Best Movers Near San Francisco, CA (2026 Reviews)
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NorthStar Moving Company is San Francisco's top-rated moving company on moveBuddha, earning a 4.58/5 stars. Rankings are based on 32,231 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to San Francisco, CA, covering 371 local California movers.
Local movers in San Francisco on average charge $150/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
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Moving in San Francisco, CA right now: Peak summer moving season is here. The 4th of July is one of the busiest moving weekends of the year. Prices spike and availability drops sharply around the holiday. If your San Francisco move is scheduled near that window, you should already have a mover locked in. If not, move quickly.
What are the top-rated moving companies in San Francisco, CA?
moveBuddha scored 88 San Francisco movers drawing on 32,231 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 4.34/5. Rankings include movers based in San Francisco and those serving the area from nearby locations.
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Pure Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Luigy's Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Jay's Small Moves: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Sweet Lemon Moving Services: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Good Green Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- West Coast Moving Systems, Inc: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Kora Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Efficient service
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Professional and polite staff
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 small-scale moving and international moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. NorthStar Moving Company has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 1172 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 instant email 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.
Recent reviews
"Edgar and his team were professional, efficient, and friendly. They took great care of our things and finished ahead of schedule. Would hire again in a heartbeat!"
"The movers were so quick and careful with every piece of furniture! Everything went smoothly and not a single thing was broken. Highly recommend!"
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. has been in business for 15 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate 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 634 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.4.
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
"The movers wrapped all my furniture and moved quickly. Nothing was damaged, and they were efficient and professional. Highly recommend their service and would definitely use them again!"
"Fantastic team! They showed up on time, worked hard, took great care with our stuff, and got the move done faster than quoted. The best moving experience I’ve had."
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Pure Moving Company has been in business for 11 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like estate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Pure Moving Company has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 1008 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 instant email quotes from Pure Moving Company.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Pure Moving Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Anton and his team were amazing! I hired them to pack and move my 2-bedroom apartment. From start to finish, they were professional, efficient, and careful with my belongings. Highly recommend Pure Moving Company!"
"They packed everything, covered fragile furniture, and worked fast. Communication was great and there were no hidden fees. The best moving experience I’ve ever had. Will use them again next time I move."
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Friendly and approachable staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 interstate moving and international 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 130 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 instant email 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
"Gentle Giant packed up everything for me and moved me into my new apartment within three hours! Courteous, efficient, and careful with all my belongings. Highly recommend!"
"They moved our two-bedroom apartment with incredible speed and care. Not a dent or scratch anywhere. The crew was professional, friendly, and really impressive. Worth every penny!"
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Helpful movers
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Luigy's Moving & Storage has been in business for 26 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and labor-only moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Luigy's Moving & Storage has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 125 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 Luigy's Moving & Storage, and Luigy's Moving & Storage makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Luigy's Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The Luigys team was great! Frank did a great job helping us get our move scheduled. The movers did a great job. They were on time, pleasant, efficient, and did excellent work."
"I highly recommend Luigy's movers. They are responsive, professional, friendly, and easy to work with. Their pricing is transparent and affordable, and they made the quote a breeze with a complimentary in-person assessment."
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Careful handling
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Jay's Small Moves has been in business for 18 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Jay's Small Moves has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 1059 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from Jay's Small Moves.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Jay's Small Moves emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Jay's movers were prompt, careful, and fast—great value for the price. They wrapped everything, took extra care with my fragile items, and moved me up several flights without complaint. Best moving experience I've had!"
"I’ve used Jay's Small Moves multiple times and they always deliver exceptional, efficient service. The staff is friendly, professional, and takes great care with every item. Moves are stress-free and worth every dollar."
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Sweet Lemon Moving Services has been in business for 9 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Sweet Lemon Moving Services has about 99% positive reviews across roughly 540 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.9.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Sweet Lemon Moving Services.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Sweet Lemon Moving Services emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"The movers were so nice, professional, quick, and super accommodating! Fastest & least stressful move I’ve ever had."
