Top-rated moving companies in California affordable movers
Nafiu Ibne Mazhar
Updated : 20 November, 2023 • 7 min read
Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to finding a reliable and trustworthy moving company. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which moving company is the best fit for your needs.
If you’re planning a move in California, you’re in luck. The Golden State is home to some of the top-rated moving companies in the country. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best moving companies in California, their services, and what sets them apart from the rest.
Why Choose a Professional Moving Company?
Moving can be a daunting task, and many people choose to hire a professional moving company to make the process smoother and less stressful. Here are some reasons why you should consider hiring a professional moving company for your next move:
Experience and Expertise
Professional moving companies have years of experience and expertise in handling all types of moves. They know how to pack and transport your belongings safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
Time and Cost-Efficient
Hiring a professional moving company can save you time and money in the long run. They have the necessary equipment and resources to complete your move quickly and efficiently, saving you from the hassle of renting a truck and doing all the heavy lifting yourself.
Peace of Mind
Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but hiring a professional moving company can give you peace of mind. You can trust that your belongings are in good hands and focus on other aspects of your move.
Cost of Living in California
| Size of Home | Average Total Cost | Cost Per Hour | No. of Movers | No. of Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $555 | $189 | 2 movers | 3 hours |
| 1 Bedroom | $700 | $191 | 2 movers | 4 hours |
| 2 Bedroom | $1100 | $267 | 3 movers | 5 hours |
| 3 Bedroom | $2443 | $375 | 4 movers | 8 hours |
| 4 Bedroom | $2889 | $385 | 4 movers | 9 hours |
| 5+ Bedroom | $5800 | $521 | 5 movers | 10 hours |
Top-rated Moving Companies in California
NorthStar Moving Company
19401 Business Center Dr Northridge, CA 91324
Why NorthStar Moving Company?
NorthStar Moving Company is a Los Angeles-based moving company that has been in business for over 25 years. They offer a wide range of moving services, including local, long-distance, and international moves.
What sets NorthStar Moving Company apart is their commitment to eco-friendly practices. They use reusable packing materials and have a fleet of eco-friendly moving trucks. They also offer a concierge service to help with tasks such as finding a new school for your children or setting up utilities in your new home.
Pros and Cons
✅ Eco-Friendly Practices
✅ High Customer Satisfaction
✅ Customizable Services
✅ Availability
✅ Experience and Recognition
❌ Higher Costs
❌ Limited Geographical Coverage
TOP RATED A+ MOVERS
Get 100% Free No Obligation Move Quote
Meathead Movers
CAL T-189849 | USDOT #921143 | MC-398077
Why Meathead Movers?
Meathead Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company that has been in business since 1997. They specialize in local and long-distance moves within California and offer a unique service called “The Princess Packers,” where a team of female packers will pack your belongings with care and attention to detail.
Meathead Movers also stands out for its commitment to giving back to the community. They donate a portion of their profits to local charities and offer free moving services to victims of domestic violence.
Pros and Cons
✅ High Customer Satisfaction
✅ 24/7 Availability
✅ Commitment to Quality Service
❌ Mixed Reviews on BBB
❌ Customer Complaints
Move Central Moving & Storage
CAL-T# 191020 CA# 436294 Intrastate: USDOT: 2365576 Interstate: USDOT: 3351096
Why Move Central Moving & Storage?
Move Central Moving & Storage is a San Diego-based moving company that offers local, long-distance, and commercial moving services. They also offer packing and storage services to make your move as stress-free as possible.
What sets Move Central Moving & Storage apart is their commitment to customer satisfaction. They have a 100% satisfaction guarantee and offer a price match guarantee to ensure you get the best deal possible.
Pros and Cons
✅ High Customer Satisfaction
✅ 24/7 Availability
✅ Commitment to Quality Service
❌ Mixed Reviews on BBB
❌ Customer Complaints
TOP RATED A+ MOVERS
Get 100% Free No Obligation Move Quote
Gentle Giant Moving Company
DOT #373544, ICC #MC218762
Why Gentle Giant Moving Company?
Gentle Giant Moving Company is a national moving company with locations in California, including San Francisco and Los Angeles. They offer local, long-distance, and international moves, as well as packing and storage services.
What makes Gentle Giant Moving Company stand out is their dedication to providing exceptional customer service. They have won numerous awards for their customer satisfaction and have a team of highly trained and affordable movers.
