Long-Distance Moving From DC: Costs & Timeline

How a long-distance move works with us

There are two parts, and you get one written quote covering both.

• Origin. We plan your building's move window, elevator, insurance certificate, and any DC curb permit, then pack, pad, and load your home.
• The haul. A licensed interstate partner carrier transports the shipment across state lines.
• We give you the carrier's USDOT number before you book, so you can look them up.
• We keep you updated by text while we coordinate with the carrier.

How to check the carrier

Any company that moves household goods between states has to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Checking takes five minutes.

• Search the USDOT number on FMCSA's company lookup and confirm the name matches.
• Confirm the company is registered to move household goods, and is listed as a carrier.
• Ask who will physically have your things at each stage.
• For an interstate move you should receive FMCSA's booklet, Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move, before the move. Read the section on estimates and on loss and damage.

What sets the price

Distance is only one part.

• The volume or weight of the shipment
• The distance, and the route
• Packing, if we are doing it
• Access at both ends, including stairs, elevators, and how close a large truck can get
• The dates. Summer and month-end cost more and book earlier.
• For longer hauls, overnight holds and crew per diem are planned into the quote up front.

What can change the quote

The written price holds for the inventory, addresses, access, and dates quoted. Added items, an extra stop, a changed destination, or access that differs from what we were shown is priced in writing before the plan changes. That is why an accurate inventory matters more on a long move than on a local one.

Build the inventory

Send photos or a video of every room, closet, and storage space, and list anything large or fragile. Before loading, we make an inventory and a condition log. Keep your copy, and take your own photos of valuable pieces. Ask about valuation coverage before you book. Basic coverage is based on weight, at up to 60 cents a pound, which is far less than most things are worth.

Delivery windows

Long-distance deliveries are usually given as a window of days. Ask for the window in writing, and plan to be without your things for that long.

• Pack a suitcase as if for a trip of that length.
• Carry documents, medication, jewelry, laptops, and chargers with you.
• Arrange somewhere to sleep at the destination for the first nights.
• Confirm who will be at the new home to receive the shipment, and how the driver will reach them.

An eight-week timeline

Start earlier in summer.

• 8 weeks out. Decide what is coming. Sell, donate, or haul away the rest.
• 6 weeks out. Send your inventory and get a written quote. Check the carrier's USDOT number.
• 5 weeks out. Book. Reserve the elevator at your DC building and ask about the destination's rules.
• 4 weeks out. Start packing, or schedule our packing day.
• 2 weeks out. Transfer utilities, file your change of address, and apply for a DDOT permit if the truck will be on the street.
• 1 week out. Confirm dates, the delivery window, and contact numbers at both ends.
• Loading day. Walk through the inventory and keep your copy.