"Super efficient, friendly, and careful with everything. They wrapped all furniture, protected fragile items, and kept me informed. Will definitely use again!"
Professional and polite staff
Efficient service
Careful handling
Good communication
Quick moving process
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry 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 labor-only moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Good Green Moving has about 89% positive reviews across roughly 341 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 instant email quotes from Good Green Moving, and Good Green Moving makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
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
"Great company and a stressfree process for what is usually very worrying. The communication was quick and everything was very clear. The movers were precisely on time and were swift, yet careful."
"The movers arrived on time, took care with wrapping our furniture, were super sweet with our over-excited kids, and finished in less time than anticipated, saving us $$. Hands down best moving service we've used to date."
Efficient service
Careful handling
Professional and polite staff
Quick moving process
Good communication
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
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 office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. West Coast Moving Systems, Inc has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 66 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 instant email quotes from West Coast Moving Systems, Inc, and West Coast Moving Systems, Inc makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
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
"If you’re looking for movers, you can stop your search and book West Coast. They were on-time, efficient, and over the top service. Everything was wrapped carefully, and they didn’t complain at all—even with stairs."
"I recommend them for packing and moving. They put me at ease right away, were very careful, efficient, and friendly. I was pleased with the job."
Kora Moving
Efficient service
Professional and polite staff
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Transparent pricing
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Kora Moving has been in business for 8 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and labor-only moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Kora Moving has about 98% positive reviews across roughly 320 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.9.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Kora Moving.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Kora Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
"Kora moving company was amazing!! They are so efficient and professional. Extremely prompt communication, timely arrival, and they took great care in wrapping and protecting our belongings. Highly recommend!"
"They moved me 3 times and they moved my friends too after I recommended them. They are great, Carlos is amazing. Choose this company without any hesitation. They dissemble and assemble everything very carefully."
How do San Francisco, CA moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4.58 |
92% | A+ | ||
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4.66 |
87% | A+ | ||
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4.56 |
98% | A+ | ||
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4.62 |
95% | A+ | ||
|
4.5 |
94% | A+ | ||
|
4.44 |
93% | A+ | ||
|
4.5 |
99% | A+ | ||
|
4.38 |
89% | F | ||
|
4.38 |
96% | A+ | ||
|
4.36 |
98% | A+ |
Proximity to San Francisco 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
- Adelanto movers
- Agoura Hills movers
- Alameda movers
- Alamo movers
- Albany movers
- Alhambra movers
- Aliso Viejo movers
- Alpine movers
- Altadena movers
- Alum Rock movers
- American Canyon movers
- Anaheim movers
- Anderson movers
- Antelope movers
- Antioch movers
- Apple Valley movers
- Arcadia movers
- Arden-Arcade movers
- Arroyo Grande movers
- Artesia movers
- Arvin movers
- Ashland movers
- Atascadero movers
- Atwater movers
- Auburn movers
- Avenal movers
