Best moving companies in Alexandria, VA 2025

We compared 27 companies and chose the top movers

    • Great Job Moving and Storage
      4.3(44)
    • International Van Lines
      4.5(1,014)
    • Colonial Van Lines
      4.3(2,658)
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Jon Bortin

    Best moving companies in Alexandria, VA 2025

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Great Job Moving and Storage logo
    International Van Lines logo
    Colonial Van Lines logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Find a team that works for you & enjoy a stress-free move.

      1. DIY moving kits: Great Job Moving and Storage
      2. International moves: International Van Lines
      3. Best overall: Colonial Van Lines
      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,594,581 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
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      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      To help find the best options for you, we compared 80 moving companies and determined which were available in Alexandria. Then we analyzed ratings and reviews on ConsumerAffairs from Alexandria customers.

      To make our picks, we also considered pricing, the quote and deposit processes, and the availability of packing services and storage options. Read our full methodology below for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.

      Our 3 picks for moving companies in Alexandria

      Great Job Moving and Storage
      Highlight
      Packing-only services available
      Types of moves
      Local (within 31-mile radius of Alexandria, Virginia), long-distance, commercial, senior and piano moving
      Discounts available
      None specified

      Great Job Moving and Storage provides moves to and from Alexandria. It offers instant quotes, so you can see at a glance how much you can expect to spend on your move.

      Highlights

      • Broker vs. carrier: Carrier
      • Type(s) of quotes: Instant
      • Storage options: Free 30-day storage; 24/7 monitoring
      • Packing services: Full-service, fragile and DIY packing

      Pros

      • Specializes in local moves
      • Accurate quotes, according to reviewers

      Cons

      • Small local move radius
      • Deposit requirements: Undisclosed
      • Discounts: None specified
      • “I can't speak highly enough about Great Job Moving and Storage. From the get-go, their customer support team was not only helpful but genuinely invested in making my move smooth. When moving day came around, their crew was right on time, and I was blown away by how efficiently they handled everything. It was clear they knew what they were doing, and they treated my belongings with real care - especially the fragile stuff. Throughout the process, they kept me updated, which really put my mind at ease. When it came to delivery, they didn't just drop things off; they made sure everything was where I wanted it. And their storage facilities? A lifesaver during the chaos of moving. I wholeheartedly recommend Great Job Moving and Storage for anyone looking for a moving experience that's not just stress-free but genuinely great.” — Riley from Arlington
      • “I had a great experience with Great Job Moving. I moved in with my boyfriend, and I had them move a one-bedroom apartment going into a slightly larger space. I requested two movers and they were on time and friendly. They were also very efficient, quick and easy to work with. They did an excellent job. The quote was 100% accurate as well. I only got one other quote from somewhere else and Great Job Moving's quote was a little less.” — Stephanie from Alexandria
      International moves
      International Van Lines
      Highlight
      Quick (under 15 minutes) quotes
      Types of moves
      Commercial, residential, auto transport
      Discounts available
      None specified

      International Van Lines offers auto transport, commercial and residential moves, and full-service packing and unpacking. It’s a broker and carrier and provides moving services to and from Alexandria. 

      Highlights

      • Broker vs. carrier: Broker and carrier
      • Type(s) of quotes: Binding and nonbinding
      • Storage options: Short- and long-term (first month free); storage-in-transit
      • Packing services: Full-service packing and unpacking

      Pros

      • Professional and punctual crews, according to reviewers
      • Dedicated moving coordinators
      • Operates in more than 180 countries

