Here’s the bottom line: Whether you are looking for a local or a long-distance mover in California, we got you covered. In this guide, you’ll find the best moving companies in the Golden State, picked based on things like services, ease-of-use, and real feedback from folks who’ve been in your shoes.
Top 10 Local California Movers
Here are our ratings of the 10 best local moving companies in California
- Grace Moving Company, 4.9 out of 5.0
- Meathead Movers, 4.9 out of 5.0
- Grizzly Moving, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Luigy’s Moving & Storage, 4.8 out of 5.0
- West Coast Moving Systems, Inc, 4.8 out of 5.0
- All Reasons Moving & Storage, 4.8 out of 5.0
- Seka Moving, 4.8 out of 5.0
- One Stop Moving & Storage, 4.8 out of 5.0
- Magic Moving & Storage, 4.8 out of 5.0
- House to Home Moving, 4.8 out of 5.0
Grace Moving Company
- BBB Rating: A
- Reviews analyzed: 262
- Years in business: 1998
- State License: 0189642
- Phone: (209) 551-7772
- Address: 800 Janopaul Lane, Modesto, CA, 95351
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been offering superior moving services since 1998, becoming a leading name in both the local and long-distance residential moving industry. Alongside residential moves, they also excel in office relocations, delivering a seamless transition with minimal interruption to business operations. With their comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, they stand out from other local movers. Grace Moving Company demonstrates an unmatched expertise in handling specialty items, including pianos, artwork, and antiques, ensuring a safe relocation of your prized possessions. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making your move even more stress-free. Their excellent customer service record is evident with over 300 combined reviews on Yelp and Google My Business, maintaining an impressive average rating of 4.6. Moreover, they are accredited with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, further establishing their credibility and commitment to client satisfaction.
Meathead Movers
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 311
- Years in business: 1997
- State License: 189849
- Phone: (805) 544-6328
- Address: 3600 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
Meathead Movers, with over two decades of experience, has been demonstrating a record of excellence in the moving industry since 1997. Stationed in San Luis Obispo, CA, they not only cater to local residential moves but also long-distance and office relocations, positioning them as a versatile option compared to their local counterparts. Their comprehensive service suite includes packing and unpacking services, which is a convenience most nearby movers fail to offer. They make transactions easy by accepting credit cards, and their policy of no upfront deposit sets them apart from the rest. With an impressive 326 Yelp reviews averaging a 4.2 rating, 200 Google reviews at a 4.3 average, and a rock-solid Better Business Bureau rating of A+, Meathead Movers projects a strong image of reliability and customer satisfaction. Compared to other moving companies around, their reputation and credentials put them in the upper echelon of the industry.
Grizzly Moving
- BBB Rating: A
- Reviews analyzed: 396
- Years in business: 2016
- State License: 0191376
- Phone: (844) 474-9959
- Address: 7090 Miramar Rd #102, San Diego, CA, 92121
Grizzly Moving, a high-performing moving company, has been serving the San Diego, CA, region with superior residential and office moving services since 2015. With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, Grizzly Moving not only provides local services, but also extends its expertise to long-distance residential moves. The company stands ahead of its nearby competitors with a comprehensive service, offering packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized labor only services. Notable for their ability to move heavy and valuable items such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art pieces, antiques, and safes, Grizzly Moving also offers crane vans and storage solutions. Their commitment to transparency is underlined by their acceptance of credit cards and requirement of a deposit upfront, while their assurance of quality comes with full valuation insurance coverage. Testaments to their superior services, Grizzly Moving boasts a laudable average rating of 4.8 from 364 Yelp reviews, and 4.9 from 74 Google My Business reviews. Their excellence is further recognized with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, reinforcing Grizzly Moving’s position as a top-tier choice amongst its contemporaries.
Luigy’s Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 89
- Years in business: 2001
- State License: 0192210
- Phone: (415) 413-4646
- Address: 5550 Mission St, San Francisco, CA, 94112
With two decades of experience in the industry, Luigy’s Moving & Storage sets a high standard for moving services in San Francisco, CA, and beyond. They offer an impressive suite of services, exceeding many local competitors, including residential and office moving, both local and long-distance. Their skilled team specializes in handling difficult items like pianos, hot tubs, art, and antiques, ensuring these precious assets are transported safely. They are not only a cash-accepting business but also accept credit cards for a smoother moving process.
