California is the third largest state in the United States, covering 163,707 square miles. With a state this size, there are hundreds of moving companies to choose from, and finding the right one can feel daunting.

Our Top Pick
Best Full-Service Mover

4.5

One month of free storage included with your move

Provides moves in all 50 states

Offers air & ocean freighting

VISIT SITE
Most Transparent Pricing

4.0

Flat rate pricing for all moves

Offers price matching

Expedited moves between big cities

VISIT SITE
Best Flat-rate Pricing

4.1

Customizable moving packages

Flat-rate pricing 

Short and long-term storage solutions

VISIT SITE

To assist in your search, I’ve compiled the following list of the best moving companies in California. After hours of research and in-depth evaluation using Today’s Homeowner’s criteria, nine companies emerged as the best. The following list will help you save money, avoid scams, and find the best professional movers for your moving in California.

What Are the Best Moving Companies in California?

My top 9 recommended national moving companies: 

Compare the Best Moving Companies in California

Company

Best For

Our Rating

BBB Rating

Local Cost

Long-distance Cost

Best Full-Service
Mover

B

$650–$1350

$2,100–$5,400

Most Transparent Pricing

B-

$550–$1,100

$2,550–$5,700

Best Cost Estimation Tools

B

$700 - $1,250

$1,800 - $4980

Best Flat-Rate
Pricing

Not Rated

Not available for local moves

$2,200–$5,500

Most Moving
Partners

B

Call for a quote

$2,750–$5,200

Most Customizable

A+

Call for a quote

$2,750–$6,000

Best Vehicle
Shipping Options

A+

$800–$1,500

$2,000–$5,000

Best Pricing
Options

A+

$800–$1,500

$2,000–$5,000

Best Technology

A+

Call for quote

$2,000–$5,000

Best Container Service

A+

Not available for local moves

$1,350–$2,400

Best Valuation Coverage Options

A+

$1,200-$2,750

$3,100-$8,400


Best Full-Service Mover

International Van Lines

4.5

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Get 10% Off Your Next Move

International Van Lines (IVL) is a full-service moving carrier and broker that provides relocation services in every state and over 150 locations worldwide. IVL began offering domestic moving services in 2004 and has become one of the most reputable companies in the industry. 

IVL is an ideal choice for your move if you need a moving company that provides packing, transportation, and unpacking for all your belongings, including professional expertise with specialty items. IVL’s full-service packages cater to individuals who require full-spectrum moving support from start to finish. 

30 days of free storage
Has small move solutions to cover moves as limited as one piece of furniture
Unmatched moving services and add-on services
33% deposit for booking
Reviews are inconsistent because IVL works with brokered partners

International Van Lines provides a wide range of services to personalize your full-service moving package in California:

  • 30 days of free storage during a move 
  • Auto transportation
  • Contents coverage and third-party insurance
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Loading and unloading
  • Packing and crating services for fragile items
  • Packing services and unpacking services
  • Packing supplies 
  • Short-term and long-term storage
  • Storage and debris removal

IVL provides local moving services everywhere in California. If you’re moving to California from another state, IVL has more options than most moving companies:

  • Commercial moving
  • Cross-country moving  
  • Interstate moving 
  • Intrastate moving
  • Local moving
  • Overseas moving 
  • Military moving 

IVL offers corporate and military discounts on some services, but you must contact an IVL representative for details. IVL also provides thirty days of temperature-controlled storage with every move, which is a lifesaver if any delays arise within your moving timeline.

Most Transparent Pricing

American Van Lines

4.0

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Price Matching Available

I chose American Van Lines (AVL) because of its 25-year history as a leading moving carrier and for its transparent and predictable pricing policies. AVL calculates your moving costs based on the weight of your items and the distance your items will travel, providing a binding price for the cost of your move. This fixed price allows you to budget accurately without worrying about hidden fees and unexpected expenses. AVL also provides moving shuttle services between major cities in California, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. These shuttles are highly convenient and help reduce personal transportation costs during your move.

