The U.S. Census Bureau survey highlights housing and family reasons as the top factors for why people move to California. But everyone has their own unique reasons for making such a big move. And we all know the stress of finding reliable movers who won't let you down.
With so many moving companies out there, it's tough to know who to trust. But don’t worry, we've evaluated 50+ moving companies, read thousands of customer reviews, and analyzed their pricing and services; we've narrowed down the best moving companies in California.
Keep reading to explore our recommendations and compare the best California movers for your next move!
Our rankings are based on real data and performance, not paid placements.
Our evaluation standards are open and easy to follow.
Whether you're planning a local or long-distance move, our guides and resources help you every step of the way.
Click the companies below to jump to our in-depth explanation for the Best Moving Companies in California.
Licensed & insured
(FMCSA)Customer
reviews (1,000+ reviews each)Transparent pricing models
Specialty services
evaluated
Making the right choice in moving companies can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. When it comes to moving in California, you want to make sure you’re choosing the best California movers who will get the job done right.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a comparison. Here, you can easily compare pricing, services, and customer reviews of the top moving companies in California.
Request at least 3 quotesAsk for binding
estimatesCheck FMCSA
registrationInquire about storage
or
specialty needs
Avoid large deposits
upfront
Mayzline Relocation is a name that stands out among the best long-distance moving companies in the U.S. They're all about making your big move as easy and stress-free as possible. With a focus on affordability and top-notch service, they handle long-distance relocations with care and efficiency.
Whether you're moving across state lines or cross-country, they know how to make it happen without the usual headaches. Their customer-first approach and dedication to quality make them a solid choice for anyone planning a long-distance move.
Professional and attentive service
Flexible pricing
Expertise in handling complex moves
Wide range of moving services
Positive client testimonials
Limited availability in certain regions
Additional fees may apply for specialized services
Advance booking required for long-distance moves
Mayzlin Relocation assigns a quote based on the total weight of your items and how much they have to travel. They offer relocation services from $2,200 to $4,000 on average. Still, this is only an estimate, which can vary based on the specific services you select as part of a built-in moving package. You can pay them through a check, credit card, debit card, or cash.
So, why does Mayzline Relocation rank as one of the best long-distance moving companies in the USA?
Affordable Pricing: Moving long-distance can be expensive, but Mayzlin Relocation offers competitive pricing to make high-quality services accessible. Their flexible payment options check that you don’t have to compromise on quality.
Customized Moving Solutions: They understand that no two moves are the same. That’s why Mayzlin Relocation provides personalized moving plans to fit your unique requirements, whether you’re moving a small apartment or a large family home.
Comprehensive Services: They offer every moving service you need for a stress-free relocation. Their ability to handle both simple and complex moves with ease sets them apart.
To learn more about Mayzlin Relocation LLC, take a look at its profile.
American Van Lines is an essential part of this cross-country moving. It sets a bar for excellence and trust in the moving industry. Its rating stands at 4.4/5 thanks to its smooth move operation making moves almost free of fights.
There is one dominating principle that reveals why American Van Lines are so essential in cross country moving. This is because they have a range of full-service moving options that can be customized to the needs of every individual customer.
Expertise and
Reliability
Comprehensive
Services
Customer
Satisfaction
Nationwide
Coverage
More Expensive
Hidden Fees
Scheduling Challenges
American Van Lines moving cost depends on some major factors like weight or size of items, your relocation distance and which season you are relocating. American Van Lines costs around $500 — $5,000 per move (based on distance of up to 1000 miles away from the current location) Depending on the services you book and package you chose that estimate can change. They accept cash, credit cards, debit cards, and checks as payment methods.
The following are the qualities that make American Van Lines the best cross-country company in the USA:
To learn more about American Van Lines, take a look at its profile.
JK Moving Services is one of the top companies to consider for anyone wanting to move long distance throughout the US. As the professional movers of choice for long distance moving since 1934, JK Moving Services knows what it takes to ensure your long distance move is a success.
With a rich history of dependability and consumer-focused business strategies, JK Moving Services secures its spot as one of the ten best long-distance moving firms nationwide.
Nationwide
Network
Professional
Staff
Legacy of
Reliability
Offers GPS
tracking on all shipments
Provide
vehicle relocation
Higher Costs for
Premium Services
Scheduling Challenges
Limited Focus on
Specialized Moving Services
JK Moving Services assigns a quote based on the total weight of your items and how much they have to travel. JK Moving Services offers relocation services from$500 to $5,000on average. Still, this is only an estimate, which can vary based on the specific services you select as part of a built-in moving package. You can pay them through check, credit card, debit card and cash.
