Best Movers Near Santa Rosa, CA (2026 Reviews)

Fresh Start Movers is our preferred moving company in Santa Rosa. Rankings are based on 6,069 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Santa Rosa, CA, covering 46 local Santa Rosa movers.

Local movers in Santa Rosa 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 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.44 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 4.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.42 / 5
  • Years in Business: 12
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Why use moveBuddha for your Santa Rosa, CA move

  • moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Santa Rosa mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
  • Book a moveBuddha Certified Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa, CA right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Santa Rosa. 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

Fresh Start Movers is our preferred moving company in Santa Rosa .

moveBuddha scored 46 Santa Rosa movers drawing on 6,069 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.57/5. Rankings include movers based in Santa Rosa and those serving the area from nearby locations.

  1. Fresh Start Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Mentors Moving & Storage: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. Need A Hand Movers: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  4. Celis Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Johnson & Daly Moving and Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  6. Chipman Relocation & Logistics: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  7. NorthStar Moving Company: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  8. Sunny Movers: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  9. Moving Mountain Logistics, Inc.: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  10. Dependable Movers, LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
1
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Friendly and approachable staff
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Careful handling
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
99%
Years active
10
link icon
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
  • 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. Fresh Start Movers has been in business for 10 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. Fresh Start Movers has about 99% positive reviews across roughly 975 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 5.0.

Quote accuracy 4.0

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

Customer service 4.4

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

Recent reviews

Absolutely great -service oriented, friendly, professional, and suuuper flexible because we had to change our date at least 6 times.

They were careful with our belongings, flexible as plans evolved, hardworking, and consistently pleasant to work with. Communication was clear and responsive, and costs were transparent with no surprises.

DOT number
4466174
Address
253 Sutton Pl, Santa Rosa, CA, 95407
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
0191564
2
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Organized packing
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
97%
Years active
6
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.4
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.8
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Antiques moving
  • 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. Mentors Moving & Storage has been in business for 6 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and interstate moving.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Mentors Moving & Storage has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 557 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 Mentors Moving & Storage, and Mentors Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like military.

Customer service 4.1

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

Recent reviews

Mentors came in with the lowest bid and the final bill was $300 less than that. Everything was packed up and moved into our new storage unit exactly as it had been in the old storage unit.

Mentors Moving was very communicative. They made moving a piano from one house to another house easy for me. Josh and Chance were not rushed. They took their time to be careful with loading and driving the big truck.

DOT number
2911596
Address
3000 Dutton Ave Suite B, Santa Rosa, CA, 95407
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
0190845
3
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Quick response times
checkmark Quick moving process
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
94%
Years active
14
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.3
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.6
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Need A Hand Movers has been in business for 14 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.

Review quality 4.5

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Need A Hand Movers has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 423 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.

Quote accuracy 3.9

Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Need A Hand Movers.

Customer service 4.4

From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Need A Hand Movers emphasizes clear communication.

Recent reviews

Jason was very responsive and stayed in contact with us until our move date. His crew finished faster than expected, and the final price came in below the original bid amount.

They were fast and careful! Even completed the job in shorter time than planned and saved me money.

DOT number
2951212
Address
2349 Sundance St, Santa Rosa, CA, 95403
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
0191124
4
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Organized packing
checkmark Good communication
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
97%
Years active
12
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.4
link icon
Google logo
5.0
link icon
Yelp logo
4.8
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • Interstate moves
  • Intrastate moves

Available discounts

  • Military discount

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 5.0

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Celis Movers has been in business for 12 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. Celis Movers has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 553 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.8.

Quote accuracy 3.8

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

Customer service 4.1

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

Recent reviews

This moving company is also the BEST VALUE, as they are considerably less expensive than the competition. This Company tries harder to satisfy the customer than others do, and it shows in the results.

We had a great experience with Rolando and his team on our move from Northern California to Las Vegas. He was very flexible and adaptable to last-minute changes that we had and I would highly recommend him to anybody.

DOT number
2594954
Address
879 Lindberg Ln Suite #100, Petaluma, CA, 94952
Payment methods
Cash • Credit Card
State license
0191411
5
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 international 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
6
checkmark Consistency and follow-up
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Respectful of property
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
71%
Years active
88
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.5
link icon
Google logo
4.3
link icon
Yelp logo
3.1
link icon
BBB logo
Grade A+
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Packing
  • 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. Chipman Relocation & Logistics has been in business for 88 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Chipman Relocation & Logistics has about 71% positive reviews across roughly 122 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.1.

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.

