Moving to Washington DC
No matter where you are in your moving process, VeryApt is here to help you!
We find the best resources available to help make your move
to Washington DC as easy as possible.
Before Moving
After Moving
Getting Settled
Before Moving
After Moving
Getting Settled
Before Moving
Apartment Hunt
Find an apartment
|
$ $ $
Free 1 hour |
 |
We're a bit biased, but if you want to find an apartment personalized for you and read reviews before you move in, there's no better place to look than VeryApt! Try our personalized recommendation engine to find your perfect apartment in Washington DC! |
Planning
Check your credit
|
$ $ $
Free 0 - 1 hours |
 |
Your credit rating is one of the most important factors impacting your approval as a tenant. In advance of preparing your rental application, be sure to check your credit score so you can understand how likely you are to be approved. Credit Karma is free and will give you consistent updates on your credit and what you can do to improve it. Don't worry - there are no hidden fees or charges. Many of our employees use this service and love it! |
Take accurate measurements
|
$ $ $
$5-15 0 - 5 days |
 |
One of the most frustrating things about moving day can be learning your couch won't fit in your new apartment! Bring a sturdy 12 foot measuring tape to your apartment viewing. Be sure to check the size of doorways, rooms, elevators, etc. to make sure your largest pieces of furniture will fit. Don't forget to also measure storage areas and ceiling clearance as well! |
Order boxes
|
$ $ $
$2 - 5+ / box 0 - 5 days |
|
We haven't found moving kits we're in love with (tell us at contact@veryapt.com if you do!), so our general suggestion is to take a quick inventory and order the boxes that work best for you from Amazon. |
|
$ $ $
$10+ / container 0 - 5 days |
|
One often-overlooked packing option is stackable plastic containers. They may cost a bit more than cardboard, but they're sturdy, easy to label, and can be used for later storage and moves. Typically you should be able to find 5-packs of 30-50 quart containers for $50-100. We've linked to the top selling plastic storage containers on Amazon. |
Moving
Find movers
|
$ $ $
Varies 1 hour |
 |
Unpakt lets you list the items you're moving *once*, and then provides guaranteed quotes from carefully vetted, insured movers. On average, booking via Unpakt saves 45% compared to calling movers directly. We suggest Unpakt for longer-distance moves. ***Use the link to the left or promo code VERYAPT5 for 5% off of your move.*** |
Reserve a spot for your movers
|
$ $ $
$50+ 4 business days |
 |
Parking access for your moving truck will vary by property, but the best way to make sure you're all set for moving day is to apply for a parking space from the DC Department of Transportation. This way you can focus on your move instead of whether you're going to get a ticket! |
Storage
Find local storage
|
$ $ $
$20+ / month 1 hour |
 |
SpareFoot offers access to many of the local options for self-storage. Storage units are typically rented on a month-to-month basis, and we like SpareFoot for quickly comparing units and prices in the DC area. |
Parking and Vehicle Consideration
Find long-term parking
|
$ $ $
$35 / vehicle Varies |
|
For a cheap parking option, scout out street parking that is eligible for residential parking permits that exempt them from meter and time limit restrictions. If you have a DC license plate and a registered/insured to your home address in DC, valid DC DMV credential or reciprocity permit, and pay the applicable fees, you can apply for permit parking. |
|
$ $ $
$160+ / month 1 hour |
 |
If you're bringing a car and looking for daily or monthly parking, Best Parking is a great resource. You can search by neighborhood or address and find an affordable spot near your new home or office. |
Store your bike
|
$ $ $
$35 1 - 5 days |
|
If your tight on space but still need a quick and easy way to get around the city, wall-mounted bike racks are the best solution. This bike rack hangs horizontally and can be adjusted to keep your bike level. The sturdy aluminum will keep your bike in place. |
Update Your Information
Change your address
|
$ $ $
Free 7 - 10 business days |
 |
Once you've found your new place, be sure to make sure your mail gets to you! USPS' online change of address form is simple and will begin forwarding your mail in 7-10 business days. |
Transfer or cancel your existing utilities
|
$ $ $
Free 30 days |
 |
In advance of moving, we recommend you transfer any utilities you have to your new property (if applicable) or cancel them if you will be switching utility providers altogether. Generally, this means writing to your providers of electrical, water, and similar services to make sure that they terminate your service after your last day in your current home, and if relevant, transfer the service to your new apartment. |
After Moving
Property Inspection and Insurance
Inspect your new apartment
|
$ $ $
Free 1 hour |
 |
On your first day in your new apartment, check the doors, windows, floors, carpet, rugs, walls, ceiling, electrical, furniture, appliances and plumbing in each room - note if they are in good condition or not and take plenty of pictures. We suggest storing your pictures and notes in a Dropbox folder and then sending a checklist and pictures to your landlord to document the state of the apartment when you move in. You'll thank yourself when you ask for your deposit back! |
