---
title: Moving from Wilmington, DE to Florida: Costs, Movers & What to Expect
description: Real cost estimates, top mover picks, and a no-fluff cost-of-living breakdown for moving from Wilmington, DE to Florida. 1,032 miles covered.
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Wilmington to Florida", "Wilmington DE to Florida movers", "Wilmington moving cost", "Delaware to Florida moving", "long distance movers Wilmington DE", "moving companies Wilmington DE"]
---
# Moving from Wilmington, DE to Florida
If you're planning a move from Wilmington, DE to Florida, you're looking at roughly 1,032 miles — far enough that your mover choice and your prep work will make or break the whole thing. This isn't a local haul you can recover from easily if something goes wrong. The decisions you make in the next few weeks will either save you money and headaches or cost you both.
Below I've pulled together real cost ranges for this route, the top local movers in Wilmington worth considering, and an honest side-by-side of what life actually looks like when you trade [Florida](/movers/florida)'s warm winters for Delaware's cold ones — or rather, the reverse. Let's get into it.
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## Local moving companies in Wilmington
Out of 63 Wilmington-area movers capable of handling state-to-state moves, these five consistently rise to the top for your move to Florida:
1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.44 / 5
2. Move Crew LLC — 4.48 / 5
3. Bayshore Transportation System, Inc. — 4.52 / 5
4. Ramsey's Moving System — 4.38 / 5
5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.30 / 5
Here's what you need to know about each before you call.
---
### College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
**12 Hadco Road, Building 2 Unit 4, Wilmington, DE 19804**
DOT #: 2378173 | 12 years in business | (336) 810-1801
**95% positive | 4% negative** — [Yelp reviews (43)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/college-hunks-hauling-junk-and-moving-dover-wilmington) | BBB: Grade A+
From 276 customer reviews, the dominant theme is speed without sloppiness — crews who work fast and are genuinely friendly, not just professionally polite. People consistently mention careful handling, clear communication, and movers who go the extra mile without dragging out the clock. The negatives are real but limited: arrival delays, inconsistent estimates, and the occasional rough interaction make up the minority. If you want a crew that shows up with energy and actually follows through on it, College Hunks tends to deliver.
**Services:** Local moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, storage. Accepts credit cards.
---
### Move Crew LLC
**14 Fresconi Ct, New Castle, DE 19720**
DOT #: 2899919 | (302) 290-4684
**85% positive | 16% negative** — [Yelp reviews (103)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-move-crew-new-castle-2) | [Google reviews (545)](https://www.google.com/search?q=move+crew+llc+wilmington+de) | [BBB: Grade F](https://www.bbb.org/us/de/new-castle/profile/moving-companies/the-move-crew-0251-92001732)
The BBB Grade F is a flag you can't ignore. That said, 84.5% of 168 reviewers came away happy — citing flat-rate pricing, punctual crews, and willingness to handle last-minute requests. The negative reviews are the issue: property damage, lost items, and complaints that went unresolved show up more than I'd like for a company on a top-five list. If you go with Move Crew, get your pricing locked in writing and document your belongings before anyone touches them.
**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash and credit card.
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### Bayshore Transportation System, Inc.
**901 Dawson Dr, Suite A, Newark, DE 19713**
DOT #: 540129 | 52 years in business | (800) 523-3319
**79% positive | 21% negative** — [Yelp reviews (54)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/bayshore-moving-and-storage-newark-3) | [Google reviews (128)](https://www.google.com/search?q=bayshore+moving+%26+storage+newark+de) | [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/de/newark/profile/moving-companies/bayshore-transportation-system-inc-0251-21000225)
Fifty-two years in business shows in the reviews: professional staff, attentive crews, timely delivery on both local and long-haul moves. Nearly 79% of 211 reviewers came away satisfied, with many specifically praising cross-country service. The one-in-five who didn't report damaged or missing items and communication gaps that went unresolved. Their BBB A+ suggests they handle most complaints well, but damage risk is real. Get their claims process spelled out before you commit.
**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts money order and credit card.
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### Ramsey's Moving System
**4 Man O' War Dr., Media, PA 19063**
State license #: 1168555 | DOT #: 1168555 | 22 years in business | (610) 745-0000
**82% positive | 16% negative** — [Yelp reviews (23)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/ramseys-moving-systems-media) | [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/pa/media/profile/moving-companies/ramseys-moving-systems-llc-0241-75001087/)
Based just across the border in Media, PA, Ramsey's earns consistent praise for careful handling, transparent pricing, and willingness to move specialty items other companies won't touch. 82% of 181 reviews are positive — strong numbers for this region. The caveat: a few reviewers ran into unexpected charges not reflected in their initial quote. Read the contract carefully, ask about any fees that aren't itemized, and get your final price confirmed in writing before they load a single box.
