Step 1: Create a Moving Timeline

Determine your moving date.

Give yourself at least 6-8 weeks to plan ahead.

Step 2: Declutter and Organize

Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.

Start packing non-essential items early.

Step 3: Hire a Local Moving & Hauling Company

Research and get quotes from local moving companies in Washington, DC.

Choose a reputable company with good reviews.

Step 4: Gather Packing Supplies

Boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper are essential.

Consider using our specialized boxes for fragile items.

Step 5: Start Packing

Begin with items you rarely use.

Label boxes with their contents and destination room. Consider our packing services so you can sit back or focus on more important tasks.

Step 6: Notify Important Parties

Update your address with the post office, banks, and utility companies.

Inform friends and family of your new address.

Step 7: Pack a Moving Essentials Box

Pack a box with daily essentials, like toiletries, clothes, and important documents.

Keep this box with you during the move.

Step 8: Plan for Children and Pets

Arrange for childcare or pet care on moving day.

Ensure their comfort during the transition.

Step 9: Prepare Appliances

Defrost and clean your refrigerator.

Disconnect and prepare appliances for moving.

Step 10: Double-Check Details

Confirm moving day details with your chosen moving company.

Verify parking and access arrangements at both locations.

Step 11: Pack and Label Valuables

Pack valuable and sentimental items separately.

Step 12: Pack an Overnight Bag

Pack a bag with clothes and toiletries for the first night.

This will help you settle in without unpacking everything immediately.

Moving Day:

Be present and available to guide the movers.

Keep important documents and valuables secure.

The duration of a local move in Washington, D.C., can vary depending on several factors. On average, a local move within the city may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. Here are some factors that can influence the timeline of a local move:

Distance: The actual distance between your old residence and new residence within Washington, D.C., plays a significant role. Moving within the same neighborhood or a short distance across town will generally be quicker than moving from one end of the city to another.

Size of Your Home: The size of your home and the amount of belongings you have will impact how long it takes to pack, load, transport, and unload your items. Larger homes with more items will naturally take longer.

Traffic and Parking: Washington, D.C., is known for its traffic congestion, and finding suitable parking can be challenging. Delays due to traffic and parking issues can extend the moving time, but our movers offer flexible scheduling and know the best routes, so you can rest assured knowing we'll always get you there in as little time as possible.

Weather Conditions: Inclement weather, such as rain or snow, can slow down the moving process and may require extra precautions to protect your belongings.

Number of Movers: The number of movers you hire can affect the speed of the move. More movers can complete the job more quickly, but this will also impact the overall cost.

Special Considerations: If you have unique or fragile items that require extra care, this may add time to the move as the movers take precautions to ensure their safety.

Step 1: Set a Cross-Country Moving Timeline

Determine your moving date, considering factors like work and school schedules.

Aim for a lead time of at least 8-12 weeks to plan and prepare.

Step 2: Declutter and Downsize

Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard.

Reducing the volume of items to move will save you time and money.

Step 3: Research Cross-Country Moving Companies

Seek recommendations, check online reviews, and request quotes from reputable long-distance moving companies.

Verify their licenses and insurance.

Step 4: Create a Moving Budget

Calculate all potential expenses, including moving costs, travel, and temporary housing.

Allocate funds accordingly.

Step 5: Plan Your Route and Stops

Decide on your route and potential stops along the way.

Book accommodations in advance, especially if you have a pet.

Step 6: Gather Packing Supplies

Acquire boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and other necessary supplies.

Consider specialty boxes for fragile or valuable items.

Step 7: Begin Packing Early

Start packing non-essential items well in advance.

Label boxes with contents and destination rooms.

Step 8: Notify Important Parties

Update your address with the post office, banks, and utility companies.

Inform friends and family of your new address and moving date.

Step 9: Pack an Essentials Box

Pack a box with daily necessities, important documents, and medications.

Keep this box easily accessible during the move.

Step 10: Prepare Your Vehicle

If driving to your destination, have your vehicle serviced and checked.

Plan for any needed repairs or maintenance.

Step 11: Plan for Pets and Children

Arrange pet transportation or boarding.

Ensure children have entertainment for the journey.

Step 12: Secure Valuables

Transport valuable and sentimental items with you personally.

Keep important documents secure during the move.

Moving Day:

Be present to supervise the movers or manage the loading of your belongings.

Confirm delivery details and contact information with the moving company.

During the Cross-Country Move

Stay organized and follow your planned route.

Keep important documents, medications, and valuables in your essentials box.

• Plan Well in Advance
• Declutter Before You Pack
• Move During the Off-Peak Season
• Flexible Moving Dates
• Pack Yourself
• Sell Large or Bulky Items
• Opt for a Hybrid Move:

Combine professional moving services with a self-move for cost savings. You can handle packing and unpacking while hiring movers for the heavy lifting.

• Take Advantage of Tax Deductions:

If your move is job-related and meets certain criteria, you may be eligible for tax deductions. Keep records and consult a tax professional.

Sell Large or Bulky Items:

There are several factors that determine the cost of your move, those include the distance of your move, the size and weight of your belongings, the services you require (such as packing, unpacking, or storage), the time of year, and any additional services or special requirements. 

For long-distance moves, distance and the weight of your items are typically the primary cost drivers, while local moves often focus more on the time required and the number of movers needed.