Top-rated movers to make your Washington DC to Tacoma move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Washington DC that offers long-distance services to Tacoma can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 82 top local movers in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Tacoma.
- 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 Tacoma?
In Maryland, moving services typically cost around $125 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 | $1,217 – $5,239 | $1,352 – $3,612 | $1,508 – $2,835 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,747 – $7,291 | $2,398 – $5,060 | $1,567 – $3,656 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,833 – $11,298 | $3,240 – $6,691 | $2,168 – $4,272 |
Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to Tacoma
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Tacoma from Washington DC, you can expect prices to land between $1,217 and $5,239. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,747 to $7,291 for the trip from Washington DC to Tacoma. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,833 and $11,298.
Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Tacoma
Moving containers from Washington DC to Tacoma will cost you $1,352 to $3,612 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,398 to $5,060. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,240 to $6,691. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Maryland.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Tacoma
Renting a moving truck from Washington DC to Tacoma typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,508 and $2,835 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,567 to $3,656. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,168 to $4,272.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Washington DC to Tacoma move
The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,772 for a one-bedroom, or up to $10,448 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Washington DC.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,508 to $4,014, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Tacoma
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Tacoma runs about 4% higher for singles and -35% higher for families than Washington DC.
Singles spend around $4,133 in Washington DC versus $3,963 in Washington DC; families pay $7,260 compared with $11,093.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Washington DC | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,935 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $3,389 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $477,289 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $73,341 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $4,133 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $7,260 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 7.3% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 10.3% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 0.0% |
- When relocating from Washington DC to Tacoma, expect to find rent about 31% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 20% more affordable in Tacoma compared to Washington DC.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 28% lower in Tacoma compared to Washington DC.
- Since the cost of living for a single person in both Tacoma and Washington DC is within a 5% difference, your expenses will be quite similar.
- A move to Tacoma 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 35% less than what it costs in Washington DC.
- With Tacoma and Washington DC having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes in Tacoma are 72% more than in Washington DC, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Washington 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.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Washington DC and Tacoma:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $229.80 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $71.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $4.84 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $4.21 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $16.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $72.50 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $51.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Tacoma, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Washington DC than in Tacoma.
- Eggs are less expensive in Washington DC than in Tacoma.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Tacoma.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Tacoma.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Tacoma.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Tacoma.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Tacoma
| Washington DC | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 223,968 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 48 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 55.55 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 44.45 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Tacoma’s population is about 67% less than Washington DC.
- Tacoma’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC’s score of 9.
- Tacoma is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 54 out of 100 vs Washington DC’s 77 out of 100.
- Tacoma has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
- Tacoma’s crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 55.55 compared to Washington DC’s 60.37. This means that Tacoma neighborhoods are safer than 55.55% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Tacoma is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 44.45 vs Washington DC’s 39.63.
- Air quality in Tacoma is Good, and in Washington DC it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Tacoma 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: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Washington’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Washington 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 Tacoma. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Tacoma
Planning your move to America’s #1 Wired City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Tacoma.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Central
- Eastside-Enact
- North End
- Northeast Tacoma
- West End
Best neighborhoods for families
- North End
- West End
Things to do in Tacoma
After settling into your new Washington home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Tacoma has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Tacoma features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the LeMay – America’s Car Museum, Museum of Glass, LeMay Collections at Marymount, and Washington State History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Point Defiance Park, Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park, 5 Mile Drive & Trails, and Wright 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 Tacoma Defiance (Soccer)Tacoma Rainiers (Baseball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Tacoma?
Planning your move from Washington DC to Tacoma? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Tacoma?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Tacoma 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 Washington DC to Tacoma take?
The 2,783-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Tacoma, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Washington DC offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Tacoma.
Are there special savings available from movers in Washington DC?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 7 have discounts for military personnel. 13 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 Washington DC?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Washington DC, 58 movers can manage piano relocations. 43 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maryland has 37 piano movers and 30 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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