Read on to find out why JK Moving Services is the top-rated long-distance moving company in the USA.
Professional and Courteous Staff: What makes JK Moving Services different is that it is one of the most professional movers in the USA. The company also insists on friendly and expert interaction for every employee of the company.
Customer Focus: JK Moving Services prioritizes a customer-centric approach and focus on meeting each client’s needs and preferences.
To learn more about JK Moving Services, take a look at its profile.
International Van Lines has an outstanding reputation for local moving services across America. This company has covered all its bases to reshape the way we view the local moving industry.
Every local move with International Van Lines is guaranteed to be completed with accuracy and professionalism. It is the number one choice because it provides reliable moving solutions. They understand that every move is unique and handle each one accordingly.
Local
Expertise
Personalized
Service
Transparent
Pricing
Reliable
Tracking
Extensive
Network
Potentially Higher
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Scheduling
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Limited Local Focus
The cost of your move with International Van Lines is calculated in several ways, such as the total weight of your load and the distance you're traveling. The average cost with International Van Lines ranges from $2,000 to $4,300.
However, this estimate may vary depending on the services and types of residential moving packages you choose. They accept payment via check, credit card, debit card, and cash.
Let’s explain why International Van Lines is by far the best local moving company in the USA.
To learn more about International Van Lines, take a look at its profile.
Zippy Shell Northern Virginia has an outstanding reputation for local moving services across America. This company has covered all its bases to reshape the way we view the local moving industry.
Every local move with Zippy Shell Northern Virginia is guaranteed to be completed with accuracy and professionalism. It is the number one choice because it provides reliable moving solutions. They understand that every move is unique and handle each one accordingly.
Local
Expertise
Personalized
Service
Transparent
Pricing
Reliable
Tracking
Extensive
Network
Potentially Higher
Costs
Scheduling
Challenges
Limited Local Focus
The cost of your move with Zippy Shell Northern Virginia is calculated in several ways, such as the total weight of your load and the distance you're traveling. The average cost with Zippy Shell Northern Virginia ranges from $2,000 to $4,300.
However, this estimate may vary depending on the services and types of residential moving packages you choose. They accept payment via check, credit card, debit card, and cash.
Let’s explain why Zippy Shell Northern Virginia is by far the best local moving company in the USA.
To learn more about Zippy Shell Northern Virginia, take a look at its profile.
Cross Country Moving Company is a leading provider of long-distance moving services in the US.
Their certified movers offer top-notch service starting from the founder's personal experience and passion for simplifying relocations.
The company has started small but grown into a reputable business serving almost every state.
Cross-country moving offers many services, including:
Nationwide
CoverageExperienced
and Certified MoversFounder's
Personal ExperienceCommitment
to Customer SatisfactionHigher Pricing
During Peak Seasons
Limited Availability
Size Constraints
Service Limitations
Your moving cost with Cross Country Moving depends of multiple factors like the size or weight (in lbs) and distance of your relocation, as well as whether it's high season. Its average moving expenses start at $500-$5,000. This is a rough estimate which can also vary according to the services and moving package you selected. They accept payments in cash, credit card, debit cards, and checks.
For accurate pricing, compare moving quotes from registered movers using our quotation tool .
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Customer Satisfaction | Although customer satisfaction with Cross Country Moving differs across the locations, it tends to be positive overall, as reflected in Google Reviews. |
| Better Business Bureau | Cross Country Moving has numerous registered locations, most of which have A+ ratings from the Better Business Bureau. |
| Customer Complaints | The majority of locations, including the original one, typically have very few or no complaints filed with the FMCSA. |
| My Good Movers | The overall rating of Cross Country Moving is based on mostly positive reviews on My Good Movers, which outweigh the negative ones. |
To learn more about Cross Country Moving, take a look at its profile.
Safeway Moving Inc is one of the top commercial moving company in the United States. It is known for its dedication to professionalism, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Safeway Moving Inc provides a smooth experience to clients performing commercial relocations across the country.
Legacy of
Professionalism
Skilled Staff
Wide Range of
Services
Customer
Satisfaction
Competitive
Pricing
Higher Costs for
Premium Services
Limited Availability
During Peak Seasons
Scheduling Challenges
The final cost will of course differ by your particular move but Safeway Moving Inc bases its price on factors like the total weight of your items, and how far you need to relocate. On average, moving costs from Safeway Moving Inc Services range between $500 and $5,000.
