Quick answer: The cost to move from Norfolk to Chapel Hill ranges from $278 to $4,527 and the journey will take approximately one to two days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 196-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Chapel Hill to Norfolk guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Norfolk to Chapel Hill

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Norfolk to go to Chapel Hill can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to NC movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 73 Virginia movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The best local movers servicing Norfolk to Chapel Hill moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Norfolk that offers long-distance services to Chapel Hill can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Norfolk who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Norfolk to Chapel Hill.

  1. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Apple Moving : 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Tidal Town Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySons/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers continually praise All My Sons Moving & Storage for their professional, courteous crews who work quickly and handle belongings with noticeable care. Many describe helpful movers who are respectful, efficient, and able to ease the stress of moving, especially compared to other companies. Positive feedback repeatedly cites the staff's friendly attitude and careful handling—even for delicate or specialty items—making them a common recommendation in the area.
Some reviewers highlight the efficient pace and extra steps taken by crews to protect furniture and homes. Despite these strengths, a significant portion of feedback points to higher-than-expected costs, including surprise charges that diverge from initial estimates. Instances of property or item damage, along with dissatisfaction about unexpected fees and payment policies, appear regularly in complaints. Customers frustrated by these issues say they felt blindsided or compelled to pay more than quoted, which sets All My Sons apart from more transparent competitors. In short, most report a smooth, positive move but call out cost transparency and careful handling if considering this company for a future move. Total customer input analyzed: 268, with almost 74% positive and just over a quarter expressing major concerns.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 997-6615

Company Info

State license #: 3786641

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Alternate Names: All My Sons Of Newport News, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/TMTvirginiabeach/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel, https://x.com/tmtvabeach
81% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Exceptional service sets Two Men and a Truck apart, with 259 pieces of customer feedback showing 81% positive ratings. Customers most often praise their professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, fast moving process, and effective communication. Many highlight how the team reduces moving stress by showing respect for belongings and sticking to estimated timelines.
Positive mentions exceed most competitors, especially for friendly staff and problem-solving attitude. Some issues do arise, primarily involving damaged items, unexpected charges, and slow or unhelpful claim responses. Cost disputes and complaint handling concerns surface more often in negative feedback than with leading rivals. While the company excels in delivering a dependable, courteous moving experience for most clients, those concerned with damage claims or strict pricing should scrutinize contract details. The majority of customers would use them again or recommend them to friends.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 335-6514

Company Info

State license #: 3320644

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Virginia Beach


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/colemanallied, https://x.com/colemanallied
37% of all reviews were positive
61% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Coleman Worldwide Moving makes one thing clear: reliability is a challenge. From 59 reviews, only 37% classified as positive. Clients who left favorable responses point out careful handling, professional staff, and helpful movers.
Many described efficient packing and open communication as distinct perks. In contrast, negative feedback covers 61% of responses, where late arrivals, poor or missing communication, and significant damage to personal items dominate the complaints. Delays not only disrupt schedules but also result in missed flights and unnecessary stress. Compared to leading movers, Coleman shows more frequent timing and damage complaints, with less responsiveness on problems. Service can be friendly and efficient in some cases, but a high rate of dissatisfied feedback signals a need for improvement in reliability and care.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 857-0101

Company Info

State license #: 076235

Years in Business: 110

DOT #: 2897746

Alternate Names: Covan World Wide Moving, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/harrisonsbyapplemoving,
56% of all reviews were positive
43% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving feedback about Apple Moving paints a clear picture: most customers appreciate the company’s professional and polite staff, careful handling, prompt and efficient crews, and genuinely helpful movers. Out of the 275 reviews analyzed, 56% gave positive input, which sets Apple Moving ahead of many competitors who often struggle to earn majority positive feedback. Customers regularly highlight the movers’ attention to detail and willingness to accommodate special requests.
Still, nearly 43% of the feedback is negative, focusing primarily on damage to items, missing or misplaced belongings, and difficulty getting timely responses or claims resolved. Many negative reviewers felt attempts to resolve issues were dismissed or inadequately handled, especially regarding lost property or poor follow-up. While the moving teams are often described as hardworking and personable, the company could improve by increasing accountability and communication, particularly when damages or losses occur.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 397-1248

Company Info

State license #: 163678

Years in Business: 69

DOT #: 1934458

Alternate Names: Harrison's Moving & Storage Co., Inc., Harrison's Moving & Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/tidaltownmoving/,
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High praise and rapid recommendations pour in for Tidal Town Moving—feedback shows 255 reviews, and nearly 94% highlight speedy, careful, and professional service. Customers repeatedly acknowledge the crew's efficiency, attention to detail, and polite demeanor. Fast-moving teams, careful handling, and frequent communication stand out as key advantages.
Many note that moves are completed faster and with less stress than anticipated, and clear communication—including scheduling and pricing—is consistently recognized. On the downside, some experience item damage, claims of inaccurate cost estimates compared to other movers, and difficulty resolving damage claims. A small portion mentions frustration with claim resolutions or left-behind items. Compared to peers, Tidal Town Moving receives a far higher proportion of glowing feedback, yet claim handling and cost accuracy are areas for improvement. Most customers would highly recommend the service for attentive movers and a hassle-free move.
Show more
Get a Quote (757) 981-0500

Company Info

Pricing: $140/hr

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 4033059


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Norfolk to Chapel Hill?

