Best Moving Companies in California (2024)
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Whether you’re leaving California for a new home in a neighboring state, moving to it or across town, a professional moving company makes the process easier and safer. We researched some of the best moving companies in the United States and scored them using our detailed rating methodology. International Van Lines (IVL) is our top recommended moving company in California because of its comprehensive service selection and experience handling intrastate and long-distance moves to and from the state. Read on to learn more about why we chose IVL and our other picks for the best moving companies in California.
Best California Moving Companies of 2024
We evaluated moving companies on several crucial factors, such as services offered, insurance coverage, and reports from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Here are our six picks for the best moving companies in California:
Moving Long-Distance To or From California
Key factors to consider when hiring professional movers for a long-distance move to or from California include your move’s distance and route, as well as California’s diverse terrain. Experienced movers adeptly navigate California’s diverse landscapes, whether the Sierra Nevada mountains or the Mojave Desert, anticipating challenges such as varying weather conditions.
Expertise in cross-country logistics is vital, especially with California’s terrain. Movers experienced in long-haul journeys can efficiently handle challenges such as crossing the Rocky Mountains or navigating the Southwest’s arid deserts. Discussing special items and utilizing storage options provided by a professional mover also ensures the security of your belongings during any gaps between move-out and move-in dates. Coordinating timing and carefully managing scheduling help avoid delays. Finally, requesting detailed cost estimates from multiple moving companies ensures finding the best value for your budget amidst the potential expenses associated with long-distance moves.
Compliance with interstate regulations is paramount, particularly when crossing state lines. Familiarizing yourself with legal requirements such as vehicle registration and residency documentation is crucial. Researching healthcare options and insurance coverage and exploring the new community and lifestyle also aid in ensuring a seamless transition.
Moving Locally Within California
When moving within California, consider factors such as heavy traffic in major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. Professional movers often adjust schedules to avoid rush hour delays. California’s diverse terrain, including mountains and coastal regions, can challenge moving trucks. Communicate any access issues beforehand for a smooth move. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and discuss contingency plans with movers. Some California cities require permits for street parking during moves. Professional movers can assist in obtaining permits to prevent delays or fines.
California’s proximity to major ports and airports impacts logistics, especially for international or cross-state moves. Ports such as Long Beach and Oakland may require shipping containers or air freight, which experienced movers efficiently manage.
You can consider a reputable local moving company such as Gentle Giant Moving. It’s known for well-trained crews, specialized equipment, comprehensive services, including packing, loading, and unloading, and additional options such as storage and home staging.
What Should I Know About California Movers?
We recommend knowing the average cost of California moves, your insurance options, and the range of moving services available.
Our research shows that moving a three-bedroom home across state lines to California costs roughly $6,914.
Several key elements will influence your overall cost when hiring a professional moving company in California. Distance, size and weight of your belongings, insurance coverage, and other factors can all play a role in determining your final price. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when selecting a moving company that fits your budget and needs.
Moving insurance is crucial for protecting your belongings while relocating. Two insurance options are available: released value and full-value protection. Released value is included in the moving company’s service package but provides limited reimbursement based on the item’s weight.
Full-value protection offers reimbursement for the full replacement value of lost or damaged items, but it comes with an additional fee. Some people opt for third-party insurance policies offering customizable coverage options and higher reimbursement limits. Make informed decisions about your possessions’ value and choose the appropriate insurance to safeguard your belongings and minimize financial risks during the move.
According to our February 2024 survey of 1,000 customers who moved, 72% chose full-value coverage and found the extra charge worth the peace of mind it brought them.
There are a range of moving services available in California. Professional moving companies provide comprehensive, full-service packages covering all aspects of the relocation process. These services can include packing and unpacking assistance, furniture disassembly and reassembly, loading and unloading of belongings, transportation using specialized moving trucks, and temporary storage solutions. Full-service movers provide a hassle-free experience and allow you to focus on other aspects of your move.
Partial or customizable moving services are also available if you prefer a more hands-on approach or have budget constraints. These services enable you to choose specific assistance based on your needs and preferences. For example, you can opt for packing services only, where movers efficiently and securely pack your belongings using high-quality materials. Alternatively, you can choose loading and transportation services, where the moving company handles the heavy lifting and transportation of packed boxes and furniture.
