With hundreds of options available, finding reliable moving companies in California can feel overwhelming. After researching dozens of the best moving companies that serve California, from San Diego’s coastal communities to Sacramento’s hot valleys, our top recommendation is American Van Lines. Its comprehensive service offerings, competitive pricing, and impressive track record with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS) set it apart from other movers.
Our evaluation process considered California-specific factors, including state licensing requirements, specialized services for earthquake-prone areas, capabilities for navigating narrow hillside streets, and heat-resistant packing. Our guide will help you find a California moving company that meets your needs without breaking your budget.
Key Takeaways
- American Van Lines is our top choice for the best moving company in California. In our 2025 survey of 1,000 recent moving customers, it was the third most frequently used moving service in the state.
- Our survey revealed that the average cost of moving in California, covering both local and long-distance moves, is $3,019, based on more than 460 quotes.
- Out of the 88 California movers we surveyed, 58% shared that they weren’t sure if they received a binding estimate or not. We highly recommend you get a binding estimate to make sure your move remains the initial price you were quoted.
Top Moving Companies in California
While we determined that American Van Lines is the best overall mover for California, your moving requirements may lead you to choose another company. For example, you might need more specialized services or be relocating to the state from another country. Here are our top recommendations for professional movers servicing the Golden State:
- American Van Lines: Best for Transparent Pricing
- Allied Van Lines: Best for Industry Experience
- International Van Lines: Best Full-Service Mover
- JK Moving Services: Best Specialized Packing
- North American Van Lines: Best for Large Moves
Compare the Top Moving Companies in California
Learn how our top recommendations for California movers compare on important factors like pricing and Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings in the table below.
| Company | Star Rating | BBB Rating | Average Price | Deposit Required | FMCSA Licensing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A- | $3,218 | 10%–50% | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,520 | None | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,112 | Up to 25% | Carrier | ||
A+ | $2,273 | $250 | Carrier | ||
A+ | $3,601 | None | Carrier/Broker |
Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of April 2025
Note: Costs were calculated based on the 1,000 quotes we received for moves nationwide from previous moving customers within the last two years.
Our Top Picks For Moving Companies in California
American Van Lines
American Van Lines is our top recommendation for California moves. What sets the company apart is its focus on specialty services that make it well-suited for the unique challenges of a California move. The company exclusively employs full-time moving professionals who complete rigorous training focused on navigating everything from San Francisco’s steep hills to Los Angeles’s congested freeways and the Central Valley’s extreme summer heat.
The company offers a complete suite of moving services tailored to California’s various needs, including earthquake-safe packing techniques, custom crating for valuable wine collections, specialized furniture protection against coastal humidity, and climate-controlled storage solutions that meet the state’s strict environmental regulations. As a direct carrier rather than a broker, American Van Lines maintains full control over your move from start to finish, ensuring compliance with CPUC requirements.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Features specialized California expertise with crews trained to navigate challenges specific to the state
- Offers earthquake-safe packing techniques and climate-controlled storage services that meet California’s environmental regulations
- Is fully compliant with the California Public Utilities Commission
Cons
- Has limited availability during California’s peak moving seasons
- Doesn’t offer local California moving services
Cost and Services
We found that American Van Lines costs $3,218 on average for local and long-distance moves. We found that California moving customers with a two-bedroom home received average pricing of 3,264, which is in line with the national average.
Here are the services that American Van Lines offer:
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Loading
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Office moves
- Unloading
- Unpacking
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines stands out as the longest-established moving company among our recommended California movers. Its specialization in long-distance moves makes it particularly valuable for the many out-of-state transplants heading to California. Allied’s fragile-only packing service is great for protecting valuable items from California’s seismic activity, and its Allied Express moving container option is an excellent middle-ground solution for budget-conscious movers navigating the state’s high cost of living.
For those weighing traditional full-service moving against do-it-yourself (DIY) container options, Allied provides an advantage: guaranteed delivery dates for its storage containers without the premium pricing typically associated with such commitments.
