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Best Moving Companies in California (2026)

Too many mover options make it hard to know who's reliable, fairly priced, and actually worth calling. These best moving companies in California are based on the things that matter most when you're choosing a mover.

  • 100% Licensed & Insured
  • 24/7 Customer Support
  • Transparent Pricing

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MGM Editorial Team
Published By:  MGM Editorial Team
Fact-Checked

What to Expect from the Best Movers in California

  • The best movers in California should make it easy to understand what you're paying for. You should know the estimated cost, what's included, and where extra charges could come from before you book.
  • You shouldn't have to keep chasing your movers for updates. Good California movers keep you informed about timing, services, pickup details, and any changes along the way.
  • You should also be able to tell whether a company actually fits your move. The best moving companies will have the proper licensing, the services you need, and a track record you can check.
Top 5 Picks

Best Moving Companies in California of 2026

Click the companies below to jump to our in-depth explanation for the best interstate moving companies in California.

  1. 01 Mod Movers
  2. 02 Royal Moving & Storage
  3. 03 Cross Country Moving LLC
  4. 04 Good Neighbors Moving Company
  5. 05 American Movers LLC

Why you can trust our picks

These are our recommended movers from the companies reviewed on this page. We selected these based on overall service quality, customer satisfaction, pricing transparency, and available moving options.

Detailed Review

Detailed Review of the Best Moving Companies in California

Every company below was scored on verified reviews, pricing transparency, FMCSA licensing, and service quality. Select a mover to read our full breakdown.

4.9 (19 reviews)

1. Mod Movers

Best for Full-service Moves

Based in Monterey, California. Operates under USDOT #2983026 and MC #1294330 with an Active FMCSA status.

FMCSA Active
Avg. Price $4,094.21
US DOT #2983026
Positive Review 94.7%
Negative Review 0%

Why We Picked Mod Movers

Mod Movers is based in Monterey, California and operates under USDOT #2983026 and MC #1294330 . The company has an Active FMCSA status. Mod Movers currently holds a 4.9 rating on our platform, with 94.7% positive feedback and 0% negative reviews. The average reported cost is $4,094, so you have a starting point for what customers have actually paid.

Company Details

Legal Company Name Mod Movers
Address 1118 Airport Way #100, Monterey, California
USDOT Number 2983026
MC Number 1294330
4.8 (9 reviews)

2. Royal Moving & Storage

Best for Full-service Moves

Based in Oakland, California. Operates under USDOT #3808951 and MC #1373781 with an Active FMCSA status.

FMCSA Active
Avg. Price $4,071.11
US DOT #3808951
Positive Review 88.9%
Negative Review 0%

Why We Picked Royal Moving & Storage

Royal Moving & Storage is based in Oakland, California and operates under USDOT #3808951 and MC #1373781 . The company has an Active FMCSA status. Royal Moving & Storage currently holds a 4.8 rating on our platform, with 88.9% positive feedback and 0% negative reviews. The average reported cost is $4,071, so you have a starting point for what customers have actually paid.

Company Details

Legal Company Name Royal Moving & Storage
Address 189 3rd St #116, Oakland, California
USDOT Number 3808951
MC Number 1373781
4.8 (52 reviews)

3. Cross Country Moving LLC

Best for Full-service Moves

Based in Tarzana, California. Operates under USDOT #2022745 and MC #711417 with an Active FMCSA status.

FMCSA Active
Avg. Price $4,498.15
US DOT #2022745
Positive Review 96.2%
Negative Review 3.8%

Why We Picked Cross Country Moving LLC

Cross Country Moving LLC is based in Tarzana, California and operates under USDOT #2022745 and MC #711417 . The company has an Active FMCSA status. Cross Country Moving LLC currently holds a 4.8 rating on our platform, with 96.2% positive feedback and 3.8% negative reviews. The average reported cost is $4,498, so you have a starting point for what customers have actually paid.

Company Details

Legal Company Name Cross Country Moving LLC
Address 18425 Burbank Blvd,, Tarzana, California
USDOT Number 2022745
MC Number 711417
State License Not Provided
4.5 (13 reviews)

4. Good Neighbors Moving Company

Best for Full-service Moves

Based in South Gate, California. Operates under USDOT #3291262 and MC #548567 with an Active FMCSA status.

FMCSA Active
Avg. Price $4,288.46
US DOT #3291262
Positive Review 84.6%
Negative Review 7.7%

Why We Picked Good Neighbors Moving Company

Good Neighbors Moving Company is based in South Gate, California and operates under USDOT #3291262 and MC #548567 . The company has an Active FMCSA status. Good Neighbors Moving Company currently holds a 4.5 rating on our platform, with 84.6% positive feedback and 7.7% negative reviews. The average reported cost is $4,288, so you have a starting point for what customers have actually paid.

