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 movers in the Golden State. 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
- Magic Moving & Storage, 4.9 out of 5.0
- NOR-CAL Moving Services, 4.9 out of 5.0
- Meathead Movers, 4.9 out of 5.0
- Merit Moving Systems, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Two Men and a Truck, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Good Green Moving, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Oakley Relocation, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Smooth Move USA, 4.86 out of 5.0
- One Stop Moving & Storage, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Seka Moving, 4.86 out of 5.0
Magic Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 116
- Years in business: 1996
- State License: 190231
- Phone: (925) 918-7894
- Address: 4695 Chabot Dr, Suite 200, Pleasanton, CA, 94588
In the bustling moving industry around Pleasanton, CA, Magic Moving & Storage stands out as a comprehensive service provider. Established in 1996, their experience stretches across more than two decades, and their services range from local residential moves to international and office relocations.
Their offerings include a host of specialty moving options that many local competitors lack, such as piano, pool table, art, antiques, grandfather clock, and safe moving. Furthermore, they extend the courtesy of packing, unpacking, and crating services, simplifying the moving process for their clients.
Payment methods are flexible; they accept money orders, cash, and credit cards, and impressively, require no upfront deposit. Customers can move with peace of mind, given their full valuation insurance coverage, and stay informed with their shipment tracking capabilities.
Review-wise, Magic Moving & Storage maintains a solid reputation, boasting an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. On Yelp, they have amassed 116 reviews with an average rating of 3.7, while their Google My Business profile showcases an even more impressive average rating of 4.8 from 13 reviews. Overall, they display a strong commitment to customer satisfaction that sets them apart within Pleasanton’s moving industry.
NOR-CAL Moving Services
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 116
- Years in business: 1984
- State License: 0145636
- Phone: (510) 269-4905
- Address: 3129 Corporate Pl, Hayward, CA, 94545
NOR-CAL Moving Services is a seasoned provider of comprehensive moving services in Hayward, CA, and beyond. Established in 1983, they have developed a strong reputation for offering a wide range of services that outperform other local moving companies. They specialize in both local and long distance moving, including international relocations. In contrast to many competitors, they also offer office moving – a testament to their versatility.
NOR-CAL extends their expertise to packing, unpacking, and crating services, even treating fragile or special items with utmost care. They are among the few movers capable of handling items like pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art pieces, antiques and grandfather clocks.
Their payment and insurance policies are customer-friendly, accepting credit cards, requiring no deposit and offering full valuation coverage. They are also one of the few local companies providing shipment tracking.
While their Yelp ratings average 3.0, they have a more impressive 4.5 average on Google My Business. Perhaps most telling is their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau – a high accolade that sets them apart from local contemporaries. These reviews and ratings speak volumes about their sustained commitment to quality and customer satisfaction over the decades.
Meathead Movers
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 326
- Years in business: 1998
- 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.
Merit Moving Systems
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 44
- Years in business: 1987
- State License: 0192009
- Phone: (760) 666-4090
- Address: 72050 Varner Rd, Thousand Palms, CA, 92276
Merit Moving Systems, proudly serving Thousand Palms, CA, and beyond since 1987, is a comprehensive moving company that outshines competitors with a range of unparalleled services. Besides the local, long-distance, and international residential moves, this seasoned mover excels in office relocations, packing, unpacking, and specialized crating services. They take extra care with fragile items and are proficient in moving unique items such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, and safes. Moreover, military and senior moving services are their specialty, setting them apart from other local moving companies. Their flexible payment options, accepting both credit cards and cryptocurrency, coupled with no deposit requirement, make them a convenient choice. Merit Moving Systems assures customers with full valuation insurance coverage and easily trackable shipments. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp, 4.7 on Google My Business, and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, they indisputably lead the pack in the moving industry.
Two Men and a Truck
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 326
- Years in business: 2005
- State License: 0190058
- Phone: (916) 596-9374
- Address: 8362 Galena Ave, Sacramento, CA, 95828
Two Men and a Truck has been a staple in the Sacramento, CA, moving services scene since 2004. Offering a plethora of services such as local and long-distance residential moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they provide a comprehensive moving solution for any residence. Notably, specialty items like pianos and grandfather clocks are no challenge for their skilled team. Unlike many moving companies in the area, secure your move with Two Men and a Truck without paying a deposit. Their credibility is underlined with a strong A+ Better Business Bureau rating, slightly superior to nearby competitors. Reviews are mixed with a respectable average rating of 3.4 on Yelp from 326 reviewers and a more commendable average of 3.8 from 183 Google My Business reviews. When stacked against local rivals, Two Men and a Truck consistently emerges as a dependable choice for moving needs in Sacramento.
Good Green Moving
- BBB Rating: A
- Reviews analyzed: 224
- Years in business: 2014
- State License: 0191035
- Phone: (855) 613-4663
- Address: 1355 Market Street Suite 488, San Francisco, CA, 94103
Good Green Moving, established in 2013, stands out amid the bustling San Francisco moving companies for its robust suite of services. Catering to both local and long-distance residential moves, they also adeptly handle office relocations, with the capability to securely transport special items such as pianos, fine art, and antiques. Their meticulous attention to detail extends to a full range of packing and unpacking services, including crating and ‘fragile only’ packing. They even offer labor-only services, showing a range of flexibility that surpasses many competitors.
Their $70 per hour rate for local moves, acceptance of credit cards, and requirement for a deposit, present the standard in the industry, but what really sets Good Green Moving apart is their commitment to customer satisfaction. This is demonstrated in their exceptional Yelp rating (4.6 based on 224 reviews) and their Google My Business rating (4.9 based on 81 reviews). Moreover, their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further bolsters their trustworthiness.