A required deposit along with full valuation insurance coverage provides clients with peace of mind, knowing their property is protected. In the highly competitive moving industry, Luigy’s Moving & Storage stands out with gleaming customer reviews averaging 4.7 on both Yelp and Google My Business, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. From providing the labor-only service to packing, unpacking, and crating, their comprehensive offerings make them an ideal choice for those on the move.
West Coast Moving Systems, Inc
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 561
- Years in business: 2007
- State License: 0192456
- Phone: (510) 430-2667
- Address: 745 85th Ave, Oakland, CA, 94621
West Coast Moving Systems, Inc. is a distinguished moving company that has been serving the Oakland, CA area since 2006. They outshine their competitors with a broad range of services including local, long distance, and international residential moving services. They also cater to office relocations and provide beneficial services such as packing, crating, and unpacking. Unique amongst its peers, West Coast Moving Systems also offers fragile only packing and labor only services, and they are even equipped to handle specialized items like pianos and art. The company is very modern and accepts both credit card and cryptocurrency payments, though a deposit is required. They provide full valuation insurance coverage, assuring clients of their comprehensive protection. The company’s reputation is evident in their 476 reviews listed on Yelp and 51 on Google My Business, with impressive average ratings of 4.8 and 4.7 respectively. They have also earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, further emphasizing their commitment to excellence.
All Reasons Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 257
- Years in business: 1991
- State License: 0189789
- Phone: (408) 240-0244
- Address: 600 E Trimble Rd, San Jose, CA, 95131
All Reasons Moving & Storage is a seasoned company that has been serving the San Jose, CA area since 1991, successfully distinguishing itself among local movers with its comprehensive array of services. These range from local, long-distance, and even international residential moves, to more specific offerings such as office moving, packing and unpacking, and specialised crating services. Unique to many competitors, All Reasons Moving & Storage also handles delicate items like pianos, art, and antiques with utmost care. They stand out as a customer-friendly firm that accepts credit cards and requires no upfront deposits. In terms of customer feedback, their reputation is impressive, boasting a 4.6 average rating from 247 Yelp reviews and a 4.8 average from 35 Google My Business reviews. Their commitment to quality and professionalism has earned them an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, marking them as a trusted and reliable moving service provider in the region.
Seka Moving
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 17
- Years in business: 2019
- State License: 0192497
- Phone: (323) 483-4288
- Address: 355 S Grand Ave Suite 2450, Los Angeles, CA, 90071
Seka Moving is a premier moving company based in Los Angeles, CA, providing a comprehensive range of services since 2018. In contrast to other local firms, Seka Moving proudly extends its offerings beyond traditional residential and office relocations to include long-distance moves. Their full-spectrum of services, from packing to unpacking, crating or even fragile-only packing, puts them a cut above the rest.
While many companies balk at the prospect of moving items of significant size or value, Seka Moving skillfully handles pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art pieces, antiques, and even grandfather clocks. They have garnered sterling reviews, earning a 4.5 average rating on Yelp from 21 reviews, and a remarkable 4.9 from 137 Google My Business reviews. With a solid Better Business Bureau rating of A, their credibility is indisputable.
Payment flexibility is another plus, with options to pay using money orders, cash, or credit cards. Although a deposit is required, the peace of mind offered by full valuation insurance coverage far surpasses many other moving companies in the area. With their customer-first approach, it’s clear that Seka Moving not only moves belongings but also lives up to high customer satisfaction expectations.
One Stop Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A
- Reviews analyzed: 399
- Years in business: 2010
- State License: 0190616
- Phone: (858) 633-8600
- Address: 6260 Marindustry Dr STE B, San Diego, CA, 92121
One Stop Moving & Storage stands as a premium moving company headquartered in San Diego, CA. Established in 2009, it offers a gamut of services, setting itself apart from many of its local competitors. Alongside local and long distance residential moving, it also caters to office relocations, seamlessly facilitating professional transitions. Embodies a comprehensive ‘A to Z’ approach to moving, offering packing, unpacking, crating, and even labor-only services, outranking other service providers. One Stop Moving & Storage also specializes in handling fragile and valuable items like pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, artwork, antiques, and safes. They accept credit card payments and require an initial deposit. They ensure customer peace of mind with full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking. Their reputation is further bolstered by their impressive online presence, reflected by a high average rating of 4.5 on Yelp from 6 reviews and an average of 4.3 on Google My Business from 169 reviews. They are also proud holders of an ‘A’ rating from the Better Business Bureau, solidifying One Stop Moving & Storage as a leading player in the moving industry.
