MD Kingston, TN
4 Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Greenbelt, MD Harriman, TN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
North American Van Lines
Chevy Chase View, MD Maryville, TN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
Columbia, MD Maynardville, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 03, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
District Heights, MD Lenoir City, TN
3 Bedrooms
Aug 24, 2025
Roadway Moving
New Carrollton, MD Greenback, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 14, 2025
PODS
Lake Shore, MD Caryville, TN
2 Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Cottage City, MD New Tazewell, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 07, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Knoxville, TN to Washington DC, MD guide.

The best local movers for Washington DC to Knoxville moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Washington DC that also handles long-distance moves to Knoxville. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 82 local movers in Washington DC who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Washington DC to Knoxville.

  1. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. BoxStar Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
83.8% of all reviews were positive
14.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storage’s customer feedback, with over 83% of 383 reviews rating the company positively. Customers consistently praise their efficient service, attentive staff, careful handling of possessions, strong communication, and the speed of their moving process. Olympia stands out for delivering a low-stress experience, seamless coordination, and trustworthy teams, which is especially noteworthy compared to many competitors in the moving industry. On the downside, a portion of clients report significant issues: the most common complaints involve damaged or lost items, cost overruns from inaccurate estimates, and missing possessions. Several negative comments highlight struggles with costly and frustrating claims processes, as well as challenges in resolving high-value property damage or loss after storage. Neutral feedback typically mentions minor mishaps, miscommunications, or additional fees, yet still acknowledges courteous service and competence from the moving crews. Olympia typically delivers an efficient, professional moving experience but, like most national movers, may fall short when it comes to high-value item care or providing exact cost certainty for larger, complex moves.
Get a Quote (703) 566-4391

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.1% of all reviews were positive
3.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never sounded easier—Bookstore Movers, LLC receives rave feedback from 96% of customers out of 230 reviews. Customers consistently praise efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, and clear communication. Most mention speedy, smooth moves and crews who protect property and approach each job with courtesy. Scheduling is simple and estimates align closely with costs, setting this company apart from less reliable movers. Only a few customers report problems: a small portion cite damaged items, rushed jobs, or unexpected extra charges. One neutral review points to delays, missing crew members, and difficult management contact during the move. Compared to most moving companies, Bookstore Movers earns superior marks for consistent reliability, making them a top choice for stress-free relocations.
Get a Quote (202) 570-4697

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.8% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input points to Artisan Movers as a standout in the moving industry, with 259 reviews analyzed and nearly 94% offering positive input. Most feedback highlights a team respected for professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, effective communication, and quick moving processes—qualities consistently recognized in top-rated movers. Customers frequently note that their belongings arrive undamaged and praise the crew’s friendly, accommodating manner. On the downside, a small percentage report concerns like item damage, surprise charges, or slow responses from management. When compared with other companies, Artisan Movers receives higher marks for reliability, staff courtesy, and transparent communication, though there are isolated reports of property damage or issues with the billing process. These trends show a company excelling in service standards, with a few exceptions relating to damage and administrative follow-through.
Get a Quote (240) 570-8593

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.2% of all reviews were positive
3.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Glowing feedback cements Gentle Giant Moving Company as a leader in their field. Out of 311 reviews, 95% of customers offer high praise, citing efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams as standout qualities. Many describe the moving process as quick, with thorough communication from booking to delivery, creating a smooth and stress-free experience. Hundreds of customers report their belongings arrived safely—even during challenging or long-distance moves. On the downside, a handful of users express dissatisfaction with final costs exceeding estimates, a few unmet expectations around communication, and occasional scheduling or arrival delays. Compared to many moving companies, reports of damaged goods or loss are remarkably rare. For those weighing reliability, responsiveness, and peace of mind, Gentle Giant is a top-tier choice, though budget-focused clients may encounter higher-than-expected pricing.
Get a Quote (202) 758-0213

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.1% of all reviews were positive
0.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about BoxStar Movers’ fast and efficient crews, careful handling of belongings, and professional, polite movers. Out of 669 reviews analyzed, over 99% reflected positive experiences. Movers consistently show up on time, communicate well, and treat customers’ items with respect. Many mention stress-free moves and satisfaction even in tough conditions. Compared to other moving companies, BoxStar delivers reliability, clear pricing, and standout courtesy that keeps clients coming back. Negative feedback is rare but includes reports of damage during packing, misplaced items, or less-experienced movers, and a handful of customers experienced issues with lost belongings or furniture damage. Neutral reviews point to isolated lapses in packing care or communication but still praised basic professionalism. Those seeking an organized, friendly, and speedy move will find BoxStar Movers among the top-rated choices in the region, while those with valuable or delicate items may want to discuss special handling in advance to ensure peace of mind.
Get a Quote (202) 875-7649

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 Knoxville?

