Moving in California can be a mixed bag of excitement and “oh no, what now?” moments. A lot rides on picking the right crew to help out. While many California movers might seem the same at first glance, there are definitely some standouts.
We’ve done the homework for you, sifting through the good, the bad, and the meh. In this guide, you’ll find the best moving companies in California, 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 moving companies in California
- Smooth Move USA, 4.96 out of 5.0
- Terry Moving and Storage Inc., 4.9 out of 5.0
- Qshark Moving Company Inc, 4.9 out of 5.0
- Maison Moving, 4.9 out of 5.0
- Meathead Movers, 4.86 out of 5.0
- All Star Movers & Storage, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Rockstar Pro Movers, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Air 1 Moving & Storage, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Grace Moving Company, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Republic Moving & Storage, 4.8 out of 5.0
Smooth Move USA
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 290
- Years in business: 17
- State License: 0192521
- Phone: (661) 220-5147
- Address: 3101 Gilmore Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Smooth Move USA, established in 2006, is an exceptional moving company providing both local and long-distance residential moving services in and around Bakersfield, CA. Their service portfolio extends even further to include international moves and office relocations. Amidst the myriad of nearby moving companies, Smooth Move USA stands out due to their diversified service offerings such as packing, unpacking, and crating. They even handle specialized jobs like piano moving. Offering a hassle-free experience to clients, they require no deposits. Their superior service is vouched for by an impressive 101 reviews on Yelp averaging 4.5, and 189 Google My Business reviews with an average rating of 4.7. Further solidifying their reputation is an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Comparatively, they boast a customer service quality that rises above other local movers.
Terry Moving and Storage Inc.
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 352
- Years in business: 27
- State License: 189603
- Phone: (949) 587-9490
- Address: 25958 Commercentre Dr, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is a well-established moving company, serving the Lake Forest, CA area with enthusiasm since 1996. Offering both local and long-distance residential moving services, they've carved out a prominent position as a reliable partner in the region. A preferred choice for many, they outshine nearby competitors with their comprehensive suite of services which includes office relocations, packing, unpacking, and even specialized fragile-only packing.
Notably, whether it's the challenge of moving a grand piano or a bulky pool table, Terry Moving and Storage is up to the task, which isn't a claim all local movers can make. Their customer-friendly policies of accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit further enhance their reputation as a client-centric business.
Keeping customer satisfaction at the core of their operations, they've earned an impressive volume of positive reviews. With a 4.5 star rating from 211 Yelp reviews and an outstanding 4.9 from 141 Google My Business reviews, they clearly surpass many other local moving companies. Added to this, they hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, solidifying their position as a top-tier moving company in the Lake Forest area.
Qshark Moving Company Inc
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 810
- Years in business: 8
- State License: 0191490
- Phone: (949) 334-2287
- Address: 2618 San Miguel Dr, #295, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Qshark Moving Company Inc distinguishes itself from other Newport Beach moving companies through its comprehensive range of services. Having been in the business since 2015, its standout services include residential, office, long-distance, and international moving. They also handle special items, like pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, and safes with utmost care. Unlike most competitors, Qshark offers not just packing, but also unpacking and crating services, ensuring a seamless moving experience. They also provide storage facilities and specialty equipment like crane vans when needed. Unique to Qshark is their customer-friendly payment policy, accepting credit cards, and requiring no deposit. With over 800 combined reviews on Yelp and Google My Business, the company enjoys a stellar average rating of 4.9. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other local companies, Qshark's reputation for quality and customer satisfaction remains unmatched. Their full valuation insurance coverage offers additional peace of mind, further endorsing their standing as a premier moving company.
