Local moving companies in Washington DC

  1. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. Straightline Movers Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.66 out of 5 stars

Olympia Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 70719

Years in Business: 32

4814 Frolich Ln, Hyattsville, MD 20781 US

Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storageโ€™s 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.

Get a Quote (703) 566-4391

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
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Gentle Giant Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 373544

Years in Business: 45

5782 2nd Street NE, Washington, MD 20011 US

Glowing 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 safelyโ€”even 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.

Get a Quote (202) 758-0213

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Gentle Giant Moving Company
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Straightline Movers Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 3183719

Years in Business: 5

1356 Okie Street NE, Washington , MD 20002 US

Moving with peace of mind is the norm at Straightline Movers Inc., where 188 out of 194 feedback entriesโ€”an impressive 96.9%โ€”are positive. Customers value the team's efficient service, professionalism, clear communication, careful handling, and speed. Many describe staff as polite and attentive, making tasks like disassembling furniture and navigating tight spaces appear effortless. Customers report transparent pricing and flexible scheduling, noting that bookings and adjustments are managed with ease. In rare cases, customers cited damage to belongings and disappointing staff behavior, including issues with handling insurance claims. These concerns are infrequent and usually resolved, standing apart from the much higher level of satisfaction. Compared to standard moving experiences, clients consistently describe Straightline as surpassing expectations, earning strong referrals and repeat business. The concrete track record of careful, fast, and communicative service sets Straightline Movers above most competitors.

Get a Quote (888) 536-0301

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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Bookstore Movers, LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 2005212

Years in Business: 19

5200 46th Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781 US

Moving has never sounded easierโ€”Bookstore 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.

Get a Quote (202) 570-4697

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

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Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 2105554

Years in Business: 10

3000 Oak Drive, Kensington, MD 20895 US

When efficiency meets professionalism, Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport stands out with 479 customer reviews, 85% of which are strongly positive. Customers consistently highlight the companyโ€™s 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 didnโ€™t 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.

Get a Quote (301) 928-8669

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
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Factors influencing moving costs from Washington DC to Birminghamtoggle

The cost of Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Birmingham can be as low as $1,379 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 7,910.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Washington DC, 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 $658 to $1,535. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Birmingham

Moving from Washington DC to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Washington DC Birmingham
Average rent cost $2,400 $1,250
Average home value $594,337 $125,988
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $39,403
Cost of living (single person) $3,963 $2,697
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,093 $6,727
Unemployment rate 7.0% 5.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.0%
State income tax 5.75% 5.0%
  • Rent prices in Birmingham are 48% lower than in Washington DC, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Birmingham.
    Home prices in Birmingham are 78.8% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Income in Birmingham is 61.3% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Birmingham include Encompass Health, Regions Bank, and University of Alabama at Birmingham.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Birmingham is 31.9% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Birmingham is 39.4% lower than in Washington DC.
  • The unemployment rate in Birmingham is 20.00% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Birmingham, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Birmingham are 66.67% higher than in Washington DC.
  • One perk of moving to Birmingham is paying less in state income taxes, which are 13.04% lower than in Washington DC.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,041.64 in Birmingham 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. Birmingham

Birmingham Washington DC
Population 196,644 705,749
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 9
Walkability score 33 77
Bike friendliness score 31 70
Crime Index 61.64 60.37
Safety Index 38.36 39.63
Air Quality Good Good
  • Birmingham's population is about 72% less than Washington DC.
  • Birmingham's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
  • Birmingham is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
  • Birmingham has a bike-friendliness score 31 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.
  • Birmingham and Washington DC have a similar crime rate.
  • Birmingham and Washington DC are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Birmingham is good, and in Washington DC it's good.

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

  • Weather: Birmingham has hot summers, mild winters, and abundant rainfall. Birmingham is also located in tornado alley.
  • 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: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Alabama moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Alabama doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™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. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Birmingham. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Birmingham

Ready to relocate to "B'ham"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Birmingham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central City
  • Five Points South
  • Highland Park
  • Fountain Heights
  • Southside

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Oxmoor
  • Crestwood South
  • Redmont Park

Things to do in Birmingham

After getting comfortable in your new Alabama home, itโ€™s time to see what Birmingham is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ€” thereโ€™s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Birmingham include museums and art centers like the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park and Museum, McWane Science Center, and Birmingham Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham's Railroad Park, Kelly Ingram Park, and Red Mountain 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 Birmingham Barons, UAB Blazers, Samford University teams, or Birmingham Legion FC game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Washington DC to Birmingham 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 Birmingham?

Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Birmingham 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 Birmingham take?

The 742-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to Birmingham, AL, 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 Birmingham.

Helpful moving resources