Top-rated movers to make your Lancaster to Washington DC move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Lancaster that offers long-distance services to Washington DC can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 21 top local movers in Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Washington DC.
- Speedwell Transportation Inc.: 4.28 out of 5 stars
- Antelope Valley Van & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
- Elite Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Gentlemen’s Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 159158
Years in Business: 37
DOT #: 1861478
Alternate Names: Speedwell Transportation
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0061148
Years in Business: 76
DOT #: 34380
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189126
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 1360438
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189688
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1095485
Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191251
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 2399435
Alternate Names: Oleg’s Moving
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Lancaster to Washington DC?
In California, moving services typically cost around $128 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 | $1,275 – $5,439 | $1,380 – $3,201 | $1,389 – $2,946 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,673 – $7,377 | $2,306 – $4,907 | $1,504 – $3,507 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,336 – $11,546 | $3,145 – $6,752 | $1,980 – $4,303 |
Cost to hire movers from Lancaster to Washington DC
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Washington DC from Lancaster, you can expect prices to land between $1,275 and $5,439. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,673 to $7,377 for the trip from Lancaster to Washington DC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $7,336 and $11,546.
Cost of moving containers from Lancaster to Washington DC
Moving containers from Lancaster to Washington DC will cost you $1,380 to $3,201 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,306 to $4,907. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,145 to $6,752. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Lancaster to Washington DC
Renting a moving truck from Lancaster to Washington DC typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,389 and $2,946 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,504 to $3,507. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,980 to $4,303.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Lancaster to Washington DC move
The cost of Lancaster movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,561 for a one-bedroom, or up to $10,809 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Lancaster.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,389 to $3,887, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Lancaster to Washington DC
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Washington DC runs about 56% higher for singles and 99% higher for families than Lancaster.
Singles spend around $3,963 in Lancaster versus $2,540 in Lancaster; families pay $11,093 compared with $5,562.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Lancaster | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,305 | $2,568 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,500 | $5,417 |
| Average home value | $473,053 | $594,337 |
| Average income (per capita) | $74,723 | $101,722 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,540 | $3,963 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,562 | $11,093 |
| Unemployment rate | 15.6% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.75% |
- When relocating from Lancaster to Washington DC, expect to find rent about 8% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Washington DC are about 26% higher than those in Lancaster.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 36% higher in Washington DC compared to Lancaster, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Washington DC, as living costs for a single person are 56% higher than in Lancaster. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Washington DC, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 99% higher than in Lancaster.
- The unemployment rate in Washington DC is about 55% lower than in Lancaster. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 41% less in Washington DC relative to Lancaster. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Maryland are 57% below those in California. 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 Lancaster and Washington DC:
| Living Expense | Lancaster | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $225.00 | $191.62 |
| Cell phone plan | $43.00 | $65.80 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.67 | $4.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.51 | $4.43 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $103.76 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lancaster than in Washington DC.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lancaster than in Washington DC.
- Eggs are less expensive in Lancaster than in Washington DC.
- Bread is more expensive in Lancaster than in Washington DC.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Lancaster than in Washington DC.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Lancaster than in Washington DC.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Lancaster than in Washington DC.
How life is different in Lancaster vs. Washington DC
| Lancaster | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 173,516 | 672,079 |
| Transportation score | 0 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 29 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 40 | 70 |
| Crime index | 45.5 | 60.37 |
| Safety index | 54.5 | 39.63 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Washington DC’s population is about 287% greater than Lancaster.
- Washington DC has a public transportation score of 9 out of 10, while Lancaster has no measurable transit system (score of 0).
- Washington DC is more walkable than Lancaster with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Lancaster’s 29 out of 100.
- With a score of 70 out of 100, Washington DC is more bike-friendly than Lancaster, which has a score of 40 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Washington DC’s crime rate is higher than Lancaster with a score of 60.37 compared to Lancaster’s 45.5. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5%.
- Washington DC is considered to be less safe than Lancaster with a score of 39.63 vs Lancaster’s 54.5.
- Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in Lancaster it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Lancaster to Washington DC 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Maryland’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Maryland 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 Washington DC. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Washington DC
Planning your move to DC? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new Maryland home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Washington DC has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Washington DC features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — 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 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 Lancaster to Washington DC?
Planning your move from Lancaster to Washington DC? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Lancaster.
When is the cheapest time to move from Lancaster to Washington DC?
Because most people are moving from Lancaster to Washington DC 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 Lancaster to Washington DC take?
The 2,651-mile journey from Lancaster, CA to Washington DC, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Lancaster offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Washington DC.
Are there special savings available from movers in Lancaster?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 1 have discounts for military personnel.
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 Lancaster?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Lancaster, 20 movers can manage piano relocations. 15 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 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
Lancaster moving services
Popular California routes
- California to Maryland car shippers
- California to Florida movers
- California to Georgia movers
- California to Illinois movers
- California to Michigan movers
- California to New York movers
- California to North Carolina movers
- California to Ohio movers
- California to Pennsylvania movers
- California 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!