Best overall value
Local moving companies in Washington DC
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Straightline Movers Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Olympia Moving & Storage
rating
4.86 / 5
DOT #: 70719
Years in Business: 32
4814 Frolich Ln, Hyattsville, MD 20781 USRave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storageโs 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 70719
- State license #: 70719
- DOD certified
Gentle Giant Moving Company
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 373544
Years in Business: 45
5782 2nd Street NE, Washington, MD 20011 USGlowing 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 safelyโeven 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 373544
- State license #: 373544
Alternative Business Names
- Gentle Giant Moving Company
Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 2105554
Years in Business: 10
3000 Oak Drive, Kensington, MD 20895 USWhen efficiency meets professionalism, Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport stands out with 479 customer reviews, 85% of which are strongly positive. Customers consistently highlight the companyโs efficient service, courteous staff, excellent communication, careful handling of belongings, and quick moving process. These strengths, combined with reasonable pricing and true-to-estimate costs, make them a top choice compared to other moving companies. Negative feedback, which makes up about 12% of reviews, points to damage to items, late arrivals, and higher-than-expected charges. Some customers also report issues with lost items or insufficient follow-up after problems occur. Neutral input (about 3%) usually mentions satisfactory but unexceptional service, occasional minor damages, or that the value didnโt match the price paid. Suburban Solutions is praised for prompt, professional moves and willing customer support that resolves many problems effectively, but lapses in care or organization can still impact the experience. Compared to other movers, they are commended for reliability, communication, and a track record of positive feedback, with most reviewers trusting and recommending their service even after multiple moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2105554
- State license #: 2105554
Bookstore Movers, LLC
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 2005212
Years in Business: 19
5200 46th Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781 USMoving has never sounded easierโBookstore 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2005212
- State license #: 2005212
Straightline Movers Inc.
rating
4.66 / 5
DOT #: 3183719
Years in Business: 6
2210 5th St NE, Washington, MD 20002 USMoving doesnโt have to be a hassleโStraightline Movers has delivered efficient, reliable service to 193 customers, with a remarkable 97% positive feedback rate. Customers frequently applaud the teamโs efficiency, professionalism, careful handling, clear communication, and competitive rates. Most praise how the movers organize, show up on time, and treat items with respect, often noting smooth and stress-free experiences. A handful of clients encountered problems, such as damage to items or property, unexpected costs, or rare instances of unprofessional behavior. These situations, though rare, were outpaced by an overwhelming number of satisfied customers. Compared to many moving companies, Straightline shows consistency in service quality and transparency in pricing, with input revealing a trusted choice for both local and long-distance moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3183719
- State license #: 3183719
Factors influencing moving costs from Washington DC to Atlanta
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Atlanta
Moving from Washington DC to Atlanta means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Washington DC than in Atlanta, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Washington DC compares to Atlanta so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Washington DC | Atlanta | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,400 | $1,900 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $388,167 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $66,107 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,963 | $3,134 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $11,093 | $7,822 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 6.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.9% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 5.49% |
- Rent prices in Atlanta are 21% lower than in Washington DC, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Atlanta.
Home prices in Atlanta are 34.7% lower than in Washington DC. - Income in Atlanta is 35.0% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Atlanta include Delta Air Lines, Emory University / Emory Healthcare, and The Home Depot.
- The cost of living for a single person in Atlanta is 20.9% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Atlanta is 29.5% lower than in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Atlanta is 14.29% lower than in Washington DC.
- You'll spend more on retail and restaurants in Atlanta, since the city's sales taxes in Atlanta are 48.33% higher than in Washington DC.
- One perk of moving to Atlanta is paying less in state income taxes, which are 4.52% lower than in Washington DC.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,372.45 in Atlanta to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Atlanta
| Atlanta | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 498,715 | 705,749 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 8 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 42 | 70 |
| Crime Index | 64.23 | 60.37 |
| Safety Index | 35.77 | 39.63 |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
- Atlanta's population is about 29% less than Washington DC.
- Atlanta's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
- Atlanta is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- Atlanta has a bike-friendliness score 42 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70 out of 100.
- Atlanta and Washington DC have a similar crime rate.
- Atlanta and Washington DC are considered to be equally safe.
- Air quality in Atlanta is moderate, and in Washington DC it's good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC vs. Atlanta move
- Weather: Atlanta has hot summers and cool winters. It's unlikely that the weather will delay your move but prepare for the weather ahead of move day since moving typically requires spending many hours outdoors.
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Georgia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Georgia 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: 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 Atlanta. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Atlanta
Ready to relocate to "Atl"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Atlanta.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cabbagetown
- Inman Park
- Midtown
- Old Fourth Ward
- Virginia-Highland
Best neighborhoods for families
- Avondale Estates
- Druid Hills
- Inman Park
- Mountain Park
- Virginia-Highland
Things to do in Atlanta
After getting comfortable in your new Georgia home, it's time to see what Atlanta is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ there's plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Atlanta include museums and art centers like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, High Museum of Art, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Hammonds House Museum, and Atlanta History Center.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Sweetwater Creek State Park, Freedom Park, Stone Mountain Park, and Grant Park โ and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Atlanta Braves (MLB), Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta Hawks (NBA), or Atlanta United (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Atlanta?
The best time to move from Washington DC to Atlanta 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 Atlanta?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Atlanta 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 Atlanta take?
The 638-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to Atlanta, GA, takes one to six days. Some Washington DC movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Atlanta.
