Local moving companies in California
When making the move from California to Fort Collins, CO, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Fort Collins, CO.
- Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191566
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 2950711
Since 2017, 680 Movers has been a trusted local moving company serving Walnut Creek, CA, and nearby areas. Known for their comprehensive local residential moving services, they stand out from competitors with their top-rated customer satisfaction, boasting an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Beyond local moves, they offer packing, unpacking, and specialized services such as piano and pool table relocations. At $125 per hour, 680 Movers provides a blend of quality and affordability that makes them a popular choice among Walnut Creek residents.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Fort Collins, CO
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from California to Fort Collins, CO, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,241 – $4,801 | $924 – $2,284 | $744 – $1,449 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,533 – $6,249 | $1,640 – $3,163 | $854 – $1,688 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,663 – $8,537 | $2,156 – $4,189 | $991 – $1,996 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,201-mile move from California to Fort Collins, CO using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from California to Fort Collins, CO
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Fort Collins, CO, you can expect prices to land between $1,241 and $4,801. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,533 to $6,249. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,663 and $8,537.
Cost of moving containers from California to Fort Collins, CO
Moving containers from California to Fort Collins, CO, will cost you $924 to $2,284 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,640 to $3,163. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,156 to $4,189. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Fort Collins, CO
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $744 and $1,449 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from California to Fort Collins, CO with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $854 to $1,688. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $991 to $1,996.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from California to Fort Collins, CO
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Republic Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| 680 Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Sterling Van Lines | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how California movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Fort Collins, CO
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Fort Collins, CO stacks up against California. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: California vs. Fort Collins, CO
| California | Fort Collins | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,750 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $543,093 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $64,728 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 116 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 5.6% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 5.49% |
Fort Collins sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Fort Collins is about 6% cheaper than in California, which means extra cash for other priorities.
- Moving to Fort Collins means you’ll spend about 30% less on housing compared to California, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Fort Collins are typically about 30% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- With unemployment nearly the same in Fort Collins and California, your job prospects should be similar.
- Income taxes are 59% lower in Colorado than in California, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Fort Collins from California
| Fort Collins | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 169,810 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 56-41 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 15ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 16″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 48″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 17.0 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both California and Fort Collins voted Democratic.
- Summers in Fort Collins typically reach highs of 87ºF, which is comparable to the average 87ºF in California. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Winter in Fort Collins can be significantly colder, with lows reaching 15ºF, much chillier than the 59ºF winters of California. You’ll want to get ready for those extra-cold months, which may bring higher heating bills and warrant some changes to your day-to-day habits. Still, the crisp air, beautiful winter landscapes, and seasonal activities in Fort Collins have their own special appeal.
- In Fort Collins, you’ll get just 16 inches of rain annually, less than the 22 inches you typically see in California. With all the extra sunshine, you’ll have more opportunities to explore your new surroundings. This sunnier forecast is the perfect way to start your next chapter.
- In Fort Collins, it snows about 48 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches. With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
- Fort Collins is safer than California, with a crime index of 17.0 compared to 28.43. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and fewer day-to-day worries. While crime isn’t the only thing to think about when moving, a low crime rate is definitely a big plus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Fort Collins
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Fort Collins can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Fort Collins
- Totally 80’s Pizza & Museum
- Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
- Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures
- Museum of Art Fort Collins
- Center for Fine Art Photography
Parks in Fort Collins
- Cache La Poudre River
- Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
- Annual Flower Trial Garden
- Spring Canyon Community Park
- Gardens on Spring Creek
Sports teams in Fort Collins
- Colorado State Rams (Mountain West)
Universities in Fort Collins
- Colorado State University Fort Collins
- Institute of Business and Medical Careers
- College America Fort Collins
Other considerations when moving to Fort Collins, CO
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates local and intrastate moving service providers in Colorado. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Colorado moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Colorado, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Colorado. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-free advantage, provided by movers with minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable item, you would only receive compensation based on this limited valuation. If you seek comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, discuss alternative options with the moving company you’re hiring or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Fort Collins take?
The time it takes to move from California to Fort Collins, CO varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Fort Collins from northern California, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from California to Fort Collins typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Fort Collins?
Because of the 1,201-mile move, it’s best to book your move from California to Fort Collins as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Fort Collins, CO?
With summer temperatures reaching 87°F and winter nights dipping to 15°F, most people make the move from California to Fort Collins in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
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