Top-rated movers to make your Portland to Chapel Hill move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Portland that offers long-distance services to Chapel Hill can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed nine top local movers in Portland 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 Portland to Chapel Hill.
- Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1846942
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TMT Portland, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Bisson Moving & Storage Company , Bisson I & R Commercial Services , Bisson I & R Document Security , Bisson Transportation
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 38
DOT #: 070851
Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines , Allen & Coles Moving System
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 626233
Alternate Names: Tiny Tims Moving & Trucking, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Portland to Chapel Hill?
In Maine, moving services typically cost around $225 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 | $1,362 – $4,738 | $799 – $1,920 | $528 – $1,101 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,494 – $6,082 | $1,341 – $2,614 | $588 – $1,208 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,467 – $8,376 | $1,782 – $3,342 | $790 – $1,571 |
Cost to hire movers from Portland to Chapel Hill
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chapel Hill from Portland, you can expect prices to land between $1,362 and $4,738. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,494 to $6,082 for the trip from Portland to Chapel Hill. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,467 and $8,376.
Cost of moving containers from Portland to Chapel Hill
Moving containers from Portland to Chapel Hill will cost you $799 to $1,920 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,341 to $2,614. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,782 to $3,342. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Maine.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to Chapel Hill
Renting a moving truck from Portland 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 $528 and $1,101 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $588 to $1,208. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $790 to $1,571.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Portland to Chapel Hill move
The cost of Portland movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,140 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,119 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Portland.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $528 to $1,426, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Portland to Chapel Hill
Many movers find Chapel Hill easier on the wallet than Portland – roughly 10% less for singles and 21% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,248 for one person in Chapel Hill versus $2,491 in Portland. For a family of four, it’s $4,790 compared with $6,060.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Portland | Chapel Hill | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,925 | $1,325 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,500 | $3,433 |
| Average home value | $542,001 | $592,460 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,171 | $65,621 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,491 | $2,248 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,060 | $4,790 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 3.2% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 4.5% |
- Moving to Chapel Hill from Portland won’t change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Chapel Hill are about 9% higher than those in Portland.
- In terms of average income, Chapel Hill and Portland are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Chapel Hill, as the cost of living for a single person is 10% lower compared to Portland.
- 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 21% less than what it costs in Portland.
- The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is about 38% lower than in Portland. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Chapel Hill are 36% more than in Portland, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in North Carolina are 22% below those in Maine. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Portland and Chapel Hill:
| Living Expense | Portland | Chapel Hill |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $203.15 | $156.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.88 | $55.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.26 | $4.53 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.62 | $4.04 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $65.00 | $42.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Portland than in Chapel Hill.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Portland than in Chapel Hill.
- Eggs are less expensive in Portland than in Chapel Hill.
- Bread costs less in Portland than in Chapel Hill.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Portland than in Chapel Hill.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in Chapel Hill.
- Gym memberships cost more in Portland than in Chapel Hill.
How life is different in Portland vs. Chapel Hill
| Portland | Chapel Hill | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 68,408 | 63,764 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 62 | 34 |
| Bike friendliness score | 68 | 50 |
| Crime index | 32.16 | 26.42 |
| Safety index | 67.84 | 73.58 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Chapel Hill’s population is about 7% less than Portland.
- Chapel Hill’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Portland, making them very similar.
- Chapel Hill is less walkable than Portland with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Portland’s 62 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 Portland, which has a score of 68.
- Chapel Hill’s crime rate is lower than Portland with a score of 26.42 compared to Portland’s 32.16. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
- Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Portland with a safety index of 73.58 vs Portland’s 67.84.
- Air quality in Chapel Hill is Moderate, and in Portland it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Portland 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 Portland to Chapel Hill?
Planning your move from Portland to Chapel Hill? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Portland.
When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Chapel Hill?
Because most people are moving from Portland 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 Portland to Chapel Hill take?
The 814-mile journey from Portland, ME to Chapel Hill, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Portland 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 piano and antique moving services available in Portland?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Portland, 9 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maine has 13 piano movers and 7 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
Portland moving services
Popular Maine routes
- Maine to North Carolina car shippers
- Maine to California movers
- Maine to Florida movers
- Maine to Georgia movers
- Maine to Illinois movers
- Maine to Michigan movers
- Maine to New York movers
- Maine to North Carolina movers
- Maine to Ohio movers
- Maine to Pennsylvania movers
- Maine 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!