($1,350) Movers From Missoula, MT to California

1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.36 out of 5 stars
2. Montana Transfer: 4.22 out of 5 stars
3. All Lanes Moving & Storage: 4.22 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Missoula to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Missoula to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,350 and $5,864. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,100 to $7,515 for the trip from Missoula to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,052 and $9,211.

Cost of moving containers from Missoula to California

Moving containers from Missoula to California will cost you $824 to $1,990 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,583 to $3,008. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,056 to $4,088. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Missoula.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Missoula 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 $705 and $1,300 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Missoula to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $717 to $1,515. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $929 to $1,958.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Missoula:

• Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
• Time of year: Summer moves in Missoula 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.

• Rent in California runs about 40% higher than in Missoula, so you’ll want to adjust your budget.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 42% higher in California than in Missoula.
• On average, incomes in California run 55% above Missoula, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
• Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 19% higher than in Missoula, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
• Moving to California means facing an unemployment rate 23% higher than in Missoula, which could mean stiffer competition when job hunting.
• Expect to pay about 97% more in income taxes in California compared to Montana.

• In the last presidential election, both Missoula and California voted Democratic.
• Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 85ºF in Missoula, 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 Missoula, where lows drop to 16ºF. This shift means easier winters, lighter routines, and smaller heating bills.
• Get ready for about 22 inches of rain annually in California, compared to just 15 inches in Missoula. More rainfall means greener scenery and wetter days, so plan ahead with good rain gear and a flexible routine.
• In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year, far less than Missoula. That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
• California records a lower crime rate (28.43) than Missoula (33.27), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after 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.