- Avocado Heights movers
- Azusa movers
- Bakersfield movers
- Baldwin Park movers
- Banning movers
- Barstow movers
- Bay Point movers
- Beaumont movers
- Bell movers
- Bell Gardens movers
- Bellflower movers
- Belmont movers
- Benicia movers
- Berkeley movers
- Beverly Hills movers
- Big Bear City movers
- Blackhawk movers
- Bloomington movers
- Blythe movers
- Bonita movers
- Bostonia movers
- Brawley movers
- Brea movers
- Brentwood movers
- Buena Park movers
- Burbank movers
- Burlingame movers
- Calabasas movers
- Calexico movers
- California City movers
- Calimesa movers
- Camarillo movers
- Cameron Park movers
- Camp Pendleton South movers
- Campbell movers
- Canyon Lake movers
- Capitola movers
- Carlsbad movers
- Carmichael movers
- Carpinteria movers
- Carson movers
- Casa de Oro-Mount Helix movers
- Castaic movers
- Castro Valley movers
- Cathedral City movers
- Ceres movers
- Cerritos movers
- Cherryland movers
- Chico movers
- Chino movers
- Chino Hills movers
- Chowchilla movers
- Chula Vista movers
- Citrus movers
- Citrus Heights movers
- Claremont movers
- Clayton movers
- Clearlake movers
- Clovis movers
- Coachella movers
- Coalinga movers
- Colton movers
- Commerce movers
- Compton movers
- Concord movers
- Corcoran movers
- Corona movers
- Coronado movers
- Corte Madera movers
- Costa Mesa movers
- Coto de Caza movers
- Covina movers
- Cudahy movers
- Culver City movers
- Cupertino movers
- Cypress movers
- Daly City movers
- Dana Point movers
- Danville movers
- Davis movers
- Del Aire movers
- Delano movers
- Delhi movers
- Desert Hot Springs movers
- Diamond Bar movers
- Diamond Springs movers
- Dinuba movers
- Discovery Bay movers
- Dixon movers
- Downey movers
- Duarte movers
- Dublin movers
- East Bakersfield movers
- East Hemet movers
- East Los Angeles movers
- East Niles movers
- East Palo Alto movers
- East Rancho Dominguez movers
- East San Gabriel movers
- Eastern Goleta Valley movers
- Eastvale movers
- El Cajon movers
- El Centro movers
- El Cerrito movers
- El Dorado Hills movers
- El Monte movers
- El Paso de Robles movers
- El Segundo movers
- El Sobrante movers
- Elk Grove movers
- Emeryville movers
- Encinitas movers
- Escondido movers
- Exeter movers
- Fair Oaks movers
- Fairfield movers
- Fairview movers
- Fallbrook movers
- Farmersville movers
- Fillmore movers
- Florence-Graham movers
- Florin movers
- Folsom movers
- Fontana movers
- Foothill Farms movers
- Foster City movers
- Fountain Valley movers
- Fremont movers
- French Valley movers
- Fresno movers
- Fullerton movers
- Galt movers
- Garden Acres movers
- Garden Grove movers
- Gardena movers
- Gilroy movers
- Glendale movers
- Glendora movers
- Golden Hills movers
- Goleta movers
- Grand Terrace movers
- Granite Bay movers
- Grass Valley movers
- Greenfield movers
- Grover Beach movers
- Hacienda Heights movers
- Half Moon Bay movers
- Hanford movers
- Hawaiian Gardens movers
- Hawthorne movers
- Hayward movers
- Healdsburg movers
- Hemet movers
- Hercules movers
- Hermosa Beach movers
- Hesperia movers
- Highland movers
- Hillcrest movers
- Hillsborough movers
- Hollister movers
- Home Gardens movers
- Huntington Beach movers
- Huntington Park movers
- Imperial movers
- Imperial Beach movers
- Indio movers
- Inglewood movers
- Irvine movers
- Isla Vista movers
- Jurupa Valley movers
- Kerman movers
- King City movers
- Kingsburg movers
- La Cañada Flintridge movers
- La Crescenta-Montrose movers
- La Habra movers
- La Mesa movers
- La Mirada movers
- La Palma movers
- La Presa movers
- La Puente movers
- La Quinta movers
- La Riviera movers
- La Verne movers
- Ladera Ranch movers
- Lafayette movers
- Laguna Beach movers
- Laguna Hills movers
- Laguna Niguel movers
- Laguna Woods movers
- Lake Elsinore movers
- Lake Forest movers
- Lake Los Angeles movers
- Lakeland Village movers
- Lakeside movers
- Lakewood movers
- Lamont movers
- Lancaster movers
- Larkspur movers
- Lathrop movers
- Lawndale movers
- Lemon Grove movers
- Lemon Hill movers
- Lemoore movers
- Lennox movers
- Lincoln movers
- Linda movers
- Lindsay movers
- Live Oak movers
- Livermore movers
- Livingston movers
- Lodi movers
- Loma Linda movers
- Lomita movers
- Lompoc movers
