Best overall value
Local moving companies in Philadelphia
- Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- BR Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 125550
Years in Business: 51
8295 National Hwy Ste B, Pennsauken, NJ 08110 USAnchor Moving & Storage Inc. earns high praise from customers, with 88% of feedback sharing positive experiences out of 237 total reviews. Clients highlight quick and efficient service, careful handling of belongings, courteous staff, strong communication, and movers who go out of their way to help. Reviewers note that estimates tend to match final charges, and moves are handled responsibly, with many team members recognized by name for their professionalism. Some negative feedback centers around damaged items, delays in claim responses, and a small number of complaints about surprise charges or poor communication after issues arise. Compared to industry averages, Anchor stands out for efficiency and thoroughness but receives similar complaints as other movers regarding claim resolution and damage. Most customers recommend the company, but those looking for seamless problem resolution may want to confirm coverage and response policies before booking.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 125550
- State license #: 125550
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Anchor Moving & Storage
Transtar Moving Systems
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 939629
Years in Business: 63
925 N Lenola Rd, Moorestown, NJ 08057 USMoving excellence stands out in Transtar Moving Systems feedback, with 257 reviews analyzed and over 91% praising the service. Customers consistently compliment the staff's professionalism, exceptional care with belongings, efficiency, helpful attitudes, and rapid process. Many highlight smooth moves, polite crews, and stress relief compared to other movers. Negative input, while rare, focuses on property damage, lost items, and unexpected charges, areas where some felt let down. Most concerns relate to issues during storage, delivery, or billing confusion. Compared to competitors, Transtar receives stronger recommendations and more frequent mentions of careful handling and helpful staff, positioning them as a top choice for reliable moves with minimal hassle and friendly service.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 939629
- State license #: 39PC00058806
Alternative Business Names
- A Action Family Moving Company, Inc.
Bellhop Moving
rating
4.66 / 5
DOT #: 2878240
Years in Business: 14
230 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102 USBellhop Moving stands out for making moves run smoothly, with 58% of customer feedback rating their work highly. Many customers highlight the team's efficiency, upbeat attitude, and professional manner, creating a stress-free experience even in challenging situations. Quick, careful service and clear communication set Bellhop apart from typical moving companies. Affordable pricing and approachable staff are often referenced as reasons many would book again. On the downside, a significant portion of input reports last-minute delays, missed appointments, and property damage. These reliability and damage concerns occur more frequently with Bellhop than with traditional, established movers. Some customers also describe struggles with reaching support or navigating the claims process after incidents. While many moves go off without a hitch and cost less than competitors, those considering Bellhop should know there is a real risk of unpredictable scheduling and occasionally careless handling. Reliable and energetic crews deliver standout service when all goes right, but people with rigid timelines or valuable possessions should weigh these risks carefully when booking.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2878240
- State license #: 2878240
Alternative Business Names
- Bellhop Moving Services
Gentle Giant Moving Company
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 373544
Years in Business: 44
1450 S Warfield Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146 USGentle Giant Moving Company stands out for its efficient, careful, and professional teams. Nearly every piece of customer input praises their speedy service, thoughtful handling, and helpful, friendly staff. Most customers report easy, stress-free moves and appreciate the crew's communication and respect for property. Many note that movers quickly finish the job, often coming in under the original estimate. Pricing is described as fair and transparent, and multiple customers return for repeat moves. Only a small fraction of feedback reports damage to items, with frustration focused on slow complaint or claims handling and a lack of responsiveness after issues arise. Claims of mishandled repairs and unresolved complaints cluster within negative reviews, which remain rare compared to competitors. On balance, Gentle Giant Moving Company receives a remarkably high rate of positive feedback among moving companies, with a reputation for reliable, courteous, and efficient service.