Last but not least, knowing that every client’s belongings are protected by full valuation insurance coverage brings peace of mind, proving Good Green Moving to be a safe and reliable choice for anyone seeking a quality moving service in the San Francisco area.
Oakley Relocation
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 88
- Years in business: 2009
- State License: 0190480
- Phone: (858) 602-1756
- Address: 992 Rancheros Dr, San Marcos, CA, 92069
In the bustling moving industry of San Marcos, CA, Oakley Relocation stands out as a leading full-service provider. Since 2008, they have excelled in offering an array of moving services, including local, long distance, and international residential moving. What sets them apart from most local companies is their specialized services for moving unique items like pianos, art, antiques, and safes. Oakley Relocation also caters to corporate clients with their efficient office moving services.
When it comes to packing, they go the extra mile with their comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services. For those who simply need an extra hand, the company also provides labor-only services. Unlike many competitors, Oakley Relocation enables convenience for customers with their credit card acceptance and no-deposit policies.
Customer reassurance is a priority for Oakley Relocation, which is why they offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking. This dedication to customer satisfaction is reflected in their impressive online reputation, boasting an average rating of 4.5 on Yelp from 81 reviews, and a stellar 4.8 average on Google My Business from 97 reviews. Furthermore, their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau reinforces their position as a premier moving company in the area.
Smooth Move USA
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 103
- Years in business: 2007
- 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.
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.
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.
Top 10 Options if Moving Out of California
If moving out of California, we recommend using an interstate moving company. Here are the top options:
- International Van Lines: International Van Lines (IVL) is our top choice for a full-service
mover. International Van Lines services include every step of the moving process. A skilled team of moving labor
will pack and unpack your belongings, load and unload the truck, and transport your belongings anywhere in the
country, keeping your most important items safe. - American Van Lines: American Van Lines is the final full-service mover on our list, and it
specializes in moving difficult items. All professional movers on American Van Lines’ team train in a special sample
home to practice protecting important belongings, making it a safe choice to protect your belongings. - JK Moving: JK Moving is also a full-service mover. JK Moving believes that every
long-distance move is different, so it matches move coordinators with every move to create a custom plan of attack.
Its trained fleet of moving labor is prepared to handle your most fragile items, including pianos and antiques.
Every mile of your move will be planned and GPS tracked, giving you maximum peace of mind while your possessions are
in transit. - Allied Van Lines: Allied Van Lines offers a range of moving options, from full-service
packages to DIY support, and it also provides short- and long-term storage, moving kits, and helpful online
resources. Allied is the oldest moving company in the U.S., with more than 90 years of experience in the industry.
Allied can ship a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans, as well as motorcycles, boats, and
snowmobiles. The company maintains its own fleet of open and enclosed car carriers. Open carriers are the trucks
you’ve likely seen on the highway carrying stacks of new cars from auto manufacturers to dealerships. Enclosed
carriers are essentially semi-truck trailers that protect vehicles from the elements or roadway hazards. For
high-value vehicles, including classic cars, the enclosed carrier option offers added protection during transport. - North American Van Lines: North American Van Lines is a full-service moving company that can
accommodate local, long-distance, and international moves of all sizes. North American is available in all 50 states
and more than 130 countries through its extensive network of more than 500 local movers. The company has simplified
the claims process through quick online access of necessary forms and information. There are separate sections on
the landing page of North American’s website for international and domestic claims. Customers can also file claims
over the phone through the company’s claim support division, which is separate from general customer support. - Safeway Moving Inc.: Safeway Moving Inc. is a Florida-based broker and carrier that provides
long-distance moving service to all 50 states. As a carrier and broker, Safeway uses its own crews and third-party
agents vetted by the company to perform moving services. Safeway works primarily as a long-distance mover but also
advertises international relocation assistance. We took note of the forward-facing values on Safeway’s website,
highlighting the company’s commitment to integrity, accountability, and communication. Safeway advocates for senior
citizens, training move coordinators to provide extra help as necessary for senior moves. - Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG): Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is
an interstate broker that serves as an intermediary agent connecting customers with movers in its network. This
mover’s business model can save you major hassle by allowing IMRG to negotiate with providers to find the price and
service offerings that match your needs. With its movers driving routes across the country, IMRG often has the
flexibility to schedule moving dates on shorter notice than many competitors. It has an expedited quote process
that, in our experience, leads to same- or next-day binding estimates. - U-Pack: U-Pack’s DIY-centric service model makes it ideal for small or less-complicated
moves. The company provides driveway-to-driveway delivery of portable moving and storage containers at reasonable
prices without hidden fees or the need for in-home estimates. U-Pack’s ReloCubes are 6 feet long by 8 feet
wide—large enough to store the contents of a normal-sized living room. While you will likely need multiple ReloCubes
for your items, U-Pack will not charge you for any containers that you don’t end up using. For larger moves,
U-Pack’s cargo trailers may be a more cost-effective solution. Trailers can hold the furniture and belongings of a
typical three- or four-bedroom home. - Mayflower Moving: Mayflower Moving received high marks for its full range of local and
interstate moving services and its tiered insurance and protection options for all household goods. - United Van Lines: United Van Lines is one of the oldest full-service moving companies in the
industry. United provides typical full-service solutions such as packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking but
specializes in handling electronics. The company will disassemble and reassemble your home theater and PC network, a
service not offered by any other provider on our list. In addition, United Van Lines has its own fleet of carriers for
vehicle shipping and provides short- and long-term storage. United offers Snapmoves, a program geared specifically
toward those moving an apartment, dorm room, or storage unit. Snapmoves gives customers a full-service
experience—complete with a personal moving coordinator, full value protection of your belongings, and loading and
unloading—at a lower rate.
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 has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very 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 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 $122.44 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.