đź’ˇHere’s the bottom line: Local moves in California typically cost $481 – $1,488 depending on size and time. Long-distance moves out of the Golden State range from $2,462 – $5,879 based on mileage, weight, and services.
We recommend getting free quotes from multiple California movers to get the most accurate estimate.
Compare the cost of California movers by type:
Moving Cost Factors in California
- Distance: Longer moves are more expensive because of higher fuel use, longer driver hours, and possible toll fees. Local moves are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves depend on weight and distance.
- Home size and volume of belongings: Bigger homes take more time to move and need more movers and a larger truck, leading to higher labor and equipment costs.
- Access challenges: Additional charges might be added for long-distance carries, stairs, elevators, or limited parking that needs a shuttle. Movers increase their fees when it’s hard to access your home.
- Specialty items: Transporting pianos, antiques, safes, or artwork usually needs special care or crating, increasing your total cost.
- Add-ons and services: Optional services such as packing, unpacking, storage, or furniture disassembly and reassembly will cost more but can save you time and reduce stress.
- Season and timing: Moving during summer, weekends, and the end of the month is costly due to high demand. You’ll usually find better rates on weekdays or during off-peak times like winter.
- Insurance coverage: Basic coverage is usually included, but you can get better protection for valuable items with full-value protection or third-party insurance at an extra cost.
- Storage needs: If you need storage for a short or long time, be prepared to pay more, especially if you want climate control or need it for a long period.
Tips To Cut Moving Costs in California
- Move during the off-season. Movers usually cost more in the summer and on weekends. To save money, try to move between mid-September and early May when demand is lower.
- Declutter before you pack. The less you move, the less you’ll pay, especially for long-distance moves where costs depend on weight. Get rid of items you don’t need by donating, selling, or throwing them away. A yard sale or online sales can help reduce your moving expenses.
- Do your own packing. Hiring movers to pack is convenient, but it can be expensive. Save money by packing yourself with supplies you already have or by getting free boxes from local stores or friends.
- Compare quotes from multiple movers. Obtain quotes from a minimum of three licensed companies to compare prices, services, and availability. Some movers might match competitors’ prices or offer bundled discounts.
- Ask about available discounts. Many movers provide discounts for students, military members, seniors, educators, and first responders. They might also have seasonal promotions, so it’s worth asking about them when you request a quote.
Cost of Local California Movers
The cost of local movers in California varies based on where you live in the state, as well as your home size, and the services you select. On average, expect to pay $478 – $1,493 for a local move in cities like Los Angeles.
The prices below are estimates for local moves (typically 50 miles or less) and are based on the average hourly rate of $122.44 for a moving crew in California.
| Home size | Avg. total cost | # of movers | # hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $367 | 2 movers | 3 hours |
| 1 bedroom | $490 | 2 movers | 4 hours |
| 2 bedrooms | $612 | 3 movers | 5 hours |
| 3 bedrooms | $980 | 4 movers | 8 hours |
| 4 bedrooms | $1102 | 4 movers | 9 hours |
| 5+ bedrooms | $1224 | 5 movers | 10 hours |
Top Local Movers in California
Meathead Movers
2905 Unicorn Rd, Bakersfield, CA, 93308
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 48
- Founded: 1998
- State License: 0189849
- Phone: (661) 335-6191
- Address: 2905 Unicorn Rd, Bakersfield, CA, 93308
Services Offered
- Cancellation policy
- Full service
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Storage
- Unpacking
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
8362 Galena Ave, Sacramento, CA, 95828
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 354
- Founded: 2005
- State License: 0190058
- Phone: (916) 596-9374
- Address: 8362 Galena Ave, Sacramento, CA, 95828
Services Offered
- Cancellation policy
- Full service
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Junk removal
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Safes
- Storage
- Unpacking
Grizzly Moving
7090 Miramar Rd #102, San Diego, CA, 92121
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A
- Reviews analyzed: 396
- Founded: 2017
- State License: 0191376
- Phone: (844) 474-9959
- Address: 7090 Miramar Rd #102, San Diego, CA, 92121
Services Offered
- Antiques
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Climate controlled storage
- Crating
- Deposit required
- Full service
- Full valuation coverage
- Hot tub
- Instant email quote
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Pool table
- Safes
- Small moves
- Storage
- Unpacking
Rigo’s Moving Company Inc
4385 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90023
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 300
- Founded: 2015
- State License: 0191663
- Phone: (323) 519-2845
- Address: 4385 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90023
Services Offered
- Antiques
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Crating
- Full service
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Pool table
- Small moves
- Storage
- Unpacking
House to Home Moving
8974 Greenback Ln, Orangevale, CA, 95662
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 168
- Founded: 2012
- State License: 0190786
- Phone: (916) 484-1144
- Address: 8974 Greenback Ln, Orangevale, CA, 95662
Services Offered
- Antiques
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Crating
- Deposit required
- Fragile only packing
- Full service
- Full valuation coverage
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Pay by money order
- Piano
- Pool table
- Safes
- Storage
- Unpacking
See a list of all the best movers in California
Cost of Long-Distance Moves in California
Long-distance moves in California are calculated based on weight, mileage, and the selected services and add-ons like packing. The cost for a move within 500 miles ranges from $2,468 – $4,465, while moves over 1,000 miles may cost up to $6,000 or more.
