Best Moving Companies in California (2026)

Quick answer

There are many moving companies in California, but it can be hard to tell which ones offer good service at a fair price. We've selected some of the best moving companies in California so you can compare their services, reviews, and prices before choosing one for your move.

Best local mover Mod Movers
Best long-distance International Van Lines
Average local rate $121 an hour

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MGM Editorial Team
Published By:  MGM Editorial Team
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Not every move has the same needs. Select the type of move you have planned, and we'll help you find the right companies to choose from.

Detailed Review

Best Moving Companies in California

California moving companies help people move within their city or to other cities across the state. Each company offers different services, rates, and customer experiences, so it's worth comparing your options.

1
4.9 (19 reviews)

Based in Monterey, California.

FMCSA Active
Insurance Full Coverage
US DOT #2983026
Positive Reviews 94.7%
Negative Reviews 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
2
4.8 (9 reviews)

Based in Oakland, California.

FMCSA Active
Insurance Full Coverage
US DOT #3808951
Positive Reviews 88.9%
Negative Reviews 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
3
4.7 (55 reviews)

Based in Tarzana, California.

FMCSA Active
Insurance Full Coverage
US DOT #2022745
Positive Reviews 94.5%
Negative Reviews 5.5%

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 4.7 rating on our platform, with 94.5% positive feedback and 5.5% negative reviews. The average reported cost is $4,404, 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
4.5 (13 reviews)

Based in South Gate, California.

FMCSA Active
Insurance Full Coverage
US DOT #3291262
Positive Reviews 84.6%
Negative Reviews 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
5
4.5 (46 reviews)

Based in Escondido, California.

FMCSA Active
Insurance Full Coverage
US DOT #3851632
Positive Reviews 89.1%
Negative Reviews 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

Compare California Moving Companies Side by Side

Every mover on this page in one table. Save the ones you like, then compare your shortlist.

Mover and type Based in MGM rating (reviews) Typical cost USDOT
Mod Movers logo
Mod Movers
Monterey, California
4.9 (19 reviews)
$4,094 average reported 2983026 Get a quote
Royal Moving & Storage logo
Royal Moving & Storage
Oakland, California
4.8 (9 reviews)
$4,071 average reported 3808951 Get a quote
Cross Country Moving LLC logo
Cross Country Moving LLC
Tarzana, California
4.7 (55 reviews)
$4,404 average reported 2022745 Get a quote
Good Neighbors Moving Company logo
Good Neighbors Moving Company
South Gate, California
4.5 (13 reviews)
$4,288 average reported 3291262 Get a quote
American Movers LLC logo
American Movers LLC
Escondido, California
4.5 (46 reviews)
$4,378 average reported 3851632 Get a quote

Best Long-Distance Moving Companies Serving California

If you're moving from California to another state, you need a reliable company that can manage the long trip and transport your belongings safely. These are some of the best companies to consider.


Other Moving Options in California

You don't always need to hire a full-service moving company. If you want to save money or do some of the work yourself, you can rent a truck, use a moving container, or hire movers just for loading and unloading.

What a container move costs in California You pack, they drive. The container sits at your home while you load.
8-ft container, local $209–$439 Small home or apartment
16-ft container, local $329–$814 2–3 bedroom home
Cross-country $1,939–$7,402 Out of California

Best Moving Container Companies for California Moves

1-800 Pack Rat Bethesda, Maryland
4.4
7 reviews
85.7% positive 14.3% negative
Avg. move cost $4,141
FMCSA license USDOT 1534531
Latest review
I truly appreciate their honesty and dedication.

The professionalism of the staff was outstanding. They treated me with respect, explained every step clearly,... Read more

KE
Kevin Smith Jul 06, 2026 · 2 Bedroom Home · paid $4,449
U Pack Fort Smith, Arkansas
4.8
18 reviews
94.4% positive 5.6% negative
Avg. move cost $3,723
FMCSA license USDOT 2632086
Latest review
It was a smooth experience from beginning to end.

I couldn't be happier with the service I received. The team worked efficiently, maintained great communication... Read more

JO
Jones Travis Jul 06, 2026 · 2 Bedroom Home · paid $3,216
PODS Moving and Storage Clearwater, Florida
4.1
13 reviews
76.9% positive 23.1% negative
Avg. move cost $4,662
FMCSA license USDOT 1397252
Latest review
Nice

I used their moving container and storage service during my move, and it made everything much easier. The cont... Read more

MA
Mary Lebow Jul 22, 2026 · 3 Bedroom Home · paid $3,253

Popular Moving Routes from California

The cost, travel distance, and delivery time depend on where you plan to move. Each route has its own requirements, which can affect how your move goes.