**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, full-valuation coverage, storage, safes. Accepts money order, cash, and credit card.
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### TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
**83 Christiana Rd, New Castle, DE 19720**
DOT #: 2527384 | 17 years in business | Also operating as TEN CITIES III LLC | (302) 613-0765
**76% positive | 23% negative** — [Yelp reviews (32)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/two-men-and-a-truck-new-castle) | [BBB: Grade F](https://www.bbb.org/us/de/new-castle/profile/moving-companies/two-men-and-a-truck-0251-32002158)
Another BBB Grade F. The positive reviews (76% of 244) highlight efficient, friendly crews who frequently come in under the estimated time — some customers actually paid less than quoted because of it. The problem is what happens afterward: damage claims and complaint resolution are where this location falls short. Getting an issue resolved post-delivery can be a real battle. For a straightforward move with minimal fragile items, they can work. For anything high-value or delicate, I'd look elsewhere first.
**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes. Accepts credit card.
---
## Local moving services in Wilmington, DE
At a glance, what Wilmington movers actually offer:
| Service | Movers offering it | % of total |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 58 | 92% |
| Small moves | 24 | 38% |
| Antiques | 39 | 62% |
| Art | 35 | 56% |
| Pianos | 49 | 78% |
| Fragile-only packing | 12 | 19% |
Fragile-only packing is the outlier — only about one in five Wilmington movers offer it. If you have a mix of delicate items that need special wrapping, ask specifically before assuming it's included.
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## Cost to move from Wilmington, DE to Florida
Before you call anyone, run your numbers through our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a baseline for your load size and move date. Then use these ranges to reality-check any quote you receive.
These estimates reflect a ~1,032-mile move from Wilmington to Florida. Fuel costs are already factored into truck rental figures.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,026 – $4,256 | $770 – $2,036 | $610 – $1,244 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,235 – $5,456 | $1,382 – $3,012 | $687 – $1,508 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,606 – $6,824 | $1,924 – $3,589 | $897 – $1,693 |
*Figures based on pricing data as of January 2026. Your actual cost varies with load size, extra services, access and parking conditions, and your move date.*
### Cost to hire movers from Wilmington to Florida
Studio or one-bedroom: $1,026–$4,256. Two or three bedrooms: $2,235–$5,456. Four-plus bedrooms: $3,606–$6,824. The wide spread on each range reflects the difference between basic labor-only service and full packing, crating, and premium handling. Nail down exactly what's included before you compare quotes side-by-side.
### Cost of moving containers from Wilmington to Florida
[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are the middle ground: you pack on your schedule, the company handles transport. Small move: $770–$2,036. Two to three bedrooms: $1,382–$3,012. Four or more bedrooms: $1,924–$3,589. Meaningfully cheaper than full-service for a large home, with the trade-off being that you do all the heavy lifting.
### Cost of renting a moving truck from Wilmington to Florida
[Truck rentals](/best/truck-rentals) are the cheapest option on paper. Be honest with yourself about what that actually means: you're driving a 26-foot truck over 1,000 miles, loading and unloading everything, and carrying the liability for anything that breaks.
The numbers: $610–$1,244 for a studio or one-bedroom, $687–$1,508 for two to three bedrooms, $897–$1,693 for four or more. Fuel is baked in. What isn't baked in is the physical and mental cost of driving that distance yourself.
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## Factors that affect moving costs from Wilmington to FL
Three variables move the needle most:
- **Move size:** More stuff means more truck space, more labor hours, and a higher bill. Your home's layout — stairs, narrow hallways, no elevator — adds time and cost too.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season. Moving companies know it and price accordingly. Fall or early spring moves almost always get you better rates.
- **DIY vs. professional:** Doing it yourself lowers the dollar cost but shifts everything — packing, driving, damage risk — onto you. Hiring pros costs more upfront and eliminates a lot of variables.
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## What you should know before moving from Wilmington to FL
### Compare cost of living: Wilmington vs. Florida
| | Wilmington, DE | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,812 | $1,444 |
| Average home cost | $307,799 | $392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,354 | $67,917 |
| Cost of living index | 104 | 102 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.3% | 2.9% |
| State income tax | 6.6% | 0% |
*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation, Zumper, Numbeo*
A few numbers worth unpacking:
- **Rent is about 20% lower in Florida.** That's real money back each month.
- **Home prices run about 27% higher in Florida.** If you're planning to buy, budget accordingly — the housing market there is more competitive than Wilmington's.
- **Per capita income is roughly 38% higher in Florida,** which helps offset the higher home prices considerably.
- **Overall cost of living is nearly identical** (index of 104 in Wilmington vs. 102 in Florida). You're not moving somewhere dramatically cheaper or more expensive day-to-day.
- **Florida's unemployment rate is about 72% lower** (2.9% vs. 10.3%). If job market stability is part of your calculus, this matters.