Top Interstate Movers in California
1. Safeway Moving
Started in Florida in 2020, Safeway Moving has rapidly gained a reputation as a popular and trusted moving company. Safeway is known for its efficient and timely moves at fair prices. Along with their full-service options, they offer 24/7 customer support, flat-rate pricing, a price-match guarantee, and special discounts and resources for seniors.
The company can handle long-distance relocations in all 50 U.S. states, as well as international moves.
2. International Van Lines
International Van Lines, established in 2000, is a top moving company with operations in more than 180 countries. They handle local, long-distance, and international moves, provide packing services, car transport, and offer 30 days of free storage. IVL is recognized for great customer service, fair prices, and discounts for seniors and veterans.
3. Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation, a family-owned moving company, has locations on the East Coast. They focus on customer satisfaction by offering 24/7 support, flat-rate pricing, 30 days of free storage, and full refunds for cancellations made a week in advance. They manage long-distance moves in 48 states and local moves in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas. With 24/7 support, Mayzlin ensures reliable communication.
4. BLVD Moving
BLVD Moving, located in California, handles both local and long-distance moving across the U.S. As a family-owned business, they focus on affordability, offering binding estimates and same-day quotes. Their services cover packing, furniture assembly, storage coordination, and the care of fragile items. BLVD uses full-time professional movers and does not rely on subcontractors. They offer flexible rescheduling and are known for their efficient quoting process and dependable service.
5. American Van Lines
American Van Lines, based in Florida, is a full-service moving company with skilled crews and expertise in long-distance moves. They offer packing, storage, and special handling for items like antiques and pianos. They serve the entire continental U.S. and guarantee flat-rate pricing to prevent unexpected charges.
Cost of Small Load Movers in California
Small load movers are ideal for moves under 2,000 pounds, such as a studio or small one-bedroom apartment. Costs range from $303 – $1,483, depending on the specifics of your move. Factors like how far you’re moving, the types of items you have, and whether you choose any add-on options will impact your price.
Top Small Load Movers in California
1. U-Pack
U-Pack is a top option for small-load moves thanks to its flexible pricing. You only pay for the space you fill in their containers. The “you load, we drive” system is affordable and perfect for moving minimal items. U-Pack provides quick delivery, serves the entire country, and offers online tracking for convenience and reliability. However, it doesn’t cover local moves, limits loading and unloading to three business days, and charges a fee if you cancel within a week of your move.
2. Transit Systems Inc.
Transit Systems, Inc. (TSI) from Pennsylvania focuses on small moves, long-distance relocations, and shipping delicate, valuable, oversized, or heavy items. They offer a range of services such as white-glove packing, custom crating, car shipping, and guaranteed delivery dates. Since 1989, TSI has been reliable and known for great customer service in the contiguous U.S. Perfect for one- to two-bedroom moves, they offer clear pricing with customized quotes.