      Cons

      • A few reviewers mention surprise upcharges
      • Deposit requirements: One-third of the full price
      • Discounts: None specified
      • “The guys that moved me from Virginia to Connecticut were above and beyond. They were super helpful and very diligent. I didn't need much packed, but even if something wasn't packed well, they would repack it and were nice about everything. However, the place that I rented turned out to be very dilapidated, so I had to move my stuff into storage. I had a second round of movers and a job that should have taken them four hours took them all day. They lounged about.” — Jill from Alexandria
      • “International Van Lines was really professional and very prompt. I didn't expect my things as quickly as I did. It was a 10-day turnaround. I got my things before Christmas and I couldn't ask for anything better. I had to relocate for work from Northern Virginia to Chicago, Illinois. … During the moving day, their people showed up on time. They called before they came to give me a heads-up, which was really nice. I signed some paperwork. One gentleman started disassembling things and wrapping things up, while the other gentleman took the boxes that I had already prepared out to the truck. They were fantastic. My drivers were so nice. … I really did have a great experience with the company.” — Danica from Alexandria
      Best overall
      Colonial Van Lines
      Highlight
      Climate-controlled storage options
      Types of moves
      Commercial, residential, military
      Discounts available
      Seasonal

      Colonial Van Lines offers commercial, residential and military moves to and from Alexandria. It provides binding quotes, so your price is locked in as long as your initial inventory is accurate.

      Highlights

      • Broker vs. carrier: Carrier
      • Type(s) of quotes: Binding
      • Storage options: Climate-controlled facilities and modular cubes
      • Packing services: Single items, kitchen, full packing

      Pros

      • Portable moving containers
      • Quick, efficient crews, according to reviewers
      • More than 50 years in the moving industry

      Cons

      • No local or international moves
      • Some reports of communication issues
      • Deposit requirements: Anywhere from one-third of the full price to 40%
      • Discounts: Seasonal
      • Colonial Van Lines had the best offer. Also, they had a prompt response whenever I had a question. And the crew worked steadily. They packed for two days, loaded on the third day, and arrived three days later. It was prompt. There were a couple of things that were a bit broken but nothing major. I was amazed at how much paper the crew used to stuff the boxes with. It caused a problem at the destination. I had so much paper to get rid of, it was unbelievable. Other than that, it was a very good customer service experience.” — Jim in Springfield
      • “We were moving to a walk-up and the company we were working with stopped working in the middle of the move. So we had to find somebody quickly. Colonial's reps provided everything we needed then for the payment, I used my flatmate's card and he was pleased. At the time, we were very prepared and the heavy stuff had all been moved. But there were several boxes, a bicycle, a tall coat rack, and other items that they helped us with. I'm happy with the service that Colonial gave us and I would recommend them.” — Theodore in Falls Church

      How to choose a moving company in Alexandria

      Moving can be daunting, but hiring the right movers can alleviate some of the stress. Here are some tips for finding the right mover for you:

      1. Determine what kind of mover best suits your needs. Is your move local or long-distance, and do you need full-service packing services or basic transport?
      2. Research movers in your area. Check licensing, insurance and customer reviews. Get multiple quotes in writing to avoid misunderstandings and for easy comparison.
      3. Understand how your mover’s pricing and insurance work. Ask about costs for any extra services you’re interested in (e.g., packing, unpacking, storage). Don’t forget to factor in potential costs for bulky items or difficult-to-access areas. Also clarify the details regarding insurance coverage and the claims process in case of damage.

      Cost to move in Alexandria

      Hiring movers is worth it for many Americans, but it’s important to understand the costs before you agree to sign on with a broker or carrier. Moving expenses can vary significantly — often from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on distance, number of belongings and any additional services you opt for.

      Larger moves require more work from moving crews and higher truck capacity, which generally lead to higher overall costs. Moving during peak seasons (like summer) or over the weekend, when competition is high, may also mean spending more on a mover.

      To get the most accurate idea of your moving costs, contact several moving companies for quotes. Most companies will ask for a detailed list of your possessions in order to offer an accurate estimate.

      Average cost for moving services from and within Alexandria

      The figures below are based on current (as of publishing) industry estimates for a three-bedroom home with no additional services.

      Tipping movers

      Tipping your movers isn't required, but it's standard practice — and it’s a way to show your appreciation for their hard work, particularly if they provide excellent service.

      A standard tip for a local move may fall between $20 and $50 per mover. You can adjust this amount based on the difficulty and length of the move. For long-distance moves, a larger tip or a percentage of the total cost is often appropriate. Small gestures like offering cold drinks and snacks are also appreciated.