In our 2025 moving survey, Allied was the only company consistently reported to honor its quoted prices without surprise additional charges, which is a significant benefit in a state where moving costs can vary dramatically between coastal and inland regions. Unlike competitors who provide estimates over the phone, Allied requires an in-person inspection before quoting, resulting in more accurate pricing for complex moves like those involving San Francisco’s hills or Los Angeles’s high-rise buildings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has the largest agent network on this list, making interstate moves smoother
- Helps military members with personally procured moves, which is ideal for California, which has the most active-duty military personnel in the country
- Requires its movers to wear gloves, use shoe covers, and avoid dollies inside, protecting your home and belongings
Cons
- Limits direct service coverage in California’s more remote northern counties and desert communities
- Doesn’t offer 24/7 customer service
Cost and Services
Allied has an overall average price of $3,520 across local and long-distance moves across the nation. We primarily gathered quotes from Allied customers who underwent a local California move with a studio apartment or 1-bedroom home, with an average of $1,125. This difference means your California move’s price will change drastically based on your specific needs and criteria.
Get an idea of what services Allied offers below:
- Appliance/electronics disconnection
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Junk removal
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
International Van Lines
International Van Lines (IVL) brings expertise to Golden State moves while offering impressive global capabilities. As one of the few moving companies providing door-to-door international relocation services across more than 140 countries, IVL stands out for California residents planning overseas moves. Particularly noteworthy is its international vehicle shipping service, a valuable option for tech professionals relocating internationally or California emigrants who want their vehicles at their destination.
Operating as both a moving carrier and a broker, IVL maintains a vast network of moving partners throughout California. While this means one of IVL’s local partners might handle your move in certain regions, it also means broader service availability and specialized expertise in different locations across the state’s diverse geography. IVL’s services cater specifically to California’s unique moving needs, including earthquake-safe packing techniques, specialized handling for antiques and fine wine collections, and special handling of high-value tech equipment and fragile items.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has exceptional international relocation capabilities spanning over 140 countries, making IVL ideal for relocating overseas to or from California
- Offers California-specific services including earthquake-safe packing protocols, specialized handling for wine collections, and climate-controlled transport
- Includes complimentary one-month storage with every move
Cons
- Doesn’t offer flat-rate pricing or binding estimates
- Leaves customers responsible for securing parking permits
Cost and Services
IVL costs an average of $3,112 across the U.S., but its average California cost from quotes we gathered is $1,425. This price includes up to three-bedroom homes for all local moves. Learn what services IVL offers here:
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Junk removal
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
JK Moving Services
JK Moving Services provides California residents with expert long-distance moving services and offers a personalized white-glove approach. While it doesn’t service local moves in California, the company specializes in interstate relocations. JK Moving assigns each client a dedicated coordinator to create a tailored moving plan that addresses specific logistics, costs, and seasonal timing to avoid wildfire season surcharges and peak summer pricing.
JK Moving’s services are especially beneficial for California’s tech executives and entertainment industry professionals, as it offers specialized handling for valuable electronics, fine art collections, and other high-value items sensitive to the state’s diverse climate conditions. It collaborates with Montway Auto Transport for seamless vehicle relocation, which is critical for luxury and electric vehicle owners who are concerned about long-distance transport. Additionally, its mobile app allows real-time shipment tracking, which can help you navigate potential delays caused by mountain passes or coastal highway closures.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Is the only mover on our list with 24/7 customer support
- Doesn’t require an in-person visit for a quote, since it uses AI virtual home surveys
- Uses green, sustainable moving practices as standard protocol
Cons
- Doesn’t offer local moving services in California
- Has a lengthy quote process with a detailed inventory
Cost and Services
Although we found that JK Moving costs $2,273 on average, we received a quote from a previous JK Moving customer who was charged $2,375 for their long-distance California move with a four-bedroom home. This figure means you will most likely receive a quote around these prices. Below are the services JK Moving offers:
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines (NAVL) is a trusted name in the moving industry, offering a comprehensive selection of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of California movers. Whether you’re relocating across the state or making a long-distance move from or to California, NAVL provides a wide range of full- and partial-service options, including expert packing and unpacking, careful loading and unloading, and flexible storage solutions. Its standout offerings, such as earthquake-safe packing protocols, disassembly and reassembly of furniture for tight urban spaces, and specialized wine collection transport, are useful for California’s tech professionals, entertainment industry workers, and wine enthusiasts.
