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How Much Do Movers Cost in San Diego, CA?

Quick answer: The average cost for local movers in San Diego, California is between $423 and $4,014, or roughly $122 per hour. If you’re relocating beyond California, the cost for long-distance movers in San Diego varies based on the size and scope of your move.

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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 fit’s your budget.
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 fit’s your budget.
Use our moving cost calculator to get an accurate quote for your move.
Seeing wide cost ranges can be confusing. Actual moving costs in San Diego are affected by many factors such as, distance and size of your move, along with the time of year, and if you add on any additional services. Use our free moving cost calculator get a more realistic cost for your exact move.
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Average cost of local movers in San Diego, CA

Securing the services of a moving company in San Diego simplifies the moving process significantly, offering exceptional convenience. This convenience, however, comes with a higher cost than moving on your own would.

Here’s how much professional movers cost in San Diego based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $423 $171 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $594 $171 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $972 $240 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $2,267 $336 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $2,603 $336 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $4,014 $470 5 movers 10 hours

Read more cost details

  • Studio: A studio apartment move typically requires two movers and can take up to three hours, depending on the amount and types of belongings, at an hourly rate of $171.
  • One bedroom: Planning to move from a one-bedroom apartment or home? Anticipate costs of about $171 per hour for a team of two movers working for four hours.
  • Two bedrooms: For a move involving a two-bedroom house in California, expect to pay roughly $240 hourly. Usually, it requires three movers working about five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: In California, movers charge $336 per hour for managing a three-bedroom home. Completing this move typically involves a team of four over the course of eight hours.
  • Four bedrooms: Expect a four-bedroom move in California to require four movers, taking roughly nine hours, at a rate of $336 per hour.
  • Five or more bedrooms: The cost of hiring California movers for a home with five or more bedrooms is $470 an hour. Homes this size usually require five movers and take about 10 hours.

Heads up, San Diego: Movers charge an average of $122 per hour across CA — that’s below the national average of $139.

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

Best local moving companies in San Diego, CA

Through meticulous evaluation of license status, insurance offerings, customer testimonials, and a variety of other data, our dedicated team has identified the top moving companies in San Diego.

  1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Grizzly Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Dominant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  6. 24/7 Moving and Storage: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  7. Aloha Movers: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  8. McCarthy Transfer & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  9. Best California Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  10. Chief Moving LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic’s track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Stella Moving & Delivery shows a standout excellence in moving services. Out of 331 reviews analyzed, 94% are positive, highlighting reliable efficiency, courteous and skilled crews, and careful handling of customer belongings. Many reviewers praise their rapid pace, clear communication, and impressive professionalism compared to other moving companies. Clients repeatedly cite stress-free experiences, transparent pricing, and well-organized teams as key benefits. On the flip side, a small portion of reviewers report concerns about damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and difficulties reaching the company after issues arise. Some mention poor problem resolution by management, particularly regarding claims and complaints. While negative input does exist, it’s significantly outweighed by positive experiences. Compared to most moving services, Stella maintains a much higher percentage of five-star ratings and customer satisfaction, with efficiency and care as their calling card.
Get a Quote (619) 393-6426

Company Info

State license #: 0191958

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3299407


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies. The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Dominant Moving Company stands out in San Diego’s moving industry for fast, careful, and professional crews. Of the 360 feedback entries reviewed, more than 82% came from highly satisfied customers praising efficient service, polite staff, and impressive price-to-quality value. Clients emphasize how movers protect belongings, communicate well, and finish jobs on schedule. Affordable rates and careful handling of items set Dominant apart from many competitors. Some negative input highlights recurring issues: damage to furniture or property, slow or late arrivals, and unsatisfactory responses to complaints. A few clients report unresolved claims for damage or difficulty contacting management after a problem. While delays and breakage occasionally impact experiences, most people say their moves were smooth and cost-effective—attributes that help Dominant edge out local rivals in reliability and value. The company’s reputation is built on speed, care, and affordability, but future customers should clarify damage procedures and timing expectations before booking.
Get a Quote (855) 699-2299

Company Info

State license #: 191165

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2718191


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude. Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unreliable timing
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—most customers rave about 24/7 Moving and Storage for their efficiency, careful handling, professional crews, fast work, and affordable rates. Analyzing 787 reviews, 97% highlighted positive experiences, noting speedy moves, polite workers, and minimal damage. Customers point out transparent pricing and helpful staff as standout qualities. On the flip side, the main criticism centers on damaged items, costs exceeding estimates, and, less frequently, issues with timing or duration. Negative feedback often involves furniture damage or unexpected charges, but these remain rare. While a small group expressed dissatisfaction, the quick-moving, careful, and consistently professional teams earn 24/7 Moving and Storage a stronger reputation than most moving companies.
Get a Quote (888) 296-0078