The average hourly rate for movers in Maryland is $125. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,080 – $2,949 $684 – $1,563 $390 – $713
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,029 – $4,883 $1,210 – $2,265 $437 – $898
4+ bedrooms $3,446 – $7,139 $1,515 – $2,908 $544 – $1,081
*Approximate cost ranges for a 486-mile move from Washington DC to Knoxville are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to Knoxville

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Washington DC to Knoxville will cost between $1,080 and $2,949. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Washington DC to Washington DC will range from $2,029 to $4,883, and a large move from Washington DC to Knoxville will cost from $3,446 to $7,139.

Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Knoxville

If you’re moving from Washington DC to Knoxville, expect to pay between $684 and $1,563 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,210 up to $2,265. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,515 and $2,908. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Maryland.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Knoxville

Renting a moving truck from Washington DC to Knoxville is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $390 and $713. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $437 and $898. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $544 up to $1,081 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Washington DC to Knoxville

The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,469, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,106.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Washington DC, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($390–$955) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Knoxville

Many movers find Knoxville easier on the wallet than Washington DC – roughly 45% less for singles and 53% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,184 for one person in Knoxville versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it’s $5,200 compared with $11,093.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Washington DC Knoxville
Average 1 BR rent $2,568 $1,667
Average 3 BR rent $5,417 $3,210
Average home value $594,337 $350,035
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $61,050
Cost of living (single) $3,963 $2,184
Cost of living (family of four) $11,093 $5,200
Unemployment rate 7.0% 4.7%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.25%
State income tax 5.75% 0.0%
  • If you’re heading to Knoxville from Washington DC, you’ll find that rent is roughly 25% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 41% less in Knoxville than in Washington DC.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 40% lower in Knoxville compared to Washington DC.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Knoxville. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 45% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Choosing to move to Knoxville can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 53% less than in Washington DC.
  • Knoxville enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 33% lower compared to Washington DC, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes rise by 54% in Knoxville over Washington DC, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Washington DC and Knoxville:

Living Expense Washington DC Knoxville
Basic utilities $191.62 $215.94
Cell phone plan $65.80 $54.00
Dozen eggs $4.67 $4.06
Loaf of bread $4.43 $3.64
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $120.00 $85.00
Gym membership $103.76 $34.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Knoxville, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Knoxville.
  • Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Knoxville.
  • Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Knoxville.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Knoxville.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Knoxville.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Knoxville.

How life is different in Washington DC vs. Knoxville

Washington DC Knoxville
Population 672,079 190,740
Transportation score 9 4
Walkability score 77 31
Bike friendliness score 70 30
Crime index 60.37 42.54
Safety index 39.63 57.46
Air quality Good Good
  • Knoxville’s population is about 72% less than Washington DC.
  • Knoxville’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC’s score of 9.
  • Knoxville is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Washington DC’s 77 out of 100.
  • Knoxville has a bike-friendliness score of 30 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
  • Knoxville’s crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 42.54 compared to Washington DC’s 60.37. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
  • Knoxville is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 57.46 vs Washington DC’s 39.63.
  • Air quality in Knoxville is Good, and in Washington DC it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Knoxville move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Tennessee doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Knoxville. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Knoxville

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Marble City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Knoxville.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Farragut
  • Oak Ridge
  • Alcoa
  • Maryville
  • Seymour
  • Lenoir City
  • Louisville
  • Eagleton Village
  • Loudon

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Farragut
  • Oak Ridge
  • Maryville
  • Alcoa
  • Louisville
  • Loudon
  • Clinton

Things to do in Knoxville

Once you’re settled into your new home in Tennessee, it’s time to get out and discover what Knoxville has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Knoxville, such as the Knoxville Museum of Art, East Tennesse Historical Society, Muse Knoxville, and Old Smoky Railway Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Lakeshore Park, World’s Fair Park, Krutch Park, and Fort Dickerson Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Tennessee Volunteers (SEC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Knoxville?

The best time to move from Washington DC to Knoxville is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Washington DC.

When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Knoxville?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Washington DC to Knoxville, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Washington DC to Knoxville take?

Moving from Washington DC, MD to Knoxville, covers 486 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Washington DC movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Knoxville.

Which movers in Washington DC give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 7 movers give special rates to military members. 13 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Washington DC?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 58 movers in Washington DC advertise piano moving expertise. 43 movers in Washington DC provide antique moving services. State totals show 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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