Recent reviews

Joe was always helpful and available for any questions. Our move coordinator, Quenisha Burns was also always helpful and ready with solutions to any issues I encountered during packing.

Paul Jelderks and Michelle Tatum were both very professional. They both followed up every step of the way to make sure everything was going according to plan.

DOT number
233667
Address
2300 N Watney Way, Fairfield, CA, 94533
Payment methods
Credit Card
7
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
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.6
link icon
Google logo
4.9
link icon
Yelp logo
4.6
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
  • 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 international moving and intrastate 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
8
checkmark Flexibility
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Good communication
checkmark Respectful of property
checkmark Quick response times
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
90%
Years active
18
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.2
link icon
Google logo
4.8
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Full-service moves
  • Labor-only moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Packing materials available
  • Antiques moving
  • Small moves
  • 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. Sunny Movers has been in business for 18 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and labor-only moving.

Review quality 4.1

Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Sunny Movers has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 146 total reviews.

Quote accuracy 4.1

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

Customer service 3.5

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

Recent reviews

Sunny Movers were fantastic! The team was friendly, flexible, honest, and incredibly hardworking. They made the entire process easy and stress-free. I've already booked them for another move—highly recommend!

I would highly recommend Sunny Movers. They got the job done swiftly, offered a fair rate, and communicated excellently. Scheduling was easy, with updates and confirmations, and they arranged a next-day appointment.

DOT number
2611302
Address
1800 Petaluma Blvd North, Petaluma, CA, 94952
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
CAL T 190848
9
checkmark Transparent pricing
checkmark Affordable rates
checkmark Knowledgeable staff
checkmark Experienced movers
checkmark Flexibility
Get Free Quote
No obligation • Free estimates
Positive reviews
98%
Years active
20
link icon
moveBuddha logo
4.3
link icon
Google logo
4.6
link icon
Yelp logo
4.8
Show details Hide details

Services offered

  • Packing
  • Intrastate moves
  • Office/business moves

Company stats

Read full review
Industry experience 4.7

Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Moving Mountain Logistics, Inc. has been in business for 20 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. Moving Mountain Logistics, Inc. has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 47 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.8.

Quote accuracy 4.1

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

Customer service 4.1

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

Recent reviews

My move from San Francisco to Marin was about as easy as I could have hoped for-it was a swift, drama free day of moving and Sean's estimate was spot on.

I have moved many times in my life and Sean and his crew offered the most professional, affordable, and pleasant experience I have ever had. Sean responded promptly to my inquiry and quoted a reasonable price.

DOT number
2687114
Address
448 Ignacio Blvd # 195, Novato, CA, 94949
Payment methods
Credit Card
State license
CAL T-189933
10
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
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

  • 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 office moving and small-scale 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

Don't see your company listed?

Reach customers actively searching for trusted movers in your area. Tell us about your company and services to get your business listed on moveBuddha.

Get Started

How do Santa Rosa, CA moving companies compare?

Company Our rating City rank Positive reviews BBB Quote
Fresh Start Movers
10 years in business
star star star star star
4.52
#3 of 46 99% A+
Mentors Moving & Storage
6 years in business
star star star star star
4.44
#5 of 46 97% A+
Need A Hand Movers
14 years in business
star star star star star
4.36
#6 of 46 94% A+
Celis Movers
12 years in business
star star star star star
4.48
#4 of 46 97% A+
star star star star star
4.58
#2 of 46 94% A+
star star star star star
4.58
#1 of 46 71% A+
NorthStar Moving Company
31 years in business
star star star star star
4.66
—
Top 10 in California
93% A+
Sunny Movers
18 years in business
star star star star star
4.2
#9 of 46 90% N/A
star star star star star
4.34
#7 of 46 98% A+
Dependable Movers, LLC
8 years in business
star star star star star
4.58
— 96% A+

Proximity to Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa, CA

Local movers in Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa, 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
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

Local movers in Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa
Studio $456 – $760
1 bedroom $608 – $1,064
2 bedrooms $912 – $1,520
3 bedrooms $1,368 – $2,280
4+ bedrooms $1,824 – $3,344

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

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

Which Santa Rosa, CA movers offer specialty services?

Not every Santa Rosa mover handles specialty items. moveBuddha tracked 46 Santa Rosa 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: 11 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (23.91%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) also offers piano moving.
  • Antique handling: 8 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (17.39%) offer it. Mentors Moving & Storage (4.44/5) also handles antique care.
  • Art packing: 10 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (21.74%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) also offers art packing.
  • Climate-controlled storage: 4 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (8.7%) offer it. (/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
  • Fragile-only packing: 4 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (8.7%) offer it. Dependable Movers, LLC (4.58/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

What movers in Santa Rosa offer piano moving?

