The Best Long-Distance Movers in Carlsbad, CA

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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's right for you.
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Our track record

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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

Best long-distance movers in Carlsbad for those moving out of state

If you’re crossing state lines for a new home outside of California, these are our recommendations for top interstate movers in Carlsbad:

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

Best long-distance movers in Carlsbad for those staying in state

Moves that stay within California can still be considered long-distance if you’re covering serious ground from Carlsbad. Even without crossing state lines, the distance can make a big difference in planning.

For longer in-state relocations, it’s best to choose from the best long-distance moving companies.

Here are our top-rated moving companies in Carlsbad, CA:

Preferred Partner
Best California Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars

https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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

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/OakleyRelocation, https://twitter.com/oakleyrelo
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Oakley Relocation showcases consistent professionalism, efficient service, and care for customer belongings, with 93% of reviews being positive across 229 total inputs. Clients frequently describe the staff as polite, effective, and reliable, often highlighting quick and seamless moves, attentive communication, and careful handling of items. Many mention that the employees go out of their way to make the moving process less stressful, offering peace of mind from start to finish. On the flip side, a small number of clients experienced significant problems, most commonly citing damage to items, difficulty reaching the company when issues arose, or unexpected charges. Compared to similar moving companies, Oakley earns standout marks for staff professionalism and speed, but the occasional unresolved damage claim or communication gap keeps a small number of users from full satisfaction.
Get a Quote (858) 602-1756

Company Info

State license #: 0190480

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/CaliMoving/,
88% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Experience a move that’s a step ahead—Cali Moving & Storage Corp stands out in San Diego thanks to almost 88% positive feedback from 452 reviews. Customers most often praise the team’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and budget-friendly prices. Many report quick and stress-free moves, highlighting courteous workers who safely wrap and transport everything. On the flip side, about one-tenth of feedback calls out damage to items, bills higher than anticipated, or lack of communication when addressing problems. Some describe unexpected costs and difficulties reaching management post-move. Still, in comparison to many moving companies, Cali Moving delivers consistent, reliable results, balancing affordability with impressive care. Most customers recommend them for prompt, skilled, and friendly moving crews who get the job done right.
Get a Quote (619) 764-2680

Company Info

State license #: 0191536

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2947514


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/grizzlymovingsd,
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/MeatheadMovers
84% of all reviews were positive
13% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Meathead Movers feels less like a hassle and more like a well-organized project. After reviewing 529 pieces of customer feedback, 84% express satisfaction with professional, efficient crews known for careful handling and great communication. Most describe staff as polite and reliable, remarking on quick booking and prompt service. Positive input consistently references efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and strong coordination as standout qualities—qualities that set this company apart from many moving firms. Some clients encountered issues, notably with damage to items, underestimates leading to higher costs, and occasional poor packing by certain crews. These concerns represent about 13% of the feedback and highlight areas where attention to detail could be improved. Around 3% of reviews were neutral, often focusing on high costs, inconsistent packing, or small mistakes offset by decent customer support. Compared to most moving companies, Meathead Movers ranks high for service consistency and professionalism, but customers should clarify estimates and discuss special packing needs in advance.
Get a Quote (951) 501-8866

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/weliketomoveitsd, https://x.com/san_movers
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Moving services available in Carlsbad

Not all moving companies offer extras such as piano moving, antique handling, or climate-controlled storage — and availability varies by region. The comparison below shows how many movers in Carlsbad, in the state, and nationwide provide these specialized services. That way, you can easily see whether local or national providers best meet your needs.

Storage

Comparing Carlsbad, CA, & national movers

Carlsbad
29 (96.67%)
out of 30 total movers
California
281 (88.64%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
2,316 (87.89%)
out of 2,635 total movers

Top Carlsbad storage movers

Custom-built crates

Comparing Carlsbad, CA, & national movers

Carlsbad
26 (86.67%)
out of 30 total movers
California
252 (79.5%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
1,720 (65.28%)
out of 2,635 total movers

Top Carlsbad custom crating movers

Antiques handling

Comparing Carlsbad, CA, & national movers

Carlsbad
17 (56.67%)
out of 30 total movers
California
201 (63.41%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
1,336 (50.7%)
out of 2,635 total movers

Top Carlsbad antique movers

Piano loading & unloading

Comparing Carlsbad, CA, & national movers

Carlsbad
25 (83.33%)
out of 30 total movers
California
263 (82.97%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
2,070 (78.56%)
out of 2,635 total movers

Top Carlsbad piano movers

Fragile-only packing

Comparing Carlsbad, CA, & national movers

Carlsbad
11 (36.67%)
out of 30 total movers
California
96 (30.28%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
677 (25.69%)
out of 2,635 total movers

Top Carlsbad fragile-only packing movers

Specialty art handling

Comparing Carlsbad, CA, & national movers

Carlsbad
16 (53.33%)
out of 30 total movers
California
199 (62.78%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
1,318 (50.02%)
out of 2,635 total movers

Top Carlsbad art movers

Best long-distance movers in Carlsbad, CA, for small moves

Many full-service moving companies have shipment minimums that smaller moves just can’t meet. If you’re only relocating a few items, that can quickly limit your options.

