Moving from Norfolk, VA to Colorado — Cost & Best Movers
If you're moving from Norfolk to Colorado, you're looking at roughly 1,800 miles of distance and some real differences in climate, cost of living, and job markets. I've pulled together the top movers actually operating in the Norfolk area for this route, the real costs you'll face, and what to expect when you land in Colorado.
Top Moving Companies from Norfolk to Colorado
Out of the movers actively serving Norfolk for long-distance relocations, here are the five with the strongest track records:
- A Friendly & Affordable Mover — 4.52 / 5
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.5 / 5
- Coleman Worldwide Moving — 4.56 / 5
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.48 / 5
- Apple Moving — 4.48 / 5
A Friendly & Affordable Mover
Location: 516 Central Dr Suite 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Rating: 4.5 / 5 (259 reviews)
License #: 3239170 | DOT #: 3239170 | Years in Business: 26
The standout here is consistency. Across 259 customer reviews, 87% reported a positive experience. Customers praise the professional staff, careful handling, fair pricing, and genuinely transparent quotes. Repeat customers note that standards stay high across multiple moves—that's rare in this industry.
The downsides: A small number of complaints center on item damage and slow claims resolution. But these are the exception, not the rule. For the Norfolk area specifically, this outfit delivers solid value without the nickel-and-diming.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, specialty crating (pianos, art, antiques), full-valuation coverage, and storage.
Get a Quote: (757) 689-0935
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Location: 4007 Seaboard Ct #7, Portsmouth, VA 23701
Rating: 4.5 / 5 (258 reviews)
License #: 3064442 | DOT #: 2527384 | Years in Business: 9
This franchise has the operational polish down. From 258 reviews, 80% reported a smooth experience. Customers highlight fast execution, courteous crews, and clear communication from booking through delivery. The company also scores well on cost transparency compared to many competitors.
The catch: About 1 in 5 customers reported either damage to belongings or unexpected charges once the truck arrived. Estimates can also drift from the initial quote—not uncommon in the industry, but worth getting in writing and asking tough questions upfront.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano moving, storage, and safes.
Get a Quote: (757) 250-7167
Coleman Worldwide Moving
Location: 3325 Croft St, Norfolk, VA 23513
Rating: 4.56 / 5 (59 reviews)
License #: 076235 | DOT #: 2897746 | Years in Business: 110
BBB Grade: A+
The rating is solid, but the review volume tells a real story here. Coleman has the experience—110 years in business—and a legitimate A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, out of 59 reviews analyzed, only 37% were positive. That's a gap worth noting.
Positive reviews highlight careful packing, professional crews, and open communication. But 61% of reviews mention late arrivals, poor communication during the move, or significant damage to items. Late arrivals especially hit hard—customers reported missed flights and unexpected stress.
If you go this route, lock down timelines in writing and document everything before moving day.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves; packing, unpacking, office relocations, crating, storage, and safe moving.
Get a Quote: (757) 857-0101
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
Location: 2618 Arkansas Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23513
Rating: 4.48 / 5 (325 reviews)
License #: 5223 | DOT #: 2378173
BBB Grade: F
Here's the contradiction: 81% of 325 reviews were positive, with customers consistently mentioning fast service, polite crews, and good communication. That's well above industry average. But the BBB grade is an F, which signals ongoing complaint patterns the company hasn't resolved systematically.
Complaints cluster around damage to high-value items, unexpected charges tacked on after the quote, and delays or late arrivals. Some customers also reported difficulty getting damage claims honored.
The profile reads like this: when the move goes smoothly, it's smooth. But if something goes wrong—especially with valuable items—follow-up can be frustrating.
Services: Local moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, and storage.
Get a Quote: (336) 810-1801
Apple Moving
Location: 1010 Cavalier Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23323
Rating: 4.48 / 5 (275 reviews)
License #: 163678 | DOT #: 1934458 | Years in Business: 69
BBB Grade: A+
Apple (formerly Harrison's Moving) has real longevity and a solid BBB rating. From 275 reviews, 56% were positive—better than the industry average, but lower than the top two options on this list.