CALIFORNIA MOVERS DIRECTORY

Browse More Moving Companies in California

You have more options beyond the companies listed above. Our California directory covers other movers throughout the state, so you can check their services, reviews, and company information in one place.

Showing 14 California movers Page 1 of 13
Paramount, CA
3.1 15 verified reviews
USDOT 1978660
Middletown, NJ
5 125 verified reviews
USDOT 4528298
Monvex Moving Verified
Beverly Hills, CA
5 1 verified review
USDOT 6122278
Cheyenne, WY
5 154 verified reviews
USDOT 8402975
BLVD Moving Verified
Chatsworth, CA
4.1 157 verified reviews
USDOT 2892909
Van Nuys, CA
4.7 23 verified reviews
USDOT 2774464
Escondido, CA
4.5 46 verified reviews
USDOT 3851632
Tarzana, CA
4.7 55 verified reviews
USDOT 2022745
San Diego, CA
4.5 16 verified reviews
USDOT 3152229
Dandy Movers Verified
Northridge, CA
4.4 15 verified reviews
USDOT 3128036
San Leandro, CA
4.5 22 verified reviews
USDOT 2626333
Mod Movers Verified
Monterey, CA
4.9 19 verified reviews
USDOT 2983026
Oakland, CA
4.8 9 verified reviews
USDOT 3808951
South Gate, CA
4.5 13 verified reviews
USDOT 3291262
1 2 3 … 13

How We Select Moving Companies in California

We know choosing a moving company is a big decision, and you deserve to know why certain movers make our list.

We look beyond star ratings and consider customer experiences, company credentials, pricing, and service quality before making recommendations.

What We Consider When Comparing Movers
Customer Reviews
We check customer experiences, review volume, and rating patterns. According to our methodology, reviews from the last 12 months carry more weight, while reviews older than 24 months receive less weight.
Real Reviews
Over 70% of our reviews are verified. Bad reviews stay up, and movers can't pay to hide them.
Licensing and Credentials
We examine company details and relevant licensing records. For interstate movers, this includes USDOT numbers and FMCSA registration.
Pricing Transparency
We consider available moving estimates, customer-reported costs, and whether companies clearly explain their charges.
Services and Availability
We consider whether a company offers the moving services needed and serves the relevant locations.

How Much Does It Cost to Move in California?

A move within California usually costs between $432 and $3,912. Local movers charge around $122 per mover per hour.

Moving Costs by Distance

Within California $442–$4,033 Local and in-state moves
Short interstate move, about 250 miles $700–$3,950 Short interstate move
Interstate move, about 1,000 miles $1,100–$7,800 Longer interstate move

Average Moving Costs by Distance and Home Size

Studio / 1 Bedroom
About 250 miles$700–$1,900
About 1,000 miles$1,100–$2,700
About 2,500 miles$1,500–$3,500
2–3 Bedrooms
About 250 miles$1,600–$2,900
About 1,000 miles$1,900–$4,500
About 2,500 miles$2,900–$6,500
4+ Bedrooms
About 250 miles$2,100–$3,950
About 1,000 miles$4,100–$7,800
About 2,500 miles$7,900–$13,700
$122 per hour, local movers
Calculate my cost

California Moving Company Licensing and Regulations

California has rules to keep unlicensed movers from putting your belongings and money at risk. Whether you're switching neighborhoods or heading out of state determines which credentials your moving company needs.

Moving Within California

If you are moving within California, your mover needs a California Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS) license and must give you a written Not to Exceed price for the agreed work.

Before booking a mover, check its California moving license to make sure the company is authorized to handle your belongings.

Moving from California to Another State

If you are heading from California to Oregon, Nevada, or another state, your mover must meet California licensing requirements and have the proper FMCSA authority for interstate household moves.

Use the FMCSA Mover Search Tool to check:

  • USDOT number: Is the mover federally registered?
  • Operating authority: Can it legally handle interstate moves?
  • Insurance: What coverage information has the carrier reported?
  • Complaint history: Have customers reported problems?
  • Business type: Is it a moving carrier or a broker?

Best Time to Move in California

October through April is a smart window to avoid summer moving demand. But California doesn't follow one weather pattern.

Plan Your California Move by Month

Find the month that works for your destination, budget, and weather preferences.