Company Details

Legal Company Name Good Neighbors Moving Company
Address 5625 Firestone Blvd., South Gate, California
USDOT Number 3291262
MC Number 548567
4.5 (46 reviews)

5. American Movers LLC

Best for Full-service Moves

Based in Escondido, California. Operates under USDOT #3851632 and MC #Null with an Active FMCSA status.

FMCSA Active
Avg. Price $4,377.76
US DOT #3851632
Positive Review 89.1%
Negative Review 6.5%

Why We Picked American Movers LLC

American Movers LLC is based in Escondido, California and operates under USDOT #3851632 and MC #Null . The company has an Active FMCSA status. American Movers LLC currently holds a 4.5 rating on our platform, with 89.1% positive feedback and 6.5% negative reviews. The average reported cost is $4,378, so you have a starting point for what customers have actually paid.

Company Details

Legal Company Name American Movers LLC
Address 1330 Avocado Ave,, Escondido, California
Website Not Available
USDOT Number 3851632
MC Number Null
State License not provided
CALIFORNIA Directory

Browse More Moving Companies in California

Our California movers directory gives you more companies to look through in one place, so you can compare ratings, reviews, pricing, and company details before choosing.

2.5/5 (22 reviews)
Paramount, California USDOT 1978660
5/5 (145 reviews)
Middletown, New Jersey USDOT 4528298
4.7/5 (193 reviews)
Dover, Delaware USDOT 4208011
Monvex Moving Verified
5/5 (3 reviews)
Beverly Hills, California USDOT 6122278
5/5 (55 reviews)
Cheyenne, Wyoming USDOT 8402975
BLVD Moving Verified
4.1/5 (214 reviews)
Chatsworth, California USDOT 2892909
4.5/5 (41 reviews)
Van Nuys, California USDOT 2774464
4.6/5 (76 reviews)
Escondido, California USDOT 3851632
4.7/5 (72 reviews)
Tarzana, California USDOT 2022745
4.5/5 (17 reviews)
San Diego, California USDOT 3152229
Dandy Movers Verified
4.4/5 (17 reviews)
Northridge, California USDOT 3128036
4.3/5 (26 reviews)
San Leandro, California USDOT 2626333
Mod Movers Verified
4.9/5 (28 reviews)
Monterey, California USDOT 2983026
4.9/5 (14 reviews)
Oakland, California USDOT 3808951
4.6/5 (25 reviews)
South Gate, California USDOT 3291262
1 2 3 … 13
Pricing Data

How Much Do Movers Cost in California?

The average movers cost in California depends on your home size and needed help. Most California moving companies charge an average rate of $121 per hour for moves. A typical move in the state usually ranges from $432 to $3,912 in total cost.

If you want a precise number, use our moving cost calculator for an accurate estimate.

Cost Calculator

Average Moving Costs in California by Home Size

Home sizeAvg. total costCost per hourNumber of moversHours
Studio$422$1722 movers3 hours
1 bedroom$596$1732 movers4 hours
2 bedrooms$978$2493 movers5 hours
3 bedrooms$2,169$3444 movers8 hours
4 bedrooms$2,502$3524 movers9 hours
5+ bedrooms$9,919$4795 movers10 hours
Note: These are average reported costs for moves within California. Your final price can change depending on the company, the services included, and the time of year you move.
Route Costs

Long Distance Moving Cost

Below are the average costs for moving a two- or three-bedroom home on common routes from California.

Route Cost Estimate
California to Florida $3,742 – $6,611
California to Illinois $3,302 – $5,829
California to Arizona $2,062 – $4,853
California to New York $3,948 – $6,819
California to Georgia $3,513 – $6,619
Cost Factors

What Affects the Cost of a Move?

Below are the main things that move your California quote up or down before you book.

  • Distance

    Longer moves usually cost more because they require more travel time, fuel, and labor.

  • Size of the Move

    The more belongings you have, the more time, space, and crew members your move may require.

  • Moving Date

    Prices can be higher during weekends, summer months, and other busy moving periods.

  • Extra Services

    Packing, storage, specialty-item handling, and other add-on services can increase your total moving cost.

Plan Your Move with Confidence.

Get accurate estimates with our free moving cost calculator – no surprises on moving day!

