ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I'm Ryan.
Let's get moving.
I've helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that's right for you.
I've helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that's right for you.
Need more help? Build your move plan.
Get Quote

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Average cost of local El Cerrito, CA movers

Hiring a moving company in El Cerrito is definitely the most convenient way to move, but that convenience comes at a higher cost than a DIY approach. You'll need to decide whether you want movers to do all the heavy lifting for you or if you'd rather save money by doing at least some of the work yourself.

Here's how much movers cost in El Cerrito:

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $502 $196 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $682 $196 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,135 $276 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $2,697 $395 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $3,033 $391 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $4,778 $554 5 movers 10 hours

Read more cost detailstoggle

  • Studio: Hiring movers in El Cerrito for a studio will run you about $196 per hour. Plan for three hours with a two-person team.
  • One bedroom: A typical one-bedroom move in El Cerrito costs around $196 an hour and takes four hours with two movers.
  • Two bedrooms: For a two-bedroom apartment or house, you'll likely pay $276 per hour. These moves often take five hours with three people.
  • Three bedrooms: The average cost to move a three-bedroom home in El Cerrito is $395 per hour. You’ll need four movers for about eight hours.
  • Four bedrooms: Moving a four-bedroom home in El Cerrito usually means paying $391 hourly, with four movers working nine hours.
  • Five or more bedrooms: Expect hourly costs of about $554 for large homes in El Cerrito, requiring ten hours from a five-person crew.

Compare multiple moving quotes tailored to your El Cerrito move with our free, fast cost calculator tool.

Best local movers in El Cerrito, CA

If you're moving a short distance, take a look at our picks for top local moving companies in El Cerrito:

  1. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Best California Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Big Family Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Jay's Small Moves: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/EagleMovingStorage/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 3670248


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/, https://x.com/BestCAMovers_
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Overly complex pricing
  • Misleading marketing
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Customer input for Best California Movers paints a clear picture: this company impresses with professionalism, efficient teams, careful handling of belongings, excellent communication, and speedy work. Out of 54 reviews, 94% are positive, highlighting these strengths repeatedly. Many praised accommodating movers who protected valuables, remained punctual, and communicated thoroughly. Transparent rates and easy booking also stand out. Negative feedback, making up just 3.7%, centers on unclear or unexpectedly high pricing and aggressive marketing tactics. A few clients noted delays or pressure to leave reviews. Compared to competitors, Best California Movers stands out for the dedication of its staff and consistent care, though reading terms closely can avoid pricing surprises. Most clients would confidently use or refer their services again.
Get a Quote (408) 200-0452

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarMoving,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving dreams made easier: NorthStar Moving Company impresses with consistent high marks from more than 1,100 customer reviews, and more than 91% of that input is positive. Feedback repeatedly praises NorthStar’s efficient and friendly movers, careful handling of belongings, and prompt, open communication. Customers highlight quick moving processes, responsible care for fragile items, and smooth, stress-free experiences from booking to delivery. The price is regularly described as reasonable, and transparent quotes are common. When compared to other companies, NorthStar stands out for its professionalism and reliability. Some customers report issues such as damage to furniture, delayed arrival or delivery, or difficulties reaching customer service for status updates or claims. The most common negative feedback involves item damage, poor communication during or after moves, and occasional scheduling errors. While these issues are in the minority, prospective clients may want to clarify all details and ask specific questions about protection policies. NorthStar Moving consistently maintains better customer satisfaction rates than most competitors, making it a leading choice for efficient, careful, and responsive moving services.
Get a Quote (415) 635-3844

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1836576


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/bigfamilymovers/, https://twitter.com/BigFamilyMovers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Affordable rates
  • Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving made simple: that's the message from customer feedback on Big Family Movers. Of 269 reviews analyzed, 95% praised the company, placing them well above competitors in consistency. Customers highlighted efficient service, careful handling, affordable rates, professionalism, and a helpful, upbeat staff. Feedback repeatedly mentioned how staff turned stressful days into easy experiences through communication and kindness. Many noted that belongings arrived safely and on time, and that prices were fair. A handful of negative reviews cited issues with damaged items, difficulty reaching the company for bookings, or minor delays. Some dissatisfied customers experienced miscommunication or unexpected handling of their property. Still, most found the company's service reliable and courteous, often better than other local movers. Nearly every review underlined trust in Big Family Movers for repeat moves and referrals, making them a standout choice for anyone seeking a dependable moving service in the Bay Area.
Get a Quote (510) 839-5239

Company Info

State license #: 0189403

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 2916075


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/jaymoves, https://twitter.com/jaysmallmoves
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Unreliable timing
Review Analysis
Jay's Small Moves earns praise from nearly every customer, with 96% of the 641 reviews describing positive experiences. Feedback highlights their efficient service, professional and polite movers, careful handling of belongings, speedy moving process, and excellent communication. Customers value how the company stays on schedule, protects items, and makes moving stress-free. They often mention accurate quotes and a transparent booking process, setting Jay's apart from other local moving companies. On the other side, a few clients encountered problems, mainly involving damage to items, unexpected charges, and unreliable timing. Negative feedback points to occasional lack of care with furniture, higher final bills than quoted, or teams running late. Neutral feedback overlaps, noting inconsistent team quality and a slower pace during some moves. Jay's Small Moves delivers better reliability, professionalism, and efficiency than most competitors, making them a leading choice in the region, though some isolated complaints indicate the value of clear communications and attention to detail for every move.
Get a Quote (510) 501-5800

Company Info

State license #: 0190688

Pricing: $140/hr

Years in Business: 17

Alternate Names: Jays Small Moves


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Fragile-only packing

Moving costs in other nearby California citiestoggle

Average cost to move out of state with El Cerrito movers

The cost of moving out of California can shift a lot depending on where you're headed. To give you an idea, we've listed a few sample routes below. For the most accurate estimate, take a look at your specific route from California or use our moving cost calculator.

