Find the Best Moving Companies in Richmond, VA

How to choose a moving company in Richmond

Moving in Richmond requires extensive planning. As you prepare for the big day, don’t overlook the important task of hiring a trusted moving company.

There are many moving companies in Richmond. When searching for a company, consider these factors:

• Reputation: Were previous customers satisfied with their moves? Were movers on time? Were they courteous and careful with possessions?
• Type of company: Is the company a broker, which coordinates your move with another company, or a carrier, which does the actual moving?
• Regulatory requirements: If you are moving out of state, is your mover registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration? If you are moving within Virginia, is the mover a Household Goods Carrier certified by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles?
• Services: Does the company offer the service you need (e.g., local moves, long-distance moves, cross-country moves, full-service moves, storage)? Is it available on the date you need to move?
• Price: Does the moving company provide a detailed estimate? Is the estimate binding or nonbinding?
• Liability/insurance: What coverage does the moving company offer for your belongings in transit? Do you have released value protection (minimal) or full value protection (most comprehensive)?

As you’re looking for a moving company in Richmond, the Virginia DMV recommends that you avoid any business that doesn’t provide an address on its website, requires payment in cash, asks for a significant down payment or answers the phone without identifying the moving company.

How much do movers cost in Richmond?

The average cost of a full-service local move in Richmond averages approximately $1,500. If you don’t require full service — packing supplies, packing, furniture disassembly, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking, furniture assembly — you can spend $500 or less. A long-distance move to or from Richmond usually costs between $4,000 and $5,000.

The cost of a move depends on a variety of factors:

• The total weight of your items
• The distance of the move
• The level of service (e.g., full-service, truck and transport only)
• The number of movers
• The time of year
• The amount of liability and insurance coverage

Moving companies in Richmond provide free quotes. The estimate must include the name, address and telephone number of the mover. Make sure you know whether the estimate is binding (a guarantee of the maximum amount you will owe) or nonbinding (an approximate cost).

It’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple companies, but don’t automatically choose the movers with the lowest bid; instead, look for a proven, experienced company with fair pricing.

Richmond moving laws and regulations

Virginia has specific rules regarding intrastate moves. For moves 30 miles or fewer, movers can bill in any manner. Moves of 31 miles or more must be priced based on the weight of the shipment and the distance between origin and destination. The mover must be a Household Goods Carrier certified by the Virginia DMV.

If you are moving between Virginia and another state, your mover must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and have a USDOT Number.

Virginia movers must provide you with a booklet, “Making a Better Move in Virginia,” according to the DMV. Interstate movers must give you the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet and a “Ready to Move” brochure.

Richmond moving FAQ

What types of moving services are available in Richmond?

Moving services in Richmond vary in complexity from moving truck rentals to full-service moves. Typically, full-service moves include packing, furniture disassembly, transport, unpacking and furniture assembly. Most companies offer both local and long-distance moves.

Where can I get boxes for packing in Richmond?

Most moving companies in Richmond offer boxes for a fee or include them in their full-service moves. You can also find boxes at places like Home Depot, Lowe’s and Walmart. It’s also worth asking friends, family members and co-workers if they have spare boxes you can use.

How much does it cost to store furniture with a moving company in Richmond?

The cost of furniture storage starts at approximately $100 per month. Cost mainly depends on the amount of furniture you need to store. You may be able to bundle furniture storage with moving costs to save.

How much do you tip movers for a local move in Richmond?

A good guideline is to tip movers 5% to 10% of the total cost of the move. If your move is exceptionally difficult — involving stairs or heavy and delicate furniture — consider a bigger tip.

When should I book a mover in Richmond?

It’s never too early to book a moving company. Try to book approximately two months out, but don’t hesitate to call even if it’s last-minute. Some companies even offer same- or next-day service.