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($1,250) Cost to Move From Ontario, CA to Detroit, MI

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 2,248 miles from Ontario to Detroit, expect to pay between $1,357 and $7,559. The journey should take about six–17 days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Ontario to Detroit

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Ontario to Detroit

For a stress-free interstate move from Ontario to Detroit, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 81 interstate moving companies in Ontario, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Detroit.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Ontario to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,248-mile move from Ontario to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,466 – $5,764
  • Moving Container $1,705 – $3,030
  • Rental Truck $1,278 – $2,495
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,409 – $7,559
  • Moving Container $2,121 – $4,343
  • Rental Truck $1,357 – $2,912
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,857 – $11,872
  • Moving Container $2,972 – $6,243
  • Rental Truck $1,748 – $3,711
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Safeway Moving
Bellflower, CA Grosse Pointe Shores, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 07, 2025
PODS
Woodcrest, CA Eastpointe, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
North American Van Lines
West Whittier-Los Nietos, CA Marine City, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
American Van Lines
Mead Valley, CA Wyandotte, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 03, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Lake Mathews, CA Bingham Farms, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
United Van Lines
Warm Springs, CA Estral Beach, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 01, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Lake Forest, CA Rochester, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 30, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
South Whittier, CA Mount Clemens, MI
3 Bedrooms
Aug 11, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Cudahy, CA Gibraltar, MI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 03, 2025
Roadway Moving
Valinda, CA St. Clair Shores, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Detroit, MI to Ontario, CA guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Ontario to Detroit moves

When planning a move from Ontario to Detroit, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 86 local movers in Ontario who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Ontario to Detroit.

  1. Big Deahl’s Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. Golden Eagle Moving, LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Meathead Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (909) 328-8894

Company Info

State license #: 0191969

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3295324

Alternate Names: People Trusted Company Group

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
80.6% of all reviews were positive
18.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stories don’t get much better—customers share that Golden Eagle Moving stands out for having polite, professional staff, fast and careful service, and exceptionally helpful crews. Out of 160 customer reviews, 81% reported positive experiences, often noting excellent communication and attention to detail. Most people found their items well handled and teams easy to work with, which sets this mover apart from competitors. A small but important segment of the feedback points to damaged or missing items, as well as occasions where delivery arrived late. Some also mentioned challenges with compensation for lost or broken belongings. Compared to other movers, Golden Eagle earns high marks for reliability and service, but there are a few cautionary stories about handling precious items and delays.
Get a Quote (909) 946-7655

Company Info

State license #: 0191570

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Golden Eagle Moving Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.5% of all reviews were positive
9.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Stellar service and professionalism are at the heart of most customer input for VIP Transport, Inc. Out of 244 reviews analyzed, 88.5% reflect positive feedback with standout praise for the company’s professional staff, reliable communication, and careful handling of possessions. Movers are routinely described as efficient, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile, making the moving process much less stressful. Customers also highlight helpful attitudes and strong organizational skills from both office and field staff, setting VIP Transport ahead of many competitors. The main negative feedback, making up about 9%, centers on damaged items, slow resolution of claims, or lapses in communication and delivery timelines. Still, these issues appear in a small minority of cases. A few neutral comments mention price competitiveness and the condition of vehicles. With consistent praise for attentive and skilled teams, transparent communication, and a reputation for reducing the hassle of relocation, VIP Transport remains a top choice for complex or long-distance moves—even if some room for improvement persists regarding claims and rare mishandled items.
Get a Quote (951) 272-3700

Company Info

State license #: 0137029

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower Transit , VIP Transport East, Inc , VIP Transport – United Van Lines , VIP Transport – Mayflower Transit , United Van Lines

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.7% of all reviews were positive
20.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process. On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc , Meathead Movers Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

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 money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Ontario to Detroit?

