Top-rated movers to make your Washington DC to Oakland move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Washington DC that offers long-distance services to Oakland can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 82 top local movers in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Oakland.
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- BoxStar Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 70719
Years in Business: 32
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
Company Info
State license #: 2005212
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 2005212
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2957382
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2957382
Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 45
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $145/hr
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 3455884
Alternate Names: BoxStar Moving Services , BoxStar Moving Services, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Washington DC to Oakland?
In Maryland, moving services typically cost around $125 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 | $1,241 – $5,673 | $1,416 – $3,493 | $1,489 – $2,858 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,823 – $7,519 | $2,486 – $5,352 | $1,580 – $3,687 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,409 – $11,770 | $3,602 – $7,159 | $2,207 – $4,481 |
Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to Oakland
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Oakland from Washington DC, you can expect prices to land between $1,241 and $5,673. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,823 to $7,519 for the trip from Washington DC to Oakland. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $7,409 and $11,770.
Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Oakland
Moving containers from Washington DC to Oakland will cost you $1,416 to $3,493 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,486 to $5,352. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,602 to $7,159. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Maryland.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Oakland
Renting a moving truck from Washington DC to Oakland typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,489 and $2,858 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,580 to $3,687. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,207 to $4,481.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Washington DC to Oakland move
The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,610 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,329 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Washington DC.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,489 to $4,126, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Oakland
Many movers find Oakland easier on the wallet than Washington DC – roughly 21% less for singles and 23% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,146 for one person in Oakland versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it’s $8,584 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,969 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $4,450 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $736,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $94,389 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $3,146 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $8,584 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 4.5% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 13.3% |
- When relocating from Washington DC to Oakland, expect to find rent about 8% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Oakland are about 24% higher than those in Washington DC.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 7% lower in Oakland compared to Washington DC.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Oakland, as the cost of living for a single person is 21% lower compared to Washington DC.
- A move to Oakland 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 23% less than what it costs in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Oakland is about 36% lower than in Washington DC. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Oakland are 71% more than in Washington DC, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in California are 131% above those in Maryland. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Washington DC and Oakland:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $277.25 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $53.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $6.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $5.09 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $30.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $140.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $54.28 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Oakland, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Oakland.
- Eggs are less expensive in Washington DC than in Oakland.
- Bread costs less in Washington DC than in Oakland.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Washington DC than in Oakland.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Washington DC than in Oakland.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Oakland.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Oakland
| Washington DC | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 440,646 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 65 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 68.62 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 31.38 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Oakland’s population is about 34% less than Washington DC.
- Oakland’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC’s score of 9.
- Oakland and Washington DC are similarly walkable.
- Oakland has a bike-friendliness score of 65 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
- Oakland’s crime rate is higher than Washington DC with a score of 68.62 compared to Washington DC’s 60.37. This means that Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Oakland is considered to be less safe than Washington DC with a score of 31.38 vs Washington DC’s 39.63.
- Air quality in Oakland is Good, and in Washington DC it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Oakland 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: California 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 Oakland. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Oakland
Planning your move to The Town? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Oakland.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Grand Lake
- Piedmont Avenue
- Rockridge
- Temescal
Best neighborhoods for families
- Fairview Park
- Rockridge
- Bushrod
- Upper Rockridge
- Lakeshore
Things to do in Oakland
After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Oakland has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Oakland features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, and Oakland Aviation Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center — 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 Oakland Athletics (MLB)Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Oakland?
Planning your move from Washington DC to Oakland? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Oakland?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Oakland 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 Oakland take?
The 2,805-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Oakland, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Washington DC offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Oakland.
Are there special savings available from movers in Washington DC?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 7 have discounts for military personnel. 13 extend reduced rates to seniors.
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 Washington DC?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Washington DC, 58 movers can manage piano relocations. 43 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maryland has 37 piano movers and 30 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
Washington DC moving services
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