Pros and Cons
✅ Top-Rated Customer Service
✅ Experienced Crews
✅ Transparent Contracts
✅ Full-Service Options
✅ Specialty Services
❌ Limited Locations
❌ Booking Challenges
❌ Worker Fatigue
❌ Pricing Issues
Recommended Moving Services in Nearby Cities
| New York City | Los Angeles City | Chicago City | Miami City | San Francisco City |
| Houston City | Atlanta City | Boston City | Seattle City | Denver City |
| Dallas City | Philadelphia City | Phoenix City | San Diego City | Las Vegas City |
| Washington, D.C. City | Orlando City | Austin City | San Antonio City | Nashville City |
| New Orleans City | Portland City | San Jose City | Raleigh City | Indianapolis City |
| Minneapolis City | St. Louis City | Detroit City | Salt Lake City | Columbus City |
| Charlotte City | Tampa City | Pittsburgh City | Kansas City | Cincinnati City |
| Buffalo City | Riverside City | Richmond City | El Paso City | Memphis City |
Top Interstate Moving Companies in California
Great American Moving Company
Great American Moving Company has been in the moving business for over 20 years and has built a reputation for providing excellent service to their customers.
Golden State Van Lines
Golden State Van Lines is a full-service moving company that has been in business for over 10 years. They offer a wide range of moving services, including packing, loading, transportation, and unloading.
West Coast Movers
West Coast Movers is a highly rated moving company that has been serving California for over 5 years.
Factors to consider when relocating to California
Weather Variations
California’s climate varies significantly by region. Coastal areas generally have a Mediterranean climate, while inland areas can be very hot in summer and cold in winter. Northern California tends to be cooler and wetter than Southern California. Understanding the local climate will help you prepare in terms of clothing and housing needs.
State and Local Regulations
Different cities and counties in California have unique regulations. This includes zoning laws, parking restrictions, and local ordinances. For example, San Francisco has strict parking regulations, while Los Angeles is known for its traffic congestion.
Job Market
California has a diverse economy, with strong sectors in technology, entertainment, agriculture, and tourism. The job market can be competitive, especially in high-demand areas like Silicon Valley and Los Angeles. Researching job opportunities and the local economy in your specific field is crucial.
Cost of Living
California is known for its high cost of living, particularly in major urban areas like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Housing costs can be significantly higher than the national average. Budgeting for higher expenses in housing, food, and transportation is essential.
TOP RATED A+ MOVERS
Get 100% Free No Obligation Move Quote
State Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration
If you’re moving from another state, you’ll need to obtain a California driver’s license and register your vehicle. California requires new residents to do this within a certain timeframe (usually within 10 days for a driver’s license and 20 days for vehicle registration).
State Laws and Taxes
Familiarize yourself with California state laws, which may differ from your previous state. This includes traffic laws, tax regulations, and any specific local laws. California has its own tax structures, including state income tax, which might affect your finances.
Parking and Transportation
In urban areas, parking can be scarce and expensive. If you’re relocating to a city, research parking options and costs. Public transportation availability varies greatly across California, with some areas having extensive networks (like the Bay Area) and others being more car-dependent.
Cultural and Lifestyle Adjustments
California is known for its diverse culture and lifestyle. Adjusting to the cultural norms, lifestyle choices, and general pace of life can be part of the relocation process.
Educational Opportunities
If you have children, research the educational system in the area you are moving to. California offers a range of public and private schools, as well as prestigious universities.
Healthcare Access
Consider healthcare facilities and insurance options in your new area. California offers various healthcare services, but access and insurance coverage can vary.
Emergency Preparedness
California is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, wildfires, and droughts. Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and consider insurance for natural disasters.
FAQs
A: To choose the best moving company in California, research and compare different companies based on their reputation, services offered, pricing, and customer reviews. Check for licensing and insurance to ensure they are legally compliant. It’s also beneficial to get quotes from multiple companies and inquire about any additional fees or services.
Consider the following factors:
- Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed and insured.
- Experience and Reputation: Look for companies with a good track record and positive customer reviews.
- Services Offered: Check if they provide the specific services you need (e.g., packing, storage, special handling for fragile items).
- Cost: Get detailed quotes and understand all potential fees.
- Availability: Make sure they are available on your desired moving date.
Hiring a professional moving company can be worth it for several reasons:
- Efficiency: Professional movers are experienced and can move your belongings quickly and safely.
- Safety: They have the skills to handle heavy and fragile items, reducing the risk of injury or damage.
- Convenience: They can take care of packing, loading, transporting, and unloading, which eases the stress of moving.
- Time-Saving: It frees up your time to focus on other aspects of your move.
The cost varies depending on several factors such as the distance of the move, the volume of items, and the services required (packing, storage, special handling). Local moves are typically charged by the hour, while long-distance moves are based on weight and distance. It’s best to get quotes from several companies for an accurate estimate.
Helpful Resources Regarding California
Moving Services (CA)
Best movers
Long-distance movers
Cost to moving
Popular Cities (CA)
Best Los Angeles movers
Best San Diego movers
Best Palmdale movers
Moving Routes (CA)
California to New York movers
California to Texas mover
California to Ohio movers
