The number that matters is yours, but real prices help. In 2026, Cavalier Moving customers paid an average of $830 for a studio apartment, $1,004 for a one-bedroom and $1,283 for a two-bedroom. Houses averaged from about $1,100 for a small home to more than $6,000 for the largest. This guide shows what drives those prices, what extra fees to watch for and how to get an accurate estimate for your move.
Updated November 2026.
What Richmond Moves Cost in 2026
These figures come from 3,967 Cavalier Moving jobs completed from January to August 2026. They are total job prices, not quotes, and unusually high and low jobs are removed. The typical range shows what most customers actually paid.
| Move size | Average cost | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Room or less | $684 | $280 – $1,457 |
| Studio apartment | $830 | $517 – $1,465 |
| 1 bedroom apartment | $1,004 | $535 – $1,849 |
| 2 bedroom apartment | $1,283 | $780 – $2,125 |
| 3 bedroom apartment | $1,577 | $1,110 – $2,398 |
| Home size | Average cost | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| 800–1,000 sq ft | $1,126 | $829 – $1,655 |
| 1,200–1,400 sq ft | $1,759 | $941 – $2,990 |
| 1,600–1,800 sq ft | $2,309 | $1,600 – $3,748 |
| 2,000–2,200 sq ft | $2,972 | $1,725 – $5,231 |
| 2,500–2,800 sq ft | $3,896 | $2,114 – $6,728 |
| 3,000–3,500 sq ft | $6,011 | $3,285 – $10,095 |
| 3,500+ sq ft | $6,351 | $2,918 – $10,999 |
| Move type | Average cost | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| 5×10 storage unit | $898 | $550 – $1,949 |
| 10×10 storage unit | $1,129 | $865 – $1,589 |
| 10×15 storage unit | $1,391 | $1,000 – $2,045 |
| 10×20 storage unit | $2,040 | $1,457 – $3,350 |
| 10×30 storage unit | $2,660 | $2,110 – $3,740 |
| Office move | $1,004 | $451 – $2,012 |
See every size on our pricing page. These are real prices for local moves around Richmond. Your total depends on how much you own and how easy the access is, so treat them as a guide and ask for an estimate.
How Movers Charge
- Local moves (by the hour): most Richmond-area moves are billed hourly for a crew and a truck, often with an hourly minimum requirement. Multiply the hourly rate by the hours your move takes, then add any extras. Our guide to what movers cost per hour in Richmond goes deeper.
- Longer moves within Virginia (by load and distance): moves farther from home are usually priced by the size of the load and the miles driven.
- Labor only: if you already have a truck or container, you can pay just for the crew. See labor-only movers in Richmond.
What Changes the Price
- Size of the move: more rooms and more belongings mean more hours and often more movers.
- Access: stairs, elevators, long walks from the truck and tight hallways slow a crew down.
- Distance: the drive between your homes adds time, and longer trips are priced by mileage.
- Time of year: summer weekends and the end of the month are busiest. See the best time of year to move in Richmond.
- Packing: boxes that are packed and labeled before the crew arrives save paid time.
- Heavy and specialty items: items such as pianos, safes and gym equipment may need extra crew or equipment, so mention them when you ask for a quote.
Extra Services and Fees
- Packing: labor plus boxes, paper and tape if you want us to pack a few rooms or the whole home.
- Furniture assembly: taking apart and reassembling beds, tables and shelving. See furniture assembly.
- Loading and unloading help: crews for a rental truck or container. See loading and unloading help.
- Stairs, long carries and elevators: some companies charge extra for these, so ask how they are handled.
- Insurance or valuation: ask what is covered if something is damaged. See moving insurance in Virginia.
- Junk removal: clearing out what you will not take can reduce the size of the move. See junk removal.
Hidden Fees to Watch For
A low hourly rate means little if extra charges pile up. Before you book, ask whether any of these apply:
- A truck charge or fuel charge on top of the hourly rate
- A travel or trip fee for the crew to reach you
- Charges for stairs, long carries or elevators
- Fees for heavy or oversized items
- A minimum number of hours, and what happens if the job runs over
- Charges for boxes, tape or wrapping materials
- Cancellation or rescheduling fees
Get all of it in writing. Our guide to moving scams and red flags in Virginia explains how to spot a quote that is too good to be true.
Hiring Movers vs Moving Yourself
Moving yourself can look cheaper, but the comparison has to include the truck rental, fuel, boxes, equipment, your own time and the risk of injury or damage. Professional movers save time, reduce stress and avoid injuries, and a crew that handles heavy furniture every week is faster and safer than friends and family. If you want a middle option, our DIY vs hiring local movers guide compares the choices.
How to Get an Accurate Estimate
- Ask for an in-home or video estimate: A mover who sees what you own gives a better number than one who guesses.
- Give the full picture: Tell them about stairs, parking, heavy items and your timeline.
- Compare the whole quote: Look at the rate, crew size, minimum hours and extra fees, not just the headline price.
- Check the company: Look for reviews, a real address and a USDOT number.
- Get it in writing: The estimate should state what is included.
For a list of what to ask, read top questions to ask when hiring a moving company and how to compare quotes and services.
Ways to Lower the Cost of Your Move
- Declutter first: Every item you leave behind is time you do not pay for. See what to do with stuff you can’t take when moving.
- Pack before the crew arrives: Our guide to the dos and don’ts of packing helps.
- Know what not to pack: Read what not to pack when moving.
- Prepare the path: Clear walkways, reserve parking or an elevator, and take apart what you can.
- Book early and consider off-peak days: Midweek and mid-month dates are often easier to book.
- Read more savings ideas in tips on saving costs while moving.
Ready for a straight answer on your move? Call Cavalier Moving at (804) 404-8048 or request a free estimate. We are open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do movers cost in Richmond, VA?
In 2026, Cavalier Moving customers paid an average of $830 for a studio, $1,004 for a one-bedroom and $1,283 for a two-bedroom apartment. Houses ranged from about $1,100 to more than $6,000, depending on size.
How much does a 2-bedroom apartment move cost in Richmond?
The average was $1,283 in our 2026 jobs, with most between $780 and $2,125.
Do movers charge by the hour?
Most local movers do, often with an hourly minimum requirement. Longer moves within Virginia are usually priced by the size of the load and the distance.
What is the cheapest way to move?
Usually decluttering, packing yourself and hiring a crew only for the heavy work. Compare the full cost of a rental truck, fuel and your time before deciding.
Is it cheaper to move in winter?
Often yes, because demand is lower, though weather can cause delays. See our guide to Richmond weather and moving.
Should I tip movers?
Tipping is appreciated but not required. See our guide to tipping movers.