Best Lake Forest Moving Companies (2023 Review)
In Lake Forest, CA, a successful move starts with choosing the right company. Whether you're relocating within Lake Forest, moving across California, or moving out of state, the support you pick can be a game-changer. That's why we've compiled a reliable list of the best moving companies in Lake Forest, ensuring your move is smooth and hassle-free.
Our Top Pick: If you're moving locally in Lake Forest, our top pick is Qshark Moving Company Inc. We've rated them 4.86 out of 5 stars. If your relocation plans extend beyond Lake Forest, our well-curated guide on the best movers in California is a valuable resource, helping you navigate the larger moving landscape with ease.
Our Ratings of The Best Movers in Lake Forest, CA
- Qshark Moving Company Inc, 4.86 out of 5
- Maison Moving, 4.86 out of 5
- Terry Moving and Storage Inc., 4.8 out of 5
- NorthStar Moving Company , 4.72 out of 5
- Safe-Way Moving Inc, 4.58 out of 5
- SafeWay Moving & Storage, 4.58 out of 5
- Nomad Moving and Delivery Inc, 4.58 out of 5
- Laaks Moving Services, 4.58 out of 5
- Nelson Moving and Storage Inc, 4.52 out of 5
- California Movers Local & Long Distance Moving Company, 4.38 out of 5
Comparing the Best Local Movers in Lake Forest, CA
Our Reviews of the Best Local Movers in Lake Forest
Qshark Moving Company Inc

DOT #: 2758929
Years in Business: 8
2618 San Miguel Dr#295,
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Qshark Moving Company Inc., established in 2015, stands tall in Newport Beach, CA by providing exceptional moving services. This includes local and long-distance residential moving, as well as office moving services. Drawing comparisons with local competitors, Qshark goes the extra mile by offering packing and unpacking services, coupled with unique offerings like crating and labor-only services. The company also excels in handling specialty items, like pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, and safes - a feature that outshines most nearby movers. Additionally, storage options and the convenience of credit card payments add more flexibility for clients. Unlike many competitors, Qshark requires no deposit while also providing full valuation insurance coverage. It holds a remarkable 5.0 rating from 554 Yelp reviews and a 4.7 rating from 256 Google My Business reviews. It's impressive A+ Better Business Bureau rating further confirms that Qshark Moving Company Inc. leads the pack in the Newport Beach moving industry.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2758929
- State license #: 0191490
Alternative Business Names
- Qshark Movers
- Shark Moving Compnay
- Shark Movers
Maison Moving

DOT #: 76628
Years in Business: 16
1371 Santa Fe Dr.,Tustin, CA 92780
Maison Moving is a reputable moving company based in Tustin, CA, offering a full suite of services from packing and unpacking to specialized moving of musical instruments and precious antiques. With over a decade of experience, Maison Moving has proven to be a reliable and comprehensive moving solution for both local and international residential and office moves. Unlike other moving companies in the region, they accept credit cards and do not require any upfront deposit, reducing the financial burden on their customers. Maison Moving also stands out for its exemplary customer service, as attested by the hundreds of positive reviews and high average ratings on Yelp and Google My Business. Moreover, their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau testifies to their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, setting them a notch above their competitors.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 76628
- State license #: 0190726
Alternative Business Names
- Orange County Movers Inc
- College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County
- Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County
Local Associations
Terry Moving and Storage Inc.

DOT #: 649215
Years in Business: 27
25958 Commercentre Dr,Lake Forest, CA 92630
Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has been serving the Lake Forest, CA area since 1996 with a comprehensive suite of moving services. Comparatively superior to many local moving companies, they offer not only local and long-distance residential moving, but also office relocations. Their inclusive services extend to packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing, which marks them out as a versatile and careful choice. They also specialize in moving challenging items such as pianos and pool tables, a service not all competitors provide. Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is user-friendly, accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit. Their outstanding reputation is evident in their impressive online presence, boasting an average Yelp rating of 4.5 from 211 reviews, a Google business rating of 4.9 from 141 reviews, and earning an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 649215
- State license #: 189603
Alternative Business Names
- Terry Moving and Storage Inc
- Richards Moving Company
- Orange County Storage Movers
NorthStar Moving Company

