Quick answer:
After reviewing 277 California movers,
our top pick for local moves in Isla Vista, CA,
is Meathead Movers based on pricing, services, and customer reviews.
For long-distance and out-of-state moves from California, we recommend Safeway Moving
because they provide a good balance of quality service and affordability.
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.
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5 Cheapest movers when moving locally in Isla Vista, CA
If you are moving within Isla Vista — or to a nearby California city like
University of California-Santa Barbara or Eastern Goleta Valley that is 50 miles or less from Isla Vista — check out these affordable, top-rated moving companies:
Moving made easy—fast, careful, and professional. Across 534 customer accounts, 85% were satisfied with Meathead Movers, who consistently impress with prompt, efficient service, courteous staff, careful attention to belongings, and effective communication. Many point to their speed, skill, and ability to reduce moving stress as unmatched compared to other movers. Staff go out of their way to ensure everything is handled safely and customers feel supported throughout. Most praise the company’s organization and transparency, with workers often finishing ahead of schedule and providing clear updates. While Meathead stands out for reliability, a number of customers highlighted problems including damage to items, higher-than-expected costs than initial estimates, and issues with packing quality—especially when using packing services. Some experienced final bills much greater than the quotes they received, contributing to frustration. A few customers also reported items arriving broken or poor claim handling after reporting damage. Compared to other moving firms, feedback shows Meathead’s team typically provides a smoother, faster, and friendlier move—but attention to better estimate accuracy and meticulous packing would boost trust even further.
Night-and-day experiences define Air 1 Moving & Storage’s reputation, based on 545 customer reviews. About 71% of the feedback highlights professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient and fast moves, and affordable prices. Many people praise the company for managing stressful relocations with skill, moving items without damage or delays, and maintaining courteous communication throughout. Customers frequently mention the team’s reliability and trustworthiness, setting Air 1 apart from other movers. On the other hand, nearly 27% of the input focuses on negative incidents—most notably, unexpected charges, damaged or lost items, and delivery delays. Some report being billed far above initial quotes or experiencing broken or missing property without adequate resolution. Issues with last-minute fees and withheld communication stand out as significant frustrations. Compared to industry competitors, Air 1 garners above-average praise for its staff’s professionalism but struggles with cost transparency and consistency on long-distance moves.
Rave reviews pour in for Martian Movers, spotlighting efficient service, polite staff, careful handling, fast move times, and reliable communication. Among 295 reviews, 95% of feedback describes stress-free moves by friendly, professional crews attentive to property and timing. Clients often mention rapid service, courteous demeanor, and exceptional care with belongings—even challenging items like pianos—setting them apart from less consistent competitors. For value, they frequently finish under quoted prices, with transparent estimates and easy scheduling. Less than 5% of feedback details significant issues during long-distance moves, including damaged items, late deliveries, unreliable timing, and poor handling. Some clients cite missed arrival windows, mishandling, or lack of follow-up on claims for damages. For most customers, though, reviews indicate Martian Movers outperforms other moving companies on efficiency, professionalism, and customer care, while a few experienced notable problems with high-value or out-of-area jobs.
Customer experiences with Worldwide Moving & Storage, Inc. set a high mark for professionalism and care. Out of 179 detailed feedback entries, 88% highlighted courteous and skilled staff, careful handling, quick and efficient service, and steady communication. Most moves were completed on time with belongings arriving intact, earning the company frequent praise for minimizing stress and exceeding expectations. Some clients even found the crew to be helpful, flexible, and thoroughly organized in both local and cross-country moves. A small number of customers, about 11%, cited item damage, poor communication, or packing lapses as key issues, sometimes impacting move logistics or claim resolutions. Such pain points appear less often than with many moving services, especially those managing complex relocations. Only one neutral entry suggested that the value of a low quote was offset by minor mishaps and delays. In comparison to competitors, Worldwide Moving & Storage stands out for reliability, respectful service, and effective communication.