Maison Moving
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 1203
- Years in business: 16
- State License: 0190726
- Phone: (800) 832-5950
- Address: 1371 Santa Fe Dr., Tustin, CA 92780
Maison Moving, based in Tustin, CA, is a long-standing moving company that has been providing exemplary services since 2007. Well-regarded due to their broad range of offerings, they outshine many local competitors. Not only do they handle local residential moving, but their expertise also extends to long distance and international home relocations, making them a global player. Unique among local companies, Maison Moving smoothly conducts office relocations, ensuring minimal business disruption. Their comprehensive service list includes packing, unpacking, and crating, guaranteeing a stress-free experience. Specializing in moving high-value items like pianos, art, and antiques, they are a preferred choice for those wanting an extra level of care. Comfortably in the digital age, they accept credit cards and require no deposit. Their top-notch customer service is reflected in impressive ratings, with a 4.4 average on Yelp from 491 reviews, a 4.6 average from 712 Google My Business reviews, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. These reviews place them comfortably ahead of many local competitors.
Meathead Movers
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 457
- Years in business: 26
- State License: 0189849
- Phone: (559) 785-0316
- Address: 4744 North El Capitan Avenue, Fresno, CA 93722
Meathead Movers, a formidable player in the moving industry since 1997, provides both local and long-distance residential moving services, outshining many other Fresno, CA-based moving companies. They extend their expert services to office relocations as well, setting them apart from their local competitors. Recognizing the challenges of moving, they also offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, ensuring a smooth transition for their clients. Unlike many other moving companies, Meathead Movers accepts both cash and credit card payments, and do not require a deposit, testament to their flexibility and customer-oriented approach. With a stellar reputation reflected in their 4.0 Yelp rating from 253 reviews and an impressive 4.4 average rating from 204 reviews on Google My Business, they have earned an A+ rating from the prestigious Better Business Bureau, placing them head and shoulders above the rest in the realm of customer satisfaction.
All Star Movers & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 207
- Years in business: 8
- State License: 0191302
- Phone: (925) 905-9889
- Address: 101 Dublin Blvd Suite F #517, Dublin, CA 94568
All Star Movers & Storage has been a trailblazer in Dublin's moving scene since 2015. This company stands out among local competition by offering a comprehensive range of services, including local and long distance residential moving, office moving, plus an enviable suite of auxiliary services: packing, unpacking, crating, and labor-only services. What sets them apart is their specialized skill in handling delicate items like pianos and artworks, a skill not all movers can boast. They provide a hassle-free payment system, accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit. When it comes to their professionalism and reliability, it’s not just their word; more than 200 online reviews on Yelp and Google My Business collectively give them an impressive average rating of 4.6. Further affirming their commitment to excellence is an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. All Star Movers & Storage remains unmatched with their full valuation insurance coverage, extending that extra measure of security and peace of mind to their customers.
Rockstar Pro Movers
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 487
- Years in business: 9
- State License: 0191955
- Phone: (323) 762-5668
- Address: 13609 Victory Blvd #245, Van Nuys, CA 91401
Rockstar Pro Movers stands tall as a seasoned professional in the moving industry since 2014. Offering an impressive range of services such as local, long-distance and international residential moving services, they also excel in office moving, art and antiques relocation, and even complex moves involving pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, safes, and grandfather clocks. These services are not common among other movers in the Van Nuys, CA area, setting Rockstar Pro Movers apart. Packing, unpacking, and crating services are readily available, and in the rare case of extra heavy items, crane vans are provided. A unique feature of this company is acceptance of cash, credit cards, and even cryptocurrency without any deposit requirement. Security is assured with their full valuation insurance coverage. Rockstar Pro Movers overpower most local competitors with its robust online reputation reflected in its 4.4 average Yelp rating from 202 reviews, a superb 4.9 Google My Business rating from 285 reviews, and an exceptional A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Whether you're moving homes or offices, necessitate storage, or just need labor assistance, Rockstar Pro Movers is your reliable moving solution in Van Nuys, CA.
Air 1 Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 615
- Years in business: 20
- State License: 0189688
- Phone: (866) 485-1030
- Address: 9556 Cozycroft Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311
Air 1 Moving & Storage, with roots going back to 2003, stands as a trusted partner for residential moving needs not only in and around Chatsworth, CA but also for long-distance and international relocations. They distinguish themselves from other local movers with their comprehensive service offerings, from packing and unpacking, to specialized crating services. Keenly equipped to handle sensitive items such as pianos, art, antiques, and even a grandfather clock, they put customer convenience at the forefront by accepting credit cards and requiring deposits. They offer full valuation insurance coverage – an assurance of their commitment to a secure moving experience. Their credibility is fortified by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and buoyed by hundreds of positive reviews on Yelp and Google My Business, ensuring that they are not only a local competitor, but a leading choice for discerning customers.
