Moving from Maryland to Virginia

A full-service move from Maryland to Virginia typically costs between $2,400 for a studio or one-bedroom and $5,750 for a four-bedroom home or larger. The 147-mile corridor keeps base transport costs relatively contained, but your final price depends on home size, total shipment weight, and the time of year you move. Studio and one-bedroom moves start at $2,400, two-to-three-bedroom homes run around $3,850, and four-plus-bedroom households reach $5,750. Call (855) 822-2722 for an itemized estimate based on your specific inventory.

Transit time on this 147-mile corridor depends on carrier availability, the size of your shipment, and the delivery window you select at booking. Your move coordinator will confirm a scheduled delivery window once your inventory and move date are locked in. For questions about timing and scheduling options, call (855) 822-2722 or request a quote online and a coordinator will walk you through the process.

Virginia requires new residents to obtain a Virginia driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to visit the Virginia DMV (dmv.virginia.gov) to complete the transfer, bringing your current out-of-state license and proof of Virginia residency. Vehicle registration must be completed within 30 days of establishing residency, so it is worth handling both tasks in a single visit when possible.

The most common additional charges on an interstate move include shuttle fees when a full-size truck cannot access your street, long-carry charges that apply when crews must carry items more than 75 feet from the truck to your door, stair fees, and elevator waiting time at high-rise buildings. All of these potential charges are disclosed in your written estimate before you book, so there are no surprises on move day. Reviewing your estimate line by line with your coordinator before signing is the best way to understand exactly what is and is not included.

A binding estimate locks your total cost based on the inventory list you provide - you pay that agreed amount even if the actual shipment weight turns out to be different. A not-to-exceed estimate caps your price at the quoted figure but can come in lower if your shipment weighs less than projected. Star Van Lines offers both binding and not-to-exceed options, and your coordinator will explain which approach makes more sense given your inventory and move date.

Federal law requires interstate movers to offer two levels of valuation coverage. Released Value Protection is included at no extra charge and covers items at $0.60 per pound per item, which is the minimum protection. Full Value Protection is a paid upgrade that holds the mover responsible for the replacement value of lost or damaged goods. Star Van Lines is fully insured under USDOT #4176875, and your coordinator will explain both options before your move date so you can choose the level of protection that fits your needs.

Search USDOT number 4176875 on the FMCSA SAFER website (safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) to pull up our federal operating record. That database confirms our active operating authority, MC number 1607491, current insurance status, and safety record. Any legitimate interstate mover should be able to provide a verifiable USDOT number, and we encourage every customer to check before booking. Our full licensing information is available on the FMCSA SAFER site at any time.

Peak moving demand runs from May through September, when warmer weather and school-year transitions drive the highest volume of relocations on this corridor. If your schedule allows flexibility, the October-through-April window typically offers more availability and easier scheduling. Late spring and early summer are generally preferred over winter months to avoid weather-related complications, so booking 6 to 8 weeks ahead of your target date is advisable regardless of season. Your coordinator will confirm a delivery window at booking based on current availability.

Virginia requires an annual safety inspection for all registered vehicles statewide. Emissions testing is also required in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads - two of the most common destination areas for households moving from Maryland. If your vehicle is coming from a state without these requirements, schedule your inspection promptly after arrival to avoid registration delays. Your move coordinator can help you plan the timing of your move around these requirements so you are not caught off guard after settling in.

Virginia's income tax rate runs from 2% to 5.75%, which tops out below Maryland's 2.0% to 6.5% range, so your state income tax burden may ease at the top end. Virginia's sales tax of 5.8% is slightly lower than Maryland's 6.0%, and median home values in Virginia - at $383,700 compared to Maryland's $411,500 - can translate to lower property tax bills depending on the county. You may need to file partial-year returns in both states for the year you move, so consulting a tax professional about your specific situation is advisable. Property taxes in particular vary significantly by county within Virginia, so local rates matter as much as the statewide figures.

Virginia requires new residents to register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency. You will need your current title, proof of insurance that meets Virginia's requirements, and proof of Virginia residency to complete the registration. Because Virginia also requires an annual safety inspection - and emissions testing in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads - you will want to schedule those inspections before or alongside your registration appointment. Visit the Virginia DMV (dmv.virginia.gov) for the complete and current list of required documents and fees.