Rain or mountain snow Wildfire risk or extreme heat Summer heat Best months to move

Plan for it:

What to Know Before Moving Within or Out of California

Your move to California may go smoothly, but a few things can cause delays. Limited parking space, elevator restrictions, or road closures can affect your moving plans. It's best to check these details before moving day.

HOA and Apartment Rules

If you're moving into a Los Angeles condo or a San Francisco apartment, ask when movers can enter. Some buildings reserve elevators for specific hours, and you don't want a truck full of furniture waiting outside for access.

Moving Truck Parking

In San Francisco, securing curb space ahead of time can save a lot of trouble. The city's temporary moving-van parking signage lets you request a reserved loading area. Apply at least five business days before you need it.

Truck Access and Loading Space

A truck that fits easily in a Sacramento driveway might struggle on a narrow Berkeley hillside road. If your street has sharp turns, steep grades, or nowhere to unload, tell the mover beforehand so it can arrange the right vehicle.

Highways and Traffic

California traffic can turn a short drive into a long afternoon, especially around Los Angeles. Before your truck heads onto I-5, I-10, I-15, I-80, or I-405, check Caltrans QuickMap for closures, congestion, and road conditions.

Moving Containers

If you plan to use a portable storage container, make sure it has a legal place to sit. If your driveway is too small and you need to use the street, local permits or property rules may apply.

Truck Route Restrictions

The shortest road isn't always suitable for a loaded truck. Ask your mover about vehicle restrictions, and check California highway conditions before you travel, especially in winter.

How to Choose a Moving Company in California

You shouldn't have to discover a mover's limitations after your furniture is loaded. Look for a company that understands California's moving rules, knows your route, and explains exactly what you're paying for.

  1. 1

    Choose a Company That Handles Your Type of Move

    A mover experienced with Bay Area apartments may be a better fit for your San Francisco relocation than one focused on large suburban homes. Start with California moving companies that offer the service and destination you need.

  2. 2

    Check Licensing and Insurance

    A moving company may have great reviews, but is it legally allowed to handle your move? Use California's Household Movers License Search to check its license and use the FMCSA Mover Search Tool to verify interstate movers. Don't forget to ask what protection covers your belongings.

  3. 3

    Read Recent Customer Reviews

    Skip past the star ratings and read what actually happened. Did the movers manage a difficult San Francisco pickup? Were extra charges explained? Reviews that describe real moving situations are much more useful than one-word praise.

  4. 4

    Compare at Least Three Moving Quotes

    Three quotes mean little if each company is pricing a different job. Give every mover the same inventory, addresses, and access details, including stairs or long carries, so you can spot meaningful price differences.

  5. 5

    Know Who Will Handle Your Move

    The company you book might not own the truck that arrives at your home. Ask who will transport your belongings and whether you're dealing with a carrier or broker. The FMCSA mover database can help you check.

  6. 6

    Review the Contract Before Booking

    Don't let moving day be the first time you discover an extra charge. Check your pickup date, payment terms, and cancellation policy before signing. California's household moving guidelines explain the Not-to-Exceed Price and when additional charges apply.

California Moving Facts at a Glance

Category Quick Facts
State Length770 miles (North to South)
State Width250 miles (East to West)
Total Area163,695 square miles
Counties58
Major Interstate HighwaysI-5, I-8, I-10, I-15, I-40, I-80
Average Local Moving Rate$121/hour per mover (2026)
Intrastate Moving AuthorityCalifornia Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS)
Interstate Moving AuthorityFederal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Federal Released Value Protection$0.60 per pound per item
Wildfire SeasonYear-round risk; higher in summer and fall
Winter Storm SeasonNovember–April
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about moving in and out of California, from building rules to estimates and complaints.

01

Can I move out of a California apartment before 7 AM?

It depends on your building's rules and local restrictions. Ask management about approved moving hours before scheduling an early pickup.

02

Is a weekday move in California better than a weekend?

A weekday may offer more scheduling options, but rush-hour traffic can slow the truck. Ask your mover about the best pickup window.

03

What happens if a wildfire blocks my California moving route?

Your mover may need to delay transportation or take another route. Check CAL FIRE incident updates and confirm how the company handles disruptions.

04

Can I hire an out-of-state mover for a California-to-California relocation?

The company must have the California authorization required for intrastate household moves, regardless of where its business headquarters are located.

05

Can I challenge unexpected moving charges in California?

Yes. Review your written estimate and any change orders, then contact California BHGS if you believe the mover violated state rules.

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