How Much Movers Cost in California (Local & Long-Distance)
Local movers in California typically charge $491 to $1,484, and long-distance moves from $2,473 to $5,218. Final cost depends on volume, distance, and move type. Make sure to get free quotes from multiple California movers to get the most accurate estimate.
Compare the Cost of California Movers by Type
Compare Your Moving Options in California
Not sure which type of mover is right for you? Here’s a quick comparison of the most common moving options for California residents:
| Move type | Avg. cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠Local movers | $479 – $1,486 | In-town moves under 50 miles |
| 🚚 Long-distance movers | $2,482 – $5,381 | Interstate or full-service moves |
| 📦 Small load movers | $314 – $1,484 | Studio or 1-bedroom moves |
| 🚛 Truck rental | $38 – $94 per day + mileage | DIY moves on a tight budget |
| 📤 Moving containers | $487 – $4,992. | Flexible timing and mid-budget moves |
Cost of Local California Movers
If you’re planning a local move within California, expect to pay $475 to $1,485 in cities like Los Angeles. Costs vary depending on home size, hourly crew rate, and services like packing or furniture handling.
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
All Star Movers & Storage
101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA, 94568
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 216
- Founded: 2016
- State License: 0191302
- Phone: (925) 905-9889
- Address: 101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA, 94568
Services Offered
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Climate controlled storage
- Crating
- Full service
- Full valuation coverage
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- Unpacking
Meathead Movers
3600 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 297
- Founded: 1999
- State License: 189849
- Phone: (805) 544-6328
- Address: 3600 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
Services Offered
- Cancellation policy
- Full service
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Pay by credit card
- Storage
- Unpacking
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.
274 Wattis Way, South San Francisco, CA, 94080
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 464
- Founded: 2011
- State License: 0190673
- Phone: (415) 404-7400
- Address: 274 Wattis Way, South San Francisco, CA, 94080
Services Offered
- Antiques
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Crating
- 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
- Storage
- Unpacking
Best California Movers
15 Hubble, Irvine, CA, 92591
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 254
- Founded: 2020
- State License: T0192283
- Address: 15 Hubble, Irvine, CA, 92591
Services Offered
- Cancellation policy
- Crating
- Deposit required
- Full service
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Labor only
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Small moves
- Storage
- Unpacking
Grace Moving Company
800 Janopaul Lane, Modesto, CA, 95351
Company Info
- BBB Rating: A
- Reviews analyzed: 231
- Founded: 2000
- State License: 0189642
- Phone: (209) 821-1520
- Address: 800 Janopaul Lane, Modesto, CA, 95351
Services Offered
- Antiques
- Art
- Cancellation policy
- Crating
- Full service
- Instant email quote
- Interstate
- Intrastate
- Other discounts
- Packing
- Packing materials available
- Pay by credit card
- Piano
- 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 Below are some moving cost estimates from popular cities in California.
Cost To Move a 1-Bedroom Home Long-Distance From California
| From | To | Distance (Miles) | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA | Las Vegas, NV | 265 | $1,142 – $2,936 |
| San Diego, CA | El Paso, TX | 628 | $1,815 – $3,659 |
| San Diego, CA | Queens, NY | 2,444 | $2,625 – $5,089 |
Cost To Move a 2-3 Bedroom Home Long-Distance From California
| From | To | Distance (Miles) | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camp Pendleton North, CA | Tucson, AZ | 377 | $1,864 – $4,222 |
| Camp Pendleton North, CA | Spokane, WA | 990 | $2,428 – $5,983 |
| Camp Pendleton North, CA | Boston, MA | 2,573 | $3,727 – $6,732 |
Cost To Move a 3-4 Bedroom Home Long-Distance From California
| From | To | Distance (Miles) | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA | Mesa, AZ | 313 | $2,399 – $5,649 |
| San Diego, CA | El Paso, TX | 628 | $3,949 – $6,771 |
| San Diego, CA | San Antonio, TX | 1,128 | $4,557 – $7,678 |
Top Interstate Movers in California
1. Safeway Moving
Founded in 2020 in Florida, Safeway Moving has rapidly earned a reputation as a leading and reliable company in the industry. Safeway is dedicated to offering quick and efficient moves at competitive prices. Beyond their regular 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. American Van Lines
American Van Lines is a Florida-based moving company with experienced crews skilled in long-distance moves. They offer packing, storage, and special care for items such as antiques and pianos. Operating across the continental U.S., they guarantee flat-rate pricing to prevent unexpected charges.
3. International Van Lines
International Van Lines, established in 2000, is a top moving company working worldwide in more than 180 countries. They handle local, long-distance, and international moves and offer services like packing, car transport, and 30 days of free storage. IVL is recognized for its outstanding customer service, affordable rates, and discounts for seniors and veterans.
4. Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation is a family-run moving business with branches on the East Coast. They focus on customer satisfaction by offering 24/7 support, fixed flat-rate pricing, 30 days of free storage, and full refunds for cancellations made at least seven days before the move. Mayzlin manages long-distance moves in 48 states and local moves in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas. Their 24/7 customer support guarantees dependable communication.
5. BLVD Moving
BLVD Moving, located in California, focuses on both local and long-distance moves throughout the U.S. This family-owned business highlights affordability, providing binding estimates and quotes on the same day. They offer services like packing, furniture assembly, storage coordination, and safe handling of fragile items. BLVD uses only full-time professional movers, without subcontracting, and allows flexible rescheduling. Their quick quoting process and dependable service make them unique.
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 $312 – $1,490, 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 smart option for moving small loads, thanks to its pricing based on the space you use in their containers. The “you load, we drive” approach saves money and works well for moves with fewer items. U-Pack provides fast delivery, covers the entire country, and allows online tracking, making it convenient and dependable. However, U-Pack doesn’t do local moves, limits loading and unloading to three business days, and charges fees for cancellations within a week of moving.
