Moving in Virginia: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Virginia — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Virginia?
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles – Motor Carrier Services (VA DMV)
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with VA DMV.
How to file a complaint in Virginia
Online: https://www.dmv.virginia.gov
Phone: 1-804-497-7100
Mail: VA DMV, Motor Carrier Services, P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Virginia
- Movers must be registered with VA DMV to operate intrastate
- Verify the mover is registered with DMV before hiring
- Complaints to VA DMV / VA Attorney General Consumer Protection
Key statutes & rules
- Code of Virginia Title 46.2 (motor carriers / household goods)
- VA DMV registration/permit required for intrastate movers
Virginia regulates intrastate household goods movers through the DMV. (Neighboring Maryland's 2026 registration model mirrors this approach.)
Example estimates in Virginia: low, average, high
Studio (low) through 4-bedroom (high), computed with the same model as the ReloFig calculators — not hand-written. Your own move will differ.
Local move estimate for South region (2 movers + truck, excludes packing/materials). Figures are model estimates, not quotes.
| Home size | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $278 – $893 |
| 1 bed | $361 – $1,279 |
| 2 bed | $527 – $1,859 |
| 3 bed | $692 – $2,438 |
| 4 bed | $858 – $3,018 |
Estimates use the ReloFig model (BLS wages × regional × South factor). Always get three written quotes. Methodology.
Cities in Virginia
Sample city estimates in Virginia
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Virginia Beach → | $527 – $1,859 |
| Norfolk → | $527 – $1,859 |
| Chesapeake → | $527 – $1,859 |
Formula & data sources
Sources: BLS OES mover wages; published mover rate surveys. Compiled August 2025.
When to use this estimate
- Use this for a local or in-town move within Virginia that a mover bills by the hour.
- Crossing state lines? Use the Long-Distance Move calculator — interstate work is priced by linehaul miles, not hours.
- Need a written budget? Print our Local Budget Worksheet and Scam Card for walkthroughs.
Frequently asked questions
Who regulates intrastate movers in Virginia?
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles – Motor Carrier Services (VA DMV) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Virginia. Verify a mover at https://www.dmv.virginia.gov. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Virginia?
File online via the state portal (https://www.dmv.virginia.gov), or by phone at 1-804-497-7100. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Virginia?
Movers must be registered with VA DMV to operate intrastate Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Virginia?
Model estimates for a 2-bedroom home run roughly $527–$1,859, scaled by home size and local cost of living. These are model figures, not quotes — confirm with licensed movers' written estimates.
Do I need a permit for a local move in Virginia?
A moving permit is usually not required for the move itself, but parking/loading permits for the truck may be required by the city or building. Check with your city and building management before move day.
Sources: www.dmv.virginia.gov www.movers.com . ReloFig does not sell your information.