Compare Moving Companies in California
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Carrier | Carrier | Carrier | Broker | Broker | Carrier |
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$5,250 | $5,625 | $5,631 | $5,054 | $4,683 | $7,171 |
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Up to 25% | Up to 50% | Up to 40% | Up to 33% | Varies | $250 |
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Summary |
We recommend International Van Lines (IVL) if you want the most moving service options possible. The company boasts one of the most extensive moving service catalogs at highly competitive rates. |
We recommend American Van Lines if you’re moving high-end items or antiques because it focuses on training its staff to move difficult and valuable items. |
We recommend Safeway Moving Inc. for condo or HOA residents. The company has a special focus and training on the regulations and problems that may arise with these moves. |
We recommend Interstate Moving & Relocation Group as a reputable broker if you need to move quickly. The company’s customer service is prompt, and its broker network helps you find a vetted mover fast. |
We recommend Moving APT because of its highly rated customer service and its ability to quickly provide you with multiple quotes for its partner companies. |
We recommend JK Moving Services for its ability to offer financing options through its partnership with Enhancify and its high-end, white-glove packing services. |
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Rating Categories |
International Van Lines | American Van Lines | Safeway Moving Inc. | Interstate Moving & Relocation Group | Moving APT | JK Moving Services |
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Note: Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings are accurate as of April 2024.
Top California Moving Companies
International Van Lines
Best Service Offerings
American Van Lines
Best Overall Moving Labor
Safeway Moving Inc.
Most Reliable Pricing
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Most Efficient
Moving APT
Best Customer Service
JK Moving Services
Best Specialized Packing
What Local California Moving Companies Should I Consider?
Our guide mainly focuses on national and interstate movers. Some of our picks offer local moving services in California, but numerous other reputable local movers are available.
- Gentle Giant Moving: This company is a top choice for local moves in California, thanks to its dedication to customer care and meticulous attention to detail. Its team of highly trained professionals ensures a seamless and stress-free relocation experience for every customer. The company features plenty of locations around San Francisco and the Bay Area.
- Mother Lode Van & Storage: This family-owned business has operated since 1975. It has a reputation for quality service at reasonable rates throughout the greater Sacramento and Northern California regions.
- NorthStar Moving: This California-based local moving company is renowned for its customer service and eco-friendly practices. It offers a wide range of services to meet individual needs, focusing on efficiency and attention to detail.
- Oz Moving & Storage: This company has over 25 years of experience and a reputation for professionalism and reliability. It offers comprehensive moving solutions tailored to fit any budget or schedule. Oz Moving & Storage is also known for its transparent pricing and commitment to customer satisfaction.
National van lines are an excellent choice for long-distance moves, while local California movers are better suited for those moving within the state. Local movers have a deeper knowledge of the area, can provide a more tailored experience, and are often more competitively priced for shorter moves.
What Determines a California Move’s Cost?
The cost of a move in California depends on several factors, such as distance, weight of your items, and the time of year. We’ve outlined two pricing structures for California moves to help you determine how much your move may cost.
Single-Day Moves
The size of your residence or the volume of items transported is the primary factor in determining single-day moving expenses in California. For instance, moving from a one-bedroom apartment may cost between $500 and $1,000, while relocating a three or four-bedroom home could cost between $1,200 and $2,500. In addition, the inclusion of additional services such as packing and unpacking, furniture disassembly and reassembly, or the handling of specialty items may also impact the overall cost.
Usually, rates start at around $100 per hour for a team of two to three movers, but there may be a minimum hourly requirement. Additionally, extra expenses such as truck fees and travel time to and from the moving company’s facility can contribute to the final price.
Multiday Moves
Embarking on a long-distance, multiday move to or from California can entail significant costs. The primary factors influencing the expense of such a relocation are the total weight of your belongings and the distance they must traverse. You should anticipate spending between $2,500 and $6,000 for relocating a two-to-three-bedroom home across multiple states. Expenses can easily surpass $10,000 for larger residences or cross-country moves.