2. Transit Systems Inc.
Transit Systems, Inc. (TSI) from Pennsylvania focuses on small moves and long-distance shipping of fragile, valuable, or large items. They offer services like careful packing, custom crates, car transport, and set delivery dates. Established in 1989, TSI is known for being dependable and customer-focused across the U.S. They are perfect for moves involving one to two bedrooms, offering clear pricing based on your needs.
3. uShip
uShip is an online platform that links customers with drivers and movers who have available space in their trucks. It’s a budget-friendly choice for small moves, furniture, vehicle transport, or equipment shipping. With a pay-as-you-go system, customers can list their needs and receive competitive bids. Perfect for those with flexible schedules, uShip can also reduce costs for long-distance and interstate moves. However, prices and service quality can differ based on the independent driver offering their services on uShip.
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. Budget
Budget Truck Rental operates across all 50 states and offers a user-friendly online reservation system. They simplify DIY moving by avoiding extra fees. Their base rates are among the best in the industry and include unlimited mileage for long-distance trips. Additionally, they provide discounts for students, military members, and AARP members. They offer various truck sizes suitable for anything from studio apartments to entire household moves.
2. Penske
Penske Truck Rental provides dependable and cost-effective moving trucks with the assurance of 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 extra mileage fees. You can select from various truck sizes and additional options like towing gear and moving supplies. Penske also offers seasonal deals and discounts for military personnel, AAA members, and students, making self-managed moves more affordable.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul offers convenient access to rental trucks across the U.S. With over 20,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada, they boast a wide range of vehicles, from cargo vans and pickups to trucks between 10 and 26 feet. Local rentals are charged by the mile, while long-distance moves include a set mileage allowance. You can also choose extras like trailer rentals, moving containers, and self-storage units to tailor your move according to your requirements.
Cost of Moving Containers in California
Moving containers cost anywhere from $490 – $4,988, depending on factors like container size and distance.
Top Moving Container Companies in California
1. PODS
PODS provides portable containers for flexible storage and DIY moving, letting customers pack at their own speed without tight schedules. The containers come in three sizes: eight, 12, and 16 feet, and are rented monthly. This includes storage time, which is ideal for those needing flexibility around a move. PODS offers local and long-distance moving options across all U.S. states except Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming.
2. U-Pack
U-Pack is available nationwide and offers simple pricing that combines affordability with convenience. Customers only pay for the space they use in the 28-foot trailers or ReloCubes, keeping costs low. Unlike rental trucks, U-Pack includes fuel, driving, and transport, so you just have to worry about packing and unpacking. With no monthly storage fees, pricing depends on transit. U-Pack’s tough, weather-resistant containers and fast service help ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home.
Moving Cost Factors in California
- Distance: Longer moves are more expensive because they use more fuel, take more driver time, and may include toll costs. Local moves are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves are priced based on the weight of the items and the distance traveled.
- Home size and volume of belongings: Bigger homes take more time to move and often need more movers and a larger truck, which raises the costs for labor and equipment.
- Access challenges: Additional charges might occur if there are long distances to carry items, the use of stairs or elevators, or if restricted parking needs a shuttle. Movers increase fees when it’s hard to access your home.
- Specialty items: Moving pianos, antiques, safes, or artwork usually needs special care or crating, increasing your total cost.
- Add-ons and services: Services such as packing, unpacking, storage, or assembling furniture can raise your costs but will save you time and reduce stress.
- Season and timing: Moving is most expensive in the summer, on weekends, and at the end of the month because many people are moving. You’re likely to find cheaper rates on weekdays or during less busy times like winter.
- Insurance coverage: Basic coverage is often included, but for better protection of valuable items, opt for full-value protection or third-party insurance at an additional cost.
- Storage needs: If you need storage for a short or long time, plan to pay more, especially for climate-controlled spaces or longer periods.
Tips To Cut Moving Costs in California
- Move during the off-season. Movers usually charge higher rates during the busy summer months and on weekends. If you can, plan your move between mid-September and early May to benefit from less demand and better availability.
- Declutter before you pack. The fewer things you move, the cheaper it will be, especially for long-distance moves where cost depends on weight. Donate, sell, or get rid of stuff you don’t need. A yard sale or selling online can help reduce your moving expenses.
- Do your own packing. Hiring movers to pack is convenient, but it can raise your costs a lot. To save money, pack yourself with supplies you have or get free boxes from local stores or friends.
- Compare quotes from multiple movers. Get quotes from at least three licensed companies to compare prices, services, and availability. Some movers might match competitor prices or offer bundled discounts.
- Ask about available discounts. Many movers provide discounts for students, military members, seniors, educators, and first responders. They may also have seasonal promotions, so it’s a good idea to ask when you call for a quote.
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 factors like home size, distance, and moving date.
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 mover per hour. Tipping is optional but encouraged for good 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, driving, and unloading yourself. This avoids labor fees but requires more effort.
When is the cheapest time to move in California?
The cheapest time to move in California is during the off-season (October through March), on a weekday, and mid-month when demand is lowest.
Should I hire movers or rent a truck in California?
If you’re moving locally and want to save money, renting a truck may be cheaper. But for long distances or if you want less stress, hiring full-service movers can be worth the cost.
How far in advance should I book movers in California?
Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance for local moves and 8 weeks for long-distance moves to ensure availability and better pricing.
Are movers in California required to be licensed?
Yes. Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA. For in-state moves in California, licensing depends on state regulations, but reputable companies should be insured and bonded.
What if my movers damage or lose something?
All licensed movers are required to offer basic liability protection, but this only covers $0.60 per pound per item. You can purchase full-value protection or third-party insurance for better coverage.