Last-minute moves at no additional charge
Weekly shuttles to most U.S. cities
No intrastate moving
No online quotes

AVL is a comprehensive moving carrier that can manage all aspects of your long-distance relocation in California, offering a variety of services for you to choose from:

  • Antique and piano moving
  • Climate-controlled storage options
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Packing and crating fragile items
  • Packing and unpacking 
  • Packing supplies
  • Vehicle shipping
  • Shuttle services to major cities

AVL specializes in corporate moves and home office moves, providing a range of secure services for the following moving options:

  • Corporate relocation
  • Interstate moves
  • Long-distance moves
  • Military moves

AVL advertises a beneficial price-matching policy for its packages. If you get a lower quote for comparable services from another moving company, contact your AVL representative, and they will adjust the price of your move accordingly.

Best Flat-rate Pricing

Safeway Moving

4.1

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
No current offers available.

Safeway Moving is a full-service moving brokerage that connects customers with reliable moving companies in all 50 states. It specializes in connecting homeowners with the best companies for their move and offers comprehensive services with a flat-rate pricing system. Once Safeway Moving evaluates your belongings and provides a quote for your move, the price remains fixed, no matter how long it takes movers to load and unload your items. This guaranteed estimate creates cost transparency and eliminates unexpected price fluctuations for Safeway’s customers. Flat-rate pricing can also incentivize service provider efficiency, resulting in faster completion.

24/7 customer service
Donates part of moving fees to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
Offers climate-controlled storage units
No international moving assistance
No local moving services in California

Safeway has a long list of services it will contract with its moving partners for your long-distance move in California:

  • 30 days of free storage
  • Coordination of long-term storage 
  • Custom crating
  • Full valuation coverage and liability insurance options
  • Junk removal 
  • Loading and unloading 
  • Packing and unpacking 
  • Packing supplies
  • Piano moving
  • Specialty items removal

Unfortunately, Safeway Moving offers exclusively long-distance moving support and the following options in California:

  • Corporate moving
  • Interstate moving 
  • Military moving

Safeway Moving offers a range of discounts to its clients. These include special price reductions for seniors, veterans, first responders, teachers, and students. Contact a Safeway Moving representative for a complete list of discounts for your upcoming California move.

Best Quoting Experience

Moving APT

3.9

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Use Code APT23 For 20% Off

Moving APT is a full-service moving brokerage founded in 1999. As a brokerage, Moving APT offers a network of over 2,500 professional movers nationwide. With so many partners, Moving APT can find the perfect service providers for your move to California. Moreover, Moving APT provides limitless location, service, and scheduling options due to its extensive list of affiliates. Moving APT also offers a price-matching policy to ensure you receive the best possible deal from its partners.

24/7 customer support
Prescreens all moving partners for proper licensing and insurance
Price-matches among its 2,500 moving partners
Cancellations must be made at least one week before your move to receive a full refund
Reviews and service quality inconsistent because of so many moving partners 

Depending on your location, Moving APT’s network of partners offers various services: 

  • Appliance disconnection and connection
  • Custom crating for fragile items
  • Full-service packing
  • Home staging
  • Junk removal 
  • Packing supplies
  • Piano moving
  • Storage solutions
  • Vehicle shipping

Throughout the US, Moving APT can support the following moving options:

  • Commercial moves
  • International moves
  • Local moves
  • Long-distance moves

Ask your Moving APT representative about discounts for military personnel, senior citizens, and early bookers. Moving APT also offers price matching and searches for the best deal among its partners.

Most Customizable Moving Experience

JK Moving Services

4.2

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
No current offers available.

JK Moving Services is a licensed carrier and broker that has provided moving services to its customers for 40 years. With over 500,000 satisfied clients, JK Moving Services offers fully customizable moving packages so customers can tailor their move to their needs and specifications. JK also provides specialized moving support for organizations like hospitals and law firms in California.

Financing options available 
Low $250 deposit
User-friendly mobile app
Higher prices than most competitors
No local moves outside of the DC area

JK Moving’s various partners offer a wide range of services which may vary in availability:

  • Archive services
  • Auto relocation
  • Climate-controlled storage options
  • Crating fragile items
  • Financing options
  • GPS tracking
  • Loading and unloading
  • Optional full-value protection
  • Packing and unpacking 

JK Moving Services does not accommodate local moving services in California, but its partners provide interstate moving services and the following moving options in California:

  • Long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Specialized corporate relocation for organizations like hospitals and law firms

I was unable to find any advertised discounts from JK Moving Services. However, the company has a financing plan through Enhancify, a home improvement company that provides loans with flexible interest rates and repayment options.