The total weight and distance aren’t the sole determinants of the final cost. Several additional factors can impact the overall price tag. These include the following:
- Full packing services: Many moving companies provide professional packing services, which offer convenience but come at an additional cost.
- Home layout: Residences featuring multiple flights of stairs may incur extra charges.
- Insurance: Securing adequate coverage is imperative to safeguard belongings during long-distance moves. Moving companies typically present various protection levels, with comprehensive coverage plans entailing supplementary fees.
- Specialty services: Due to their value, fragility, or size, items such as antiques, pianos, or artwork may incur additional fees for specialized handling and transportation.
- Vehicle shipping: If the relocation entails transporting vehicles alongside household goods, expect the moving company to levy additional charges for this service.
We requested sample quotes from all the providers in our review and found that moving a three-bedroom home to California costs around $6,914. The table below details all our California sample moving quotes.
| Moving Company | Sample Quote | Deposit Required |
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| International Van Lines | $5,250–$7,688 | 25% |
| American Van Lines | $7,226 | Up to 50% |
| Safeway Moving Inc. | $6,722 | Up to 40% |
| Interstate Moving & Relocation Group | $3,900–$7,000 | Up to 33% |
| Moving APT | $1,575–$4,650 | Varies |
| JK Moving Services | $8,196 | $250 upfront |
Preparing for a California Move
Planning and executing a move in California involves creating a timeline and sticking to it as closely as possible. Here are the key steps to follow to ensure a seamless moving experience:
- Create a timeline: Initiate planning at least eight weeks before your scheduled move date. Develop a comprehensive timeline encompassing tasks such as researching and vetting moving companies, decluttering possessions, procuring moving supplies, arranging utility transfers, and updating addresses.
- Downsize: Conduct a thorough evaluation of your belongings, sorting items into categories of “keep,” “donate,” and “discard.” This decluttering process helps reduce moving costs and facilitates packing.
- Gather supplies: Stock up on essential moving supplies, including sturdy boxes in various sizes, bubble wrap, packing paper, labels, markers, and durable packing tape. Many reputable moving companies in California offer these supplies for purchase or rental, often at discounted rates.
- Obtain quotes and research companies: Reach out to at least three moving companies and schedule in-home estimates for accurate cost assessments. Utilize resources such as the FMCSA website to verify insurance and licensing details, ensuring you choose a reputable company.
- Transfer utilities: Coordinate the disconnection of utilities at your current residence and arrange for their reconnection at your new home, ensuring a seamless transition with minimal service interruptions.
- Change your address: Notify essential parties, including your employer, banks, subscriptions, insurance providers, and others, of your impending move. File an official change of address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) to guarantee uninterrupted mail forwarding.
- Pack strategically: Employ a systematic approach to packing. Label boxes by room and prioritize essential items for easy access upon arrival. Ensure valuables are securely packed, and consider transporting them personally or utilizing specialized moving services for added protection.
- Plan for pets: Make arrangements for the safe transportation of your pets. Secure appropriate carriers or crates and familiarize yourself with the moving company’s pet policies. Plan for necessary stops during the journey to accommodate your pets’ needs and comfort.
California Moving Timeline
How Can You Choose the Best Moving Company in California?
Our 2024 survey revealed that 74% of moving customers opted to hire a professional moving company because they wanted peace of mind, a more stress-free relocation, and a quicker and more efficient moving process. However, identifying the best moving company in California necessitates considering the answers to the following questions:
- Are the movers background-checked? Prioritize companies that conduct thorough background checks and provide comprehensive training for their staff. This practice ensures the safety and professionalism of the moving crew entrusted with handling your belongings.
- Did they provide accurate binding quotes? Seek in-home or virtual estimates from at least three companies. Reputable movers will dispatch a representative to assess the scope of your move and provide an accurate, binding quote.
- Do the movers have the right credentials? Confirm the credentials of your prospective movers. In California, local and in-state movers must hold a license issued by the California Department of Transportation, while interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA.
- Does the company have a good reputation? Conduct thorough research on various moving companies operating in California. Scrutinize online reviews, ratings, and customer testimonials to gauge their reputation and level of service excellence.
