The best local movers for Harrisburg to Washington DC moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Harrisburg that also handles long-distance moves to Washington DC. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 18 local movers in Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg to Washington DC.
- Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Spirit Moving Company LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- The Armstrong Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Keystone Moving and Junk Removal: 4.28 out of 5 stars
- Maya’s Movers LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 702302
Years in Business: 127
DOT #: 10676
Alternate Names: Harrisburg Storage Co. , M.F. Rockey Moving Company , Penn Hershey Transfer , Harrisburg Transfer Company , George W. Weaver
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8921736
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3214709
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8917264
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8920233
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 3011826
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8921045
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3128183
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
How much does it cost to move from Harrisburg to Washington DC?
The average hourly rate for movers in Pennsylvania is $143. 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 | $495 – $2,219 | $496 – $1,149 | $115 – $182 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,036 – $3,186 | $874 – $1,523 | $123 – $215 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,404 – $4,037 | $1,097 – $1,872 | $141 – $243 |
Cost to hire movers from Harrisburg to Washington DC
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Harrisburg to Washington DC will cost between $495 and $2,219. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Harrisburg to Harrisburg will range from $1,036 to $3,186, and a large move from Harrisburg to Washington DC will cost from $1,404 to $4,037.
Cost of moving containers from Harrisburg to Washington DC
If you’re moving from Harrisburg to Washington DC, expect to pay between $496 and $1,149 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $874 up to $1,523. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,097 and $1,872. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Harrisburg to Washington DC
Renting a moving truck from Harrisburg 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 $115 and $182. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $123 and $215. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $141 up to $243 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Harrisburg to Washington DC
The cost of Harrisburg movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $732, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $3,280.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Harrisburg, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($115–$220) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Harrisburg to Washington DC
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Washington DC runs about 114% higher for singles and 207% higher for families than Harrisburg.
Singles spend around $3,963 in Harrisburg versus $1,849 in Harrisburg; families pay $11,093 compared with $3,612.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Harrisburg | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,550 | $2,568 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,946 | $5,417 |
| Average home value | $230,038 | $594,337 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,256 | $101,722 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,849 | $3,963 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,612 | $11,093 |
| Unemployment rate | 13.4% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 5.75% |
- Rent is estimated to be 100% higher in Washington DC compared to Harrisburg; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 158% greater in Washington DC than in Harrisburg.
- Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 39% higher in Washington DC than in Harrisburg, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Washington DC, since the cost of living for a single person in Washington DC is 114% higher than in Harrisburg. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- When relocating to Washington DC, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 207% greater than in Harrisburg.
- Washington DC enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 48% lower compared to Harrisburg, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
- Sales taxes show little difference between Washington DC and Harrisburg (around 5%), making it one less financial concern for your move.
- Income taxes are 87% higher in Maryland than in Pennsylvania, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Harrisburg and Washington DC:
| Living Expense | Harrisburg | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $160.00 | $191.62 |
| Cell phone plan | $59.67 | $65.80 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.26 | $4.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.72 | $4.43 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $65.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $27.50 | $103.76 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Harrisburg than in Washington DC, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Harrisburg than in Washington DC.
- Eggs are less expensive in Harrisburg than in Washington DC.
- Bread costs less in Harrisburg than in Washington DC.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Harrisburg than in Washington DC.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Harrisburg than in Washington DC.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Harrisburg than in Washington DC.
How life is different in Harrisburg vs. Washington DC
| Harrisburg | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 50,099 | 672,079 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 68 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 57 | 70 |
| Crime index | 64.18 | 60.37 |
| Safety index | 35.82 | 39.63 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Washington DC’s population is about 1242% greater than Harrisburg.
- Washington DC’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Harrisburg’s score of 6.
- Washington DC is more walkable than Harrisburg with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Harrisburg’s 68 out of 100.
- With a score of 70 out of 100, Washington DC is more bike-friendly than Harrisburg, which has a score of 57 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Washington DC’s crime rate is lower than Harrisburg with a score of 60.37 compared to Harrisburg’s 64.18. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Harrisburg neighborhoods are safer than 64.18%.
- Washington DC is considered to be safer than Harrisburg with a safety index of 39.63 vs Harrisburg’s 35.82.
- Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in Harrisburg it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg to Washington DC?
The best time to move from Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg.
When is the cheapest time to move from Harrisburg to Washington DC?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg to Washington DC take?
Moving from Harrisburg, PA to Washington DC, covers 119 miles and usually takes one to two days. Need to move faster? Some Harrisburg movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Washington DC.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Harrisburg?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 14 movers in Harrisburg advertise piano moving expertise. 9 movers in Harrisburg provide antique moving services. State totals show 77 piano movers and 55 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
Harrisburg moving services
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