Best Vehicle Shipping Options

Allied Van Lines

4.2

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
No current offers available.

For more than 90 years, Allied has maintained its position as a top player in the moving industry. With its national and global reach, Allied offers a wide range of services, making it an excellent choice for full-service relocation needs. However, what sets Allied apart from other moving companies is that it handles all vehicle transportation in-house and has loads of expertise in moving vehicles across state lines, making it the ideal option for long-distance moves to or from California.

Available in 50 states and 140 countries
Free rental car if your vehicle shipment is late
GPS tracking on all moves
Complex claims process for damages
Customers report inaccurate online quotes (get an over-the-phone or in-person quote instead)

In addition to its stellar vehicle transportation services, Allied also offers an array of services in California, including:

  • DIY moving container service
  • Extended insurance coverage
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Loading and unloading
  • Long-term storage arrangement
  • Motorcycle and boat transportation
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Specialty packing for delicate items

Allied can handle any of the following moves in California:

  • Corporate relocation
  • International moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Military moving
  • Office moving

Allied offers a 10% to 15% senior discount and discounts for up-front cash payments. Speak with an allied representative for further information.

Best Overall Container Service

U-Pack

3.5

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
$25 Off With Code BLOG25

U-Pack is my top choice for moving container services. With an excellent customer service rating, U-Pack offers flexible moving options at 240 locations across the United States, including several in or near major cities in California, such as San Jose, San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles. U-Pack’s low pricing makes it an ideal choice for those on a budget, and its “pay-what-you-use” cost system means you only pay for the space you use in its containers, unlike most other container companies that charge a flat rate regardless of how much you fill the container. 

Helpful resources like moving checklists and packing tips on its website 
Lots of positive customer reviews
No deposit required 
No local moves under 150 miles
Three days to load and unload containers

As a moving container company, U-Pack doesn’t offer moving services like packing, unpacking, or handling fragile items. It only provides moving container services.

U-Pack does not offer services for local moves less than 150 miles, but it provides excellent coverage in all 50 states and the following relocation situations:

  • International moving (Canada and Puerto Rico only)
  • Interstate moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Military moves
  • Small moves (one room)
  • Student moves

U-Pack offers several online discounts. Use promo code MOVE25 for a $25 discount on online orders and BLOG25 for a $25 discount from the U-Pack blog. Military members can use promo code MIL50 for a $50 discount, while students and senior citizens can call U-Pack to learn about additional discounts.

Best Pricing

North American Van Lines

4.0

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
Seniors Get 40–65% Off

If you’re concerned about unexpected fees or are on a tight budget, consider North American Van Lines (NAVL)  for your upcoming move to California. With this moving company, the estimate you receive based on your inventory is binding and guaranteed unless you add extra services or inventory during your move. Furthermore, the company has an exceptional A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and over 85 years of experience coordinating moves across the United States. 

24-7 customer service 
Hundreds of agents in its network of trusted partners
No deposit required
No local moving options in California
Subcontracts many of its services

NAVL brokers out most of its lines of business, so its costs and services will vary based on the local partners’ offerings and availability. However, in most parts of California, North American Van Lines can arrange the following:

  • Basic liability coverage
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Full-service packing
  • Fragile item packing (pianos, large electronics, etc.)
  • Appliance disconnection and reconnection
  • Auto transport
  • Crane van for oversized items
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Packing supplies
  • Storage services

NAVL can coordinate the following types of moves throughout California:

North American Van Lines offers 40% to 65% discounts for local and long-distance moves through the Senior Citizens League. Contact a representative at NAVL to learn more.

Best Solution For Local Moves

PODS

3.2

Our Rating

Limited Time Offer:
30% Off Storage

PODS, a moving container service founded in 1998, is a cost-effective alternative to hiring full-service movers. PODS provides portable on-demand storage to assist with any moving and storage situation. Most moving companies handle long-distance moves, but many don’t offer in-town options. Luckily, PODS provides local and long-distance moving services in 46 states.  

Available in 46 states
Lots of storage options
Positive customer reviews
Customers report a lack of availability in specific locations
Negative reviews about confusing pricing

PODS has partnerships with several companies to accommodate service requests from its customers for the following options:

  • Loading help
  • Packing and unpacking 
  • Vehicle transportation

PODS can accommodate local and long-distance moves in California but doesn’t offer additional in-house services for its customers. 