Norfolk movers charge $89 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $852 - $3,147 $651 - $1,574 $278 - $448
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,663 - $4,527 $1,285 - $2,349 $278 - $530
4+ bedrooms $2,156 - $5,981 $1,618 - $2,926 $364 - $648
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 196 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Virginia to North Carolina

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Virginia to North Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $852 and $3,147. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,663 to $4,527 for the trip from VA to NC. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $2,156 and $5,981.

Cost of moving containers from Virginia to North Carolina

If you're moving from Virginia to North Carolina, expect to pay between $651 and $1,574 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,285 up to $2,349. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,618 and $2,926. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Virginia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia to North Carolina

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you'll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $278 and $448. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $278 and $530. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $364 up to $648 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Norfolk to Chapel Hilltoggle

The cost of Norfolk movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Norfolk to Chapel Hill might cost as little as $852, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $5,317.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Norfolk, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $278 to $620 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Norfolk to Chapel Hill

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

Check out how Norfolk compares to Chapel Hill so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Norfolk Chapel Hill
Average rent cost $1,500 $1,950
Average home value $283,890 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $63,484 $65,621
Cost of living (single person) $2,769 $2,248
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,552 $4,790
Unemployment rate 7.3% 3.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.5%
State income tax 5.75% 4.5%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Chapel Hill, since prices are typically 30% higher than in Norfolk.
  • The home prices in Chapel Hill are 108.7% higher than in Norfolk, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Chapel Hill, where incomes are, on average, 3.4% higher than in Norfolk. Major employers in Chapel Hill include University of North Carolina, Performance Bicycle, and Investors Title.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Chapel Hill. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 18.8% lower than in Norfolk.
  • A move to Chapel Hill 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 13.7% less than what it costs in Norfolk.
  • The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is 56.16% lower than in Norfolk.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Chapel Hill, since its sales taxes are 25.00% higher than what you are paying in Norfolk.
  • One perk of moving to Chapel Hill is paying less in state income taxes, which are 21.74% lower than in Norfolk.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,435.54 in Chapel Hill to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Norfolk.

How life is different in Norfolk vs. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill Norfolk
Population 63,764 238,005
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 6
Walkability score 34 46
Bike friendliness score 50 47
Crime Index 26.42 58.1
Safety Index 73.58 41.9
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Chapel Hill's population is about 73% less than Norfolk.
  • Chapel Hill's public transportation has a similar score to Norfolk.
  • Chapel Hill is less walkable than Norfolk with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Norfolk's 46 out of 100.
  • Both Chapel Hill and Norfolk have the same bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, meaning Chapel Hill is about as safe for cyclists as Norfolk. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
  • Chapel Hill's crime rate is lower than Norfolk with a score of 26.42 compared to Norfolk's 58.1. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Norfolk neighborhoods are safer than 58.1%.
  • Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Norfolk with a safety index of 73.58 vs Norfolk's 41.9.
  • Air quality in Chapel Hill is moderate, and in Norfolk it's good.

Other things to consider for your Norfolk vs. Chapel Hill move

  • Weather: May, September and October are the most pleasant months for moving as these are the driest month in Chapel Hill in a yearl, while January and July are the months you need to watch out as there might be some weather-related delays.
  • 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 regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in North Carolina, 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 to Chapel Hill Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

Now that you've decided to make the move to Southern Part of Heaven, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chapel Hill.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Meadowmont
  • The Oaks
  • The Preserve at Jordan Lake
  • Governor's Club
  • Westfall

Things to do in Chapel Hill

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

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chapel Hill, such as the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Kidzu Children's Museum, and FRANK Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle Park — 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 UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Norfolk to Chapel Hill?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Norfolk to Chapel Hill You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Norfolk.

When is the cheapest time to move from Norfolk to Chapel Hill?

Because spring and fall moves from Norfolk to Chapel Hill 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 Norfolk to Chapel Hill take?

The 196-mile journey from Norfolk, VA to Chapel Hill, NC, typically takes one to two days. Some movers in Norfolk offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chapel Hill.

Helpful moving resources