How much do Salinas, CA Movers Cost?

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Aug 25, 2025 • 5 min read
Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

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.

• Best Salinas-based mover:
  Scarr Moving & Storage, Inc.
  4.62
• Best interstate mover:
  Safeway Moving
  4.9
• Best moving container:
  PODS
  4.8
• Best rental truck:
  Budget Truck Rental
  4.3
• Best labor-only mover:
  Mod Movers
  4.76

Need more help? Build your move plan.

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

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Average cost of local movers in Salinas, CA

Hiring a moving company in Salinas 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 professional movers cost in Salinas based on your move size:

Remember that no matter the size of your residence in Salinas, the hourly fee for movers remains stable. Prices begin at $171 per hour for two movers and go up to for five movers. While the house size increases, expect the move to require more movers and hours, adding to the overall cost.

Choosing Salinas movers makes your local move both easy and worry-free. Having a rough idea of the costs depending on your home’s size allows for effective budgeting and more decisive planning.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Salinas move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Salinas, CA

Our experienced team has diligently reviewed licensing details, insurance plans, customer reviews, and an array of other data points to determine the top moving professionals in Salinas.

Scarr Moving & Storage, Inc.

1353 Dayton St, Salinas, CA 93901

• 
  4.62 / 5
• 
  

  (12)
• 
  

  (23)
• 
  Grade A+

Customer Praise

• Professional and polite staff
• Careful handling
• Efficient service
• Quick moving process
• Helpful movers

Customer Complaints

• Unprofessional behavior
• Misplaced or lost items
• Crew arrived unprepared

Review Analysis

High marks dominate feedback for Scarr Moving & Storage, Inc., with 43 reviews analyzed and nearly 90% noting a standout experience. Customers praise the team’s professionalism, careful handling of belongings, efficient and quick moves, as well as helpful attitudes. Many describe stress-free relocations that come in under budget, and several cite repeat exceptional service across multiple moves. Staff receive recognition for politeness, organization, and clear communication—qualities that make a big impact during stressful moves. A handful of clients report issues such as unprofessional conduct from management, misplaced items, and crews arriving without proper tools, though these remain rare within the feedback. Scarr’s strengths put them ahead of many competitors for reliability and peace of mind, but consistent quality control is key to maintaining their strong reputation.

Get a Quote (831) 424-2784

Company Info

State license #: 0095753

DOT #: 44159

Services Offered

• International moves
• Packing
• Unpacking
• Offices
• Pianos
• Hot Tubs
• Pool Tables
• Art
• Antiques
• Grandfather clocks
• Crating
• Shipment tracking
• Storage
• Pay by credit card

Mod Movers

1110 Airport Rd, Monterey, CA 93940

• 
  4.76 / 5
• 
  

  (65)
• 
  

  (261)
• 
  Grade A+

Customer Praise

• Professional and polite staff
• Careful handling
• Efficient service
• Helpful movers
• Quick moving process

Customer Complaints

• Unexpected charges
• Damage to items
• Unfriendly or rude staff

Review Analysis

Moving with Mod Movers feels like hiring a team of skilled friends who truly care about your belongings. After analyzing 277 customer comments, an impressive 93% reflect satisfaction, with many mentioning professional, polite crews and careful, efficient service. Customers regularly praise the movers’ helpful attitudes, quick work, and attention to protecting homes and items. Feedback highlights their ability to handle difficult jobs with organization and a friendly approach. Some clients mention being pleasantly surprised when final bills came in under the estimate, or that supervisors go the extra mile to resolve challenges. On the flip side, a few customers report issues like charges beyond initial estimates, property damage, or less-than-friendly staff. These negatives form just under 7% of total input, which is notably low compared to moving companies in general. Most feedback suggests Mod Movers consistently delivers above-average care, communication, and professionalism for both short and long-distance moves, leading many to highly recommend their services.

Get a Quote (831) 480-0381

Company Info

State license #: 0191620

DOT #: 2983026

Services Offered

• Packing
• Unpacking
• Offices
• Pianos
• Pool Tables
• Art
• Crating
• Storage
• Fragile-only packing
• Pay by credit card

Cardinale Moving & Storage, Inc.