- What insurance coverage is available? Verify the moving company’s insurance policies and valuation procedures. Ensure it offers released value and full-value protection to safeguard your possessions throughout the relocation process.
- What is the company’s experience level? Inquire about a company’s expertise, particularly regarding specialized items such as pianos, antiques, or delicate furniture. Seasoned movers possess the requisite skills and equipment to transport such objects securely.
Our video shares more about how to check whether a moving company is trustworthy or not:
What Are My Moving Options in California?
Your moving options in California range from DIY approaches to full-service movers. Here’s a look at your options:
This service entails loading your possessions into a secure, portable container, which the moving company transports to your new residence. This is iIdeal for partial or long-distance moves, and container shipping allows for staged loading and unloading, offering flexibility to align with your moving timeline.
Truck rental services such as U-Haul empower you to take a hands-on approach by managing your belongings’ packing, loading, and transportation. DIY moves typically offer cost savings, ranging between $1,000 and $2,000, but they necessitate substantial physical exertion, additional expenses for packing supplies, and increased risks of damage without professional handling.
Specialized freight providers cater to individuals relocating oversized, heavy, or unique items such as vehicles, large furniture, or machinery. These companies ensure safe transportation over long distances while minimizing the risk of damage to your valuables.
Full-service moves involve professional movers managing every aspect of the relocation process. This move often includes the company supplying packing materials and having its team pack household items. The movers can also load and unload trucks, transport belongings, and even reassemble furniture at your new address. Full-service movers do everything, but they’re the most expensive.
Which Moving Company Is the Best in California?
Our top pick for moving services in California is International Van Lines due to its comprehensive offerings, including long-distance and local moving services. One feature we particularly appreciate is its adjustable, custom insurance plan, which protects your valuables during the move.
Consider factors such as the size of your move, overall distance, budget, and any fragile items you own when planning your California move. Get quotes from multiple moving companies to compare services and find the best fit for your needs.
FAQ About Moving Companies in California
Are there any items that moving companies in California can’t transport?
There are certain items that California’s moving companies typically don’t transport or have restrictions on transporting. Some common items they may refuse to transport or have special requirements include hazardous materials such as gasoline, propane tanks, paints, chemicals, or fireworks. Additionally, plants, vegetation, perishable foods, weapons, and ammunition may also be subject to restrictions.
Are there any additional fees I should know about when hiring a moving company?
If you’re planning to hire a moving company, remember that there may be additional fees you’ll need to pay. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Fuel surcharges: The moving company may charge a fuel surcharge to cover fuel costs for long-distance moves.
- Insurance: You may need insurance coverage to protect your belongings during the move, which comes at an additional cost.
- Packing and unpacking labor fees: If you need help packing and unpacking your belongings, the moving company may charge you extra for this service.
- Shuttle fees: If the moving truck can’t park near your residence, the company may need a shuttle service to transport your belongings, which may result in additional fees.
- Stair carry fees: If the movers have to carry your belongings up multiple flights of stairs, you may be charged extra for this service.
- Storage fees: If you need to store your belongings temporarily, the moving company may charge you for storage fees.
- Travel fees: If you’re moving a long distance, the moving company may charge you extra for travel expenses.
What is the best month to move in California?
Typically, moves from late September to April see lower rates. Demand for movers usually slows down during this time frame, so companies lower their rates to encourage customers to book with them.
What is the process for filing a complaint or addressing any issues with a moving company in California?
If you have an issue with an intrastate moving company, file a complaint with the California Department of Consumer Affairs Bureau of Household Goods and Services. You can file online or submit a written complaint form within 60 days of moving.
For interstate moves, file a complaint with the FMCSA’s Protect Your Move Program. You must submit the complaint within nine months after your delivery date.
Our Rating Methodology
We back up our moving company ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each company. We conduct research by reading through company websites, analyzing customer reviews, conducting consumer surveys, requesting quotes, and speaking with customer representatives. We then score each moving company against our review standards for services, contents coverage, scheduling, trailer and container options, additional benefits, and reputation to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
