Local moving companies in Michigan
When relocating from Michigan to San Francisco, CA, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 57 Michigan movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to San Francisco, CA.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Powell Relocation Group: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Handle With Care Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Madison Heights, MI. Known for their excellent customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 74 reviews and an even higher 4.9 average rating on Google from 866 reviews, making them one of the top-rated moving companies in the area. Unlike some competitors, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, all without requiring a deposit. For those prioritizing convenience and reliability, this company stands out in the local market.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 29737
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: KoHo, LLC
Two Men and a Truck has been a staple in the Kalamazoo, MI local moving scene since 2003, offering reliable residential moving services. Unlike some nearby companies, they boast an impressive portfolio with 621 reviews on Google averaging a stellar 4.9, demonstrating high customer satisfaction. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they don’t require a deposit, making the process hassle-free. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and generally favorable consumer reviews, Two Men and a Truck stand out as a reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 261884
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 261884
Alternate Names: Powell Moving & Storage, Inc.
Powell Relocation Group, serving the Grand Rapids, MI area since 1963, stands out as a reputable local moving company. With an impressive array of services, including packing, crating, and moving valuable items like pianos and antiques, they cater to diverse moving needs. Customers consistently praise Powell Relocation Group, as evidenced by their 5.0 average rating on Yelp and a strong 4.7 on Google, coupled with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Unlike many competitors, they also offer full valuation insurance coverage and accept credit cards, making them a reliable and customer-focused choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 624288
Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.
White Star Movers, Inc., a trusted name in Sterling Heights, MI since 1987, excels in local residential moving services. They stand out with an impressive Google rating of 4.5 from 343 reviews and hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their strong reputation. Unlike many competitors, White Star Movers also offers specialized services such as fragile-only packing and senior moving, ensuring a tailored experience. Notably, they provide full valuation insurance coverage and require no deposit, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for local moves.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 359936
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 808976
Handle With Care Moving has been a trusted name in Ann Arbor, MI, since 1994, specializing in local residential moving services. With stellar consumer feedback, boasting a 4.8 average rating from 271 Google reviews and a 4.0 average from 26 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and even fragile-only packing, ensuring all moving needs are met with utmost care. With the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no upfront deposit, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a dependable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Michigan to San Francisco, CA
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Michigan to San Francisco, CA with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,321 – $5,562 | $1,304 – $2,986 | $1,340 – $2,490 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,650 – $7,565 | $2,136 – $4,477 | $1,495 – $2,934 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,718 – $12,425 | $3,061 – $6,519 | $1,724 – $3,784 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,392-mile move from Michigan to San Francisco, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Michigan to San Francisco, CA
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to San Francisco, CA, you can expect to spend between $1,321 and $5,562. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,650 to $7,565 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $6,718 and $12,425.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to San Francisco, CA
When moving from Michigan to San Francisco, CA, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,304 and $2,986. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,136 to $4,477. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,061 up to $6,519. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to San Francisco, CA
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from Michigan to San Francisco, CA, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,340 and $2,490. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,495 and $2,934. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,724 and $3,784.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Michigan to San Francisco, CA
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Powell Relocation Group | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| White Star Movers, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Handle With Care Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
Out of the 3,175 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Michigan movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Michigan | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 22% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 6% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 7% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Michigan to San Francisco, CA
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in San Francisco, CA is really like compared to Michigan. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. San Francisco, CA
| Michigan | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,037 | $3,250 |
| Average home cost | $245,716 | $1,241,003 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,505 | $136,689 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 245 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.4% |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 13.3% |
San Francisco sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in San Francisco is roughly 213% higher than in Michigan. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
- Home prices in San Francisco are approximately 405% higher than in Michigan. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
- You’ll typically earn about 100% more in San Francisco than in Michigan, which means extra breathing room in your budget, whether you want to spend more or save more.
- With unemployment 15% higher in San Francisco than Michigan, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- Expect income taxes in California to run about 213% higher than in Michigan, which could cut into your paycheck.
How life is different in San Francisco from Michigan
| San Francisco | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 808,988 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 85-13 | Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high | 67ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 25″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 64″ |
| Crime index | 61.41 | 19.98 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- San Francisco voted Democratic, while Michigan was Republican.
- During summer, San Francisco enjoys average highs of just 67ºF, while Michigan typically reaches 81ºF. Relocating to a cooler spot means you’ll dodge the heat, cut down on energy costs, and get to enjoy more time outside.
- During the coldest part of the year, San Francisco reaches a temperature of 46ºF while Michigan gets down to 14ºF. Relocating to San Francisco means you’ll enjoy milder winters, making daily life easier, more affordable, and better for spending time outside.
- In San Francisco, you’ll see just 25 inches of rain annually, much less than the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan. With fewer rainy days, you’ll have more opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. This sunnier climate can really lift your mood and energy as you settle into your new home.
- San Francisco doesn’t get snow, while Michigan sees around 64 inches annually. Relocating to San Francisco means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- San Francisco has a higher crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 61.41 vs 19.98. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.
Things to do in San Francisco
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, San Francisco has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in San Francisco
- Exploratorium
- California Academy of Sciences
- Walt Disney Family Museum
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
- Legion of Honor
Parks in San Francisco
- Golden Gate Park
- Presidio of San Francisco
- Mission Dolores Park
- Crissy Field
- Yerba Buena Gardens
Sports teams in San Francisco
- San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
- San Francisco Giants (MLB)
- Golden State Warriors (NBA)
Universities in San Francisco
- City College of San Francisco
- San Francisco State University
- University of California, Hastings College of the Law
- University of California, San Francisco
- Academy of Art University
Other considerations when moving to San Francisco, CA
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
- Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to California without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Michigan to San Francisco take?
The time frame for a move from Michigan to San Francisco, CA, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.
The farther north you are in Michigan, the longer it’ll take to reach San Francisco. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.
Delivery from Michigan to San Francisco can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Michigan to San Francisco?
If you’re gearing up for a 2,392-mile move from Michigan to San Francisco, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Francisco, CA?
Summer in San Francisco can reach highs of 67°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 46°F. That’s why most people moving from Michigan to San Francisco opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Michigan moving services
Popular Michigan routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!