ASAP Movers earns top scores with 94% of customer feedback highlighting efficient service and highly professional, polite staff. Most people praise how carefully their belongings are handled and how quickly moves are completed, with clear communication throughout each step. While most customers note friendly, attentive teams, a handful cite concerns over damaged items or unprofessional behavior, and some mention lapses in communication. The company’s strong record for reliability and care outpaces many competitors, but those seeking flawless handling should remain mindful of rare, but notable, incidents involving broken or mishandled property. With over 400 reviews analyzed, ASAP Movers stands out for dependable, courteous service at a competitive price.
While a full-service mover is the most convenient option for your
Isla Vista, California relocation, it will also likely be the most expensive route. To save some money, you may want to consider using one of the top moving container companies, or moving truck rental companies in Isla Vista instead.
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top five best movers
based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Check out the pricing table below to get a rough idea of what local moves typically cost in and around the Isla Vista area.
For a deeper dive, be sure to explore our guide on the moving costs in California.
Keep in mind that the moving quotes shown are general estimates.
Your actual expenses may vary based on your specific moving situation. For a more accurate estimate,
try our moving cost calculator.
Home Size
Avg. Total Cost
Cost/hour
# of Movers
# Hours
Studio
$459
$133
2 movers
3 hours
1 Bedroom
$611
$139
2 movers
4 hours
2 Bedroom
$894
$186
3 movers
5 hours
3 Bedroom
$1,948
$271
4 movers
8 hours
4 Bedroom
$2,216
$263
4 movers
9 hours
5+ Bedroom
$3,313
$380
5 movers
10 hours
Compare the top Isla Vista, CA movers
Let’s compare how the top movers in Isla Vista, CA stack up in terms of their reputation.
When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC).
Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice.
All of the movers on our list are properly licensed.
Take a look at our best movers in California list for more recommendations.
How do I find a reputable Isla Vista mover?
Looking for a reliable Isla Vista moving company can be difficult,
but there are certain things to consider to ensure you choose a trustworthy mover. These include:
Reputation:
A mover's reputation is crucial, whether they're a new mom-and-pop business or a
seasoned van lines company.
Dispute resolution: It's best to avoid movers with lots of unresolved customer complaints.
Every Isla Vista moving company will face customer issues.
The best companies resolve customer disputes in a timely manner.
Relevant experience: Even if a mover has great reviews for local moves,
they may not have the experience needed to handle a
cross-country move.
Check if they have experience with the type of move you require.
Do Isla Vista moving companies handle long-distance moves?
Some of the moving companies that service Isla Vista can handle long distance moves, while others only offer local moving services.
If you're moving out of state, see our list of the best long distance movers in Isla Vista.
What is the cheapest day to hire a mover in Isla Vista, CA?
The cheapest day to hire a mover in Isla Vista, California, will typically be a weekday,
since weekends are typically busier times for moving.
In general, the cheapest time to move
is between October and April.
The peak season for movers is May–September, so you’ll pay more during this time due to increased demand.
The earlier you book your move from Isla Vista, the better.
Avoid weekends, holidays, and peak moving seasons (summer) to save money.
Beware of choosing a mover solely based on the lowest quote,
as some companies may low-ball their initial quote and raise the price significantly on moving day.
What is the cheapest way to move out of state from Isla Vista, CA?
Renting a moving truck is
the cheapest way to move out of state
or locally within Isla Vista, California.
Keep in mind, though, that this is also the most bare-bones moving option — you’ll have to handle the packing and unpacking,
loading and unloading, and driving.
Are moving containers a good idea for my move from Isla Vista?
Moving containers allow you to move at your own pace… although you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself.
Once you’re loaded up and ready to move,
the container company will pick up your container and transport it to your new home, so you won’t have to worry about driving.
What if I need help loading my moving container in Isla Vista?
Labor-only moving companies
can be a great addition to a more DIY move done with a rental moving truck or moving container.
Hiring third-party assistance with loading and unloading can help cut down on the workload and make your move quicker
and more efficient.
Do Isla Vista movers offer storage?
Most Isla Vista moving companies offer short- and long-term storage solutions.
However, keep in mind that some Isla Vista movers use third-party warehouses to store your items.
It's best to ask about storage options and pricing when screening potential movers.
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