The Best Moving Companies in Richmond

The median home value in Richmond, Virginia, was $237,500 in 2021.¹ While this median is far from the highest in the country, it still makes Richmond unaffordable for most first-time homebuyers who don’t yet have equity to put toward a new mortgage.

Additionally, the average home price in Virginia jumped by roughly 11% between 2020 and 2021,² so homes in the state are only becoming more unaffordable.

Distance and home size are the two biggest determining factors for moving prices. Depending on home size, local moves (moves of 100 miles or less) cost $550–$2,000. Long-distance moves (moves of 100 miles or more) cost more like $2,000–$12,000—and sometimes more.

Of course, these are both very wide and general ranges, and they don’t perfectly capture moves of every size and distance. You’re likely wondering, “How much should I budget for my move?”

Unfortunately, the only way to answer that question is to get an estimate from a moving company. Moving prices are highly variable, and they’re dependent on many different factors. Because of this, anything short of a professional estimate is just a guess, so you should ask your movers to send an estimator as soon as possible so you can start budgeting.

In fact, you should get estimates from several different companies if you have the time. Every moving company charges differently for its services, so the only way to know which movers near you are the cheapest is to get estimates from as many of them as possible.

Learn more by reading our guide to moving costs.

There are probably several things in your home that your movers won’t transport for you. For liability reasons, movers won’t pack, load, or deliver these common household items:

• Nail polish
• Fertilizers and pesticides
• Paint
• Cleaning supplies and solvents
• Batteries
• Charcoal
• Fireworks

Basically, if it’s corrosive, toxic, highly flammable, or just a potential mess, your movers probably won’t move it for you. On top of this list, some movers also won’t handle things like pianos, food, jewelry, or motorized equipment.

If there are any items in your house that you’re unsure about, simply ask your movers if they’ll transport them. To learn more about items that movers prohibit, read our guide to things moving companies won’t move.

It can be hard to tell the difference between a reliable local mover and one that will let you down, or worse: scam you. This is especially true if your goal is to find the cheapest movers near you. Shady companies often lure customers with unrealistically low prices, then raise their rates at the last minute or even hold a customer’s belongings hostage for more money.

Avoid this situation by researching and analyzing each company you might hire. The best way to get a bead on a local mover is to read its customer reviews on Google and Yelp, not the ones it features on its own website. If a significant percentage of customers report that the company mistreated them or charged them unfairly, steer clear. If a majority of the reviews are positive, the company is probably dependable and trustworthy.

To get more tips on finding good local movers, read our guide to moving scams and our list of questions to ask before hiring a mover. If you follow the guidance in those two resources, you should be just fine. If, however, you take a gamble on a suspicious company and need help, use our walkthrough for what to do if movers hold your things hostage. To warn future customers, you can also file a formal complaint against that company.