PODS often runs limited-time discounts and special offers. During my research, PODS had a 30% off promotion for local delivery with the code GET30. Contact a PODS representative to learn about discounts at the time of your move. 

*Promotional discounts are available as of August 2023.

How Much Do Top Moving Companies Typically Charge in California?

The price of hiring a reliable moving company in California can vary depending on various factors. These include the distance of your move, the size of your home, the required services, and the time of year. 

The following table shows the average move cost based on the move type:

Type of moveCost
Local move (within the same city)$600 – $2,400
Local move (within the same state)$4,000 – $6,000
Long-distance move$600 – $10,000+
International move$8,000 – $15,000
Full-service move$2,000+
Auto moving$1,000+ per vehicle

Below you’ll find quotes for moves to or within California from some of our favorite providers based on the number of bedrooms and distance:

2-Bedroom Home — based on a local move of fewer than 100 miles:

Home SizeMoving Estimate*Average Provided By
2-bedroom home$1,500 – $4,400International Van Lines
2-bedroom home$1,700 – $4,500Allied Van Lines
2-bedroom home$1,600 – $4,500North American Van Lines
2-bedroom home$600 – $1,600U-Pack (DIY move)

4-Bedroom Home — based on a long-distance move of 1000+ miles:

Home SizeMoving Estimate Average Provided By
4-bedroom home$7,500 – $10,500International Van Lines
4-bedroom home$8,000 – $9,500Allied Van Lines
4-bedroom home$8,500 – $10,500American Van Lines
4-bedroom home$8,000 – $10,000Safeway Moving

How Can You Negotiate With the Top Moving Companies and Get Discounts?

Negotiating with top moving companies and securing discounts requires a strategic approach and effective communication. Here are some steps to help you negotiate and potentially get better rates:

  • Ask about promotions: Inquire about ongoing promotions or special offers the company might be running. It may offer seasonal deals or limited-time discounts.
  • Be flexible with moving dates: If you have some flexibility in your moving dates, mention this to your representative at the moving company. They might offer better rates for filling gaps in their schedule or during off-peak seasons when demand is lower. 
  • Be polite and professional: Approach negotiations positively and respectfully. Being courteous and professional can go a long way in building rapport and encouraging the moving company to find discounts for you. 
  • Gather multiple quotes: Obtain estimates from several reputable moving companies. Having numerous quotes gives you leverage to negotiate by comparing offers and requesting price-matching discounts.
  • Review and confirm in writing: Once you’ve negotiated a favorable rate, immediately get the agreed-upon terms in writing.
  • Start early: Begin your search process well in advance so you have ample time to explore options, negotiate costs, and secure better deals.

How Can You Avoid Moving Scams From Bad Moving Companies?

Avoiding moving scams is crucial to ensure a smooth and safe relocation. Here are some steps to protect yourself from moving scams:

  • Avoid large deposits: Be wary if a company demands a high upfront deposit or asks for payment in full before the actual move. Legitimate, reputable movers typically ask for a reasonable up-front deposit and full payment only upon delivery of your belongings.
  • Get in-person estimates: Avoid companies that provide estimates over the phone or online without seeing your belongings. Legitimate movers conduct in-person assessments to provide accurate quotes.
  • Get multiple quotes: Get several estimates from reputable moving companies, and be wary of significantly lower quotes.
  • Read your contract: Carefully review your contract and terms of service. Understand the fine print and ask questions about any unclear or suspicious clauses.
  • Research and verify: Thoroughly research moving companies and look for reviews, ratings, and testimonials from reliable sources like the Better Business Bureau. Verify the company’s physical address, contact information, and licensing details with the California Moving and Storage Association.
  • Trust your instincts: Trust your gut feelings when screening multiple companies and prioritize your safety and the security of your belongings.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Top Moving Company?

Choosing the best moving company depends on several factors, such as:

  • The distance of your move: Opt for a national company experienced in interstate relocations for long-distance moves. Local moves allow for greater flexibility in choosing between moving specialists.
  • Your budget: Financial resources play a significant role in selecting a moving company by determining the range of services you can afford.
  • Your items: The nature and quantity of your items may necessitate particular expertise or equipment requirements. Fragile or valuable items may require specialized packing or handling.
  • Your preferences: If you prefer a hands-off approach, a full-service mover can manage every aspect of your move. If you prefer greater control, you might opt for a company that offers customizable services allowing you to pack and unpack on your terms.
  • Your timeline: Your moving dates are crucial as some moving companies offer expedited services for quick moves, while others may require more lead time for scheduling.