Calculate Cost
Checklist

California Moving Checklist

Here’s your ultimate step-by-step checklist for a smooth long-distance or out-of-state move from California:

  1. 3
    MO

    Make Your Plan

    • Decide Where You’re Moving: Research your new city or state, cost of living, and housing options.
    • Set Your Budget: Estimate moving costs of an interstate move from California, including movers, travel expenses, and potential overnight stays.
    • Get Multiple Quotes: Request and compare quotes from at least 2–3 licensed long-distance movers in California. Comparing their estimates will help you choose the most cost-effective option.
  2. 2
    MO

    Secure Housing & Schools

    • Find Your New Home: Finalize your lease or home purchase in your new city.
    • School Enrollment: If you have kids, start the enrollment process with their new school district to avoid last-minute delays.
  3. 1
    MO

    Final Prep

    • Transfer Records: Arrange to transfer medical, dental, and vet records to your new providers.
    • Change of Address: Make sure to notify USPS, your bank, and any subscription services before your move.
    • Schedule Utilities Disconnection: Arrange to turn off gas, electric, and internet at your California home after your move date.
    • Start Packing Non-Essentials: Label boxes clearly and set aside items you’ll need for travel.
  4. DAY

    Make It Smooth

    • Confirm With Movers: Double-check your long distance moving details the day before to avoid any last-minute issues.
    • Travel Essentials: Keep important documents, valuables, and travel bags with you — not on the moving truck.
    • Unpack in Stages: Focus on essentials first, then settle in to your new state at your own pace.
Company vs Broker

What’s the Difference Between a Moving Company and a Moving Broker?

You’ll probably see terms like moving broker and moving company when getting quotes. Here’s what they really mean, and which one you should trust with your move.

Moving Company

A moving company owns its own trucks, employs its own movers, and physically handles your relocation from start to finish. When you hire a licensed long-distance moving company in California, you’re dealing directly with the team who will pack, load, transport, and deliver your belongings.

  • Handles packing, loading, driving, and delivery.
  • Licensed and insured for interstate moves (FMCSA).
  • Directly accountable for your belongings and any damage claims.
  • You can check real customer reviews for their crews and long-distance track record.

Moving Broker

A moving broker is a middleman; they don’t own trucks or hire movers. Instead, they collect your move details and sell them to an actual moving company that does the job. You may not know which company will show up until the last minute.

  • Does not handle your move themselves.
  • Quality varies depending on which company they hire for you.
  • Some brokers are licensed, but they’re not required to guarantee service quality.
  • Not all brokers are transparent about costs and final arrangements.

Which One Should You Choose?

You should usually work directly with a licensed and insured moving company. They're registered with the FMCSA and are responsible for your belongings during the move, which gives you more accountability than working through a broker.

Choose a broker only if you want help finding a mover and are comfortable working through a middleman.

Find Verified Movers Near You.

Explore trusted nationwide movers and read real customer reviews.

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Scam Protection

How to Handle and Avoid Moving Scams

A moving scam can cost you money, time, and a lot of stress. A few careful steps can help you deal with a problem and avoid the same situation later.

  • Save all records: Keep your estimate, contract, receipts, emails, texts, and photos. These records can support your complaint, prove what happened, and help recover money later if needed.
  • Contact the mover first: Ask the company to explain the problem and fix it in writing. A clear paper trail gives you evidence if the issue becomes serious later.
  • Report the company if needed: File a complaint with the FMCSA or another consumer agency if the mover refuses to help. It can protect other customers too.
  • Verify the mover before booking: Check the company’s USDOT number, license, address, and insurance before paying. This confirms the mover is legitimate and helps you avoid fake companies and scams.
  • Get the price in writing: Ask for a written estimate that explains charges, services, and possible extras. Clear pricing makes sudden price changes easier to question and dispute later too.
  • Be careful with large deposits: Avoid movers asking for unusually large upfront payments, especially in cash. Smaller deposits and traceable payments give you more protection if something goes wrong later.
  • Check reviews from different sources: Read reviews on several websites and look for repeated complaints about pricing, damage, delays, or communication. Patterns can reveal problems before you choose a mover.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about hiring movers in California, from licensing and services to timing and cost.

01

How do I find licensed movers in California?

Check the mover's USDOT number and FMCSA registration before booking an interstate move. You should also confirm the company name, address, insurance, and operating status.

02

What services do moving companies in California offer?

Most moving companies in California offer residential moving, packing, loading, unloading, long-distance moving, and storage. Available services can vary by company.

03

How far in advance should I book movers in California?

Try to book two to six weeks ahead. You may need more time during summer, weekends, holidays, and other busy moving periods.

04

Are there movers in California for interstate moves?

Yes. Interstate movers in California can handle moves from California to another state, but they must have the proper federal registration to transport belongings across state lines.

05

Do California movers provide packing services?

Many California movers offer full or partial packing services. Some can also provide packing supplies, unpacking, furniture disassembly, and reassembly.

06

What is the best time of year to move in California?

Spring and fall can offer more comfortable weather and less demand than peak summer months. Your best time will also depend on your schedule and budget.

07

Should I choose local or long-distance movers in California?

Choose local movers in California for shorter moves within the area. For moves across state lines or much longer distances, use properly registered long distance movers in California.

Didn't find what you were looking for?

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