Movers in California charge $128 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,250 – $5,135 $1,253 – $2,929 $1,228 – $2,519
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,409 – $7,559 $2,121 – $4,343 $1,357 – $2,912
4+ bedrooms $6,857 – $11,872 $2,972 – $6,243 $1,748 – $3,711
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 2,248-mile relocation from Ontario to Detroit, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Ontario to Detroit

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ontario to Detroit, you can expect to spend between $1,250 and $5,135. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,409 to $7,559 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Ontario to Detroit typically runs between $6,857 and $11,872.

Cost of moving containers from Ontario to Detroit

When moving from Ontario to Detroit, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,253 and $2,929. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,121 to $4,343. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,972 up to $6,243. 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 California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ontario to Detroit

Renting a moving truck in Ontario is usually your cheapest option to get to Detroit. 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 and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,228 and $2,519. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,357 and $2,912. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,748 and $3,711.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Ontario to Detroit

The cost of Ontario movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,465, but larger homes can run up to $10,893.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Ontario.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,228–$3,193) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Ontario to Detroit

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Detroit runs about 1% higher for singles and 15% higher for families than Ontario.

Singles spend around $2,500 in Ontario versus $2,473 in Ontario; families pay $6,687 compared with $5,793.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Ontario Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $1,900 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $2,542
Average home value $668,089 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $71,908 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $2,473 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $5,793 $6,687
Unemployment rate 6.9% 9.06%
Sales tax 8.75% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.25%
  • Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 52% lower in Detroit than in Ontario, giving you more disposable income monthly.
  • Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 89% lower in Detroit than in Ontario.
  • It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 47% less in Detroit than in Ontario.
  • Since the cost of living for a single person is within 5% of the same in both Detroit and Ontario, you shouldn’t see much difference.
  • If your journey leads to Detroit, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Detroit is 15% more than it is in Ontario.
  • The unemployment rate in Detroit is 31% higher compared to Ontario, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are 31% lower in Detroit than in Ontario. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Detroit can reduce your overall living expenses.
  • Income taxes are 68% lower in Michigan compared to California. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Ontario with Detroit:

Living Expense Ontario Detroit
Basic utilities $226.85 $251.12
Cell phone plan $43.00 $55.77
Dozen eggs $5.45 $3.52
Loaf of bread $4.59 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $65.00 $68.50
Gym membership $100.00 $43.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Ontario than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ontario than in Detroit.
  • Eggs cost more in Ontario than in Detroit.
  • Bread is more expensive in Ontario than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Ontario than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Ontario than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Ontario than in Detroit.

How life is different in Ontario vs. Detroit

Ontario Detroit
Population 175,265 639,111
Transportation score 5 7
Walkability score 48 51
Bike friendliness score 46 52
Crime index 50.25 72.92
Safety index 49.75 27.08
Air quality Good Good
  • Detroit’s population is about 265% greater than Ontario.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Ontario’s score of 5.
  • Detroit is more walkable than Ontario with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Ontario’s 48 out of 100.
  • With a score of 52 out of 100, Detroit is more bike-friendly than Ontario, which has a score of 46 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Ontario with a score of 72.92 compared to Ontario’s 50.25. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ontario neighborhoods are safer than 50.25%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Ontario with a score of 27.08 vs Ontario’s 49.75.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Ontario it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Ontario to Detroit move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • 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: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Michigan doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Detroit smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Detroit

Now that you’ve chosen America’s Comeback City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Detroit to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Corktown
  • Brush Park
  • Woodbridge
  • Downtown
  • Lafayette Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Sherwood Forest
  • Palmer Woods
  • University District
  • Corktown
  • Lafayette Park

Things to do in Detroit

After getting comfortable in your new Michigan home, it’s time to see what Detroit is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Detroit offers cultural landmarks like the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Ontario to Detroit?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Ontario to Detroit are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Ontario are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Ontario to Detroit?

Because spring and fall moves from Ontario to Detroit are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Ontario to Detroit take?

A move of 2,248 miles from Ontario, CA to Detroit, generally takes six to 17 days. Movers in Ontario sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Detroit is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Ontario?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 2 extend savings to senior citizens.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Which movers in Ontario offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 67 movers in Ontario have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 53 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across CA, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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