But keep in mind that this estimation can vary based on the type of services, and consequently the moving package you select. They accept the payments via checks, credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
So, how Safeway Moving Inc is the best commercial mover and packer in USA.
To learn more about Safeway Moving Inc, take a look at its profile.
Searching for movers near you? Here’s our list of the top interstate moving companies by state.
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You’re ready to move, but how do you choose the best movers in California? Here’s a simple guide to help you make the right decision:
The best way to find a reliable mover is to check what other people are saying. Customer reviews are like gold in this aspect! A great moving company will have plenty of positive feedback.
Did you know, according to recent surveys, 88% of customers consider customer reviews before making a final decision on moving companies?
We all want a good deal, but the average cost of movers in California can depend on your distance, time of year, and the amount of stuff you have. On average, moving costs in California range from $800 to $2,500 for local moves.
You want a team that’s experienced and knows how to handle your belongings with care. Look for companies that have been in business for years and are well-known for their reliable moves.
Always make sure the moving company is licensed and insured. In California, movers are required to have a California moving license. This protects you in case anything goes wrong.
The more services a company offers, the more likely they are to cater to your specific needs. For example, top moving companies will offer full-service moves or even help with last-minute packing, which can save you a ton of stress.
Top-rated affordable moving companies have busy schedules, especially in peak moving season (summer months in California). Be sure to book early and confirm that the company has the availability that fits your moving dates.
Now, you're probably wondering, “How much do movers in California actually cost?” It's a fair question, and the answer depends on a bunch of factors.
First, the average moving costs in California depend on whether you're moving locally or across the state. You might have heard that moving costs in California can be on the higher end, and that’s true—especially in big cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
For local moves within the same city, the cost is usually based on an hourly rate. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $200 per hour. This includes two to three movers and a truck.
Now, if you’re moving across California or from one city to another, that’s where things can get tricky. The average cost of movers in California for a long-distance move ranges between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the distance and the size of your move.
Here’s where you might see the cost of your move climb a bit.
Let’s make it even clearer.
| Service Type | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Hourly Rate (Local Moves) | $100 - $200 per hour (for 2-3 movers) |
| Packing Services | $300 - $600 (depending on items) |
| Storage Fees | $50 - $300 per month |
| Long-Distance Move (California) | $2,000 - $5,000 (depending on distance) |
| Special Handling (Piano, Fragile) | $200 - $500 |
Moving to California? Here’s a simplified, step-by-step checklist to guide you through the process.
So, you’ve found a moving company that looks good — a great price, a friendly representative, and a solid website. But before you book, you’re wondering… is this company legit?
Unfortunately, the moving industry has its share of scams. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of a licensed and trustworthy moving company.
Here’s how to check before you commit:
The average cost of movers in California varies depending on the distance and services. For local moves, expect to pay around $100 to $200 per hour. Long-distance moves within California can cost between $2,000 to $5,000.
Yes, many moving companies in California offer free moving estimates. These estimates can be either in-person or virtual. Some top-rated affordable moving companies provide detailed quotes based on the size of your move.
When hiring movers in California, make sure to check for proper licensing and insurance. Look for professional movers with good reviews, reasonable prices, and clear contracts.
In California, expect to pay around $100–$200 per hour for two to three movers and a truck. The rate can vary based on location, services, and demand.
Summer is the peak moving season, especially from May to September. Demand and prices are higher during this time, so book early if you're planning a summer move.
Ideally, reach out 4 to 6 weeks before your move. If you're moving during peak season or at the end of the month, book even earlier to secure your preferred date.
For a standard 2-bedroom apartment, local movers usually take 3–5 hours. The time depends on how much stuff you have and how prepared everything is when they arrive.
Ask directly. Brokers coordinate your move through third-party carriers rather than doing it themselves. If the company doesn’t handle the move in-house, they’re likely a broker.
At My Good Movers, we follow a strict, research-driven process to evaluate every moving company we feature. Our mission is to cut through fake reviews and marketing hype, so you can confidently choose a mover that’s right for your needs.
Here’s exactly how we did it:
Want to see the full details?Read our complete review methodology.
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Call us today to get a moving quote for reliable and affordable moving services that meet your needs.
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