Magic Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 115
- Years in business: 1996
- State License: 0190231
- Phone: (925) 357-8077
- Address: 110 Player Ct #2, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598
Magic Moving & Storage surpasses its competitors in the Walnut Creek, CA area with a wide range of services. Since its inception in 1996, the company has earned a reputation for its comprehensive selection of moving services. They cater not only to local and long-distance residential moves, but also offer international moving and office relocation services.
Compared to other movers, Magic Moving & Storage sets itself apart by offering packing, unpacking and crating services, ensuring your items receive the utmost care. They also specialize in moving valuable and delicate items like pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes.
As far as payment options, this company is flexible, accepting cash, credit cards, and money orders. They stand out from their rivals by not requiring a deposit upfront, providing full valuation insurance coverage, and offering shipment tracking.
On various review platforms, Magic Moving & Storage has received favorable feedback. Their Yelp profile boasts 116 reviews with an average rating of 3.5, while their Google My Business profile exceeds this with a rating of 4.7 from 62 reviews. They also hold an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This shows that compared to other moving companies in the region, Magic Moving & Storage is not only reliable and versatile, but also a customer-centered business.
House to Home Moving
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 152
- Years in business: 2011
- State License: 0190786
- Phone: (916) 484-1144
- Address: 8974 Greenback Ln, Orangevale, CA, 95662
House to Home Moving, operating since 2010, is a comprehensive moving solution based in Orangevale, CA, excelling in local and long-distance residential moves. They also specialize in office relocation, offering a myriad of services that raise the bar for nearby competitors. In addition to essential packing and unpacking services, they provide specialized crating, fragile-only packing, and even crane vans for complex moving tasks. They stand out for their ability to safely transport delicate items, from pianos and pool tables to art and antiques—even grandfather clocks and safes. In a stark contrast to some moving companies, they offer diverse payment options including cash, credit cards, and money orders, and require a deposit upfront. Their consistent full valuation insurance coverage underscores a strong commitment to customer protection. House to Home’s reputation for quality service is reflected in their copious online reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.5 on Yelp from nearly 150 reviews and 4.7 on Google My Business from over 130 reviews, as well as an impressive A+ Better Business Bureau rating. If necessary, they also provide storage solutions, demonstrating an overall flexibility and readiness to cater to unique customer needs.
Top 10 Options if Moving Out of California
If you are moving out of California, we recommend using an interstate moving company. Here are the top options:
1. Safeway Moving Inc.
Safeway Moving Inc., located in Florida, offers long-distance moving services across all 50 states. The company operates both as a carrier and a broker, using its own teams and carefully selected third-party agents for these tasks. While specializing in long-distance moves, Safeway also promotes its international relocation services. On its website, Safeway emphasizes its values of integrity, accountability, and communication. The company also supports senior citizens, training move coordinators to give additional assistance during senior moves.
Learn more about Safeway Moving
2. American Van Lines
American Van Lines is the last full-service mover we recommend. They focus on moving challenging items. Their team trains in a mock home to ensure your possessions are safe during the move.
Learn more about American Van Lines
3. North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines is a comprehensive moving company handling local, long-distance, and international moves of any size. They operate in all 50 states and over 130 countries with a network of more than 500 local movers. The company has made the claims process easier with quick online access to forms and information. Their website has distinct sections for international and domestic claims. Customers can also file claims by phone through a dedicated claims support team, separate from general customer service.
Learn more about North American Van Lines
4. JK Moving Services
JK Moving Services offers complete moving solutions. They understand each long-distance move is unique, so they assign a move coordinator to develop a personalized plan. Their skilled movers can handle delicate items like pianos and antiques. Your entire move is planned and tracked by GPS, ensuring you feel secure while your belongings are in transit.
Learn more about JK Moving Services
5. Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines provides various moving solutions, from full-service to DIY options. They also offer storage, moving kits, and online resources. As the oldest moving company in the U.S. with over 90 years of experience, Allied can transport cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, boats, and snowmobiles. They use their own fleet of open and enclosed car carriers. Open carriers are the large trucks often seen transporting new cars, while enclosed carriers are semi-truck trailers that shield vehicles from weather and road hazards. Enclosed carriers give extra protection for valuable vehicles like classic cars.