- **[Delaware](/movers/delaware) charges 6.6% state income tax. Florida charges zero.** For most households, that's the equivalent of a meaningful raise without changing employers.
### How life is different in Wilmington, DE vs. Florida
| | Wilmington, DE | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 70,898 | 22,610,726 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8–48.3 | Republican 51–48 |
| Summer high | 86°F | 91°F |
| Winter low | 25°F | 49°F |
| Annual rain | 45″ | 55″ |
| Annual snow | 13″ | 0″ |
| Crime index | 67.32 | 21.39 |
*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270ToWin, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia*
What those numbers actually mean for your daily life:
- **Summer temperatures** are close — 91°F in Florida vs. 86°F in Wilmington — but if you're heading to Miami, Tampa, or Orlando, the humidity is its own category. A thermometer doesn't capture it. Plan accordingly.
- **Winters are the real draw.** Florida's average low is 49°F. Wilmington dips to 25°F. That's the trade most people making this move are actually making.
- **Rain goes up noticeably** — 55 inches annually in Florida vs. 45 in Wilmington. The difference is mostly afternoon thunderstorms rather than all-day gray drizzle. Pack a rain jacket either way.
- **Zero snow in Florida.** Wilmington gets about 13 inches a year. No shoveling, no ice scraping, no watching weather apps to see if your commute is about to become a disaster.
- **Crime index is substantially lower in Florida** (21.39 vs. 67.32 in Wilmington). Keep in mind crime varies significantly by neighborhood anywhere — but statewide, Florida's number is much better.
### Other considerations when moving to Florida
A few things that catch people off guard on this move:
- **HOA rules:** Many Florida communities have specific procedures for move-in days — windows of access, elevator reservations, even approved routes through a building. Check before you schedule anything.
- **Elevator reservation:** Moving into a condo or high-rise? Reserve the service elevator in advance. Showing up without a reservation can delay your entire move.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Florida municipalities require permits for large moving vehicles on residential streets. Confirm with your city or county before moving day.
- **State licensing:** Florida requires movers operating intrastate to register annually with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Verify your mover's license before signing a contract.
- **No statewide moving permit required**, but check local parking restrictions in your destination — they vary by city.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Set your official move date so forwarding kicks in without a gap.
- **Moving insurance:** Florida movers are required to offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge — but the coverage caps at $0.60 per pound per item. On a 50-pound television, that's $30. If your belongings are worth more than that (they are), either purchase Full Value Protection through your mover or look at third-party insurance options before moving day.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to keep things organized. The logistics of a 1,000-mile move pile up fast, and a checklist keeps you from missing something expensive in the rush.
### Things to do in Florida
Once you're settled, Florida gives you a lot to explore.
**Museums:**
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum
**Parks:**
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest
**Sports teams:**
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
**Universities:**
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
---
## FAQ
### How long does a move from Wilmington to Florida take?
Plan for two to eight days, depending on your mover and service type. Full-service carriers on this ~1,032-mile route typically land in the middle of that range under normal conditions. Summer moves tend to stretch toward the longer end — demand is high and delivery windows expand. Ask for an estimated delivery window before you book, not after.
### Do Wilmington movers offer custom crating?
Yes — 44 movers in the Wilmington area list custom crating as a service. Worth asking about if you have fragile, oversized, or awkward items that standard box packing won't protect. Before you book, confirm crate dimensions and whether they'll build to spec for your specific items.
### What's the best way to get a car from Wilmington to Florida?
If you're not driving it down yourself, [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) is the right move. Look for a carrier with verified DOT credentials, a solid track record on damage claims, and clear experience on the East Coast corridor. Get quotes from multiple operators and confirm pickup and delivery windows in writing before you commit.
### Why are people moving from Wilmington to Florida?
The consistent pull: warm winters, no state income tax, stronger job market, and access to coastal recreation that Wilmington simply doesn't offer. Florida's economy has been strong across healthcare, construction, and hospitality — it's not just retirees making this move anymore.
### Where can I find long-distance movers for this route?
Our [long-distance mover guide](/best/long-distance-movers) is a good starting point. For a 1,032-mile interstate move, you want carriers with real experience on this corridor — not just a local company that occasionally takes long-distance jobs. [SafeShip Moving](/company/safe-ship-moving) is one operator I've seen handle East Coast interstate routes well if you want a starting point beyond the local Wilmington options.
### Can I pay cash for a move from Wilmington to Florida?
Currently, 29 Wilmington-area movers accept cash. It's the exception, not the rule — most carriers want traceable payment and a paper trail. Standard process is a deposit to lock your date and crew, with the remainder due at pickup or after delivery. Confirm the exact timing and acceptable payment methods before you sign anything.
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Compare quotes from Wilmington movers and get a baseline for your specific load size with our [moving cost calculator](/calculator).
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