Get renter's insurance
|
$ $ $
$10 - $30 / month 1 hour |
 |
Many leases require you to obtain renter's insurance. Take care of it right away before you forget! Bungalow Insurance is a quick one-click style signup with clear explanations of what is covered. Best of all, renter's insurance is pretty cheap for the peace of mind - it will likely run you $150-250/year. |
Internet
Sign up for internet
|
$ $ $
$40+ / month 1 week |
 |
Comcast is one of the most popular internet providers in Washington DC. Internet-only packages start around ~$40/month. One benefit of Comcast is the great coverage of Infinity WiFi which allows you to access hotspots throughout the city using your email/username and password. We've linked to the Amazon cable store, where you can sign up for relevant Xfinity internet packages. |
|
$ $ $
$50+ / month 1 week |
 |
Verizon is another popular internet service in DC. Hover over “Shop” in the top menu and then click “Check Availability" on the right side of the menu. Options start around $50/month. |
Buy your internet hardware
|
$ $ $
$70+ 1 - 5 days |
|
If you're signing up for cable internet, save yourself the monthly $5-10 modem rental fee and just buy one up front. It can pay for itself in about a year. For most services 150mbs or below, we recommend the ARRIS SURFboard SB6141 (linked) - just make sure it works with your internet provider. For faster speeds, the SB6183 can be a great option. |
|
$ $ $
$349 1-5 days |
 |
Nothing is worse than springing for that pricy internet package only to have your WiFi router constantly hold you back. Eero is a premium product, with a two-pack running $349 and a three-pack running $499, but if you value consistent high speed connectivity throughout your new apartment without the dead spots or hassle of a sophisticated system, we recommend you consider the investment. |
Furniture
Furnish your new home
|
$ $ $
Free consultation 1+ week |
 |
Homee designs your home for free! Chat with your designer and get a custom design that fits your style & budget. Order the items from your design in one click and enjoy free shipping directly to your doorstep. Whether you need all new furniture or just a few items, Homee can help you love where you live. ***Mention VeryApt to your designer to get 10% off. *** |
|
$ $ $
$99+ / month 1+ week |
 |
CORT furniture rentals are a quick and inexpensive way of making your apartment a home. If you don't plan on staying in your apartment for more than a year or two, you can save money and time with this quick furniture upgrade. |
Upgrade your mattress
|
$ $ $
$600 - $995 2 - 3 weeks |
 |
Helix Sleep is poised to devour the mattress dinosaurs. Order your fully customized and personalized mattress in minutes, and have it delivered to your new apartment. ***Get $50 off your order by using the link to the left.*** |
Public Transit
Pay for your metrorail fare
|
$ $ $
$1.75+ /ride 0 - 1 hours |
 |
Metrorail fares vary widely depending on time of day and day in the week. Try to make most of your trips during low peak time and save up to $2.30/trip. We've linked to the list of locations to purchase your fares. |
|
$ $ $
$1.25 / ride 7 - 10 business days |
|
If you're not a big fan of buying your Metrorail tickets at the station, you can opt to load your SmartTrip card online. You'll save 50 cents off the cash fare (as you would buying them at the machines). |
Sign up for ride sharing
|
$ $ $
Free signup 5 minutes |
 |
Uber is a super convenient way to get around the city if you don't feel like driving yourself. If you are one of the few people who hasn't used Uber yet, we can help! To get your first Uber ride free (up to $15), register at get.uber.com/go/veryapt or download the app, and enter the promo code veryapt. |
|
$ $ $
Free signup 5 minutes |
 |
Lyft is an alternative to Uber which offers a similar ride sharing service. Prices between the two companies are comparable. The new Lyft Line option allows you to share a ride with another customer who is going to a similar destination for a cheaper price. |
Vehicles
Update your driver's license
|
$ $ $
$20 0 - 0 days |
 |
For renters moving from another state, you will have to obtain a DC Driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency. Find your nearest Department of Transportation center and follow all of their instructions listed online to switch out your old out-of-state license for a shiny new Washington DC license (sorry it's not actually shiny). |
|
$ $ $
$20 10 business days |
 |
If you're moving within DC, be sure to notify the DC Department of Transportation within 60 days. You can update your license online, in person, or via mail. |
Sign up for car sharing
|
$ $ $
$63 / day 7 - 10 business days |
 |
Enterprise CarShare offers a number of options for renting a vehicle 24/7 from dedicated spots in lots throughout DC. You'll need a valid license, a credit card, and, if you're 18-20, a valid .edu email address. |
|
$ $ $
$8 - 10 / hour 0 - 7 days |
 |
