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.
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.1
Customizable moving packages
Flat-rate pricing
Short and long-term storage solutions
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 | 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 | Not Rated | Not available for local moves | $2,200–$5,500 | ||
Most Moving | B | Call for a quote | $2,750–$5,200 | ||
Most Customizable | A+ | Call for a quote | $2,750–$6,000 | ||
Best Vehicle | A+ | $800–$1,500 | $2,000–$5,000 | ||
Best Pricing | 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 |
International Van Lines
4.5
Our Rating
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.
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.
American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
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.
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.
Safeway Moving
4.1
Our Rating
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.
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.
Moving APT
3.9
Our Rating
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.
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.
JK Moving Services
4.2
Our Rating
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.
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.
Allied Van Lines
4.2
Our Rating
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.
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.
U-Pack
3.5
Our Rating
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.
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.
North American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
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.
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:
- Local moving
- Long distance and interstate moves
- International moves (over 175 countries)
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.
PODS
3.2
Our Rating
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.
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 move | Cost |
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 Size | Moving Estimate* | Average Provided By |
2-bedroom home | $1,500 – $4,400 | International Van Lines |
2-bedroom home | $1,700 – $4,500 | Allied Van Lines |
2-bedroom home | $1,600 – $4,500 | North American Van Lines |
2-bedroom home | $600 – $1,600 | U-Pack (DIY move) |
4-Bedroom Home — based on a long-distance move of 1000+ miles:
Home Size | Moving Estimate | Average Provided By |
4-bedroom home | $7,500 – $10,500 | International Van Lines |
4-bedroom home | $8,000 – $9,500 | Allied Van Lines |
4-bedroom home | $8,500 – $10,500 | American Van Lines |
4-bedroom home | $8,000 – $10,000 | Safeway 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:
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.1
Customizable moving packages
Flat-rate pricing
Short and long-term storage solutions
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:
- Research reputable options with positive reviews
- Obtain multiple quotes from virtual or in-person assessments
- Verify licenses, insurance, and experience
- Compare services, pricing, and availability
- Consider each company’s responsiveness and professionalism during communication
- 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.