DOT #: 1836576
Years in Business: 28
300 Spectrum Center Dr Ste 400,Irvine, CA 92618
NorthStar Moving Company has been establishing their stellar reputation in the Irvine, CA area since 1995. With a range of services that surpasses that of many other local moving companies, they are not just limited to local residential moves. They also handle long-distance and international relocations, office moves, and even delicate tasks such as art and antiques transportation. Unlike many competitors, NorthStar offers extensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, making any move as hassle-free as possible. Customers can easily pay via credit card and the company's no-deposit policy is a rarity among moving businesses, making it an even more attractive option. NorthStar's dedication to exceptional service is well documented online: with an impressive 5.0 average from 56 Yelp reviews, a commendable 4.7 average from 300 Google My Business reviews, and a top-notch A+ Better Business Bureau rating. All these features and customer feedback indicate that NorthStar Moving Company truly stands out in the constellation of Irvine moving services.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1836576
- State license #: 0182466
Alternative Business Names
- NorthStar Moving Corporation
Safe-Way Moving Inc

DOT #: 70719
Years in Business: 16
15041 Bake Pkwy Ste I,Irvine, CA 92618
Boasting an impeccable reputation, Safe-Way Moving Inc. rises above the competition in Irvine, CA with an outstanding range of services. Established in 2007, this esteemed moving company has skillfully navigated the domain of both local and long-distance residential moves. They also offer international moves, making them the ideal choice for globetrotters. Unlike many local moving companies, Safe-Way provides office moving services, aligned with packing, unpacking, and crating services, demonstrating their comprehensive approach to their customers' relocation needs. Furthermore, they specialize in moving sensitive items like pianos and antiques, reassuring clients about the safety of their prized possessions. For ease of transactions, Safe-Way accepts both cash and credit cards, while their requirement of a deposit reflects their commitment to job security. Full valuation insurance coverage is another noteworthy feature that sets them apart. The critics corroborate their high status; they have an average rating of 5.0 from 378 reviews on Yelp, 4.5 from 49 Google My Business reviews, and an A+ from Better Business Bureau, placing them as frontrunners in the moving industry.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 70719
- State license #: 0190459
Alternative Business Names
- Safe-Way Moving & Storage
- Safe Way Moving and Storage
Local Associations
SafeWay Moving & Storage

DOT #: 70719
Years in Business: 16
2 South Pointe, Suite 110,Lake Forest, CA 92630
SafeWay Moving & Storage, a stellar Irvine-based moving company, has been securely transitioning homes and offices since 2007. In contrast to other local outfits, SafeWay demonstrates its versatility by offering not just local and long distance residential moves, but also international relocations. This level of service puts them a step above many competitors. They provide a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, handling each item with utmost care. Specialized in moving pianos, art, antiques and safes, SafeWay is the go-to choice for those with valuable belongings. Payment flexibility is offered with both cash and credit cards accepted and no deposit required, a notable differentiator in the marketplace. With a stellar 5.0 average rating based on 380 reviews on Yelp, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, SafeWay may have a slightly lower rating on Google My Business at 3.6, but it still towers above many regional competitors in terms of quality and service.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 70719
- State license #: 0190459
Alternative Business Names
- Safe-Way Moving & Storage
- Safe Way Moving and Storage
Nomad Moving and Delivery Inc

DOT #: 3306842
Years in Business: 4
12323 Spectrum,Irvine, CA 92618, US
Renowned for their comprehensive array of moving services, Nomad Moving and Delivery Inc is a distinctive player in the Irvine, CA relocation landscape. Since its establishment in 2019, the company has dominated the arena with local residential moving services and office moving. Pioneering a customer-friendly approach, Nomad requires no deposit, ensuring an uncomplicated relocation experience. Bearing an impressive online reputation, the company boasts 180 Yelp reviews with a notable 4.5 average rating and an even more impressive Google My Business profile featuring 245 reviews and a 4.9 average rating. These triumph over most nearby moving companies, reflecting Nomad's commitment to service excellence. Licensed and reliable, Nomad also holds an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, further cementing their standing as one of the most reputable moving companies in the Irvine area. Offering not just moving, but also packing and unpacking services, Nomad Moving and Delivery Inc ensures a seamless transition for their clients from start to finish.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
Additional Information
- DOT #: 3306842
- State license #: 0191794
Alternative Business Names
- Nomad Moving and Delivery Inc
Laaks Moving Services

DOT #: 2995987
Years in Business: 9
71 Mission,Irvine, CA 92620
Established in 2014, Laaks Moving Services has made a name for itself in Irvine, CA and surrounding areas as a reliable and efficient residential moving company. Offering both local and long-distance moving services, they stand out amongst their competitors for their ability to cater to international moving needs as well. In addition to standard moving procedures, they also offer office moving, packing, unpacking, crating, and labor-only services. Special items such as pianos, art, antiques, and safes can be moved without hassle. Adoption of modern technology like shipment tracking and varieties in payment methods including cash, credit cards, and the requirement of a deposit, further accentuates their customer-centric approach. Their reputation is well supported by a plethora of excellent customer reviews, boasting a 4.5 average rating from 103 reviews on Yelp, and a 4.8 average from 24 reviews on Google My Business. Alongside these impressive online ratings, their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau cements their position as a top choice for anyone requiring moving services.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2995987
- State license #: 0191604
Nelson Moving and Storage Inc

