Moving from Norfolk, VA to Florida: Cost, Companies & Guide
If you're moving from Norfolk to Florida, you're looking at an 826-mile interstate haul through a mix of highway and coastal routes. It's far enough that DIY becomes a real option—but so does hiring pros who know the corridor. Let me walk you through what you're actually facing: who's available, what it costs, and what changes when you land in Florida.
Top 5 Norfolk Moving Companies for Florida Relocations
Out of about 20 movers in the Norfolk area licensed for interstate moves, these five stand out for Florida-bound relocations. Ratings are based on verified customer reviews across Google, Yelp, and the BBB.
1. A Friendly & Affordable Mover — 4.5 / 5
87% positive reviews | 259 customer reviews
A Friendly & Affordable Mover is the standout here. Nearly 9 in 10 customers report smooth moves with professional crews, careful handling, and—notably—transparent pricing that doesn't blindside you at delivery. They do full-service packing, interstate moves, and even specialize in pianos and antiques. The rare negative feedback centers on occasional damage claims or slow resolution, but that's table stakes in this business.
Contact: (757) 689-0935
License: 3239170 | DOT: 3239170
Address: 516 Central Dr Suite 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.48 / 5
81% positive reviews | 325 customer reviews
This franchise gets credit for speed and friendliness—crews are energetic, communication is solid, and they rarely bog you down with delays. Customers praise the hassle-free booking. The downside: damage complaints appear in about 1 in 5 negative reviews, sometimes tied to high-value items. If you go with them, nail down insurance details and photo-document valuables.
Contact: (336) 810-1801
License: 5223 | DOT: 2378173
Address: 2618 Arkansas Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23513
Services: Local moves, packing/unpacking, office moves, storage.
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.5 / 5
80% positive reviews | 258 customer reviews
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK delivers efficient, professional service with good communication and reliable timelines. Crews are polite and careful. About 1 in 5 complaints involve damage, unexpected charges, or estimate inaccuracy—typical friction points. They handle interstate moves and offer piano moves if you need it.
Contact: (757) 250-7167
License: 3064442 | DOT: 2527384
Address: 4007 Seaboard Ct #7, Portsmouth, VA 23701
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, storage, safes.
4. Apple Moving — 4.48 / 5
56% positive reviews | 275 customer reviews
Apple Moving (Harrison's Moving & Storage) has been around since 1954, and that experience shows in careful handling and special-request flexibility. Just over half the reviews are positive—solid for a mover, but not exceptional. The negative feedback (43%) focuses on damage, lost items, and poor claims handling. Their strength is in professionalism; their weakness is accountability when things go wrong.
Contact: (757) 397-1248
License: 163678 | DOT: 1934458
Address: 1010 Cavalier Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23323
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, crating, storage.
5. Coleman Worldwide Moving — 4.56 / 5
37% positive reviews | 59 customer reviews
Coleman Worldwide has the highest star rating here, but that's misleading—only 37% of reviews are actually positive. The real story: frequent complaints about late arrivals, poor communication, and damage. Favorable reviews mention reliable crews and careful packing, but you're rolling the dice. If you use them, get everything in writing and consider third-party insurance.
Contact: (757) 857-0101
License: 076235 | DOT: 2897746
Address: 3325 Croft St, Norfolk, VA 23513
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, crating, storage, safes.
Local Services Snapshot: Norfolk Movers & Specialties
Quick breakdown of what Norfolk movers actually offer:
| Service | % of Movers |
|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 90% |
| Small moves | 60% |
| Pianos | 85% |
| Antiques | 45% |
| Art | 45% |
| Fragile-only packing | 40% |
Cost to Move from Norfolk, VA to Florida
Here's what you're actually paying, broken down by home size and method. These are estimates for an 826-mile move.
| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Container | Truck Rental |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,035 – $3,738 | $756 – $1,745 | $526 – $982 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,006 – $5,031 | $1,265 – $2,628 | $568 – $1,277 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,577 – $7,096 | $1,754 – $3,331 | $770 – $1,505 |
Note: These ranges are based on verified pricing as of January 2026. Your actual cost will depend on move size, optional services (packing, storage), fuel, parking/access challenges, and season. Get a personalized quote from multiple movers to compare.
Full-Service Mover Costs
Hiring movers for a studio to one-bedroom will run you $1,035–$3,738. A two- to three-bedroom move ranges from $2,006–$5,031. Larger homes (4+ bedrooms) typically cost $3,577–$7,096. These prices include loading, transport, and unloading but not necessarily packing—confirm what's included before you book.
Moving Container Costs
Moving containers like PODS are a middle option: you pack at your own pace, they haul it. Small loads run $756–$1,745; two to three bedrooms cost $1,265–$2,628; four+ bedroom moves are $1,754–$3,331. Containers give you flexibility but require more sweat equity.
Rental Truck Costs
Truck rental is the budget option—$526–$982 for a studio, $568–$1,277 for two to three bedrooms, $770–$1,505 for larger homes. This includes estimated fuel. You handle all loading, driving, and unloading, which is why it's cheapest. It also means moving day is exhausting.