- Long Beach movers
- Los Alamitos movers
- Los Altos movers
- Los Angeles movers
- Los Banos movers
- Los Gatos movers
- Los Osos movers
- Lynwood movers
- Madera movers
- Madera Acres movers
- Magalia movers
- Malibu movers
- Manhattan Beach movers
- Manteca movers
- Marina movers
- Martinez movers
- Marysville movers
- Maywood movers
- McFarland movers
- Mead Valley movers
- Mendota movers
- Menifee movers
- Menlo Park movers
- Merced movers
- Mill Valley movers
- Millbrae movers
- Milpitas movers
- Mission Viejo movers
- Modesto movers
- Monrovia movers
- Montclair movers
- Montebello movers
- Monterey movers
- Monterey Park movers
- Moorpark movers
- Moraga movers
- Moreno Valley movers
- Morgan Hill movers
- Morro Bay movers
- Mountain House movers
- Mountain View movers
- Murrieta movers
- Muscoy movers
- Napa movers
- National City movers
- Newark movers
- Newman movers
- Newport Beach movers
- Nipomo movers
- Norco movers
- North Auburn movers
- North Fair Oaks movers
- North Highlands movers
- North Tustin movers
- Norwalk movers
- Novato movers
- Oak Park movers
- Oakdale movers
- Oakland movers
- Oakley movers
- Oceanside movers
- Oildale movers
- Olivehurst movers
- Ontario movers
- Orange movers
- Orangevale movers
- Orcutt movers
- Orinda movers
- Oroville movers
- Oxnard movers
- Pacific Grove movers
- Pacifica movers
- Palm Desert movers
- Palm Springs movers
- Palmdale movers
- Palo Alto movers
- Palos Verdes Estates movers
- Paramount movers
- Parkway movers
- Parlier movers
- Pasadena movers
- Patterson movers
- Perris movers
- Petaluma movers
- Phelan movers
- Pico Rivera movers
- Piedmont movers
- Pinole movers
- Pittsburg movers
- Placentia movers
- Placerville movers
- Pleasant Hill movers
- Pleasanton movers
- Pomona movers
- Port Hueneme movers
- Porterville movers
- Potomac Park movers
- Poway movers
- Prunedale movers
- Quartz Hill movers
- Ramona movers
- Rancho Cordova movers
- Rancho Cucamonga movers
- Rancho Mirage movers
- Rancho Palos Verdes movers
- Rancho San Diego movers
- Rancho Santa Margarita movers
- Red Bluff movers
- Redding movers
- Redlands movers
- Redondo Beach movers
- Redwood City movers
- Reedley movers
- Rialto movers
- Richmond movers
- Ridgecrest movers
- Rio Linda movers
- Ripon movers
- Riverbank movers
- Riverside movers
- Rocklin movers
- Rohnert Park movers
- Rosamond movers
- Rosedale movers
- Rosemead movers
- Rosemont movers
- Roseville movers
- Rossmoor movers
- Rowland Heights movers
- Sacramento movers
- Salida movers
- Salinas movers
- San Anselmo movers
- San Bernardino movers
- San Bruno movers
- San Buenaventura movers
- San Carlos movers
- San Clemente movers
- San Diego movers
- San Diego Country Estates movers
- San Dimas movers
- San Fernando movers
- San Gabriel movers
- San Jacinto movers
- San Jose movers
- San Juan Capistrano movers
- San Leandro movers
- San Lorenzo movers
- San Luis Obispo movers
- San Marcos movers
- San Marino movers
- San Mateo movers
- San Pablo movers
- San Rafael movers
- San Ramon movers
- Sanger movers
- Santa Ana movers
- Santa Barbara movers
- Santa Clara movers
- Santa Clarita movers
- Santa Cruz movers
- Santa Fe Springs movers
- Santa Maria movers
- Santa Monica movers
- Santa Paula movers
- Santa Rosa movers
- Santee movers
- Saratoga movers
- Scotts Valley movers
- Seal Beach movers
- Seaside movers
- Selma movers
- Shafter movers
- Shasta Lake movers
- Sierra Madre movers
- Signal Hill movers
- Simi Valley movers
- Solana Beach movers
- Soledad movers
- Sonoma movers
- Soquel movers
- South El Monte movers
- South Gate movers
- South Lake Tahoe movers
- South Pasadena movers
- South San Francisco movers
- South San Jose Hills movers
- South Whittier movers
- Spring Valley movers
- Stanford movers
- Stanton movers
- Stevenson Ranch movers
- Stockton movers
- Suisun City movers
- Sun Village movers
- Sunnyvale movers
- Tamalpais-Homestead Valley movers
- Tehachapi movers
- Temecula movers
- Temescal Valley movers
- Temple City movers
- Thousand Oaks movers
- Torrance movers
- Tracy movers
- Truckee movers
- Tulare movers
- Turlock movers
- Tustin movers
- Twentynine Palms movers
- Ukiah movers
- Union City movers
- University of California-Santa Barbara movers
