Best Movers Near Malibu, CA (2026 Reviews)

NorthStar Moving Company is our preferred moving company in Malibu. NorthStar Moving Company also ranks #9 out of 1127 movers statewide in California. Rankings are based on 96,009 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Malibu, CA, covering 278 local Malibu movers.

Local movers in Malibu are priced hourly. The California average is $122/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.66 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 4.6 / 5
  • BBB: A
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.58 / 5
  • Years in Business: 12
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: D-
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Why use moveBuddha for your Malibu, CA move

  • moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Malibu mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
  • Book a moveBuddha Certified Malibu mover and get an extra $1,000 in move coverage plus dedicated support throughout your move.
  • If something goes wrong, moveBuddha steps in with direct dispute mediation between you and your Certified mover.

 Moving in Malibu, CA right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Malibu. The one exception is the Thanksgiving window. The week of and after Thanksgiving sees an end-of-year demand spike. Aim for early to mid-November for the best combination of price and availability.

What are the top-rated moving companies in Malibu, CA?

NorthStar Moving Company is our preferred moving company in Malibu . NorthStar Moving Company also ranks #9 out of 1127 movers statewide in California.

moveBuddha scored 278 Malibu movers drawing on 96,009 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.65/5. Rankings include movers based in Malibu and those serving the area from nearby locations.

  1. NorthStar Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. H2H Movers Inc: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Muraway Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Best California Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. Ready-To-Go Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  6. Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  7. Sterling Van Lines: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  8. Rigo's Moving Company Inc: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  9. Unique Moving Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  10. Precision Moving & Storage Corp.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
1
checkmark Transparent pricing
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Organized packing
checkmark Flexibility
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
87%
Years active
31
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
4.6
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Yelp logo
4.4
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Estate moves
  • Piano moves
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. NorthStar Moving Company has been in business for 31 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like estate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. NorthStar Moving Company has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 787 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.4.

Quote accuracy 4.2

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from NorthStar Moving Company.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. NorthStar Moving Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

NorthStar was very responsive and flexible on short notice. The movers arrived on time, worked fast, wrapped everything, and took good care of our items.

The flat rate we were quoted would be the final cost—no last-minute fees. NorthStar followed up with insurance options and moving details, and the crew worked efficiently.

DOT number
1836576
Address
19401 Business Center Dr, Northridge, CA, 91324
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
2
checkmark Transparent pricing
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Flexibility
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
87%
Years active
6
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.3
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Piano moves
  • Junk removal
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. H2H Movers Inc has been in business for 6 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. H2H Movers Inc has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 614 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.3.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from H2H Movers Inc.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. H2H Movers Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Quote was fair and was accurate. The movers were very professional and quick. Nothing damaged. Would highly recommend!

They text and call during and after the move to ensure everything is going smoothly, which I appreciate a lot.

DOT number
3361458
Address
17352 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90272
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0192046
3
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
87%
Years active
7
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
4.2
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Yelp logo
4.7
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BBB logo
Grade B-
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Muraway Moving has been in business for 7 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Muraway Moving has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 332 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Muraway Moving.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Muraway Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

Mike and Sergey are pretty nice, moving fast and handle stuff carefully. I will definitely recommend people to hire them. The rate is quite fair.

Worked with this company to move with short notice and they were 100% accommodating, polite and professional. Not one item was damaged or even scratched!

DOT number
3926486
Address
21622 Plummer St, Chattsworth, CA, 91311
Payment methods
Credit Card
4
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
99%
Years active
8
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
5.0
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Yelp logo
4.6
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Safe moving
  • Junk removal
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Best California Movers has been in business for 8 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Best California Movers has about 99% positive reviews across roughly 2322 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.

Quote accuracy 3.8

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Best California Movers.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Best California Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

Excellent service! Fast and efficient. Appreciate it!

I sent a request for a quote, got a reply in a few hours, then got a quote.

DOT number
3489907
Address
7241 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood, CA, 91605
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
5
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
100%
Years active
12
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
5.0
link icon
Yelp logo
5.0
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Piano moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Ready-To-Go Movers has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Ready-To-Go Movers has about 100% positive reviews across roughly 938 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 5.0.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Ready-To-Go Movers.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Ready-To-Go Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

I messaged them through Yelp to get a quote. Perfect and attentive communication from the beginning. Kyle was super communicative, and the team wrapped delicate antiques well and handled them delicately.

Ready-to-go-Movers are by far the best movers I have ever hired. Helen in the office did a great job communicating and explaining everything. Plus the price was better than most other companies.

DOT number
2777901
Address
400 Autumnwood St, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360
Payment methods
Credit Card
6
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Efficient service
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
75%
Years active
23
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.3
link icon
Yelp logo
3.5
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Storage available
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Air 1 Moving & Storage has been in business for 23 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Air 1 Moving & Storage has about 75% positive reviews across roughly 648 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.5.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Air 1 Moving & Storage.

Customer service 4.7

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Air 1 Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

We moved from San Francisco to Los Angeles. We had 30 days storage which helped us, and the price feels right. The guys were great, worked fast and efficiently.

The movers from Air 1 Moving & Storage-King were respectful and easy to work with. They handled our heavy furniture and tight spaces without any issues.

DOT number
1095485
Address
9556 Cozycroft Ave, Chatsworth, CA, 91311
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0189688
7
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Respectful of property
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
85%
Years active
35
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.6
link icon
Google logo
4.6
link icon
Yelp logo
3.9
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Custom crating
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Estate moves
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Shipment tracking
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Sterling Van Lines has been in business for 35 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Sterling Van Lines has about 85% positive reviews across roughly 386 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.9.

Quote accuracy 4.6

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Sterling Van Lines. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.1

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Sterling Van Lines emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

Sandy was incredibly helpful and accommodating. The movers arrived promptly, customized my move, and offered the fairest price I received; any adjustments were fully explained.

Our experience was exceptional: calls were handled courteously, follow-up was prompt, agents were informed, and updates came without our asking. Furniture arrived safely with nothing missing.

DOT number
568254
Address
4563 W Colorado Blvd, Unit B, Los Angeles, CA, 90039
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
Calt 9018
8
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Organized packing
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Quick moving process
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
80%
Years active
12
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.7
link icon
Google logo
4.3
link icon
Yelp logo
4.1
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Debris removal
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Rigo's Moving Company Inc has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Rigo's Moving Company Inc has about 80% positive reviews across roughly 534 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.1.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Rigo's Moving Company Inc, and Rigo's Moving Company Inc makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Rigo's Moving Company Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

They wrapped all fragile items securely, finished with no damage, and offered competitive pricing compared with other quotes. The crew was kind and double-checked where items belonged.

They maximized every space in my 16ft pod, fitting items from floor to roof. The courteous, respectful staff made excellent use of the container.

DOT number
3075110
Address
4385 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90023
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
T-0191663 (CA #587166)
9
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Efficient service
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
93%
Years active
38
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.6
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.2
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Safe moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage available
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Unique Moving Inc. has been in business for 38 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Unique Moving Inc. has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 259 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Unique Moving Inc..

Customer service 4.7

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Unique Moving Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

The price point with the amount of people we got was the best. The associate was clear about timing, and the movers were kind on a difficult move with stairs.

We had to move the house in 5 days and get it packed and stored. They accommodated our odd situation, worked with our tight budget, and communicated throughout the process.

DOT number
681320
Address
815 Maulhardt Avenue, Oxnard, CA, 93030
State license
0188950
10
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Respectful of property
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
96%
Years active
12
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.4
link icon
Google logo
4.8
link icon
Yelp logo
4.8
link icon
BBB logo
Grade D-
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Custom crating
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Precision Moving & Storage Corp. has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 5.0

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Precision Moving & Storage Corp. has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 550 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.8.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Precision Moving & Storage Corp..

Customer service 4.7

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Precision Moving & Storage Corp. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.

Recent reviews

They worked my move in with 24 hours’ notice. The movers were prompt, professional, and really hustled. Communication was great.

Francisco and Hugo were professional, efficient, and incredibly sharp. They remembered every detail, handled a tricky gated neighborhood, and helped rearrange furniture to fit perfectly.

DOT number
2569585
Address
20717 Marilla St, Chatsworth, CA, 91311
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0191163

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How do Malibu, CA moving companies compare?

Company Our rating City rank Positive reviews BBB Quote
NorthStar Moving Company
31 years in business
star star star star star
4.64
#5 of 278
Top 10 in California
87% A+
H2H Movers Inc
6 years in business
star star star star star
4.52
#13 of 278 87% A+
Muraway Moving
7 years in business
star star star star star
4.56
#11 of 278 87% B-
Best California Movers
8 years in business
star star star star star
4.64
#6 of 278 99% A
Ready-To-Go Movers
12 years in business
star star star star star
4.56
#10 of 278 100% A+
Air 1 Moving & Storage
23 years in business
star star star star star
4.52
#14 of 278 75% A+
Sterling Van Lines
35 years in business
star star star star star
4.66
#3 of 278
Top 10 in California
85% A+
Rigo's Moving Company Inc
12 years in business
star star star star star
4.7
#1 of 278
Top 10 in California
80% A+
Unique Moving Inc.
38 years in business
star star star star star
4.66
#2 of 278
Top 10 in California
93% A+
star star star star star
4.48
#23 of 278 96% D-

Proximity to Malibu is a ranking factor, so a mover appearing higher on the list may have a lower score than one listed below it. A nearby company can outrank a higher-scored mover based further out. Each company's positive review rate and BBB rating are included so you can compare quality and reputation side by side.

Top-rated movers in nearby California cities

  More people are searching to leave California than move in. For roughly every 10 people looking to move in, about 14 are looking to leave. Bakersfield and Riverside have the highest out-migration rates of any cities in the entire country. See moveBuddha's full 2026 Moving Trends Report →

Popular moving routes from Malibu, CA

Local movers in Malibu are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-5, I-10, and I-80. For longer moves, you need a full-service interstate carrier with USDOT authority, binding estimate practices, and the logistics to handle cross-country delivery. See our guide to the best long-distance movers from Malibu, CA for route-specific recommendations and pricing.

Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

How much do movers cost in Malibu, CA?

Local movers in Malibu are priced hourly. The California average is $122/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.

Home size Estimated local move cost in Malibu
Studio $486 – $810
1 bedroom $648 – $1,134
2 bedrooms $972 – $1,620
3 bedrooms $1,458 – $2,430
4+ bedrooms $1,944 – $3,564

Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Malibu's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.

Ready to compare Malibu mover prices? See our full guide on Malibu, CA mover costs →

 Fuel surcharge alert: November 2026 moveBuddha's most recent move cost data shows moving company pricing has increased by approximately 21% as of November 2026 due to rising fuel costs. California movers have seen some of the largest price increases in the country. Use the moving cost calculator to get a current Malibu estimate that reflects these conditions.

Which Malibu, CA movers offer specialty services?

Not every Malibu mover handles specialty items. moveBuddha tracked 278 Malibu moving companies across 5 specialty service categories. The breakdown below shows availability rates for this market and the top-rated mover in each category:

  • Piano moving: 124 of 278 Malibu movers (44.6%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5) also offers piano moving.
  • Antique handling: 83 of 278 Malibu movers (29.86%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5) also handles antique care.
  • Art packing: 89 of 278 Malibu movers (32.01%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5) also offers art packing.
  • Climate-controlled storage: 59 of 278 Malibu movers (21.22%) offer it. Best California Movers (4.64/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
  • Fragile-only packing: 34 of 278 Malibu movers (12.23%) offer it. Best California Movers (4.64/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

What movers in Malibu offer piano moving?

Piano moving is available from 124 of 278 Malibu movers (44.6%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5) also offers piano moving.

Piano moving in Malibu Details
Malibu movers offering this 124 of 278 (44.6%)
Top-rated Malibu piano movers NorthStar Moving Company, H2H Movers Inc
Upright piano $1,296 to $2,430
Baby grand piano $1,944 to $4,050
Grand piano $2,916 to $5,670

Piano weight (300 to 800 lbs for uprights, 500 to 1,200 lbs for baby grands, over 1,200 lbs for concert grands) is the primary cost driver, as heavier instruments require more crew and specialized equipment. Bundling a piano into a full household move is usually cheaper than booking a piano-only carrier. See moveBuddha's guide to the best piano movers for vetted options and how to pack and move a piano for prep tips.

What movers in Malibu offer antique handling?

Antique handling is available from 83 of 278 Malibu movers (29.86%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5) also handles antique care.

Antique handling in Malibu Details
Malibu movers offering this 83 of 278 (29.86%)
Top-rated Malibu antique movers NorthStar Moving Company, Best California Movers
Added cost to a household move $1,620 to $4,050
Per-piece handling fee $81 to $810
Custom crating per item $243 to $324

Custom crating and per-piece handling fees are the main cost factors. Standard released-value coverage ($0.60/lb) is inadequate for high-value antiques, so full-value protection adds to the total. The more pieces requiring individual crating, the higher the cost. See moveBuddha's guide to best antique moving companies for specialists in this market.

What movers in Malibu offer art packing?

Art packing is available from 89 of 278 Malibu movers (32.01%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5) also offers art packing.

Art packing in Malibu Details
Malibu movers offering this 89 of 278 (32.01%)
Top-rated Malibu art movers NorthStar Moving Company, Best California Movers
Per-piece handling fee $81 to $810
Custom crating per item $243 to $324

Cost scales with piece count and crating complexity. Framed canvases and sculptures require custom-built crates at $150 to $200 each. Confirm the mover has handled similar media before booking. See how to pack and move art for what to verify before signing.

What movers in Malibu offer climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled storage is available from 59 of 278 Malibu movers (21.22%). Best California Movers (4.64/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.

Climate-controlled storage in Malibu Details
Malibu movers offering this 59 of 278 (21.22%)
Top-rated Malibu providers Best California Movers, Precision Moving & Storage Corp.
Storage-in-transit rate About $0.50 per cubic foot per month
1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) $416

Cost is driven by unit size and duration. Longer storage gaps and larger loads raise the monthly total. Climate control is most relevant for wood furniture, electronics, and vinyl; standard units can handle hardier items at lower cost. See moveBuddha's climate-controlled storage guide for a full cost and provider breakdown.

What movers in Malibu offer fragile-only packing?

Fragile-only packing is available from 34 of 278 Malibu movers (12.23%). Best California Movers (4.64/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

Fragile-only packing in Malibu Details
Malibu movers offering this 34 of 278 (12.23%)
Top-rated Malibu providers Best California Movers, Sterling Van Lines
Full professional packing rate $0.15 to $0.21 per pound

Fragile-only packing costs less than full-service packing because it covers only breakables: dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps. It's the most cost-effective way to add professional packing without paying to have the whole home packed. See how to pack breakables for what movers look for and how to prepare.

Apartment and high-rise moving in Malibu

Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Malibu adds logistical steps that ground-floor moves don't require. Before booking, confirm the following with your mover:

  • Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Malibu apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
  • Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
  • Labor-only movers: 32% of Malibu movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Best California Movers also offers labor-only service.

If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Malibu apartment moves before committing.

DIY moving options in Malibu, CA

Not every Malibu move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:

Rental trucks

The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Malibu, CA are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes. Use moveBuddha's moving truck size guide to match the right truck to your home size before booking.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Moving containers

The best moving container companies available in Malibu, CA are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size, or the moving container sizes guide to find the right unit for your load.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
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  • Flexible timelines
  • Local franchise support
  • Fits tight spaces
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Labor-only movers + rented truck

The best labor-only movers in Malibu, CA start with Best California Movers (4.64/5) and Rigo's Moving Company Inc (4.7/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.64 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • 99% positive reviews
  • BBB: A
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.7 / 5
  • Years in Business: 12
  • 80% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.66 / 5
  • Years in Business: 38
  • 93% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+

Moving in Malibu, CA: what you need to know

A Malibu move involves logistics that go beyond booking a crew and loading a truck. The checklist below covers the practical steps specific to moving in this market.

Before move day

  • Update your address: file a change of address with the USPS before your move date. Malibu residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with California DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Malibu buildings require a COI from your moving company before granting loading dock or elevator access. Request this from your mover as soon as you book. It's a standard document and any licensed mover should provide it free of charge.
  • Reserve your elevator: if you're in a building with a service elevator, reserve a time window as early as possible. Weekend and month-end slots fill fast.
  • Get a binding estimate: a binding estimate locks your final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. Always confirm in writing before signing.

Timing your move

  • Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. Malibu's summer highs reach 86°F, which pushes prices up and crew availability down. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead during this window.
  • Off-peak savings: moves booked in October–April, on weekdays, or mid-month typically cost 10%–20% less. If your schedule is flexible, ask movers about off-peak pricing. See moveBuddha's best time to move guide for a month-by-month breakdown.

California moving regulations and your rights

  • Verify your mover is licensed: all California movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at California's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
  • 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.
  • Released-value coverage: movers are required to offer basic protection at $0.60 per pound per item at no extra cost. This covers almost nothing on high-value items. Ask about full valuation coverage before signing.
  • 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.
  • Your rights as a shipper: for interstate moves, the FMCSA requires movers to provide "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before your move. Read it. It covers estimates, liability, dispute resolution, and the 110% rule. Download it at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
  • Industry oversight: California Moving & Storage Association sets professional standards for California movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.

Frequently asked questions: moving in Malibu, CA

How much do movers cost in Malibu, CA?

Local movers in Malibu, CA charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 62 Malibu movers, hourly rates range from $85/hour to $180/hour, with a median of $119/hour. Our preferred Malibu mover is Best California Movers.

Key cost factors for a Malibu move, based on moveBuddha's review data:

  • Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
  • Deposit requirement: 13% of Malibu movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: 14% of Malibu movers (40 companies) offer it. The default released-value protection covers only $0.60 per pound. Full valuation coverage costs extra and covers replacement value.
  • Hours on-site: local moves bill by the clock. Home size, floor access, elevator waits, and how much packing work the crew handles are the primary time drivers.
  • Long-distance pricing: moves leaving Malibu across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 71% of Malibu movers (196 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: 81% of Malibu movers (224 companies) offer full packing, and 62% supply packing materials. Professional packing adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound on average.

DIY options like a rental truck or moving container reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's analysis. Use the moving cost calculator to get a market-specific baseline before collecting quotes.

What do full-service movers in Malibu include, and what costs extra?

A standard full-service move in Malibu, CA includes loading, transport, and unloading. Basic furniture padding and simple disassembly/reassembly for bed frames and standard furniture pieces are included in the base rate. Packing, valuation upgrades, storage, crating, and specialty-item handling are add-ons billed separately. The table below shows what Malibu movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.

Add-on service % of Malibu movers Typical cost impact
Full packing 81% (224 companies) +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average
Packing materials 62% Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking
Storage 59% ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$416/month
Full valuation coverage 14% (40 companies) 1%–2% of declared shipment value (~$300–$600 on a $30,000 shipment); default released-value protection pays only $0.60/lb
Crating (fragile/high-value items) 30% (83 companies) $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances)
Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) 32% (89 companies) Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge
Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) Situational $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200

Every add-on above requires written confirmation before booking. A binding estimate locks the final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. See the hidden and unexpected moving costs guide for a full breakdown of what to request in writing.

Do movers in Malibu offer senior, military, or other discounts?

Malibu movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 288,766 verified customer reviews across California. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 Malibu mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Malibu movers are excluded. CA state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.

Discount type % of Malibu movers # of movers Malibu movers offering it Data source
Senior 0% 1 -- Malibu
Military 17% 46 Sterling Van Lines, Rigo's Moving Company Inc Malibu
AAA 0% 1 -- Malibu
Student 2% 5 -- Malibu
Law enforcement 1% 2 -- Malibu

Ask each mover whether the discount applies to your specific move date, what proof of eligibility is required, and whether it stacks with seasonal pricing or off-peak rates. Discounts are not automatically applied. Request them at the quote stage, before signing.

How far in advance should I book movers in Malibu?

Book Malibu movers at least 4–6 weeks ahead during peak moving season (May through September) and on month-end dates. For off-peak moves (October through April, mid-month, or on a weekday), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (under 1 week) are possible but limit your options to movers with open capacity, which may not include your preferred company or the best-rated crews.

Once you have a date, request a binding written estimate before paying any deposit. Confirm the mover's cancellation and reschedule policy in writing at booking. Some Malibu movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.

What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Malibu movers provide one?

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from your mover's insurance carrier that names your building as an additional insured and confirms the mover carries active liability coverage. Many Malibu apartment buildings, condos, and commercial properties require a COI before they'll permit a moving crew to use service elevators or loading docks.

Any licensed, insured Malibu mover should provide a COI at no charge. Request it as soon as you book. Your building management may need it 5–10 business days before your move. If a mover hesitates or charges for a COI, that is a red flag worth taking seriously.

Are movers in Malibu licensed and insured?

California requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the California licensed movers directory. For interstate moves (crossing state lines), movers must also hold a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify any USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov.

Always ask your Malibu mover for their license number and USDOT number before signing. moveBuddha verifies licensing and insurance status for all movers in its database as part of the review process.

How long does a local move take in Malibu?

Local Malibu moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Malibu-area data:

  • Studio/1 bedroom: 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 2 bedrooms: 4–6 hours with a 2-person crew
  • 3 bedrooms: 6–8 hours with a 3-person crew
  • 4+ bedrooms: 8–12 hours with a 3–4 person crew

These are averages. Actual time increases with stairs, elevator waits, long carries from truck to door, and the amount of packing the crew handles. Pre-packing boxes, reserving an elevator, and ensuring a clear loading path are the most effective ways to keep hourly costs on track.

Do Malibu movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?

Yes. Most Malibu movers regularly handle apartment and high-rise moves. When evaluating a mover for this type of move, ask specifically about their experience with:

  • Service elevator scheduling and building move-in procedures in Malibu
  • Providing a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for building management
  • Shuttle vehicles or alternative loading setups when a truck can't park close to the entrance
  • Stair carries if the service elevator is unavailable or too small for large pieces

A mover with genuine Malibu apartment experience will ask about your building's move-in process during the quoting stage, not after you've signed. If they don't ask, bring it up yourself before committing.

What is the best time of year to move in Malibu?

The cheapest time to move in Malibu is October through April, particularly on weekdays and mid-month dates when mover demand drops. Moving during this window can reduce your total cost by 10%–20% compared to peak summer rates.

Peak season runs May through September. Malibu's summer highs reach 86°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.

Regardless of season, booking 4–6 weeks ahead gives you the best pick of Malibu's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Malibu?

moveBuddha scores 278 moving companies in Malibu on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options.

How moveBuddha selects and reviews Malibu, CA moving companies

moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 1,126 California moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Rankings for Malibu draw on 288,766 verified customer reviews across California: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.

That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
  • Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.

Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.

See how Malibu's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Malibu's top movers →

How to move in Malibu: permits, COI, and city logistics

A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Malibu, CA, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.

  1. Verify your mover's license and insurance. 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. Verify a license.
  2. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Malibu building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
  3. Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Malibu street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
  4. Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Malibu movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.

The final verdict: moving in Malibu, CA

  • Best overall: NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5), our preferred Malibu mover, also ranking in the top 10 movers statewide in California.
  • Best runner-up: H2H Movers Inc (4.52/5).
  • Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): NorthStar Moving Company (4.64/5).
  • Best labor-only / DIY assist: Best California Movers (4.64/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
  • Going rate: $119/hour median for a Malibu crew.

Collect at least 3 binding estimates, confirm your mover's license and insurance, and request a COI if your building requires one. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to set your budget baseline before reaching out to movers.