Customers who rated the company highly appreciated the professional, hardworking crews and attention to detail. However, 43% of reviews flagged damage to belongings, missing items, or difficulty getting claims resolved. That's a meaningful chunk. Many felt the company dismissed or inadequately handled damage claims.
The crews themselves sound solid; the weak link is accountability after things go wrong.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano moving, specialty items (hot tubs, pool tables), crating, and storage.
Get a Quote: (757) 397-1248
Moving Services Available in Norfolk, VA
A quick breakdown of the specialty services Norfolk movers actually offer:
| Service | % of Movers | Count |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 90% | 18 |
| Small moves | 60% | 12 |
| Antiques & art | 45% | 9 |
| Piano moving | 85% | 17 |
| Fragile-only packing | 40% | 8 |
If you need specialty crating for art or antiques, about half the movers in Norfolk can handle it. Piano moving is widely available.
Cost to Move from Norfolk, VA to Colorado
Here's what you'll actually pay. These are averages based on a 1,833-mile move and compiled from verified quotes as of now. Your final number depends on home size, service type, timing, and local logistics.
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | DIY Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,131 – $4,480 | $1,092 – $2,619 | $1,009 – $1,885 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,939 – $6,097 | $1,852 – $3,679 | $1,137 – $2,243 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,091 – $9,776 | $2,455 – $5,412 | $1,447 – $2,744 |
To estimate your move, input your actual belongings and get quotes from multiple companies.
Hiring Full-Service Movers
A studio or one-bedroom move runs $1,131–$4,480. Two to three bedrooms: $2,939–$6,097. Four-plus bedrooms: $5,091–$9,776.
The range is wide because labor rates, truck availability, and demand (especially summer) swing the price significantly. Getting 3–5 quotes is the only way to pin down your actual cost.
Using Moving Containers
Moving containers like PODS let you pack on your timeline, then the company hauls it across the country. For small moves, expect $1,092–$2,619. Larger homes: $2,455–$5,412. Containers cost more than truck rentals but less than full-service movers—and you don't drive.
Renting a Truck
Truck rentals are the cheapest option if you're willing to load, unload, and drive yourself. Studio moves: $1,009–$1,885. Larger homes: $1,447–$2,744. These estimates include fuel.
What Affects Your Moving Cost
Move size: More stuff = higher cost. That's straightforward.
Time of year: Summer is peak season in Norfolk. Prices spike June through August. Moving in fall or winter can save 15–30%.
DIY vs. professional: DIY is cheaper upfront but demands time and physical effort. Professional movers handle everything but cost more.
Distance and route: You're looking at 1,800+ miles. Fuel surcharges, highway conditions, and whether the truck can get a return load all factor in.
Before You Move: Cost of Living Comparison
Norfolk and Colorado are surprisingly close on overall cost of living, but there are real differences you should know about.
| Metric | Norfolk, VA | Colorado | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,500 | $1,594 | +6% |
| Average home price | $283,890 | $541,072 | +91% |
| Per capita income | $63,484 | $87,598 | +38% |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 91 | Identical |
| Unemployment | 7.3% | 4.1% | -44% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 5.49% | Nearly identical |
Rent is slightly higher in Colorado — about 6%. If you're renting, budget for a $90–100 monthly increase.
Homes cost nearly double. Colorado's median home price is 91% higher than Norfolk's. If you're buying, expect a significantly larger mortgage (or rent longer while you save).
Incomes are higher in Colorado. With per capita income 38% above Norfolk's, job opportunities and earning potential are better. If you can land work there, you'll likely earn more.
Cost of living is nearly identical. Overall, groceries, utilities, and day-to-day expenses run about the same. Your budget shouldn't need major adjustment.
Job market is stronger. Colorado's unemployment rate (4.1%) beats Norfolk's (7.3%) by a wide margin. That matters if you're job hunting.
Taxes are basically the same. Both states have around 5.5% income tax, so your paycheck won't look dramatically different.
