Local moving companies in Raleigh
Out of 28 Raleigh movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2934
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2548
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 1931566
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2657
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3205320
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2311
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 076235
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1267633
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 3619230
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Raleigh, NC
Here’s how many movers in Raleigh include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Raleigh, NC to California
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Raleigh to California with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,225 – $5,339 | $1,348 – $3,288 | $1,429 – $2,800 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,617 – $7,393 | $2,319 – $4,989 | $1,645 – $3,469 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,602 – $11,565 | $3,397 – $7,208 | $1,977 – $4,257 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,677-mile move from Raleigh, NC, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Raleigh to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Raleigh to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,225 and $5,339. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,617 to $7,393 for the trip from Raleigh to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,602 and $11,565.
Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to California
Moving containers from Raleigh to California will cost you $1,348 to $3,288 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,319 to $4,989. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,397 to $7,208. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Raleigh.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Raleigh to California
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 $1,429 and $2,800 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Raleigh to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,645 to $3,469. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,977 to $4,257.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Raleigh to CA
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Raleigh:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Raleigh fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Raleigh to CA
When relocating from Raleigh to California, you can look forward to new experiences, yet it’s crucial to anticipate higher living expenses. With California typically being more costly than Raleigh, careful financial planning is essential.
Compare the lifestyle in Raleigh with that in California to better prepare yourself for your upcoming move:
Compare cost of living: Raleigh vs. California
| Raleigh, NC | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,670 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $431,795 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $2,572 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 13.3% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in California runs about 11% higher than in Raleigh, so you’ll want to adjust your budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 79% higher in California than in Raleigh.
- On average, incomes in California run 3473% above Raleigh, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 26% higher than in Raleigh, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
- Moving to California means facing an unemployment rate 26% higher than in Raleigh, which could mean stiffer competition when job hunting.
- Expect to pay about 196% more in income taxes in California compared to North Carolina.
How life is different in Raleigh, NC from California
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in California stacks up against what you’re used to in Raleigh.
| Raleigh, NC | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 467,665 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 90ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 30ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 4″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 38.87 | 28.43 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Raleigh supported Republican.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 90ºF in Raleigh, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
- Winter lows in California stay around 59ºF, noticeably warmer than Raleigh, where lows drop to 30ºF. This shift means easier winters, lighter routines, and smaller heating bills.
- In California, you’ll get only about 22 inches of rain per year, versus 46 inches in Raleigh. Less rain means more sunshine, more time outdoors, and fewer weather-related concerns.
- In California, you can expect about 7 inches of snow each year, while Raleigh sees around 4 inches annually. Since snowfall is pretty comparable in both places, your winter should feel pretty similar.
- California records a lower crime rate (28.43) than Raleigh (38.87), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Comparing the pros of Raleigh, NC versus California:
There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Raleigh versus California side-by-side.
| Pros of living in Raleigh, NC | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Exceptional beauty | Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity | Pleasant weather |
| Quality education | Abundant recreational options |
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | High quality of life |
| Quality healthcare | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of Raleigh, NC versus California:
Transitioning from Raleigh to California can present challenges; here’s what you need to keep in mind.
| Cons of living in Raleigh, NC | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | High cost of living |
| Quiet nightlife | Heavy tax burdens |
| Temperamental weather | Natural disasters |
| Allergy-inducing pollen | Terrible traffic |
| Urban sprawl | Strange laws |
Other considerations when moving to California
When you’re moving from Raleigh to California, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- 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. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in California, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in California
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, California has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
FAQ
How long does a move from Raleigh to California take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Raleigh, NC, to California? Most moves on this route usually take seven to 21 days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 12 movers in Raleigh that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Raleigh moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Raleigh to California?
Need to get your car from Raleigh to California? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Raleigh to California car shippers.
Why are people moving from Raleigh to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather. On the other hand, people are moving away from Raleigh because of the high cost of living and quiet nightlife.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Raleigh?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Raleigh.
Can I pay for my move from Raleigh, NC, with cash?
There are six movers in Raleigh that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
North Carolina moving services
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