11360 Commercial Pkwy, Castroville , CA 95012

• 
  4.66 / 5
• 
  

  (40)
• 
  

  (34)
• 
  Grade A+

Customer Praise

• Professional and polite staff
• Careful handling
• Efficient service
• Good communication
• Quick moving process

Customer Complaints

• Damage to items
• Misplaced or lost items
• Lack of communication

Review Analysis

Exceeding most expectations, Cardinale Moving & Storage, Inc. receives largely enthusiastic feedback: out of 86 total reviews, more than 80% highlight professionalism, careful handling, efficient and quick service, strong communication, and prompt crews. Staff members routinely earn praise for courtesy and attention to detail. Customers commonly note that the moving process feels organized and stress-free. On the other hand, about 19% of input flags serious concerns—primarily about damaged or missing items, unanswered claims, and communication gaps, especially for interstate and storage moves. These recurring problems appear at higher rates than with top-rated long-distance competitors. Most users report a standout local moving experience, but those needing secure long-term storage or extended-haul relocation report more issues. Cardinale’s consistent positive performance in local moves, combined with speedy, polite crews, often outshines others in the region, while their handful of negative reviews underscore the importance of careful communication and transparency in the claims process.

Get a Quote (831) 632-4100

Company Info

State license #: 0102808

DOT #: 45193

Services Offered

• International moves
• Packing
• Unpacking
• Offices
• Pianos
• Pool Tables
• Art
• Antiques
• Crating
• Shipment tracking
• Storage
• Pay by credit card

Tavares Packing & Loading

1321 Burton Ave, Salinas, CA 93901

• 
  4.58 / 5
• 
  

  (101)
• 
  

  (16)
• 
  Grade A+

Customer Praise

• Efficient service
• Careful handling
• Affordable rates
• Professional and polite staff
• Quick moving process

Customer Complaints

• Damage to items
• Delayed arrival or delivery
• Lack of communication

Review Analysis

Customers consistently praise Tavares Packing & Loading for efficient service, careful handling, reasonable rates, and polite, professional staff. Many highlight how quickly moves are completed while keeping belongings damage-free. Positive input also points to affordable prices and responsive communication—features rarely found in larger moving companies. Nearly every review mentions hardworking movers who maintain a friendly, courteous approach. Some feedback, though, raises major concerns about damage to items, especially during storage or complex moves, noting a lack of follow-up on claims. Several dissatisfied customers report last-minute cancellations or difficulty reaching the company before scheduled moves. While most feedback far exceeds industry standards for satisfaction, those considering high-value or time-sensitive moves should weigh these reported drawbacks.

Get a Quote (831) 402-8949

Company Info

State license #: 0191257

DOT #: 3183311

Services Offered

• Packing
• Unpacking
• Offices
• Pianos
• Art
• Antiques
• Crating
• Storage
• Safes
• Pay by credit card

Poulos Moving Systems

222 Commission St, Salinas, CA 93901

• 
  4.52 / 5
• 
  

  (46)
• 
  

  (44)
• 
  Grade A+

Customer Praise

• Professional and polite staff
• Efficient service
• Careful handling
• Quick moving process
• Good communication

Customer Complaints

• Damage to items
• Lack of communication
• Unexpected charges

Review Analysis

Moving doesn’t have to be hard—Poulos Moving Systems earns high praise from nearly nine out of ten customers, based on 187 feedback submissions. Most customer input points to staff professionalism, quick and careful service, transparent communication, and smooth moving days as key strengths. People often highlight how attentive movers handled belongings, explained the process, and worked efficiently, even in tricky situations like stairs or heavy loads. Communication stands out, with updates and quick responses appreciated by clients. A few customers, though, dealt with damaged items, slow responses, and unexpected charges. The main complaints involve property damage or trouble reaching the company—issues common with many moving services, but less so here given the lower rate of negative input. For those seeking a careful, courteous, and reliable moving experience, Poulos consistently outperforms most competitors in the region.

Get a Quote (831) 394-5000

Company Info

State license #: 0190661

DOT #: 2618126

Services Offered

• Packing
• Unpacking
• Offices
• Pianos
• Pool Tables
• Art
• Antiques
• Crating
• Storage
• Pay by credit card
• DOD certified

Explore our top movers in Salinas page for a detailed list of moving companies with hourly rates, services offered, and customer reviews. Should you be relocating beyond Salinas, look into the best long-distance movers from Salinas.

Average cost to hire interstate movers in Salinas, CA

Since the cost of moving out of California depends largely on where you’re moving, we’ve provided some example costs below. To get the most accurate pricing based on your specific destination, find your moving route to California or use our moving cost calculator.

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

The price of moving a one-bedroom home from Salinas to another state largely depends on how far you’re going, the size of your move, and the moving method you choose.

