The best local movers for Modesto to Missoula moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Modesto that also handles long-distance moves to Missoula. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 14 local movers in Modesto who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Modesto to Missoula.
- Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Casey Moving Systems: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Pete’s Moving Services: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Big Island Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Brewer Moving LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0115405
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 153088
Alternate Names: Casey Records Management , Dawson Van & Storage , United Van Lines
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191440
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 3314910
Alternate Names: Petes Moving Services LLC , Pete’s Moving Services LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190630
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 3278221
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0192036
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 3329727
Alternate Names: Brewer Moving, LLC , J B Moving
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Modesto to Missoula?
The average hourly rate for movers in California is $128. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,219 – $4,621 | $785 – $2,068 | $636 – $1,145 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,324 – $5,730 | $1,408 – $3,027 | $681 – $1,361 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,843 – $7,837 | $1,995 – $3,786 | $896 – $1,793 |
Cost to hire movers from Modesto to Missoula
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Modesto to Missoula will cost between $1,219 and $4,621. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Modesto to Modesto will range from $2,324 to $5,730, and a large move from Modesto to Missoula will cost from $3,843 to $7,837.
Cost of moving containers from Modesto to Missoula
If you’re moving from Modesto to Missoula, expect to pay between $785 and $2,068 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,408 up to $3,027. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,995 and $3,786. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Modesto to Missoula
Renting a moving truck from Modesto to Missoula is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $636 and $1,145. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $681 and $1,361. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $896 up to $1,793 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Modesto to Missoula
The cost of Modesto movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,110, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,943.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Modesto, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($636–$1,547) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Modesto to Missoula
Many movers find Missoula easier on the wallet than Modesto – roughly 13% less for singles and 2% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,011 for one person in Missoula versus $2,312 in Modesto. For a family of four, it’s $5,832 compared with $5,946.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Modesto | Missoula | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,446 | $1,542 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,467 | $2,983 |
| Average home value | $442,362 | $544,475 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,011 | $59,180 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,312 | $2,011 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,946 | $5,832 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 4.4% |
| Sales tax | 8.88% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 6.75% |
- If you’re heading to Missoula from Modesto, you’ll find that rent is roughly 27% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 23% greater in Missoula than in Modesto.
- Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 12% lower in Missoula compared to Modesto.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Missoula. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 13% lower than in Modesto.
- The cost of living for a family remains quite similar between Missoula and Modesto, with only a marginal difference of 5% or less, so your expenses should remain steady.
- Missoula enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 45% lower compared to Modesto, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
- Missoula has no sales tax, so you’ll save money on every taxable purchase compared to Modesto. This can be especially helpful if you make frequent or larger purchases.
- Income taxes are 49% less in Montana than in California. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Modesto and Missoula:
| Living Expense | Modesto | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $132.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $59.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.67 | $4.50 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.61 | $2.91 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $41.33 | $63.33 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Modesto than in Missoula.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Modesto than in Missoula.
- Eggs cost more in Modesto than in Missoula.
- Bread is more expensive in Modesto than in Missoula.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Modesto than in Missoula.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Modesto than in Missoula.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Modesto than in Missoula.
How life is different in Modesto vs. Missoula
| Modesto | Missoula | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 77,757 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 48 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 60 |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 33.27 |
| Safety index | 34.24 | 66.73 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Missoula’s population is about 64% less than Modesto.
- Missoula’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Modesto, making them very similar.
- Missoula is less walkable than Modesto with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Modesto’s 48 out of 100.
- With a score of 60 out of 100, Missoula is more bike-friendly than Modesto, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Missoula’s crime rate is lower than Modesto with a score of 33.27 compared to Modesto’s 65.76. This means that Missoula neighborhoods are safer than 33.27% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Modesto neighborhoods are safer than 65.76%.
- Missoula is considered to be safer than Modesto with a safety index of 66.73 vs Modesto’s 34.24.
- Air quality in Missoula is Good, and in Modesto it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Modesto to Missoula move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Montana moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Montana doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Missoula. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Missoula
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Garden City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Missoula.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Heart Of Missoula
- Lewis And Clark
- Farviews And Pattee
- Canyon River
- Front Lower
- Rattlesnake
Best neighborhoods for families
- Lewis And Clark
- Rose Park
- Miller Creek
- Riverfront Lower
- Rattlesnake
Things to do in Missoula
Once you’re settled into your new home in Montana, it’s time to get out and discover what Missoula has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Missoula, such as the Fort Missoula Museum, Missoula Art Museum, Montana Natural History Center, and Museum of Mountain Flying.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Caras Park, and Blue Mountain Recreational Area — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Montana Grizzlies (NCAA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Modesto to Missoula?
The best time to move from Modesto to Missoula is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Modesto.
When is the cheapest time to move from Modesto to Missoula?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Modesto to Missoula, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Modesto to Missoula take?
Moving from Modesto, CA to Missoula, covers 963 miles and usually takes two to seven days. Need to move faster? Some Modesto movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Missoula.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Modesto?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 10 movers in Modesto advertise piano moving expertise. 5 movers in Modesto provide antique moving services. State totals show 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
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