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 & Storage
BR Moving
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 2508433
Years in Business: 14
1603 N Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125 USCustomers rave about BR Movingโs seamless, efficient service and the professionalism of their team. With 187 reviews analyzed, 87.7% gave highly positive input, praising fast moves, careful handling of belongings, and affordable rates. Polite movers and effective communication are consistently highlighted, helping people feel at ease during whatโs often a stressful time. Negative feedback, representing about 11% of responses, centers on damaged or lost items and dissatisfaction with complaint resolution and follow-up. A few patrons also noted difficulty reaching the company after incidents or expressed concerns about incomplete compensation for damages. Compared to many industry peers, BR Moving receives stronger customer feedback for speed, handling care, and reasonable rates, but like other moving companies, occasional concerns about item safety and communication emerge. For those prioritizing efficiency and professionalism at a fair price, BR Moving stands out from typical movers, but those with high-value or irreplaceable items may want to clarify insurance coverage and communication protocols before booking.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Full-valuation coverage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- DOT #: 2508433
- State license #: 8916888
Key factors that influence moving costs from Philadelphia to Washington DC
What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Washington DC
Moving from Philadelphia to Washington DC comes with exciting new opportunities โ but also higher living costs. Since Washington DC is generally more expensive than Philadelphia, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Philadelphia | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,695 | $2,400 |
| Average home value | $216,914 | $594,337 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $101,722 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,541 | $3,963 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,190 | $11,093 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 5.75% |
- Rent prices in Washington DC are 42% higher than in Philadelphia, which means you'll have less money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Philadelphia.
Home prices in Washington DC are 174.0% higher than in Philadelphia. - Income in Washington DC is 43.8% higher than in Philadelphia, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Washington DC include Department of Homeland Security, US Navy, and United States Postal Service.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Washington DC, since the cost of living for a single person in Washington DC is 56.0% higher than in Philadelphia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- 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 79.2% higher than in Philadelphia.
- The unemployment rate in Washington DC is 33.96% lower than in Philadelphia.
- You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Washington DC, since the city's sales taxes in Washington DC are 25.00% lower than in Philadelphia.
- State income taxes in Washington DC are 87.30% higher than in Philadelphia.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,678.87 in Washington DC to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Washington DC
| Washington DC | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 705,749 | 1,603,797 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 67 |
| Crime Index | 60.37 | 66.09 |
| Safety Index | 39.63 | 33.91 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Washington DC might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 56% less than Philadelphia.
- Your access to buses, shuttles, trams, or trains in Washington DC will be about the same as it currently is in Philadelphia. The cities share a similar public transportation score, which means their transit systems are comparable in terms of how connected they are, how often they provide service, and how close they are to jobs, housing, retail and food stores, and other important locations.
- You'll find Washington DC to be about as walkable as Philadelphia. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 77 and 75 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
- Washington DC and Philadelphia are similarly bike-friendly based on their comparable ratings of 70 and 67 respectively. Bike-friendliness scores between 50 and 100 indicate varying levels of infrastructure to support cyclists, including bike lanes and roadway connectivity. Cities with scores under 50 are considered more car-dependent.
- Washington DC has a lower crime rate than Philadelphia based on scores of 60.37 and Philadelphia's 66.09, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
- You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Washington DC than in Philadelphia, based on Washington DC's safety index of 39.63 versus 33.91 for Philadelphia. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
- The air quality in Washington DC and Philadelphia is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.
Other things to consider for your Philadelphia 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโsome areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company youโll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if youโre dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: You can verify a Maryland moving company's license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
- Moving permits: You won't need a moving permit in Maryland, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toWashington 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Washington DC
Now that you've chosen "DC" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Washington DC to check out.
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
Now that you've made the move to Maryland, it's the perfect time to explore Washington DC. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Washington DC, such as 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 โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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 Philadelphia to Washington DC?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Philadelphia to Washington DC. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Philadelphia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Washington DC?
Because spring and fall moves from Philadelphia to Washington DC are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Philadelphia to Washington DC take?
Covering 139 miles, the move from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC, MD typically takes one to two days. Some Philadelphia movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services inWashington DC can help bridge the gap.