To help set expectations, here are a few example price ranges for long-distance moves leaving California:

Take a look at some example costs to move a one-bedroom cross-country:

• Salinas to Las Vegas: $1,593 – $3,369
• Salinas to Seattle: $2,158 – $4,344
• Salinas to New York City: $3,057 – $6,085

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

Moving a two- or three-bedroom home out of Salinas comes with costs that vary depending on how much stuff you’re taking. A three-bedroom move with minimal furniture could actually cost less than a heavily decorated two-bedroom with more square footage.

Still, for reference, here are the typical cost ranges for two- to three-bedroom moves covering similar distances from Salinas:

Here is a look at some two- and three-bedroom move costs out of Salinas:

• Salinas to Las Vegas: $1,944 – $4,942
• Salinas to Denver: $2,635 – $6,020
• Salinas to Dallas: $3,111 – $6,942

Cost to move a four-bedroom (or larger) home out of state from Salinas

Relocating a four-bedroom or larger home from Salinas involves a number of variables. The costs can vary significantly depending on distance, volume, and seasonality.

Here’s a general idea of what long-distance moves from Salinas with four or more bedrooms might cost:

While moving costs can vary, take a look at these cost ranges for moving four or more bedrooms out of Salinas:

• Salinas to Las Vegas: $3,239 – $6,458
• Salinas to Denver: $4,745 – $7,254
• Salinas to Louisville: $7,078 – $11,254

Best interstate moving companies in Salinas, CA

Now that you have an idea of what your move from Salinas should cost, it’s time to start looking at the best interstate moving companies. We vetted each one, examining their pricing, services, and our own real-life customer reviews to pick the best options for you.

#3 Best Interstate Mover 2020

Licensed

Insured

Price

rating 4.9 / 5

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

At A Glance

• Best overall value
• Portion to charity
• Veteran owned

read our full review

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

Best Customer Service

Licensed

Insured

Price

rating 4.9 / 5

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

At A Glance

• Family owned
• East coast focus
• Affordable pricing

read our full review

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

Best for Quick Quotes

Licensed

Insured

Price

rating 4.3 / 5

Get A Quote

(844) 794-6004

At A Glance

• Family owned & operated
• Affordable pricing
• Same-day estimates
• Flexible rescheduling

read our full review

Get A Quote

(844) 794-6004

#4 Best Container Company 2021

Licensed

Insured

Price

rating 4.8 / 5

Get A Quote

At A Glance

• Unlimited storage
• 3 container sizes
• 10% discount

read our full review

Get A Quote

Most Experienced Mover

Licensed

Insured

Price

rating 4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

(866) 835-2392

At A Glance

• Certified crews
• Flat-rate pricing
• Family-owned

read our full review

Get A Quote

(866) 835-2392

Average cost of moving containers in Salinas, CA

The average cost of moving containers in Salinas is approximately $500 for local relocations and as much as $3,000 for long-distance moves. Cross-country moves can reach as high as $7,000 or more. Costs are largely based on distance and the container size you choose.

Our favorite container mover in Salinas is PODS, largely because they offer a versatile range of container sizes — eight, 12, and 16 feet — along with reasonable pricing and consistently positive feedback from customers. However, you should get quotes from PODS and two other moving container companies before making a decision.

Need more options? Take a look at these highly-rated moving container companies before making your decision.

• Storage fee: $149-$359 (first 30 days is free)
• Damage coverage: 10-$439.95 per month, depending on the protection plan. Coverage ranges from container-only (no contents protection) to $300,000. All plans have a deductible of $100.
• Door lock (if necessary): $25 (if purchased through PODS; you can also purchase from home improvement stores or online retailers)

If saving money is a priority but you don’t want to miss out on the perks of hired help, moving containers like PODS strike a perfect balance. You handle the loading and unloading while they ensure your container is delivered right to your doorstep, then picked up and brought to your new home, eliminating the need to navigate a moving truck.

Our top pick for moving containers in Salinas is PODS, known for their strong reputation, national presence, and multiple size and insurance choices. Despite this, it’s a good strategy to evaluate at least two other highly rated moving container companies from our list to ensure you get the best deal tailored to your move.

Best moving containers in Salinas, CA

If you want to handle the packing and loading but leave the driving to a professional, consider a moving container company. There are lots of options to choose from in Salinas, but here are some of our favorites:

#4 Best Container Company 2021 PODS rating 4.8 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Unlimited storage 3 container sizes 10% discount Get A Quote Visit Website

Best value container U-Pack rating 5.0 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Fast delivery Nationwide 100+ miles moves Get A Quote Visit Website

best for large moves MovingYourself rating 4.5 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Affordable pricing Offers car shipping No hidden fees Get A Quote Visit Website

Average cost to rent a moving truck in Salinas, CA

The cheapest way to move from Salinas is usually by renting a truck. Expect a daily base rate of around $60, though it can run anywhere from $19 to $38, plus a per-mile charge between $2 and $1. While budget-friendly, this option means you’ll handle everything — from loading up to driving the truck to your new home.