Grace Moving Company
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 308
- Years in business: 25
- 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.
Republic Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 473
- Years in business: 29
- State License: 0190491
- Phone: (619) 639-8352
- Address: 8140 St Andrews Ave, San Diego, CA 92154
Republic Moving & Storage stands as a premier moving company in San Diego, providing comprehensive moving services since 1994. Unlike many local movers, they offer not just local but also long-distance and international residential moving services. Their versatility is unmatched, offering office moving, packing, unpacking, crating, and specialised services for handling fragile items.
Unique services such as the provision of crane vans, military moving, senior moving, and labor-only services truly set Republic Moving & Storage apart. They provide storage and have expert knowledge in moving peculiar items like pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, artwork, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes. They accept a variety of payment methods including money orders, cash, and credit cards, and require a deposit.
With full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking available, customers are assured of their belongings' safety. Their reputation is evidenced by positive customer feedback with an average rating of 4.0 on Yelp and Google My Business, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. This places them at the forefront of moving companies in San Diego, making Republic Moving & Storage a reliable and trusted choice for all moving needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Moving Company in California
Licensing and Insurance
In the Golden State, moving companies should have the necessary permits to operate. Check for proper licensing and ensure they have adequate insurance to cover any potential damages or losses during the move.
Reputation and Customer Reviews
Word of mouth and online reviews can tell you a lot. Look for companies that have stellar reputations in California, both in terms of customer service and handling belongings with care.
Pricing and Transparency
You don’t want any unpleasant surprises. Ensure the moving company provides clear estimates without hidden fees. It’s also a good idea to compare prices with a few different California movers to get a sense of the going rate.
Services Offered
Do you need someone to pack, move, and unpack? Or just transport from A to B? Different moves require different services. Make sure the California company you’re considering offers exactly what you need.
Local Knowledge
Navigating through Los Angeles rush hour or maneuvering a big truck through the small towns of California requires local know-how. A mover familiar with California’s roads, neighborhoods, and traffic quirks can make the process smoother.
Flexibility
Things change, and sometimes you need to adjust your moving date or require additional services at the last minute. It’s a plus if the local California moving company can be flexible and accommodate changes without hefty fees.
Equipment and Professionalism
The right tools for the job matter. Whether it’s a fleet of modern trucks, specialized equipment for heavy items, or quality packing materials, ensure the company is well-equipped. Also, a professional team that’s trained and courteous can make your move through the Golden State a breeze.
Tips for a Smooth Move in California
Weather Watch
California weather can be unpredictable. It’s not uncommon to experience rain, sunshine, and even a sprinkle of snow all in a week. Check the forecast leading up to your move and be prepared with covers for your belongings and slip-resistant shoes.
Avoid Rush Hour in Big Cities
If your move takes you through or to cities like Los Angeles, try to avoid the peak traffic hours, typically between 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM.
Familiarize Yourself with Local Ordinances
Some California towns might have specific rules for moving trucks, like designated routes or parking regulations. A quick call to the local city office or a check on their website can provide valuable information.
Pack with the Season in Mind
If moving in the colder months, ensure your essentials box has warm clothing, blankets, and any necessary equipment like snow shovels. Conversely, if it’s the middle of a summer in California, have easy access to fans, water, and light clothing.
Secure Valuable Items
California is generally a safe place, but it’s always wise to keep valuable items, like jewelry or important documents, with you personally rather than in the moving truck.
Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Moving is physically demanding if you’re DIYing any part of it. Ensure you have water on hand, especially during warm California days, and don’t forget to take short breaks when needed.
Engage the Community
California residents are known for their friendly nature. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to neighbors or seek local recommendations for services, restaurants, or attractions in your new area.
FAQs About California Moving Companies
How much does it cost to hire professional movers in California?
The average cost to hire professional movers in California is $122 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.