NAVL’s extensive network means Californians have access to short- or long-term storage facilities throughout the state, making it easier to manage staggered move-in schedules in competitive housing markets from San Diego to San Francisco. For those shipping vehicles like electric cars or classic automobiles, NAVL offers open and enclosed carrier transport, with the latter providing extra protection from coastal salt air or desert heat during transit.
Additionally, NAVL includes a generous contents protection plan that goes beyond the federally required minimum, offering reimbursement at $6 per pound with a minimum shipment value of $6,000. This level of care and coverage makes NAVL a good choice for anyone planning a move in, out, or across the Golden State.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Serves 164 cities in California
- Uses WorldTrac, a satellite tracking system, so that customers can see their shipment in real time
- Has six locations in the Los Angeles area
Cons
- Has more trucks out of service than other companies on our list, which can result in delays and scheduling conflicts
- Holds a broker license, so your move could be subcontracted to another moving company
Cost and Services
NAVL features a typical average national price of $3,601, and our survey found its California prices for two-bedroom moves to be competitive at an average of $1,125. However, we only have this information for two-bedroom moves, and a more extensive move will most likely cost more.
- Appliance/electronics disconnection
- Fragile-only packing
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Junk removal
- Loading
- Office moves
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Unloading
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
How Much Does a California Move Cost?
The average moving costs in California are $3,019 and around $2.07 per mile for long-distance moves. Local moves averaged around $1,608. These figures put California around the national average cost to move of $3,020. Your moving price will change according to your home’s size, the total distance of the move, the services you pick, and the time of the year you move.
In the table below, you’ll get a better idea of what your move might cost by home size in California:
| House Size | Average Cost in California |
|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $2,264 |
| 2 bedrooms | $2,711 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,566 |
| 4 bedrooms | $5,166 |
How We Collected Moving Cost Data
To better estimate moving costs in California and nationwide, we gathered over 2,000 quotes from 16 companies across all 50 U.S. states. We used sample addresses for single-family homes ranging from one-bedroom and studios to four-bedroom homes in each state to determine average pricing.
For California, this included requesting and obtaining quotes for moves to and around Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, San Jose, Fresno, Long Beach, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, Bakersfield, Redding, and more. As a result, our state averages encompass various homeowner demographics by including both urban and rural areas. We then averaged the cost of hiring a mover in each state to determine a national price range.
Additional Factors Affecting Move Costs
Even with a baseline quote in hand, moving costs in California can vary more than you’d expect, because a number of local factors come into play. Whether you’re relocating within the Bay Area or heading to the Sierra foothills, here are some key details that can affect what you’ll ultimately pay:
- Climate and weather: While California’s weather is generally mild, certain regions, like the snowy Lake Tahoe area or wildfire-prone zones, can complicate move schedules or require special planning, as well as special climate-conditioned packing.
- Distance: A move from San Diego to Sacramento is a whole different story than a local shift across town in Fresno. California’s vast size means that long-distance moves can rack up fuel, time, and even overnight travel costs, especially if routes involve tricky mountain passes or coastal highways.
- Home accessibility: Do you live in a San Francisco Victorian with a narrow staircase? Or maybe a Malibu beach house with limited street parking? Movers will factor in things like elevator access, multiple stories, tight corners, and long carry distances when pricing your move.
- Permits and parking: In cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Berkeley, you may need to secure temporary parking permits for the moving truck. Some buildings also have move-in/move-out restrictions or require advance elevator reservations.
- Services: From full-service packing to temporary storage, the more help you need, the more you’ll pay. In California, services like navigating multi-level hillside homes or providing eco-friendly packing supplies may also come with added costs.
- Time of year: California’s peak moving season runs from late spring through early fall, especially June through August, when families aim to settle in before the school year starts. Rates often spike during these high-demand months, and you’ll also want to watch out for holiday weekends and end-of-month crunches.