Here are the typical costs of Salinas rental trucks:

• Base cost: $19 – $39 per day
• Mileage fee: $0.89 – $1.39 per mile
• Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
• Truck coverage: $20-$55 based on coverage level
• Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

• How far you’ll be driving
• The length of time you keep the rental
• Refueling expenses
• Overnight stays and food
• Cost of toll roads
• Whether you need extra insurance
• Equipment like dollies or pads
• City parking fees or permits

Best moving truck rentals in Salinas, CA

A full DIY move with a rental truck is almost always the lowest-cost option. In Salinas, you’ll find lots of moving truck rental companies ready to help you get on the road. If you’re ready to do the heavy lifting — literally — these are some of the top companies to check out:

Best Value Rental Budget Truck Rental rating 4.3 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Affordable pricing Online pricing Several discounts Check prices

Most Reliable Penske Truck Rental rating 4.0 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Most expensive 4 truck sizes Unlimited mileage Check prices

Best Availability U-Haul Truck Rental rating 4.2 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Greatest coverage 7 truck sizes One way rentals Check prices

Average cost of labor-only moving companies in Salinas, CA

The going hourly rate for labor-only moving companies in Salinas is about $70 per crew member. Typically, even smaller moves such as one-bedroom apartments require engaging two movers. Therefore, you should budget roughly $140 per hour for mover services in Salinas. .

Best labor-only moving companies in Salinas

The best Salinas labor-only movers have a reputation for professional and efficient service, but also provide reasonable hourly rates and a variety of optional services like packing that you can pick and choose from to create a customized plan suited to your specific needs.

We like these top-notch labor-only movers:

If you’re looking for labor assistance in Salinas, you’ll want to find a company that offers fair and transparent pricing and a good reputation for quality service. A labor-only moving company that can handle packing or supply boxes and moving supplies may also be a plus.

Here are our favorite labor-only movers.

Best Labor Only HireAHelper rating 4.5 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Hire moving labor Online quotes Nationwide Get A Quote Visit Website

Best Local Mover 2021 Bellhop rating 4.3 / 5 Licensed Insured Price Online booking Move Concierge Affordable Get A Quote Visit Website

Factors that affect the cost of movers in Salinas, CA

The exact amount you’ll pay for your move depends on the specific details of your move. That said, here are some of the most common factors that can influence the price of your Salinas move:

• Distance: Long-distance moves tend to cost more due to added mileage, fuel charges, and labor hours. Staying within the same city or region is typically more affordable.
• Move size: More items = more money. Larger households usually need extra hands and a bigger truck, both of which increase the price.
• When you move: You’ll usually pay more to move during peak season (May-September) because demand is higher. Similarly, the time of month and day of the week you book your move will impact cost. Demand will be higher the first and last of each month, when leases change over, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the most popular moving days. To save money on your move, consider booking during the week and in the middle of one of the off-season months, if possible.
• The type of mover you choose: In most cases, hiring a full-service mover to assist with loading, unloading, and transport of your belongings will cost more than DIY options like moving container companies, where you handle all the heavy lifting yourself.
• The services you select: Extra services like packing, unpacking, or premium insurance will add to your total. Even if you’re going DIY, hiring help for loading and unloading will bump up your budget.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

• Invest in comprehensive coverage of your belongings. Movers are federally required to offer released value protection for free. While that sounds great, the coverage is minimal — just $0.60 per pound, regardless of the item’s actual value. This means you’d only receive $3 for a five-pound antique vase, even though the vase is valued at $300. Consider purchasing full-value coverage from your mover or home insurance provider to ensure better protection based on the item’s value.
• Check your community’s moving rules. Many areas, especially those with HOAs, have moving restrictions on specific days or times. Be sure to review these rules and notify your building or HOA ahead of time.
• Prepare your paperwork. Documentation such as proof of insurance or elevator reservation may be required when moving into or out of an apartment. These details are typically included in your moving contract, so be sure to collect them before moving day.

What is the cheapest way to move to Salinas?

If you want to save money, you can hire a container company, where you do the packing and loading, and they transport your belongings in Salinas for you, or you can rent a moving truck and handle it all on your own.

Here are the average moving costs from Salinas to another state with different types of movers:

Helpful Salinas resources