Local moving companies in Durham
Out of 27 Durham movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.
- TROSA Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Truckin’ Movers Corporation: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Miracle Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: C-726
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 675014
Alternate Names: TROSA Inc., TROSA Moving & Storage, TROSA Lawn Care, TROSA Thrift , TROSA Moving , Triangle Residential Options for Substance Abusers , Trosa Furniture & Frameshop , TROSA Lawncare
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2443
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Oliver & Finley, LLC , Two Men And A Truck
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2262
Years in Business: 48
DOT #: 0233952
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2894
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 2461529
Alternate Names: Miracle Movers of Raleigh, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
Company Info
State license #: 2934
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Local moving services in Durham, NC
Here’s how many movers in Durham include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Durham, NC to California
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Durham to California with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,151 – $5,220 | $1,393 – $3,269 | $1,491 – $2,719 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,564 – $7,016 | $2,378 – $4,807 | $1,630 – $3,473 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,435 – $11,539 | $3,410 – $6,479 | $2,060 – $4,138 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,654-mile move from Durham, 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 Durham to California
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Durham to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,151 and $5,220. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,564 to $7,016 for the trip from Durham to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,435 and $11,539.
Cost of moving containers from Durham to California
Moving containers from Durham to California will cost you $1,393 to $3,269 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,378 to $4,807. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,410 to $6,479. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Durham.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Durham 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 $1,491 and $2,719 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Durham to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,630 to $3,473. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,060 to $4,138.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Durham to CA
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Durham:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Durham 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 Durham to CA
When relocating from Durham 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 Durham, careful financial planning is essential.
Compare the lifestyle in Durham with that in California to better prepare yourself for your upcoming move:
Compare cost of living: Durham vs. California
| Durham, NC | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,699 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $391,719 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,117 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 99 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 13.3% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in California runs about 9% higher than in Durham, so you’ll want to adjust your budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 97% higher in California than in Durham.
- On average, incomes in California run 33% above Durham, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 35% higher than in Durham, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
- Moving to California means facing an unemployment rate 32% higher than in Durham, 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 Durham, 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 Durham.
| Durham, NC | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 283,506 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 89ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 30ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 4″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 54.72 | 28.43 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Durham supported Republican.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 89ºF in Durham, 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 Durham, 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 Durham. 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 Durham 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 Durham (54.72), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Comparing the pros of Durham, 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 Durham versus California side-by-side.
| Pros of living in Durham, NC | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Ample economic opportunity |
| Quality education | Pleasant weather |
| Wonderful restaurants | Abundant recreational options |
| Ample economic opportunity | High quality of life |
| Friendly people | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of Durham, NC versus California:
Transitioning from Durham to California can present challenges; here’s what you need to keep in mind.
| Cons of living in Durham, NC | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Terrible traffic | High cost of living |
| High crime rate | Heavy tax burdens |
| Humidity | Natural disasters |
| Allergy-inducing pollen | Terrible traffic |
| Limited public transportation | Strange laws |
Other considerations when moving to California
When you’re moving from Durham 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 Durham to California take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Durham, 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 Durham 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 Durham moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Durham to California?
Need to get your car from Durham to California? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Durham to California car shippers.
Why are people moving from Durham 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 Durham because of the terrible traffic and high crime rate.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Durham?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Durham.
Can I pay for my move from Durham, NC, with cash?
There are five movers in Durham 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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