Don’t fret — some movers are built for just this kind of job. These companies specialize in small moves, making them a great fit if you're moving out of Carlsbad with only a studio’s worth of stuff or a handful of belongings.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • No minimum move size
  • Full-service packing
  • Short-term storage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 34+ yrs experience
  • Online chatbot
  • Car shipping

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Carlsbad, CA

Moving containers, also known as moving pods, offer short- and long-term storage so you can move from Carlsbad at your own pace. With this option, you pack and load the container yourself and the professionals drive the container to your new home for you.

Our top picks for moving containers for long-distance moves from Carlsbad include:

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

Rental trucks in Carlsbad, CA for a total DIY long-distance move

Rental trucks often come with the lowest base price for long-distance moves from Carlsbad, but they also require the most effort. From packing to driving, you’ll be in charge every step of the way. Don’t forget to factor in hidden costs like fuel, mileage, and tolls—they can make a bigger dent in your budget than expected.

These are our recommended rental truck companies for long-distance relocations:

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
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage

Labor-only moving companies in Carlsbad, CA

Labor-only companies handle the heavy-lifting for you, offering services related to packing, loading, and assembly. You’ll provide the truck, packing supplies, and other materials. Think of it as hiring professional movers without the truck.

Hire these top-notch labor-only movers for your long-distance move from Carlsbad, CA:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.48 / 5
  • Years in Business: 17
  • Yelp: 4.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Carlsbad, CA

Company Our Rating Quote
Safeway Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.85 overall rating
Get A Quote
American Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.5 overall rating
Get A Quote
North American Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.5 overall rating
Get A Quote
Allied Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.75 overall rating
Get A Quote
Mayzlin Relocation starstarstarstarstar
4.9 overall rating
Get A Quote

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Carlsbad, CA

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best moving companies. We look at:

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): Companies that consistently deliver services in a timely manner — with good communication and within the estimated cost — score the highest within this category.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry, so we look for companies that take a customer-focused approach to handling their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
  • Industry reputation (15%): We look at whether a company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): It’s important to us that a company maintains a professional website with accurate information and promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
  • Service options (10%): We look for companies with a wide breadth of services, including packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of a long-distance move out of Carlsbad, CA

On average, movers in California charge about $122 per hour. That said, final pricing depends on more than just hourly rates—factors like distance and shipment size still play a big role, even when working with the top interstate movers.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for a long-distance move from Carlsbad, CA to some of the most common destinations:

Destination Distance Home size Cost
Las Vegas, NV 312 miles 3 bedroom $2,138 - $4,598
Manchester, NH 3,062 miles 2 bedroom $4,470 - $7,868
Portland, OR 1,054 miles 1 bedroom $2,434 - $4,674

To get an accurate estimate of the cost for your long-distance move out of Carlsbad, use our moving cost calculator. And, be sure to check out our detailed post about moving costs in California.

FAQs

What else should you know about moving out of state?

Any company helping with your out-of-state move from California must be licensed and have a registered USDOT number. All Carlsbad movers featured here are fully compliant, but it’s always smart to double-check using the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

You should also read through the FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move to understand your protections.

Is it better to use local or national movers to relocate from Carlsbad?

Carlsbad offers a manageable 10 movers, compared with 317 across California. For local or in-state moves, that’s usually plenty to find a reliable local moving company — and we’ve highlighted the standout ones.

If you’re going further than California, Safeway Moving is our preferred choice for long-distance relocations.

Which groups can get moving discounts in Carlsbad?

Some moving companies in Carlsbad reward specific communities with reduced prices: 1 movers provide financial breaks for active duty or retired military.

Exact discount amounts and requirements differ by company, so always ask about eligibility when requesting a quote.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Carlsbad?

The moving industry in Carlsbad tends to slow down in November and December because of the holidays and school schedules. That means you may be able to negotiate a better rate with movers and save during that time.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Carlsbad?

The most affordable way to move, especially within 50 miles of Carlsbad, is to go the DIY route. Your cheapest bets usually include renting a moving truck like U-Haul or using a moving container company like PODS. For more budget-saving tips, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Long-distance movers in nearby cities

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