Moving Factors To Consider in California
According to United Van Lines’ 48th Annual National Movers Study, California continues to experience significant outbound migration, with approximately 58% of moves leaving the state, often heading to destinations such as Texas, Arizona, and Nevada. The U.S. Census Bureau’s State-to-State Migration Flows data shows that while many leave, California still attracts newcomers, particularly to tech hubs like San Francisco and emerging areas like Sacramento.
The Public Policy Institute of California reports that housing costs remain the primary factor driving relocation decisions, with middle-income families increasingly moving to more affordable inland regions like Fresno and Bakersfield. Moving companies report increased demand for specialized packing services to protect belongings from coastal humidity in San Diego and Los Angeles, extreme heat in the Central Valley, and earthquake concerns throughout the state.
Understanding these trends can help you negotiate better rates during off-peak seasons and ensure your moving company has experience with your specific regional challenges. From weather quirks to state regulations, here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Changing your address and registering your vehicle: If you’re moving to California, you’ll need to update your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS). Also register your vehicle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 20 days and apply for a California driver’s license within 10 days of establishing residency. DMV wait times can be long, especially in larger cities, so plan accordingly.
- Cost of living adjustments: Be prepared for sticker shock in some areas, especially in terms of housing and fuel costs. Conversely, if you’re leaving California, your cost of living might go down, but so might your access to the amenities you’re used to.
- Environmental restrictions: California has some of the strictest environmental laws in the country. If you’re driving your own moving truck into the state, be aware that certain diesel-powered vehicles must meet emissions standards, especially for commercial use.
- Weather: While much of California enjoys mild weather year-round, regional differences matter. Wildfire season in late summer and early fall can affect schedules in Northern and Southern California, while winter snow in the Sierra Nevada can delay moves through mountain passes such as I-80 or Highway 50.
- Parking: In cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Santa Monica, finding legal and convenient parking for a moving truck or container can be a major challenge. Some cities require temporary no-parking permits or restrict the size and time trucks can be on certain streets, so it’s smart to check with local parking authorities in advance.
- Pet relocation rules: California is pretty pet-friendly, but the state does have regulations for bringing animals across state lines. Dogs must be up-to-date on rabies vaccinations. If you’re transporting exotic pets, check in with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to make sure you’re in the clear.
- State licensing requirements: California requires all intrastate moving companies to be licensed through the CPUC. Before hiring a mover, check its CPUC license number to ensure they’re legit and insured.
How Does California Regulate Moving Companies?
Every state has its own rules when it comes to moving companies, and California is no exception. Also, all interstate moves are governed by federal law and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). While some states have fairly light oversight, California takes consumer protection seriously, especially in the moving industry. Whether you’re hiring a mover for a short hop across town or a longer in-state relocation, it’s important to know the rules, your rights, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Here’s what you should know about how California regulates movers:
- Consumer rights booklet: Movers are required to give you a copy of “Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods,” a consumer rights booklet issued by the CPUC. It outlines your rights, responsibilities, and protections under California law.
- Filing a complaint: If you run into issues with a licensed mover, you can file a formal complaint with the CPUC. The process is straightforward and can be done online via the CPUC Consumer Complaint Page. Include your mover’s license number and any documentation you have.
- Licensing requirements: All moving companies operating within California must be licensed by the CPUC. Movers are issued a Cal-T number, which you can verify on the CPUC’s Transportation Carrier Lookup. Unlicensed movers are illegal and unregulated. Avoid them at all costs.
- Lost or damaged items: Under federal law, movers are required to carry a minimum level of liability insurance, but this usually only covers $0.60 per pound per item. You can request additional valuation coverage or insurance if your belongings are worth more. Be sure to inspect your items immediately after delivery. You must file claims for damage or loss within nine months.
- No hidden fees rule: California law prohibits moving companies from charging hidden fees. The company must disclose all charges upfront, including fees for stairs, long carries, fuel surcharges, or special equipment.
- Parking permits: In some California cities like San Francisco, Berkeley, and West Hollywood, you may need a temporary parking permit to reserve street space for a moving truck or container. These permits help you avoid tickets and ensure your movers can park close to your home.