What Drives Your Norfolk-to-Florida Moving Cost
Move size. The more stuff, the higher the bill. A one-bedroom and a four-bedroom aren't even close.
Season. Summer (May–August) is peak moving season in Norfolk. Expect to pay 15–20% more. Winter is slower and cheaper—if your timeline allows it.
DIY vs. professional. Renting a truck saves money upfront but costs you labor and stress. Full-service movers handle it but cost significantly more. Containers split the difference.
Distance & logistics. 826 miles is long enough that fuel adds up. If your Norfolk address or Florida destination has limited access (narrow driveway, tight apartment), surcharges apply.
Use our calculator to estimate your specific move based on these factors.
Before You Move: Norfolk vs. Florida Living
You're not just moving—you're relocating to a different cost structure and climate. Here's what shifts.
Cost of Living: Norfolk vs. Florida
| Metric | Norfolk, VA | Florida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,500 | $1,444 | Roughly the same |
| Average home price | $283,890 | $392,176 | +38% in Florida |
| Per capita income | $63,484 | $67,917 | +7% in Florida |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 102 | +12% in Florida |
| Unemployment | 7.3% | 2.9% | 60% lower in Florida |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 0% | No income tax in Florida |
The takeaway: Rent won't shock you, but homes cost more. Florida has no income tax (huge win), but overall living costs run 12% higher. Job market is stronger, so you may offset costs with better income.
Climate & Weather
| Factor | Norfolk | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 88°F | 91°F |
| Winter low | 33°F | 49°F |
| Annual rain | 47" | 55" |
| Annual snow | 5" | 0" |
What it means: Florida's heat is comparable, but winters are dramatically milder—no shoveling, no icy roads, lower heating bills. Expect more rain and humidity. If you hate snow, this is a win. If you love four seasons, you're losing one.
Population & Culture
| Metric | Norfolk | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 238,000 | 22.6 million |
| Political lean | Democratic 72-26 | Republican 51-48 |
| Crime index | 58.1 | 21.4 |
Norfolk is a mid-sized military town. Florida is sprawling, suburban, and politically mixed. Crime is lower in Florida—a genuine safety advantage. You're trading a tight-knit local feel for a much larger, more transient population.
Critical Logistics Before Moving to Florida
Don't just show up with a moving truck. Handle these first:
Moving company licensing. Florida requires all for-profit movers (in-state or interstate) to register with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services annually. Verify your mover's license before booking—check the state's regulatory website.
HOA rules. If your new place is in an HOA, confirm they allow self-moves or have restrictions on moving company hours.
Elevator reservation. High-rise buildings require advance elevator reservations for moving day. Call your building's management at least a week ahead.
Truck parking permits. Some Florida cities (especially Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville) require moving truck parking permits. Check local regulations before move day.
Change of address. File with USPS at least one week before you move. Set an official move date so mail forwarding starts on time.
Moving insurance. Standard mover liability (Released Value Protection) caps at 60 cents per pound—basically nothing for a TV or jewelry. Compare moving cost estimates and ask movers about full-value protection or third-party insurance. Don't skip this.
Moving checklist. Use a moving checklist to stay organized. You'll have enough to think about without forgetting utilities or address changes.
What to Expect When You Land in Florida
Things to Do
No shortage of activities. Start with these:
Museums: Wynwood Halls, The Ringling, Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Hemingway Home & Museum, The Dali Museum.
Parks: Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas, De Soto National Memorial, Fort Matanzas, Ocala National Forest.
Sports: Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Jacksonville Jaguars.
Universities: University of Florida, Florida State, USF, UCF, Florida International University.
FAQ
How long does a Norfolk-to-Florida move take?
Typically two to seven days, depending on your service. A full-service mover may take 3–5 days; a container takes longer (you control the timeline). Summer moves often run slower due to demand. Confirm delivery windows with your mover in writing—don't assume.
How many Norfolk movers offer custom crating for art or antiques?
About 16 Norfolk-area movers offer custom crating for fragile, high-value items. If you have artwork or antiques, confirm your mover can handle them during your initial consultation.
What's the best way to ship a car from Norfolk to Florida?
Compare auto transport companies based on experience with the route, insurance coverage, and customer reviews. Professional shippers are more reliable than towing services for long distances.
Why are people moving from Norfolk to Florida?
Better weather year-round, stronger job market, no income tax, and recreational opportunities (beaches, water sports, theme parks) draw people south. Lower crime rates and retiree-friendly infrastructure also factor in.
Do Norfolk movers accept cash?
A couple of Norfolk movers accept cash, but it's rare. Payment is typically secured via deposit (credit/debit card) before move day, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment methods with your mover upfront.
Ready to Move? Next Steps
- Get quotes from multiple movers. Don't rely on one estimate—compare at least three.
- Verify licenses. Check Florida and Virginia regulatory sites.
- Book early. If you're moving in summer, book 4–6 weeks out.
- Review insurance. Full-value protection costs extra but protects your belongings.
- Confirm timelines in writing before move day.
Good luck with your move to Florida.