- Upland movers
- Vacaville movers
- Valinda movers
- Valle Vista movers
- Vallejo movers
- Valley Center movers
- Victorville movers
- View Park-Windsor Hills movers
- Vincent movers
- Vineyard movers
- Visalia movers
- Vista movers
- Walnut movers
- Walnut Creek movers
- Walnut Park movers
- Wasco movers
- Watsonville movers
- West Carson movers
- West Covina movers
- West Hollywood movers
- West Puente Valley movers
- West Rancho Dominguez movers
- West Sacramento movers
- West Whittier-Los Nietos movers
- Westminster movers
- Westmont movers
- Whittier movers
- Wildomar movers
- Willowbrook movers
- Windsor movers
- Winter Gardens movers
- Winton movers
- Woodcrest movers
- Woodland movers
- Yorba Linda movers
- Yuba City movers
- Yucaipa movers
- Yucca Valley movers
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 San Francisco, CA
Local movers in San Francisco 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 San Francisco, CA for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
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How much do movers cost in San Francisco, CA?
Local movers in San Francisco charge $150/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 San Francisco |
|---|---|
| Studio | $735 – $1,225 |
| 1 bedroom | $980 – $1,715 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,470 – $2,450 |
| 3 bedrooms | $2,205 – $3,675 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,940 – $5,390 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for San Francisco's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare San Francisco mover prices? See our full guide on San Francisco, CA mover costs →
Fuel surcharge alert: June 2026 moveBuddha's most recent move cost data shows moving company pricing has increased by approximately 21% as of June 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 San Francisco estimate that reflects these conditions.
Which San Francisco, CA movers offer specialty services?
Not every San Francisco mover handles specialty items. moveBuddha tracked 88 San Francisco 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: 70 of 88 San Francisco movers (79.55%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5) is San Francisco's top-rated piano mover.
- Antique handling: 62 of 88 San Francisco movers (70.45%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5) rates highest for antique care in San Francisco.
- Art packing: 67 of 88 San Francisco movers (76.14%) offer it. NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5) rates highest for art packing in San Francisco.
- Climate-controlled storage: 13 of 88 San Francisco movers (14.77%) offer it. (/5) is San Francisco's top-rated provider.
- Fragile-only packing: 24 of 88 San Francisco movers (27.27%) offer it. Jay's Small Moves (4.44/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in San Francisco.
What movers in San Francisco offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 70 of 88 San Francisco movers (79.55%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5) is San Francisco's top-rated piano mover.
| Piano moving in San Francisco | Details |
|---|---|
| San Francisco movers offering this | 70 of 88 (79.55%) |
| Top-rated San Francisco piano movers | NorthStar Moving Company , Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. |
| Upright piano | $1,960 to $3,675 |
| Baby grand piano | $2,940 to $6,125 |
| Grand piano | $4,410 to $8,575 |
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 San Francisco offer antique handling?
Antique handling is available from 62 of 88 San Francisco movers (70.45%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5) rates highest for antique care in San Francisco.
| Antique handling in San Francisco | Details |
|---|---|
| San Francisco movers offering this | 62 of 88 (70.45%) |
| Top-rated San Francisco antique movers | NorthStar Moving Company , Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. |
| Added cost to a household move | $2,450 to $6,125 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $123 to $1,225 |
| Custom crating per item | $368 to $490 |
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 San Francisco offer art packing?