- Required written estimates: Licensed movers must provide a written estimate before starting your move. This should include all expected charges, and you’re entitled to a copy for your records. Binding estimates must be honored, while non-binding ones cannot exceed the original estimate by more than 10% unless you approve additional services in writing.
Insights From Movers in California
California continues to be a popular but complex destination for movers. According to our survey, 23% of Americans who moved last year relocated to the West, including California, and were drawn by job opportunities (69%), better weather (50%), and perceived improvements in public safety (57%). At the same time, 14% moved away from the West, largely citing the high cost of living (65%) and limited job opportunities (52%) as reasons for moving.
For homeowners planning a long-distance move to or from California, these factors are crucial to consider. Hiring a professional moving company can help you manage the stress and logistics that come with these high-cost, high-stakes moves. In fact, 91% of moving customers said the experience was stressful, with the biggest pain points being packing (39%), unexpected costs (38%), and the sheer length of the process, averaging more than 17 days for long-distance moves. Professional movers can help reduce this burden, especially for California homeowners juggling tight timelines, large volumes of belongings, or cross-state coordination.
FAQs About Moving Companies in California
Is $100 enough to tip movers?
In most cases, yes, $100 is a generous tip for a moving crew, especially for a local, half-day move in California. A good rule of thumb is 10%–20% of the total move cost, split among the team. For longer or more complex moves, like navigating a steep San Francisco hill or hauling furniture up three flights of stairs in an old LA apartment, consider tipping a bit more as a thank-you for the extra effort.
Is it cheaper to hire movers or do it yourself?
DIY moves can save you money upfront, especially if you already have help and don’t mind renting a truck and doing the heavy lifting. However, in California—where traffic, parking, and long-distance drives can add stress—hiring professional movers is often worth the extra cost for convenience and peace of mind.
What should I look for when choosing a moving company in California?
Start by verifying the mover’s license number through the CPUC. This number confirms it’s operating legally within the state. Then, read recent reviews on Yelp or Google, ask about insurance and liability coverage, and request a written estimate. California movers are required by law to provide transparent pricing, and reputable companies will gladly walk you through their process.
How We Ranked the Best Moving Companies in California
To fairly and thoroughly evaluate moving companies operating in California, we developed a 100-point rating system grounded in real customer experiences, California-specific regulations, and hands-on testing. We gathered quotes from moves originating in California’s major metro areas, verified licensing through the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), and reviewed safety records and insurance compliance for intrastate movers.
Our team analyzed thousands of customer reviews from California residents and conducted secret-shopping calls to companies serving both urban hubs and more remote regions—from the dense streets of San Francisco to the deserts near Palm Springs. Each mover was scored across six essential categories, including pricing transparency, reliability in California’s diverse climates, and service quality in local markets. Based on their performance, companies received a final rating out of 5 stars.
Here’s how we broke down our review:
- Customer service (18%): We looked at reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot, surveyed more than 3,000 recent customers, and tested each company’s website and support team ourselves. Companies earned higher marks for having clear communication, being responsive, and offering a helpful, user-friendly online experience.
- Reputation (14%): We verified that each mover has proper licensing through the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and checked Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) safety records, specifically truck maintenance data. We also gave extra credit to companies that publicly commit to background-checking their crews, showing they prioritize customer safety.
- Value (18%): Using real quotes for three-bedroom moves ranging from 500–800 miles, we compared average prices across providers. We also considered whether companies offer flat-rate or binding estimates and if they have a clear and simple billing process.
- Service offerings (19%): We evaluated the range of services available, from packing and unpacking to piano moving and junk removal. Movers that offer more options, including do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions like portable storage, scored higher for flexibility and convenience.
- Item protection (20%): We reviewed each company’s insurance offerings and how well it prevents damage during the move. Higher scores went to movers that offer full-value protection and use best practices like shrink wrap, padding, and floor guards.
- Scheduling (11%): We assessed how easy it is to request a quote, speak to a representative, and manage a move from start to finish. Companies with multiple contact options, digital tools like apps or customer portals, and streamlined booking processes stood out from the rest.
