The best local movers for Arlington to Washington DC moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Arlington that also handles long-distance moves to Washington DC. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 78 local movers in Arlington 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 Arlington to Washington DC.
- BoxStar Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- My Pro Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
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
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
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3116640
Alternate Names: MyProMovers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
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
How much does it cost to move from Arlington to Washington DC?
The average hourly rate for movers in Virginia is $161. 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 | $274 – $912 | $92 – $669 | $32 – $77 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $646 – $2,033 | $319 – $958 | $40 – $98 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,049 – $3,031 | $697 – $1,325 | $52 – $124 |
Cost to hire movers from Arlington to Washington DC
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Arlington to Washington DC will cost between $274 and $912. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Arlington to Arlington will range from $646 to $2,033, and a large move from Arlington to Washington DC will cost from $1,049 to $3,031.
Cost of moving containers from Arlington to Washington DC
If you’re moving from Arlington to Washington DC, expect to pay between $92 and $669 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $319 up to $958. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $697 and $1,325. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arlington to Washington DC
Renting a moving truck from Arlington to Washington DC 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 $32 and $77. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $40 and $98. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $52 up to $124 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Arlington to Washington DC
The cost of Arlington movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $408, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $2,618.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Arlington, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($32–$104) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Arlington to Washington DC
Many movers find Washington DC easier on the wallet than Arlington – roughly 42% less for singles and 7% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,963 for one person in Washington DC versus $6,867 in Arlington. For a family of four, it’s $11,093 compared with $11,970.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Arlington | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,475 | $2,568 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,350 | $5,417 |
| Average home value | $810,670 | $594,337 |
| Average income (per capita) | $128,145 | $101,722 |
| Cost of living (single) | $6,867 | $3,963 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,970 | $11,093 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 5.75% |
- If you’re heading to Washington DC from Arlington, you’ll find that rent is roughly 12% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 27% less in Washington DC than in Arlington.
- Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 21% lower in Washington DC compared to Arlington.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Washington DC. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 42% lower than in Arlington.
- Choosing to move to Washington DC can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 7% less than in Arlington.
- In Washington DC, the unemployment rate is approximately 75% higher than in Arlington, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes show little difference between Washington DC and Arlington (around 5%), making it one less financial concern for your move.
- Income taxes are on par between Maryland and Virginia, within a 5% range, providing a predictable deduction from your income as you change locations.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Arlington and Washington DC:
| Living Expense | Arlington | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $208.70 | $191.62 |
| Cell phone plan | $59.67 | $65.80 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.26 | $4.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.18 | $4.43 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $24.50 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $90.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $77.25 | $103.76 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Arlington than in Washington DC.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Arlington than in Washington DC.
- Eggs are less expensive in Arlington than in Washington DC.
- Bread costs less in Arlington than in Washington DC.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Arlington than in Washington DC.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Arlington than in Washington DC.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Arlington than in Washington DC.
How life is different in Arlington vs. Washington DC
| Arlington | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 238,643 | 672,079 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 71 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 70 |
| Crime index | 15.67 | 60.37 |
| Safety index | 79.15 | 39.63 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Washington DC’s population is about 182% greater than Arlington.
- Washington DC’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Arlington, making them very similar.
- Washington DC is more walkable than Arlington with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Arlington’s 71 out of 100.
- Both Washington DC and Arlington have similar bike-friendliness scores (72 vs 70), meaning Washington DC is about as safe for cyclists as Arlington. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Washington DC’s crime rate is higher than Arlington with a score of 60.37 compared to Arlington’s 15.67. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67%.
- Washington DC is considered to be less safe than Arlington with a score of 39.63 vs Arlington’s 79.15.
- Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in Arlington it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Arlington to Washington DC 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 Maryland, 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 Maryland moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Maryland 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 Washington DC. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Washington DC
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to DC, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Washington DC.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Adams Morgan
- Capitol Hill
- Cleveland Park
- Foggy Bottom
- Logan Circle
Best neighborhoods for families
- AU-Tenleytown
- Chevy Chase
- Cleveland Park
- Georgetown
- The Palisades
Things to do in Washington DC
Once you’re settled into your new home in Maryland, it’s time to get out and discover what Washington DC has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Washington DC, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Gallery of Art, and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s National Mall, National Gallery of Art – Sculpture Garden, Rock Creek Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Island 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 Washington Wizards (NBA)Washington Capitals (NHL)Washington Mystics (WNBA)D.C. Untied (MLS)Washington Commanders (NFL)DC Defenders (XFL)Old Glory DC (MLR) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Arlington to Washington DC?
The best time to move from Arlington to Washington DC is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Arlington.
When is the cheapest time to move from Arlington to Washington DC?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Arlington to Washington DC, 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 Arlington to Washington DC take?
Moving from Arlington, VA to Washington DC, covers 4 miles and usually takes to days. Need to move faster? Some Arlington movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Washington DC.
Which movers in Arlington 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 Arlington?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 56 movers in Arlington advertise piano moving expertise. 43 movers in Arlington provide antique moving services. State totals show 77 piano movers and 47 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
Arlington moving services
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