Company Info

State license #: 0190561

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2707732


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Careful handling
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Stress-free moves are the expectation with Aloha Movers, according to 186 customer reviews, of which an impressive 93.5% are positive. Feedback consistently highlights efficient service, courteous professional staff, swift moving times, and careful handling at a reasonable cost. Many customers note that their moves were completed quicker than expected, and belongings remained undamaged—a step above what’s typical for moving companies. Polite crews and affordable rates make them a standout choice. While the overwhelming majority of experiences are positive, the most common complaints involve item damage, delayed or no-shows, and difficulty getting responses for issues—though these are rare. Neutral feedback centers on underestimating job complexity or concerns with payment methods rather than major errors. Compared to others, Aloha Movers earns unusually consistent praise for professionalism and speed, while only a small percentage of clients report serious problems.
Get a Quote (858) 429-9111

Company Info

State license #: 190867

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2718824


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unprofessional behavior
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Customers rave about McCarthy Transfer & Storage’s professionalism and efficiency. Out of 221 feedback entries, over 91% praise the team’s politeness, careful handling, prompt communication, and quick moving process, reporting moves completed with speed and concern for personal property. Input frequently emphasizes courteous, skilled crews and services handled with respect for homes and belongings. Some note that the company regularly exceeds experiences with other movers—especially for military relocations—earning more trust for reliability and staff friendliness. A small portion of feedback points out issues such as damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, or unexpected extra charges, particularly during military moves. Despite these isolated problems, most customer feedback compares McCarthy Transfer favorably to other moving companies for dependability and quality service.
Get a Quote (619) 596-2594

Company Info

State license #: 0154190

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 2059504


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Moving day stress gets left behind with Best California Movers, according to an overwhelming 1,177 reviews—of which 98.5% were positive. Customers repeatedly point out efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moving, and excellent communication—attributes not seen as consistently in most moving companies. Feedback shows that belongings arrive safe and undamaged, with movers working swiftly and showing courtesy at every stage. Many notice that clear communication and transparent pricing make the process easier, and crews are praised for problem-solving in tough situations. A handful of reviewers, though, cite incidents involving damaged items, unexpected charges from inaccurate price quotes, or difficulty with claims and follow-up. These lapses are rare compared to industry averages but noteworthy for those prioritizing accountability. While neutral reviews mention minor flaws with after-move support, they still highlight professionalism and care by the moving teams. Compared to other moving services, Best California Movers stands out for reliability, speed, and the personal touch so often missing in the industry.
Get a Quote (858) 997-2487

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: 109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Chief Moving LLC consistently earns outstanding feedback, with 97% of customers voicing positive experiences. Input spotlights their efficient service, attention to careful handling, professionalism, quick move times, and budget-friendly rates. Customers value the team’s respectful attitude and swift, well-organized work, contrasting sharply with other moving companies where delays and mishandling are common. A small number of reviews report significant issues, including items damaged during transit, unexpected extra charges, and crews arriving much later than promised. While most customers praise their promptness and reliability, the few negative reports suggest that improvements in timeliness and billing transparency could further enhance the customer experience. Neutral input often mentions late arrivals or minor damages but acknowledges that moves are completed efficiently. These results show Chief Moving LLC stands well above most competitors for reliability and value, though attention to the rare complaints could solidify an already stellar reputation.
Get a Quote (858) 228-7900

Company Info

State license #: 192208

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3445628


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Moving costs in other nearby California cities

Average cost to hire interstate movers in San Diego, CA

Since the cost of moving out of San Diego depends so much on where you’re moving, we’ve included some example costs below to give you a better idea of pricing. For more detailed guides on your specific destination, find your moving route to San Diego or use our moving cost calculator to get quotes from the top interstate movers.

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

The cost to move a one-bedroom home from San Diego and across California state lines mostly depends on the distance, method, and size of your move.

To give you a better idea of pricing, however, here are some example cost ranges for long-distance moves out of California:

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

Out-of-state moving costs from San Diego for two- or three-bedroom homes depend on the total volume and weight of everything you’re bringing. For instance, the cost to move a three-bedroom home that’s lightly furnished and compact might be lower than that of a large, fully furnished two-bedroom space.

That said, here’s a general look at the price ranges you can expect for two- to three-bedroom moves of similar distance from San Diego:

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

Out-of-state moves from San Diego involving moving four-bedroom homes can vary significantly in price. Factors like distance, volume, and seasonal demand all impact the total cost.

Below are sample price ranges for long-distance moves with four or more bedrooms from San Diego:

Best interstate moving companies in San Diego, CA

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 San Diego .