Life in Colorado vs. Norfolk
Climate, population, safety, and weather are the big differences:
| Factor | Norfolk, VA | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 238,005 | 5.9 million |
| Summer high (avg) | 88°F | 86°F |
| Winter low (avg) | 33°F | 13°F |
| Annual rainfall | 47" | 16" |
| Annual snowfall | 5" | 63" |
| Crime index | 58.1 | 36.4 |
| Political lean | Democratic (72-26) | Democratic (54-46) |
Summers are nearly identical. Both hover around 86–88°F. You won't feel a major seasonal shock in summer.
Winters are significantly colder. Colorado dips to 13°F on average vs. Norfolk's 33°F. If you're not used to harsh winters, factor in higher heating costs and the mental adjustment to months of cold.
Colorado gets way more snow. 63 inches annually vs. Norfolk's 5 inches. That's scenic but comes with snow removal, more vehicle maintenance, and winter driving hazards.
Colorado is much drier. Only 16 inches of rain annually compared to Norfolk's 47. You'll see more sunny days and spend more time outdoors—but also deal with lower humidity and potential wildfire seasons.
Colorado is safer. Crime index of 36.4 vs. 58.1 in Norfolk. That difference is real.
Both areas lean Democratic politically, though Colorado is closer to the middle (54-46 vs. 72-26 in Norfolk).
Logistics Before You Move
Don't just book a mover and call it done. Handle these details:
HOA rules: If you're in a community with an HOA, confirm moving restrictions or elevator reservation requirements before scheduling.
Truck parking permits: Some Colorado cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check local regulations in your destination neighborhood.
State licensing: Colorado moving regulations are overseen by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC). Verify your mover is licensed—it's not optional.
Moving permits: Colorado doesn't require a moving permit statewide, but always confirm local parking rules at your new address.
Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before moving. Set an official move date so mail gets forwarded properly.
Moving insurance: Your mover's standard liability covers 60 cents per pound per item—that's almost nothing for valuables. Ask about full-value protection or consider third-party moving insurance if you have high-value items.
Moving checklist: Use a structured moving checklist to stay organized. It keeps you from forgetting essentials and reduces move-day stress.
How Long Does This Move Take?
Typically, Norfolk to Colorado moves take 5–16 days door-to-door, depending on service type. Summer moves can stretch longer due to higher demand.
Confirm delivery timelines with your mover in writing. That way, you won't get blindsided by delays.
What to Do in Colorado
Museums & Gardens
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science
- Rosemount Museum
- Benson Park Sculpture Garden
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Sports Teams
- Denver Broncos (NFL)
- Denver Nuggets (NBA)
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
- Colorado Rockies (MLB)
Universities
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Colorado State University
- University of Denver
- United States Air Force Academy
FAQ
How long does a Norfolk to Colorado move actually take?
Most moves take 5–16 days. Summer moves can run longer because demand is high and trucks are fully booked. Always get a delivery window in writing.
Do Norfolk movers offer custom crating for art and antiques?
About 16 movers in the Norfolk area offer custom crating. If you have delicate or unusual items, confirm the mover can handle them before booking.
What's the best way to ship a car from Norfolk to Colorado?
Look for an auto transport service with solid reviews and vehicle care standards. Check carriers licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Why do people move from Norfolk to Colorado?
Primarily: better job market, higher incomes, outdoor recreation (skiing, hiking, national parks), and lower crime. Colorado's tech and energy sectors also attract relocating professionals.
Where do I find long-distance movers in Norfolk?
Start by comparing quotes from the top-rated operators. Get at least three estimates before deciding. Look for verifiable reviews, BBB ratings, and DOT licensing.
Do Norfolk movers accept cash?
A couple do, but cash is uncommon in the moving industry—companies prefer traceable payments. You'll pay a deposit upfront to secure your booking, then the balance on move day or delivery. Confirm payment methods with your mover.
More Moving Resources
Virginia moving services:
- Best Virginia movers
- Best Norfolk movers
- Long-distance movers in Norfolk
Popular routes from Virginia:
- Virginia to California
- Virginia to Florida
- Virginia to Georgia
- Virginia to New York
- Virginia to North Carolina
- Virginia to Texas
General guides:
Ready to move? Get instant quotes from Norfolk movers and compare costs side by side. Input your move details and see what each company actually charges. That's how you avoid surprises.