Local moving companies in Boston

  1. Oscar's Moving Company: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. StairHopper Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Poseidon Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/oscarsmoving,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and attentive staff consistently define Oscar's Moving Company, based on analysis of 339 customer inputs. Nearly 84% of feedback expresses satisfaction, pointing to fast service, careful treatment of belongings, professionalism, speedy moving, and open communication as standout qualities. Teams frequently arrive on time, work efficiently, and ensure property is protected. Many highlight helpful communication and a courteous attitude not always found with other movers in the industry. Yet, about 16% of feedback cites issues like damaged goods, missed time windows, and billing surprises. Reports of lost or broken items and charges exceeding quotes occur more than with top competitors. Despite some lapses, the high rate of repeat business suggests Oscar's consistently outperforms most local options for professionalism and efficiency while keeping prices transparent for the majority of customers.
Get a Quote (617) 202-9566

Company Info

State license #: 31320

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1637689

Alternate Names: Oscar's Moving Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BostonBestRateMovers,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Boston Best Rate Movers earns applause for its swift, careful, and professional moving teams. Out of 248 pieces of customer feedback, 96% praised factors like efficiency, attention to detail, professionalism, timely arrivals, and budget-friendly rates. Customers often highlight careful wrapping, fast-paced teams, courteous staff, and straightforward pricing that rarely incurs surprises. Users also welcome the ease of the booking process and the respectful treatment of property—qualities that place BBRM ahead of many local competitors. Only a handful of reviewers express frustration with unexpected costs, item damage, or unsatisfactory complaint resolution, noting higher-than-expected bills, difficult claims processes, or unresolved breakage issues. Even so, Boston Best Rate Movers consistently delivers an experience that exceeds expectations for reliability and service quality compared to other movers in the Boston area.
Get a Quote (617) 787-3528

Company Info

State license #: 31391

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1718049

Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate 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
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/OlympiaMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/olympiams
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Moving with Olympia means speed, professionalism, and care—nearly 85% of customers praise efficient crews, courteous staff, and thoughtful handling of belongings. Many describe clear communication and a smooth moving process, often noting Olympia’s reliability and thoroughness compared to other moving companies. Clients highlight quick responses, well-organized teams, and genuine respect for property, making even challenging relocations feel manageable. Some feedback points to recurring issues with poor packing that results in damaged items, final bills that surpass the original estimates, and occasional communication lapses, especially when addressing problems or claims. While most reported positive interactions, a notable group experienced broken or missing items and found it difficult to resolve disputes. For those seeking a moving company known for professionalism and efficiency, Olympia stands out, but potential customers should verify the estimate details and clarify communication protocols to avoid misunderstandings that some reviewers encountered. This analysis is based on 382 reviews, with the vast majority—84.8%—being positive.
Get a Quote (617) 344-9145

Company Info

State license #: 70719

Years in Business: 31

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
https://www.facebook.com/stairhoppers/, https://twitter.com/Stairhoppers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items
Review Analysis
Customers call StairHopper Movers a top choice for hassle-free, fast, and professional moving. Out of 831 customer feedback pieces reviewed, 97.5% gave positive marks. Most highlight efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, speed, and strong communication as major reasons for high satisfaction. Movers stand out for punctuality, wrapping and protecting furniture, and working quickly—often finishing ahead of schedule. Input often references respectful, friendly crews and transparent scheduling updates—a rarity among movers. Some feedback shares that costs ran higher than quoted, often due to extra material charges or underestimated packing needs. Customers occasionally noted surprise fees. A small number mention minor damage or billing complaints. Compared to many moving companies, StairHopper receives consistently stronger praise for reliability and organization, though pricing clarity could be improved. Many say it's the best move they've ever had and would recommend StairHopper to friends or use them again.
Get a Quote (857) 928-0876