Learn more about Allied Van Lines
6. International Van Lines
International Van Lines (IVL) is our number one pick for full-service moving. IVL handles every part of your move. Their experienced team will pack and unpack your things, load and unload the truck, and deliver your items anywhere in the country, ensuring your valuables are protected.
Learn more about International Van Lines
7. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG)
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is a broker that connects customers with movers in its network. This service can save you stress by having IMRG negotiate prices and services that fit your needs. With movers operating nationwide, IMRG can often schedule moves on shorter notice than many others. It also offers a fast quote process, usually providing binding estimates within a day.
Learn more about Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
8. U-Pack
U-Pack is great for small or simple moves due to its DIY approach. They deliver portable moving and storage containers to your driveway at fair prices with no hidden fees or in-home estimates. Each ReloCube is 6 feet long and 8 feet wide, big enough to fit a normal living room’s contents. While you might need several ReloCubes, you only pay for the ones you use. For bigger moves, U-Pack offers cargo trailers that can store furniture and items from a three- or four-bedroom house.
Learn more about U-Pack
9. Mayflower Moving
Mayflower Moving earned high praise for its complete local and interstate moving services, as well as its various insurance and protection plans for household items.
Learn more about Mayflower Moving
10. United Van Lines
United Van Lines is one of the oldest moving companies offering full-service solutions like packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking. They specialize in handling electronics and can disassemble and reassemble your home theater and PC network, a unique service among our listed providers. United also has its own fleet for vehicle shipping and provides both short- and long-term storage. Their Snapmoves program is tailored for those moving an apartment, dorm room, or storage unit, providing a full-service experience with a personal moving coordinator, full value protection of your belongings, and loading/unloading at a lower rate.
Learn more about United Van Lines
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Moving Company in California
- Licensing and Insurance: Verify that the company has the necessary permits to operate in Golden State and carries adequate insurance for damage or loss coverage.
- Reputation and Customer Reviews: Choose companies with stellar reputations in California for customer service and care. Online reviews and word of mouth are invaluable.
- Pricing and Transparency: Look for clear estimates without hidden fees. Comparing prices can help you get a sense of the standard rates among California movers.
- Services Offered: Whether you need comprehensive services (packing, moving, unpacking) or just transportation, make sure the company caters to your specific needs.
- Local Knowledge: Opt for movers familiar with the roads, neighborhoods, and traffic in California to ensure a smooth move.
- Flexibility: A California moving company that can accommodate last-minute changes without hefty fees is a plus. Check for flexibility in scheduling and services.
- Equipment and Professionalism: Ensure the company uses modern equipment and maintains a professional demeanor. The right tools and a courteous team can make a big difference.
Tips for a Smooth Move in California
- Weather Watch: California generally enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate. In the Southeast, however, winters are colder and summers are hotter. The northern region gets more rain than the rest of the state. Before moving, check the weather for rain or extremely hot days.. So, keep an eye on the forecast and prepare for California’s unpredictable weather with necessary precautions.
- Avoid Rush Hour in Big Cities: If moving through or to Los Angeles, plan to avoid traffic during peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
- Familiarize Yourself with Local Ordinances: Some towns in California may have specific rules for moving trucks. Checking in advance can save hassle.
- Pack with the Season in Mind: Depending on your moving season, pack essentials that match California’s weather, be it warm clothing or summer essentials.
- Secure Valuable Items: It’s safer to keep valuable personal items with you, instead of in the moving truck.
- Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Especially important on warm California days, keep water handy and rest when needed during your move.
- Engage the Community: Introducing yourself to neighbors and seeking local advice can help you settle in faster in Golden State.
FAQs
How much does it cost to hire professional movers in California?
The average cost to hire professional movers in California is $122.44 per hour. The total cost will be determined by how much stuff you have and how far you’re moving.
What should I know about California’s peak moving season?
Like most places, California sees a surge in moves during the summer months when the weather is favorable and school is out. This means moving companies might be busier and rates could be higher. If possible, consider moving during the off-peak season for potentially better rates.
Are there any items moving companies in California won’t transport?
Most California moving companies have a list of prohibited items they won’t move due to safety or regulatory reasons. Common items include hazardous materials, perishables, and in some cases, plants. It’s best to check with your chosen moving company in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.