Cost to move a one-bedroom home out of state from El Cerrito

When moving a one-bedroom home from El Cerrito and out of California, the overall cost will mostly come down to distance, move size, and how you decide to move.

Still, to give you a rough idea, here are some sample cost ranges for long-distance moves from California:

Cost to move a two or three-bedroom home out of state from El Cerrito

Out-of-state moving costs from El Cerrito for two- or three-bedroom homes vary based on the actual total volume and weight of your belongings. Move costs for a three-bedroom that is sparsely furnished and relatively small, for example, could be less than a two-bedroom home with a lot of square footage and decor.

In general, though, you can expect to pay within these ranges for two- to three-bedroom moves of similar distances from El Cerrito:

Cost to move a four bedroom home (or larger) out of state from El Cerrito

Below is a look at some example four-bedroom move costs out of state from El Cerrito. Remember, your exact price will ultimately be based on the amount of belongings you have, what time of year you are moving, and how far you're moving.

Sample ranges for interstate moves from El Cerrito of four or more bedrooms:

Best interstate moving companies in El Cerrito

Once you have a good idea of the cost to move out of California, your next move is to check out the best long-distance movers serving El Cerrito.

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841

Average cost of moving containers in El Cerrito, CA

In El Cerrito, using moving containers typically starts at around $480 for a local move. For longer in-state or regional relocations, that number can rise to about $2,980. If you're planning a coast-to-coast move, expect rates in excess of $6,930. Your final price will largely depend on how far you're moving and your container size.

We recommend PODS in El Cerrito as a strong option. PODS offers three container sizes (eight, 12, and 16 feet), allowing you some flexibility in picking the one that best fits your needs. Their rates are competitive, and customers overwhelmingly give them high marks for their service. To make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck, though, get quotes from PODS and at least two other companies before locking in a decision.

For more trusted providers, browse this list of top moving container companies.

Best moving container companies in El Cerrito

A moving container company is a good fit if you don’t mind doing some heavy lifting. You’ll have to pack up everything and load it up yourself but you’ll get the benefit of a professional driver to safely transport your belongings to your new home. There are several solid choices in El Cerrito — these are some of our favorites:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Average cost of moving truck rentals in El Cerrito, CA

The cheapest way to move from El Cerrito is usually by renting a truck. Expect a daily base rate of around $60, though it can run anywhere from $19 to $38.355555555556, plus a per-mile charge between $1.698 and $1.2122222222222. While budget-friendly, this option means you’ll handle everything — from loading up to driving the truck to your new home.

Best moving truck rentals in El Cerrito

If you're looking to save the most money, your best bet is to pack up and drive a rental truck yourself. Luckily, finding moving truck rental companies in El Cerrito is easy. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, here are some of the top options:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Average cost of labor-only moving companies in El Cerrito, CA

Hiring labor-only movers in El Cerrito will run you about $30–$40 an hour per mover. So, if you’re working with a two-person crew, expect to pay $60–$80 per hour total.

Two people is typically all it takes to move studio apartments and one-bedrooms. But beyond that, you’ll probably need a larger crew. Two- and three-bedroom homes usually call for three or four movers, for example, and homes with four or more bedrooms require a four- or five-person crew.

Best labor-only moving companies in El Cerrito

When hiring labor-only movers in El Cerrito, go with a company that offers clear pricing and is known for reliable service. Companies that also help with packing or provide moving supplies can be a big plus.

Here are some of our favorite picks for labor-only movers.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 7
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: NR
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.66 / 5
  • Years in Business: 17
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Factors that affect the cost of your El Cerrito move

Since no two moves are exactly the same, neither are the costs. The amount you’ll pay will be based on the exact details of your move. There are some common cost factors to consider with your El Cerrito move, including:

  • How far you’re moving: The cost goes up the farther you’re moving. Local moves are typically less expensive than out-of-state or cross-country moves, which require more time, fuel, and labor.
  • Move size: The more belongings you need to transport, the more it’ll cost. Bigger moves usually require larger trucks and more movers.
  • The type of mover: Going with full-service movers generally costs more than doing it yourself with a moving container company, where you take on the packing and loading yourself.
  • Optional services: Add-ons like packing, unpacking, or high-value insurance will raise your total. Even if you DIY, hiring labor to help load or unload will increase your costs.
  • When you move: Timing matters. Summer, weekends, and month beginnings are in high demand—and more expensive. You can save by scheduling your move for mid-month or mid-week.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Buy additional insurance. Full-service movers are required by federal law to provide basic insurance, known as released value protection, at no cost. While you can't beat free, released value protection provides very minimal coverage — $0.60 per pound per item, regardless of the item's value. So, your reimbursement on a damaged 25-pound TV worth $1,000 would only be $15 ($0.60 x 25 pounds). Most moving companies — and some home insurance providers — offer optional comprehensive insurance plans. While these come at an added cost, they will protect your items based on estimated value instead of weight.
  • Get your move approved. Many neighborhoods — particularly those with HOAs — have restrictions around moving. Typically, these restrictions outline which days and times moving is allowable. It's best to double-check the rules ahead of time and to proactively inform a property management group of your moving date.
  • Have your paperwork handy. If you are moving to or from an apartment complex, you may need to show proof on moving day of your mover's insurance coverage and, if applicable, an elevator reservation. Go ahead and gather this information — which is usually available in your moving contract — so you aren't scrambling for it when your moving date arrives.

Helpful El Cerrito Resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All