Zipcar offers a number of different options for drivers, including plans that don't require an annual fee. They also have a mobile app for iPhone and Android where you can find, book, and unlock your car. You'll need to be 21 or older (18-20 with an affiliated college) and have a valid driver's license to apply. |
Find and pay for hourly parking
|
$ $ $
Varies 10 minutes |
 |
Park Mobile allows you to pay for parking on your phone, extend on the go, and save favorite locations. This will save you time and hassle when adjusting to the new city. Download the app now to save time later. |
|
$ $ $
Varies 10 minutes |
 |
SpotHero simplifies the task of finding a local parking spot. You can compare parking spots for the day/month and then book them quickly on your phone or desktop. |
Sign up for bike sharing
|
$ $ $
$2 / trip 0 - 1 days |
 |
Capital Bikeshare offers over 3000 bicycles for rent. You can pick your bike up from any station and return it to another station near your destination. Check out a bike for your trip to work, Metro, run errands, go shopping, or visit friends and family. The first 30 minutes of each trip are free. Each additional 30 minutes incurs an additional fee. |
Bill Payments
Pay your rent and bills online
|
$ $ $
2.5% credit/0% debit 1 week |
 |
Does your landlord require paper checks? Are you tired of mailing your utility bills? Plastiq allows you to pay your bills (including rent!) online. For a 2.5% fee or less, Plastiq will let you pay your bill with a credit card. Debit card transactions are free! They'll send the check for you and even set up recurring payments for your rent. |
Manage your bills with roommates
|
$ $ $
Free 0 - 1 hours |
 |
Splitwise makes it easy to split bills. They help you organize all the shared expenses in one place, and best of all, it's free! In addition, to the website, they offer an app for iPhone and Android. |
Getting Settled
Groceries, Food, and Cleaning
Get your food delivered
|
$ $ $
Free 0 - 2 hours |
 |
For traditional delivery restaurants, Grubhub is great. Grubhub will show you all the local delivery options and allow you to place your order online. They'll even text you when your food is on its way! |
|
$ $ $
18%+ / order 0 - 2 hours |
 |
Caviar offers you access to some of the most prestigious restaurants in DC via delivery. The charges can add up (18% service fee + delivery) but for larger groups and nicer restaurants it can be a great option. |
Take care of your home and dry cleaning
|
$ $ $
$40+ 0 - 1 days |
 |
If you're looking for a local cleaner, Handy helps you manage the entire process online. All their professionals are verified and they offer a 100% money-back guarantee. |
|
$ $ $
$16+ 1 days+ |
 |
Wash Cycle Laundry offers free next-day delivery on all orders over $20 in DC. You can schedule your pick-up online and help support a green approach to dry cleaning. |
|
$ $ $
Varies 0 - 1 days |
 |
Thumbtack matches professionals with customers. You simply answer a few questions and choose one of the quotes generated based on your question answers. Available services range from crafts to repair to legal transactions. This is a great way to grow your small business or receive affordable professional services. |
Fitness
Discover fitness classes
|
$ $ $
$89 / month 0 - 1 hours |
 |
ClassPass gives you a monthly membership to the best fitness classes in DC (and elsewhere too). You can visit the same studio up to 3 times per month and take as many classes as you want otherwise. Great for finding your new favorite classes in DC! |
Join a sports league
|
$ $ $
Varies 0 - 1 hours |
 |
Metro Sports League is a great way to meet new people in DC while playing sports you love. They offer basketball, flag football, and soccer among over a dozen sports! League fees vary and they play at a variety of locations. |
Pets
Take care of your favorite roommate(s)
|
$ $ $
Varies 0 - 1 hours |
 |
For helping take care of your canine roommates while you're at work or traveling, we suggest checking out Rover. You can quickly learn availability and pricing for dog boarding, house sitting, and dog walking nearby your new apartment in DC. |
|
$ $ $
$28/hour 30+ minutes |
 |
An on-demand dog walking service in Washington D.C., Barkly, matches dog walkers with dog owners. You simply log onto the app on your cell phone and pre-schedule times for dog walking or request on-demand services. Prices differ based on the method of scheduling. Download the app today and save time later! |
Medical
Find healthcare providers
|
$ $ $
Free 0 - 1 hours |
 |
Finding new doctors (primary care, dentist, eye care, etc.) can be a hassle after moving. ZocDoc's coverage of DC is great and will help finding doctors that take your insurance easy! You can also schedule your appointment online and some doctors will also let you submit your forms online. |
Volunteering
Sign up to volunteer
|
$ $ $
Free 0 - 1 days |
 |
Offered by the District Government Office, Serve DC is a good starting point for discovering what volunteer opportunities are available in Washington DC. |
|
$ $ $
Free 3 - 4 weeks |
 |
At VeryApt, we love Big Brothers Big Sisters and the support it provides to children in DC. Volunteering takes just a few hours a month and can have an incredible impact on the life of your little brother/sister. |