Piano moving is available from 11 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (23.91%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) also offers piano moving.

Piano moving in Santa Rosa Details
Santa Rosa movers offering this 11 of 46 (23.91%)
Top-rated Santa Rosa piano movers NorthStar Moving Company, Dependable Movers, LLC
Upright piano $1,216 to $2,280
Baby grand piano $1,824 to $3,800
Grand piano $2,736 to $5,320

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 Santa Rosa offer antique handling?

Antique handling is available from 8 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (17.39%). Mentors Moving & Storage (4.44/5) also handles antique care.

Antique handling in Santa Rosa Details
Santa Rosa movers offering this 8 of 46 (17.39%)
Top-rated Santa Rosa antique movers Mentors Moving & Storage, NorthStar Moving Company
Added cost to a household move $1,520 to $3,800
Per-piece handling fee $76 to $760
Custom crating per item $228 to $304

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 Santa Rosa offer art packing?

Art packing is available from 10 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (21.74%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.66/5) also offers art packing.

Art packing in Santa Rosa Details
Santa Rosa movers offering this 10 of 46 (21.74%)
Top-rated Santa Rosa art movers NorthStar Moving Company,
Per-piece handling fee $76 to $760
Custom crating per item $228 to $304

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 Santa Rosa offer climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled storage is available from 4 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (8.7%). (/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.

Climate-controlled storage in Santa Rosa Details
Santa Rosa movers offering this 4 of 46 (8.7%)
Top-rated Santa Rosa providers ,
Storage-in-transit rate About $0.50 per cubic foot per month
1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) $391

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 Santa Rosa offer fragile-only packing?

Fragile-only packing is available from 4 of 46 Santa Rosa movers (8.7%). Dependable Movers, LLC (4.58/5) also offers fragile-only packing.

Fragile-only packing in Santa Rosa Details
Santa Rosa movers offering this 4 of 46 (8.7%)
Top-rated Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa

Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa 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: 13% of Santa Rosa movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Sunny Movers also offers labor-only service.

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

DIY moving options in Santa Rosa, CA

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

Rental trucks

The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Santa Rosa, 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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Moving containers

The best moving container companies available in Santa Rosa, 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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Flexible timelines
  • Local franchise support
  • Fits tight spaces
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Labor-only movers + rented truck

The best labor-only movers in Santa Rosa, CA start with Sunny Movers (4.2/5) and 680 Movers (4.44/5), 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 4.2 / 5
  • Years in Business: 18
  • 90% positive reviews
  • BBB:
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.44 / 5
  • Years in Business: 9
  • 91% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.38 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • 94% positive reviews
  • BBB: A+

Moving in Santa Rosa, CA: what you need to know

A Santa Rosa 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. Santa Rosa 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: The City Council implemented a residential parking program to uphold and advance the distinctiveness of designated neighborhoods. If you reside within established Residential Parking Permit Zones, you may apply for permits that enable you to park on the street for a maximum of 72 hours, and you will not be subject to any posted time restrictions.
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa, CA

How much do movers cost in Santa Rosa, CA?

Local movers in Santa Rosa, CA charge by the hour. The California average is $122/hour for a 2-person crew. Our preferred Santa Rosa mover is Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc..

Key cost factors for a Santa Rosa 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: 2% of Santa Rosa movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
  • Full valuation coverage: 4% of Santa Rosa movers (2 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 Santa Rosa across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 48% of Santa Rosa movers (22 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
  • Packing services: 78% of Santa Rosa movers (36 companies) offer full packing, and 41% 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 Santa Rosa include, and what costs extra?

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

Add-on service % of Santa Rosa movers Typical cost impact
Full packing 78% (36 companies) +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average
Packing materials 41% Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking
Storage 41% ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$391/month
Full valuation coverage 4% (2 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) 4% (2 companies) $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances)
Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) 13% (6 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 Santa Rosa offer senior, military, or other discounts?

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

Discount type % of Santa Rosa movers # of movers Santa Rosa movers offering it Data source
Senior 4% 2 -- Santa Rosa
Military 15% 7 Mentors Moving & Storage, Celis Movers Santa Rosa

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 Santa Rosa?

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

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

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

Yes. Most Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa
  • 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 Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa?

The cheapest time to move in Santa Rosa 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. Santa Rosa's summer highs reach 84°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 Santa Rosa's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.

How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Santa Rosa?

moveBuddha scores 46 moving companies in Santa Rosa on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options.

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

How to move in Santa Rosa: permits, COI, and city logistics

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

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.