Company Info

State license #: 31321

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1696867


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/poseidonmoving, https://twitter.com/poseidonmoving?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Affordable rates
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Customers are divided on Poseidon Moving, with 49 reviews yielding 55% positive input. Many highlight the professionalism of the movers, efficient service, careful handling, competitive pricing, and responsive communication. Staff are repeatedly described as friendly, hardworking, and capable of handling challenging moves with care. On the other hand, nearly 43% of client feedback details concerns about damaged items, difficulty reaching the company, or late arrivals and deliveries. Damage to belongings is a recurring theme, with some reports of claims or customer service issues going unresolved. Compared to other moving services, Poseidon stands out for affordability and staff quality but faces criticism for service reliability and post-move support. These patterns suggest Poseidon is an option for those focused on budget and friendly movers, but customers who prioritize reliability and damage-free delivery may want to evaluate alternatives or take extra precautions.
Get a Quote (617) 470-9950

Company Info

State license #: 31816

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2522855

Alternate Names: Poseidon Moving, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Factors influencing moving costs from Boston to Washington DCtoggle

The cost of Boston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Boston to Washington DC can be as low as $1,274 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $7,178.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Boston so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $467 to $1,172. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Boston to Washington DC

Moving from Boston to Washington DC means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Boston than in Washington DC, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Boston compares to Washington DC so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Boston Washington DC
Average rent cost $3,400 $2,400
Average home value $739,121 $594,337
Average income (per capita) $89,212 $101,722
Cost of living (single person) $4,820 $3,963
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,304 $11,093
Unemployment rate 6.2% 7.0%
Sales tax 6.25% 6.0%
State income tax 9.0% 5.75%
  • Rent prices in Washington DC are 29% lower than in Boston, 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 Washington DC.
    Home prices in Washington DC are 19.6% lower than in Boston.
  • You’re likely to make a higher income living in Washington DC, where incomes are, on average, 14.0% higher than in Boston. Major employers in Washington DC include Department of Homeland Security, US Navy, and United States Postal Service.
  • 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 17.8% lower than in Boston.
  • A move to Washington DC 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 1.9% less than what it costs in Boston.
  • The unemployment rate in Washington DC is 12.90% higher than in Boston.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Washington DC, since the city's sales taxes in Washington DC are 4.00% lower than in Boston.
  • One perk of moving to Washington DC is paying less in state income taxes, which are 36.11% lower than in Boston.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,466.60 in Washington DC to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Boston.

How life is different in Boston vs. Washington DC

Washington DC Boston
Population 705,749 675,647
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 9
Walkability score 77 98
Bike friendliness score 70 86
Crime Index 60.37 39.88
Safety Index 39.63 60.12
Air Quality Good Good
  • Washington DC's population is about 4% greater than Boston.
  • Washington DC's public transportation has a similar score to Boston.
  • Washington DC is less walkable than Boston with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Boston's 98 out of 100.
  • Washington DC has a bike-friendliness score 70 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Boston, which has a score of 86 out of 100.
  • Washington DC's crime rate is higher than Boston with a score of 60.37 compared to Boston's 39.88. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Boston neighborhoods are safer than 39.88%.
  • Washington DC is considered to be less safe than Boston with a score of 39.63 vs Boston's 60.12.
  • Air quality in Washington DC is good, and in Boston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Boston vs. Washington DC move

  • Weather: Winters are cool to cold with light snow more common but heavy snow not uncommon, and summers are hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild to warm. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall or high heat.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Maryland, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Maryland doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Washington DC without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

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

After getting comfortable in your new Maryland home, it's time to see what Washington DC is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Washington DC include museums and art centers like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Gallery of Art, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and National Air and Space 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: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Washington Wizards (NBA), Washington Capitals (NHL), Washington Mystics (WNBA), or D.C. Untied (MLS) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Boston to Washington DC?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Boston to Washington DC. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Boston.

When is the cheapest time to move from Boston to Washington DC?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Boston 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 Boston to Washington DC take?

Covering 436 miles, the move from Boston, MA to Washington DC, MD typically takes one to four days. Some Boston movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Washington DC can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources