Best Movers Near Oakland, CA (2026 Reviews)

NorthStar Moving Company is Oakland's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.66/5 stars. NorthStar Moving Company also ranks #7 out of 1127 movers statewide in California. Rankings are based on 76,143 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Oakland, CA, covering 281 local Oakland movers.

Local movers in Oakland on average charge $147/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 12
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • Yelp: 4.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+

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 Moving in Oakland, CA right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Oakland. 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 Oakland, CA?

NorthStar Moving Company is Oakland's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.66/5. NorthStar Moving Company also ranks #7 out of 1127 movers statewide in California.

moveBuddha scored 281 Oakland movers drawing on 76,143 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.67/5. Rankings include movers based in Oakland and those serving the area from nearby locations.

  1. NorthStar Moving Company: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  2. West Coast Moving Systems, Inc: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Dependable Movers, LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Pure Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. Big Family Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  6. Chipman Relocation & Logistics: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  7. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  8. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  9. Johnson & Daly Moving and Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  10. Good Green Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
1
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Flexibility
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
93%
Years active
31
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
4.9
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Yelp logo
4.6
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BBB logo
Grade A+
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Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • 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 intrastate moving and international moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. NorthStar Moving Company has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 1870 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.

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

They also were one of the cheapest options that we were able to find.

Gustavo, Rodolfo, and Agustin were quick and efficient. Completed an estimated 4 hour move in half the time. Friendly guys, would hire again.

DOT number
1836576
Address
One Bush Plaza Bush St Suite B-182, San Francisco, CA, 94104
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
CAL P.U.C. T-182466
2
checkmark Transparent pricing
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Flexibility
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
96%
Years active
19
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
4.8
link icon
Yelp logo
4.9
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • 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. West Coast Moving Systems, Inc has been in business for 19 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. West Coast Moving Systems, Inc has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 699 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.9.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from West Coast Moving Systems, Inc. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.7

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

Recent reviews

West Coast provided a fixed-price quote that was highly competitive, arrived on time, protected our furniture, and finished at the quoted price with no hidden fees.

West Coast was the only company to send a visual estimator. The estimate was thorough and honest, and the crew handled the move carefully and efficiently.

DOT number
3071646
Address
745 85th Ave, Oakland, CA, 94621
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0192456
3
checkmark Organized packing
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Respectful of property
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
96%
Years active
8
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.7
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Antiques moving
  • Estate moves
  • Piano moves
  • Small moves
  • Storage available
  • 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. Dependable Movers, LLC has been in business for 8 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Dependable Movers, LLC has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 2554 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 Dependable Movers, LLC.

Customer service 4.7

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

Recent reviews

Everything was packed quickly and loaded safely for the long trip. The leader of the crew was especially helpful and made sure everything went as planned. He made sure I understood the process and answered all my questions.

The crew was organized, knew what they were doing, and didn't waste any time. The heavy pieces were no problem for them.

DOT number
3098516
Address
2348 Jerrold Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94124
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0191786
4
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Efficient service
checkmark Quick response times
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
99%
Years active
12
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
5.0
link icon
Yelp logo
4.9
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Small moves
  • 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. Pure Moving Company has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Pure Moving Company has about 99% positive reviews across roughly 2911 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.9.

Quote accuracy 4.1

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

Customer service 4.7

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

Recent reviews

The crew showed up on time, were clean and efficient. Nothing was damaged, and everything was packed with care. Best movers I have ever used.

Znehya, Max and Rai carefully blanketed, wrapped, protected the corners, lifted and moved my entire household, treating each piece of furniture as if it was their own. Nothing was broken, harmed or scratched.

DOT number
4372249
Address
401 Terry A Francois Blvd #110, San Francisco, CA, 94158
Payment methods
Credit Card
5
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Respectful of property
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
96%
Years active
22
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
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Google logo
5.0
link icon
Yelp logo
4.7
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Office/business moves

Available discounts

  • Senior discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Big Family Movers has been in business for 22 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Big Family Movers has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 310 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Big Family Movers. Discounts may be available for groups like seniors.

Customer service 4.4

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

Recent reviews

Excellent service from the beginning to the end of the process. The movers were efficient & professional. The price was reasonable compared to many other movers.

Big Family Movers moved a big truckload of furniture and boxes for us. They were very conscientious and careful with our stuff. The move was trouble free and reasonably priced. They have long experience and know their trade.

DOT number
2916075
Address
3955 Whittle Ave, Oakland, CA, 94602
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0189403
6
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Knowledgeable staff
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Quick response times
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
71%
Years active
88
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moveBuddha logo
4.6
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Google logo
4.2
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Yelp logo
3.6
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BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • 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. Chipman Relocation & Logistics has been in business for 88 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and small-scale moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Chipman Relocation & Logistics has about 71% positive reviews across roughly 254 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.6.

Quote accuracy 4.1

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Chipman Relocation & Logistics.

Customer service 5.0

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Chipman Relocation & Logistics emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.

Recent reviews

Jamie checked in several times, the movers were professional and efficient, and the move from California to Georgia went smoothly through storage and delivery.

Scott explained the estimate in detail, and Jamie organized the move with regular check-ins. Our belongings arrived on time and without damage.

DOT number
00233667
Address
1555 Zephyr Ave, Hayward, CA, 94544
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
CA BHGS No. MTR0114272; OR PUC No. 19604; WA PUC No. HG6985
7
checkmark Transparent pricing
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
87%
Years active
16
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.6
link icon
Yelp logo
4.3
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Antiques moving
  • 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. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. has been in business for 16 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. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 675 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 Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc..

Customer service 5.0

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

Recent reviews

Tess offered a backup time for traffic, kept me updated, and the crew loaded and unloaded quickly. This was my second move with Eagle, and I’ll happily use them again.

Communication was excellent from start to finish, and their pricing was fair and transparent with no surprises. Every item was packed with care, and the team went above and beyond.

DOT number
3519797
Address
1149 Montgomery Ave, San Bruno, CA, 94066
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0190673
8
checkmark Special handling available
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Experienced movers
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
95%
Years active
46
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moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
5.0
link icon
Yelp logo
4.7
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Antiques moving
  • Piano moves
  • Crane/hoisting vans
  • Small moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
  • Storage available
  • 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. Gentle Giant Moving Company has been in business for 46 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. Gentle Giant Moving Company has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 134 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 Gentle Giant Moving Company.

Customer service 4.4

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

Recent reviews

At any rate, we had a huge headboard that needed to make it into our bedroom via a backyard, balcony, and very narrow hall. The guys from Gentle Giant were awesome, efficient, well priced, and caused no damage.

They were SUPER NICE about me needing to reschedule my move last minute when I got Covid. The guys were kind, fast, careful, and thorough.

DOT number
373544
Address
1061 Sneath Ln, San Bruno, CA, 94066
Payment methods
Credit Card
9
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Respectful of property
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
94%
Years active
47
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.7
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Storage available
  • International 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. Johnson & Daly Moving and Storage has been in business for 47 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. Johnson & Daly Moving and Storage has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 354 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.

Quote accuracy 4.0

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

Customer service 4.1

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

Recent reviews

Rolando and his team were incredible to work with. They arrived on time, worked diligently, and communicated clearly. Mike made several inventory trips before the movers. Would 100% use them again.

Oscar and his crew were courteous, professional, and careful. They laid runners everywhere and patiently rearranged living room furniture. I’m a real estate broker and confidently refer them to clients.

DOT number
2611854
Address
110 Belvedere St., San Rafael, CA, 94901
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
159465
10
checkmark Environmental commitment
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
88%
Years active
13
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.4
link icon
Google logo
4.7
link icon
Yelp logo
4.5
link icon
BBB logo
Grade F
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Custom crating
  • Piano moves
  • 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. Good Green Moving has been in business for 13 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and office moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Good Green Moving has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 353 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.

Quote accuracy 4.0

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

Customer service 5.0

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

Recent reviews

The reusable bins saved us the cost of buying boxes and reduced packing waste, a huge sustainability win. The warehouse team was easy to communicate with.

They gave me a very fair estimate, moved the furniture when promised, and charged me even less than their estimate. No scratches or damage to the items.

DOT number
2604063
Address
1355 Market Street Suite 488, San Francisco, CA, 94103
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0191035

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How do Oakland, 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
4.66
#1 of 281
Top 10 in California
93% A+
star star star star star
4.62
#3 of 281 96% A+
Dependable Movers, LLC
8 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
#5 of 281 96% A+
Pure Moving Company
12 years in business
star star star star star
4.56
#13 of 281 99% A+
Big Family Movers
22 years in business
star star star star star
4.5
#16 of 281 96% A+
star star star star star
4.64
#2 of 281 71% A+
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.
16 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
#8 of 281 87% A+
Gentle Giant Moving Company
46 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
#4 of 281 95% A+
star star star star star
4.58
#9 of 281 94% A+
Good Green Moving
13 years in business
star star star star star
4.44
#21 of 281 88% F

Proximity to Oakland 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 Oakland, CA

Local movers in Oakland 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 Oakland, CA for route-specific recommendations and pricing.

Mover Certified by moveBuddha
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • 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
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  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans

How much do movers cost in Oakland, CA?

Local movers in Oakland charge $147/hour on average for a 2-person crew, compared to the California average of $122/hour. The actual cost depends on home size, hours on the clock, and any add-on services.

Home size Estimated local move cost in Oakland
Studio $588 – $980
1 bedroom $784 – $1,372
2 bedrooms $1,176 – $1,960
3 bedrooms $1,764 – $2,940
4+ bedrooms $2,352 – $4,312

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

Ready to compare Oakland mover prices? See our full guide on Oakland, 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 Oakland estimate that reflects these conditions.

Which Oakland, CA movers offer specialty services?

Specialty moving services are not standard across every Oakland mover. Based on moveBuddha's review of 281 Oakland moving companies, here is what is available, how common each service is in this market, and which movers lead each category:

  • Piano moving: 106 of 281 Oakland movers (37.72%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) is Oakland's top-rated piano mover.
  • Antique handling: 82 of 281 Oakland movers (29.18%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) rates highest for antique care in Oakland.
  • Art packing: 84 of 281 Oakland movers (29.89%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) rates highest for art packing in Oakland.
  • Climate-controlled storage: 46 of 281 Oakland movers (16.37%) offer it. Chipman Relocation & Logistics (4.64/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
  • Fragile-only packing: 30 of 281 Oakland movers (10.68%) offer it. Dependable Movers, LLC (4.58/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

What movers in Oakland offer piano moving?

Piano moving is available from 106 of 281 Oakland movers (37.72%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) is Oakland's top-rated piano mover.

Piano moving in Oakland Details
Oakland movers offering this 106 of 281 (37.72%)
Top-rated Oakland piano movers NorthStar Moving Company, Dependable Movers, LLC
Upright piano $1,568 to $2,940
Baby grand piano $2,352 to $4,900
Grand piano $3,528 to $6,860

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 Oakland offer antique handling?

Antique handling is available from 82 of 281 Oakland movers (29.18%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) rates highest for antique care in Oakland.

Antique handling in Oakland Details
Oakland movers offering this 82 of 281 (29.18%)
Top-rated Oakland antique movers NorthStar Moving Company, Dependable Movers, LLC
Added cost to a household move $1,960 to $4,900
Per-piece handling fee $98 to $980
Custom crating per item $294 to $392

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 Oakland offer art packing?

Art packing is available from 84 of 281 Oakland movers (29.89%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) rates highest for art packing in Oakland.

Art packing in Oakland Details
Oakland movers offering this 84 of 281 (29.89%)
Top-rated Oakland art movers NorthStar Moving Company, Pure Moving Company
Per-piece handling fee $98 to $980
Custom crating per item $294 to $392

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 Oakland offer climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled storage is available from 46 of 281 Oakland movers (16.37%). Chipman Relocation & Logistics (4.64/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.

Climate-controlled storage in Oakland Details
Oakland movers offering this 46 of 281 (16.37%)
Top-rated Oakland providers Chipman Relocation & Logistics, Gentle Giant Moving Company
Storage-in-transit rate About $0.50 per cubic foot per month
1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) $504

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 Oakland offer fragile-only packing?

Fragile-only packing is available from 30 of 281 Oakland movers (10.68%). Dependable Movers, LLC (4.58/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

Fragile-only packing in Oakland Details
Oakland movers offering this 30 of 281 (10.68%)
Top-rated Oakland providers Dependable Movers, LLC,
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 Oakland

Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Oakland 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 Oakland 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: 15% of Oakland movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. also offers labor-only service.

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

DIY moving options in Oakland, CA

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

Rental trucks

The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Oakland, 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 Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA start with Sweet Lemon Moving Services (4.36/5) and Got2Move (4.38/5), 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 4.36 / 5
  • Years in Business: 9
  • 99% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.38 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • 94% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.44 / 5
  • Years in Business: 9
  • 91% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+

Moving in Oakland, CA: what you need to know

An Oakland 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. Oakland residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with California DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
  • Parking and permits: Visitor Permits (1-day and 2-week temporary permits for visitors) Residents may purchase temporary permits for visitors. Visitor permits are hanging permits valid for one day or two weeks. A resident may purchase up to five of both on any calendar day.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Oakland 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. 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 Oakland, CA

How much do movers cost in Oakland, CA?

Local movers in Oakland, CA charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 38 Oakland movers, hourly rates range from $70/hour to $195/hour, with a median of $140/hour. Our preferred Oakland mover is Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc..

Key cost factors for a Oakland 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: 11% of Oakland movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: 15% of Oakland movers (41 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 Oakland across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 62% of Oakland movers (175 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: 76% of Oakland movers (213 companies) offer full packing, and 54% 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 Oakland include, and what costs extra?

A standard full-service move in Oakland, 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 Oakland movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.

Add-on service % of Oakland movers Typical cost impact
Full packing 76% (213 companies) +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average
Packing materials 54% Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking
Storage 53% ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$504/month
Full valuation coverage 15% (41 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) 20% (56 companies) $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances)
Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) 15% (43 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 Oakland offer senior, military, or other discounts?

Oakland 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 Oakland mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Oakland movers are excluded. CA state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.

Discount type % of Oakland movers # of movers Oakland movers offering it Data source
Senior 2% 5 Big Family Movers Oakland
Military 11% 30 West Coast Moving Systems, Inc Oakland
AAA 0% 1 -- Oakland

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 Oakland?

Book Oakland 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 Oakland movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.

What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland?

Local Oakland moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Oakland-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 Oakland movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?

Yes. Most Oakland 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 Oakland
  • 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 Oakland 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 Oakland?

The cheapest time to move in Oakland 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. Oakland's summer highs reach 72°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 Oakland's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Oakland?

moveBuddha scores 281 moving companies in Oakland on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options.

How moveBuddha selects and reviews Oakland, 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 Oakland 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 Oakland's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Oakland's top movers →

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

A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Oakland, 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland, CA

  • Best overall: NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5), moveBuddha's #1-ranked Oakland mover, also ranking in the top 10 movers statewide in California.
  • Best runner-up: West Coast Moving Systems, Inc (4.62/5).
  • Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5).
  • Best labor-only / DIY assist: (/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
  • Going rate: $147/hour for a Oakland moving 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.