      DIY moves

      Handling the move yourself can save money, but it also demands considerable effort and planning. You'll likely need to rent a truck, gather packing supplies and enlist the help of friends and family.

      If you choose this route, remember to factor in expenses like truck rental fees and fuel costs. You may also need to rent or buy equipment (e.g., dollies and moving blankets). Consider the time commitment involved, including packing, loading, driving, unloading and unpacking. Will you need time off from work?

      Before deciding if a do-it-yourself move is right for you, carefully evaluate your available time, physical abilities and whether you'll have reliable help.

      Tips for a successful Alexandria move

      Moving to Alexandria can be made easier and less expensive by planning ahead, reducing your belongings and using efficient packing strategies.

      1. Develop a moving budget

      Make a moving budget by estimating the costs of hiring movers or renting a truck, taking into account the distance, how many things you have and any extra services you want or need. Include expenses for packing supplies, potential travel costs (such as gas, tolls and lodging) and temporary storage if needed.

      Remember to account for insurance, cleaning fees and tipping your movers. Research typical moving costs for similar moves to create a realistic budget.

      2. Reduce clutter and sell or donate

      Although it takes time to sort through your possessions, downsizing can simplify your entire move. Consider holding a garage sale to earn money from unwanted items. You might also donate gently used belongings to charity. Many charities offer convenient donation pickup services, allowing you to declutter while supporting a good cause. (Don't forget to get a donation receipt for potential tax deductions.)

      3. Pack efficiently

      Gather sturdy boxes, packing tape, cushioning wrap and markers. Pack one room at a time, and label boxes clearly with their contents and the intended room in your new home. Use appropriate packing materials to protect fragile items, and consider using wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes. Maximize space by filling gaps with towels or clothing, and pack an "essentials" box or bag with items you'll need immediately at your new home.

      Moving within or to Virginia?

      We’ve got some resources for you.

      » MORE: Moving checklist

      Moving regulations in Richmond

      All legitimate moving companies in the U.S. should be licensed and insured. If a mover has to cross state lines, it’s also required to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. You can check a mover’s USDOT number on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website.

      Verify current state regulations with Virginia’s transportation authority. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles has resources online to help protect consumers from illegitimate movers.

      FAQ

      How much does it cost to hire movers?

      When budgeting for your move, remember that local movers generally charge an hourly rate (around $80 to $100 for a two-person crew), while interstate movers calculate costs based on the weight and volume of your belongings. Expect to pay a few thousand dollars or more for long-distance moves. Ultimately, your total moving cost will depend on factors like distance, the amount of stuff you're moving and the time of year.

      Is hiring a mover worth it?

      While a DIY move can be budget-friendly, hiring professional movers is often a worthwhile investment. The stress and hassle of DIY moving can be overwhelming, and it’s not always cheap — consider the costs of truck rental, equipment and time off from work. If your budget allows, professional movers can save you time, money and a whole lot of worry.

      How early should I start planning a move?

      To ensure a smooth move, it's generally recommended to begin planning at least two months ahead of your target date. This time frame allows you to gather quotes from multiple movers and efficiently pack your belongings. It also provides a buffer for unexpected issues that may arise.

      Methodology

      ConsumerAffairs carefully collects in-depth, verified reviews to tell each customer’s experience with a company. We believe customer experiences are a crucial indicator when evaluating companies, so these reviews are a significant factor when we make our top picks.

      To choose the top moving companies in Alexandria, we started with the 80 popular providers listed in our main moving guide. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Alexandria. We then weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      • Storage options: We looked at the availability of storage units and any free storage periods.
      • Packing services: We considered the types of packing services offered, including whether a company offers packing services and whether it offers both full and partial packing.
      • Deposit requirements: We prioritized companies that ask for a down payment of 20% or less over those with higher deposit requirements.
      • Discounts: We outlined how many discounts each company offers and what types (e.g., senior, military, student).
      • App: We gave a company preference if it has an app with a useful service, like requesting a quote or tracking a move.
      Guide Sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

      • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, “Moving Resources.” Accessed Dec. 3, 2024.

      Not sure how to choose?

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