Art packing is available from 67 of 88 San Francisco movers (76.14%). NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5) rates highest for art packing in San Francisco.
| Art packing in San Francisco | Details |
|---|---|
| San Francisco movers offering this | 67 of 88 (76.14%) |
| Top-rated San Francisco art movers | NorthStar Moving Company , Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. |
| Per-piece handling fee | $123 to $1,225 |
| Custom crating per item | $368 to $490 |
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 San Francisco offer climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is available from 13 of 88 San Francisco movers (14.77%). (/5) is San Francisco's top-rated provider.
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 San Francisco offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 24 of 88 San Francisco movers (27.27%). Jay's Small Moves (4.44/5) rates highest for fragile-only packing in San Francisco.
| Fragile-only packing in San Francisco | Details |
|---|---|
| San Francisco movers offering this | 24 of 88 (27.27%) |
| Top-rated San Francisco providers | Jay's Small Moves, Good Green Moving |
| 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 San Francisco
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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: 57% of San Francisco movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Luigy's Moving & Storage is San Francisco's top-rated labor-only provider.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar San Francisco apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in San Francisco, CA
Not every San Francisco move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in San Francisco, 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.
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Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in San Francisco, 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.
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Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in San Francisco, CA start with Luigy's Moving & Storage (4.5/5) and Jay's Small Moves (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.
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Moving in San Francisco, CA: what you need to know
A San Francisco 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. San Francisco 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: Temporary San Francisco moving permits are managed by the San Francisco Municipal Transit Authority (SFMTA), and the application process takes some time, so plan accordingly. To submit an application for a San Francisco moving permit, the SFMTA office requires a minimum of 5 business days notice, and a number of days don’t count: your application day, the first enforcement day, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays all are excluded.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many San Francisco 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 San Francisco, CA
How much do movers cost in San Francisco, CA?
Local movers in San Francisco, CA charge by the hour. Based on moveBuddha's data from 10 San Francisco movers, hourly rates range from $70/hour to $165/hour, with a median of $140/hour.
Key cost factors for a San Francisco 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: 31% of San Francisco movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: 57% of San Francisco movers (50 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 San Francisco across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 78% of San Francisco movers (69 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 100% of San Francisco movers (88 companies) offer full packing, and 73% 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 San Francisco include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in San Francisco, 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 San Francisco movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of San Francisco movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 100% (88 companies) | +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average |
| Packing materials | 73% | Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking |
| Storage | 86% | ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$630/month |
| Full valuation coverage | 57% (50 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) | 89% (78 companies) | $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances) |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 57% (50 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 San Francisco offer senior, military, or other discounts?
San Francisco movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 129,793 verified customer reviews across California. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 San Francisco mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed San Francisco movers are excluded. CA state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.
| Discount type | % of San Francisco movers | # of movers | San Francisco movers offering it | Data source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senior | 1% | 1 | -- | San Francisco |
| AAA | 2% | 2 | -- | San Francisco |
| Law enforcement | 1% | 1 | -- | San Francisco |
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 San Francisco?
Book San Francisco 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 San Francisco movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco?
Local San Francisco moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's San Francisco-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 San Francisco movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most San Francisco 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 San Francisco
- 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco?
The cheapest time to move in San Francisco 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. San Francisco's summer highs reach 67°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 San Francisco's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews San Francisco, CA moving companies
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 371 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 San Francisco draw on 129,793 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 San Francisco's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from moveBuddha's #1-ranked San Francisco movers →
How to move in San Francisco: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in San Francisco, CA, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- 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.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your San Francisco 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.
- 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 San Francisco street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 San Francisco 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 San Francisco, CA
- Best overall: NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5), moveBuddha's #1-ranked San Francisco mover.
- Best runner-up: Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. (4.66/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): NorthStar Moving Company (4.58/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: Luigy's Moving & Storage (4.5/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: $150/hour for a San Francisco 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.