So, What Is the Best Moving Company in California?

Your professional movers will handle all the logistical details while navigating California regulations on your behalf. Choosing the right moving company is imperative to save time, manage stress, and budget costs for your move. To make the best choice, obtain free in-person estimates from at least three reputable moving companies in California before selecting your movers.

If you’re looking for a DIY, budget-friendly moving solution in California, I recommend PODS for its local options, affordability, and stellar customer service record. However, if you need multiple specific services for your relocation, I recommend Safeway Moving to coordinate your move with its brokered partners. 

Before you make your final decision, take a moment to request free moving quotes from several reputable moving companies to get an idea of what your California move will cost from different moving professionals:

Our Top Pick
Best Full-Service Mover

4.5

One month of free storage included with your move

Provides moves in all 50 states

Offers air & ocean freighting

VISIT SITE
Most Transparent Pricing

4.0

Flat rate pricing for all moves

Offers price matching

Expedited moves between big cities

VISIT SITE
Best Flat-rate Pricing

4.1

Customizable moving packages

Flat-rate pricing 

Short and long-term storage solutions

VISIT SITE

FAQs About The Best Moving Companies in California

How much does it cost to hire a moving company in California?

The cost of California moving companies can vary widely based on the distance between locations, the volume of your belongings, and any additional services you contract from your movers. We recommend getting quotes from multiple moving companies for an accurate estimate of your moving situation.


What is the cheapest way to move out of California?

The cheapest way to move to California can involve a combination of strategies:

 

  • Rent a moving truck or trailer and drive your items to your new home
  • Use storage container service to transport your belongings
  • Pack and load your belongings to save on labor costs
  • Utilize free or low-cost packing materials
  • Opt for off-peak moving seasons

How do I choose a moving company?

There are a few steps for choosing the right moving company to meet your unique needs:

 

  1. Research reputable options with positive reviews
  2. Obtain multiple quotes from virtual or in-person assessments
  3. Verify licenses, insurance, and experience
  4. Compare services, pricing, and availability
  5. Consider each company’s responsiveness and professionalism during communication
  6. Opt for a company that aligns with your needs and budget and offers clear terms in a written contract

What are the benefits of using a moving company?

Using a moving company offers benefits such as efficient and organized packing, professional handling of fragile items, heavy lifting assistance, reduced physical strain, insurance coverage for belongings, streamlined logistics, and optional additional services like storage or unpacking.


Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Moving Companies in California

At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement projects. Our moving company ratings emphasize what matters most to you — reputable, affordable companies able to tackle a wide range of packing and moving tasks.

Our ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and interviews with former and current professional movers.

  • Transparency (30 Points): We awarded top points to companies that supplied quotes quickly and provided easy-to-read moving contracts. We used the availability of sample pricing and quick quote features, GPS tracking, and clear customer service hours to determine this metric. Points were also awarded for up-front communication regarding policies, licensing, insurance, and the clear listing of added fees.
  • Basic Service Options (20 Points): While this may seem like a given for most movers, a strong basic service profile is not guaranteed when you book your move. Movers that offer local, long-distance, and international moving, while providing packing and loading with their basic service packages rate highly here. 
  • Customization Options (30 Points): Aside from basic services, a comprehensive list of added services indicates a mover’s quality. Assembly and disassembly, valuation coverage, piano moving, car shipping, and similar add-ons indicate a mover that puts customer service first.
  • Reputation (20 Points): We assessed each mover’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. We weighed BBB ratings and the company’s complaint response rate to calculate this metric.

We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Phinnie Zahareas

Phinnie Zahareas

Phinnie Zahareas is a project manager and professional organizer for a 15-year-old moving company in the Southern U.S. She's managed dozens of moving jobs, from tiny houses to enormous office buildings, and she seeks to demystify the moving process and other stressful experiences for homeowners today. In addition to her work in the moving industry, she brings over 10 years of writing experience and holds an MFA in creative writing from the University of New Orleans.

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