3. uShip
uShip is a website that links customers with drivers and movers who have extra room in their trucks. It’s a budget-friendly choice for small moves, furniture, vehicles, or equipment transport. Customers can list their needs and receive bids through a pay-as-you-go system. uShip is great for those with flexible schedules and can save on long-distance and interstate moves. However, prices and service quality can differ based on the driver you choose.
Cost To Rent a Moving Truck in California
Renting a truck in California costs $30-$100 per day, plus mileage fees and fuel costs. Popular rental companies often charge additional fees for one-way trips.
Top Moving Truck Rentals in California
1. Penske
Penske Truck Rental provides cost-effective and dependable moving trucks with roadside assistance and guaranteed reservations for both local and long-distance DIY moves. They offer clear pricing and unlimited mileage for one-way trips, eliminating any extra mileage fees. You can choose from a variety of truck sizes and add-ons, such as towing equipment and moving supplies. Penske also offers seasonal promotions and discounts for military, AAA members, and students, helping you save more on your move.
2. Budget
Budget Truck Rental has branches in every state and a simple online booking system, making DIY moving easier without extra fees. They offer some of the best base rates, including unlimited mileage for long-distance moves, and provide discounts for students, military members, and AARP members. Their trucks come in various sizes to fit everything from studio apartments to entire homes.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul makes renting a truck simple across the U.S. and Canada. With over 20,000 locations, they offer a wide range of vehicles, from cargo vans and pickups to 10- to 26-foot trucks. Local rentals charge by the mile, while long-distance rentals include a set mileage. You can also add trailer rentals, moving containers, and self-storage units to tailor your move.
Cost of Moving Containers in California
Moving containers cost anywhere from $489 – $4987, depending on factors like container size and distance.
Top Moving Container Companies in California
1. PODS
PODS provides portable storage and DIY moving solutions, letting customers pack without tight deadlines. Their containers come in three sizes: eight, 12, and 16 feet, rented monthly. This pricing includes storage time, ideal for flexible moving schedules. PODS services cover local and long-distance moves across the U.S., except in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming.
2. U-Pack
U-Pack is available nationwide and has clear pricing, making it both affordable and convenient. Costs stay low because you pay only for the space you use in their 28-foot trailers or smaller ReloCubes. Unlike rental trucks, fuel, driving, and transport are included, so you only need to pack and unload. There are no monthly storage fees—pricing is based on the transit. U-Pack’s sturdy, weatherproof containers and fast delivery help ensure your items remain safe during the move.
California Moving Regulations and Your Consumer Rights
If you’re hiring professional movers in California, it’s important to understand your rights and what rules moving companies must follow. Knowing the basics can help you avoid scams, overcharges, and damaged items.
Licensing Requirements
All interstate moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid USDOT number. You can look up a mover’s credentials using the FMCSA’s mover search tool.
Estimate rules and pricing transparency
Movers are required to provide a written estimate — either binding (a fixed price) or non-binding (an estimate that may change based on actual weight and services). For interstate moves, FMCSA regulations apply. For local moves in California, companies often charge by the hour, and you should receive a breakdown of labor, travel time, and any extra fees.
Your rights if something goes wrong
- Loss or damage: All licensed movers are required to offer basic liability protection, which typically covers $0.60 per pound per item. This is minimal coverage, so you may want to purchase full-value protection for valuable belongings.
- Filing a complaint: If you’re unsatisfied with your mover, you can file a complaint with the FMCSA for interstate moves or with the California Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for in-state moves.
- Dispute resolution: Reputable movers in California will offer arbitration or formal dispute resolution for claims that can’t be resolved directly. Be sure to ask how they handle claims before signing a contract.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire professional movers in California?
It costs $122.44 per hour, on average, to hire professional movers in California. Your specific costs will depend on cost factors like how much stuff you have, as well as when and where you are relocating.
How much should I tip movers in California?
You should tip movers between 10% and 20% of the total cost — or about $5-$10 per moving crew member for each hour they work. Tipping movers is not mandatory but is considered a customary gesture if you are satisfied with the service.
What is the cheapest way to move in California?
The cheapest way to move in California is to rent a moving truck and handle loading and transportation on your own.