Best overall value
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion 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 star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
read our full review
(866) 835-2392
Best for contents coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
(866) 825-0554
At A Glance
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years’ experience
read our full review
(866) 825-0554
Best customer service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Average cost of moving containers in San Diego, CA

In San Diego, the cost of moving containers begins at approximately $480 for local relocations. For more distant in-state or regional moves, this cost can increase to around $2,980. Should you be considering a coast-to-coast journey, you might face expenses over $6,930. The total cost will primarily be influenced by the distance of your move and the size of the container you choose.

Best moving containers in San Diego, CA

You can always start by checking out these other top-rated moving container companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount

Average cost to rent a moving truck in San Diego, CA

The average cost to rent a moving truck in San Diego is $60 per day, but prices can be anywhere from $19- $38 daily, with an additional per-mile fee of $2- $1, depending on how far you’re moving and the truck size you need. A moving truck rental is definitely going to be your cheapest option for relocating. Just keep in mind that you will not only be responsible for all the packing and loading, you’ll also need to drive the truck to your new home.

Here are the typical costs of San Diego rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19 – $39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $1 – $1 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:

  • Rental duration
  • Distance driven
  • Fuel costs
  • Lodging and meals
  • Parking permits or fees
  • Toll charges
  • Rental of moving tools or dollies
  • Optional insurance coverage

Best moving truck rentals in San Diego, CA

The most budget-friendly way to move is by packing everything up and hitting the road with a rental truck. There are plenty of moving truck rental companies to choose from in San Diego. If you don’t mind the extra effort, here are a few of the best ones:

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Average cost of labor-only moving companies in San Diego, CA

When considering labor-only moving companies in San Diego, expect to pay a rate of $99 per hour for each person on the moving team. Many moves, even compact one-bedroom apartments, necessitate hiring at least two movers, thus bringing your hourly cost to approximately $200 in San Diego.

Best labor-only moving companies in San Diego

The best San Diego 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:

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Hire moving labor
  • Online quotes
  • Nationwide
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Online booking
  • Move Concierge
  • Affordable

Factors that affect the cost of movers in San Diego, CA

Every move is unique, so pricing can vary depending on your specific circumstances and needs. In general, though, here are some of the most common factors can affect your San Diego move:

  • 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.
  • Move date: Prices spike during the busy season (summer), weekends, and the beginning or end of the month. You’ll often save by moving mid-week or mid-month when demand is lower.
  • The type of move: Professional movers are the most convenient option, but they will cost you more than going with a DIY option like moving container companies or moving truck rentals.
  • The services you choose: If you need assistance beyond loading and transportation, you may have to pay extra for it. Full-service movers charge you more for add-on options like packing and unpacking and comprehensive insurance on your items. Even if you go the DIY route, you will pay more if you decide to hire a third-party moving crew to help you with loading and unloading.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Consider extra insurance. Full-service movers must provide basic coverage — called released value protection — at no additional charge. It’s free, but offers very limited protection: just $0.60 per pound per item, no matter what it’s worth. So, if a 25-pound TV valued at $1,000 gets damaged, you’d only be reimbursed $15 ($0.60 x 25 pounds). Many movers — and some home insurers — also offer full-value insurance based on your item’s actual worth for an added fee.
  • Make sure you’re following the rules. HOAs and managed properties often enforce specific moving times or days. Double-check these restrictions and give your building manager a heads-up to stay compliant and avoid delays.
  • Have documentation ready. You might need to show proof of insurance or elevator reservations when moving in or out of an apartment. This info is usually outlined in your moving contract, so gather it before the big day arrives.

What discounts do San Diego movers offer?

Some movers in San Diego advertise discounts for specific groups. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available locally compared to state and national averages:

Type of discount San Diego California National average
AAA members 3.45% 1.89% 1.13%
Seniors 0.0% 1.89% 4.32%
Students 3.45% 0.54% 1.17%
Teachers 0.0% 0.54% 0.35%
Law enforcement 0.0% 1.08% 0.72%
Military 3.45% 1.89% 3.97%

Discounts aren’t universal — be sure to ask your San Diego movers if they offer any when requesting quotes.

What is the cheapest way to move to San Diego?

If you’re looking to save some cash, you could hire a container company to let you handle the packing and loading while they move your items through San Diego. Alternatively, you might rent a moving truck and manage the entire job solo.

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

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Billings $2,781 – $6,700 $1,648 – $3,453 $840 – $1,729
Nashville $3,205 – $7,636 $1,984 – $4,288 $1,249 – $2,492
New Orleans $3,346 – $6,971 $1,946 – $4,024 $1,120 – $2,442

How to pay for your San Diego move

Looking for flexible payment options? See how many movers in San Diego take cash, money orders, or checks, and how that compares to others across CA and the nation.

Payment method San Diego California U.S.
Credit card 27 346 2859
Cash 10 121 822
Money order 4 38 272

Whether you’re paying in cash or card, it’s smart to double-check your options before moving day.

Helpful San Diego resources

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