Local moving companies in Wilmington
Out of 62 Wilmington movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Bayshore Transportation System, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Move Crew LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Forward Moving LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #:
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: Northern Volunteer Enterprises, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 52
DOT #: 540129
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 0
DOT #: 2899919
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 cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TEN CITIES III LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8920700
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3078473
Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Local moving services in Wilmington, DE
Here is a quick look at how many movers in Wilmington offer add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Wilmington, DE to California
The table below shows typical price ranges to move from Wilmington to California, with service options tailored to your home size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,204 – $5,389 | $1,339 – $3,619 | $1,563 – $3,060 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,592 – $7,138 | $2,400 – $4,966 | $1,693 – $3,680 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,107 – $12,098 | $3,347 – $6,919 | $2,119 – $4,299 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,827-mile move from Wilmington, DE, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified rates from moving companies around the country, refreshed monthly for seasonality and market movement. Final charges can fluctuate based on the scope of your move, add-ons, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing multiple estimates for accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Wilmington to California
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Wilmington to California, you can expect to spend between $1,204 and $5,389. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,592 to $7,138 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home typically runs between $7,107 and $12,098.
Cost of moving containers from Wilmington to California
When moving from Wilmington to California, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,339 and $3,619. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,400 to $4,966. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,347 up to $6,919. 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 Wilmington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Wilmington to California
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 in Wilmington to relocate to California and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,563 and $3,060. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,693 and $3,680. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,119 and $4,299.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors influencing moving costs from Wilmington to CA
The cost of Wilmington movers will depend on:
- Move size: Larger homes and more belongings increase the total moving cost.
- Time of year: Moving during busy summer months in Wilmington can drive up rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY can cut costs, but professional movers provide convenience and peace of mind.
What you should know before moving from Wilmington to CA
Heading from Wilmington to California comes with new adventures, but also a bump in living expenses. Because California usually has a higher cost of living than Wilmington, it’s smart to budget and plan ahead.
Discover how life in Wilmington compares with California to help you make an informed moving decision:
Compare cost of living: Wilmington vs. California
| Wilmington, DE | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,812 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $307,799 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,354 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 104 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.3% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 6.6% | 13.3% |
California sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent costs in California are comparable to Wilmington, so your budget will work in either place.
- Home prices in California are about 151% higher than in Wilmington, so budget for a higher mortgage bill.
- In California, average earnings are about 86% higher than in Wilmington, giving you some extra financial breathing room.
- Living in California will cost about 29% more than in Wilmington, so it’s important to budget for the increase.
- With unemployment about 48% lower in California than in Wilmington, you may find it easier to secure work.
- Moving to California means income taxes that are 102% higher than in Delaware, lowering your net pay.
How life is different in Wilmington, DE from California
If you’re considering a move from Wilmington to California, there are some notable lifestyle differences to keep in mind. From climate and population size to political leanings, here’s how life in California compares to life in Wilmington.
| Wilmington, DE | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 70,898 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 25ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 45″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 13″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 67.32 | 28.43 |
California Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Wilmington and California voted Democratic.
- Summer highs generally reach around 87ºF in both California and Wilmington, meaning the climate will feel quite familiar. Don’t forget to factor in humidity, prevailing weather patterns, and energy costs to gain a full picture of what summer life will be like in your new location.
- California enjoys milder winters, with lows around 59ºF compared to Wilmington at 25ºF. That means less bundling up, lower heating bills, and easier seasonal living.
- In California, you’ll average 22 inches of rainfall yearly, which is drier than Wilmington at 45 inches. Fewer rainy days mean more sunshine and easier planning for outdoor activities.
- In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to Wilmington, which gets 13 inches annually. Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Crime is lower in California, with an index of 28.43 compared to Wilmington at 67.32. This generally points to safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of security.
Other considerations when moving to California
When relocating from Wilmington to California, a few details are worth keeping in mind to avoid last-minute hiccups. Beyond choosing a mover and packing your belongings, it’s helpful to consider local rules, permit requirements, and other practical factors that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Make sure to check your neighborhood or community’s moving rules ahead of time to avoid any surprises on moving day.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator ahead of time if one is available for moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities ask for parking permits when you’re using a moving truck or large vehicle. Check in advance to see if you’ll need a permit for your move.
- 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 your moving company has all the proper licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit for California, but it’s smart to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before you move. You’ll be able to choose your official move date so your mail is forwarded to California seamlessly. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary by state, so be sure to review the regulations where you live. 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: Simplify your move using our moving checklist. It keeps everything organized and takes care of the details, so you can relax and enjoy making your new place home.
Things to do in California
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in California.
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 Wilmington to California take?
How long will your move from Wilmington, DE to California take? It depends on the type of service you pick, but you can usually expect it to take seven to 21 days. Just keep in mind that moves during the busy summer season may take a bit longer.
To get your move done as quickly as possible, ask for a delivery timeframe before you book your moving company.
What’s the availability of custom crating among movers in Wilmington?
We track 44 movers in Wilmington that can build custom crates for items such as art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Be sure to confirm with a Wilmington moving company that the materials and dimensions match your item requirements.
What is the best way to get a car from Wilmington to California?
Looking to ship your car from Wilmington to California? Choose experts who know how to treat your vehicle right and handle every detail with professionalism. Check out our top picks for car shipping from Delaware to California.
Why are people moving from Wilmington to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Wilmington?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Wilmington.
Can I use cash to pay a mover in Wilmington, DE?
Currently, 28 movers in Wilmington accept cash as a payment option. Still, cash isn’t widely used in the moving industry, which favors traceable methods and clear receipts. Expect to pay a deposit first to secure your move date. The rest is due either at pickup or once delivery is complete—check with your mover on the exact payment schedule and accepted types.
Helpful moving resources
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