DOT #: 1409195
Years in Business: 32
25742 Atlantic Ocean Dr,Lake Forest, CA 92630
Established since 1992, Nelson Moving and Storage Inc has grown to be a reputable moving company in Lake Forest, CA. They offer a spectrum of services, setting them apart from other local movers. Not only do they provide local residential moving services, Nelson also excels in long distance and international residential moves. Specializing in office moving, they are equipped with expertise to handle fragile and high-value items such as pianos, pool tables, antiques and artwork with ease. Recognizing the unique needs of their diverse clientele, they offer specialized services for military and senior moves too. Their comprehensive service extends to packing, unpacking, crating and even specialized packing for fragile items. With convenient payment options of cash and credit cards and a requirement of a deposit, Nelson ensures seamless transactions for their clients. Keeping up with technological advancements, they offer shipment tracking services for peace of mind. Their reputation is backed up by an average Yelp rating of 3.5 based on 74 reviews, and a higher average Google My Business rating of 4.2 from 54 reviews. The highlight of their credibility is their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, attesting to their commitment to excellence.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1409195
- State license #: 0172610
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Nelson North American
California Movers Local & Long Distance Moving Company

DOT #: 2890482
Pricing: $159/hr
Years in Business: 8
107 Chestnut Grove,Irvine, CA 92620
Since its inception in 2015, California Movers Local & Long Distance Moving Company has carved out a strong presence in the moving industry, notably in and around Irvine, CA. Their services surpass local residential moves, extending to office relocations, military and senior moving services. Unparalleled in their offering of both packing and unpacking services, they also provide unique offerings such as crating, access to crane vans and specialized packing for fragile items. Their versatility shines as they undertake complex tasks like piano moving, pool table relocation, and careful removal of art, antiques, and safes. This breadth of service places them a notch above other moving companies in the region. However, their service comes at a price, with charges set at $159 per hour for local moves. Customer reviews present a contrasting view. With a modest average rating of 2.5 on Yelp based on 13 reviews, they fair better on Google My Business with a respectable 4.3 average score drawn from 360 reviews. They accept credit cards and require a deposit, providing full valuation insurance coverage, which separates them from competitors. However, their Better Business Bureau rating of F indicates room for improvement in certain business practices. To sum up, California Movers offers a comprehensive, albeit slightly costly moving service, with mixed customer satisfaction reviews.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2890482
- State license #: 0192676
Average Cost of Movers in Lake Forest
Take a look at the pricing table below to get a general idea of the costs associated with local moves in and around the Lake Forest area.
Please note that the prices provided in the table are rough estimates, and your actual costs may differ depending on the unique needs of your move. For a more precise estimate, consider using our moving cost calculator.
Home Size | Avg. Total Cost | Cost/hour | # of Movers | # Hours |
---|---|---|---|---|
Studio | $304 | $103 | 2 movers | 3 hours |
1 Bedroom | $394 | $102 | 2 movers | 4 hours |
2 Bedroom | $627 | $140 | 3 movers | 5 hours |
3 Bedroom | $1,369 | $204 | 4 movers | 8 hours |
4 Bedroom | $1,565 | $198 | 4 movers | 9 hours |
5+ Bedroom | $2,459 | $279 | 5 movers | 10 hours |
FAQs for Lake Forest movers
How do I know if my mover is properly licensed?
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 top movers in California list for more recommendations.
How do I find a reputable Lake Forest mover?
Looking for a reliable Lake Forest 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 moving company will face customer issues. The best companies resolve customer disputes in a timely manner.
- Experience for your move: 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.
Our moveBuddha list of Lake Forest movers has been hand-picked by our experts and meets all of these criteria.
Do Lake Forest moving companies handle long distance moves?
Some of the moving companies that service Lake Forest can handle long distance moves, while others are only offer local moving services. If you're moving out of state, see our list of the best long distance movers in Lake Forest.
What is the cheapest day to hire a mover?
The earlier you book your move, 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.
Learn more: The cheapest time to move
Do Lake Forest movers offer storage?
Most Lake Forest moving companies offer short and long-term storage solutions. However, keep in mind that some movers use third-party warehouses to store your items. It's best to ask about storage options and pricing when screening potential movers.
Learn more: Should you use your mover's storage solutions?
How we chose the best moving companies in Lake Forest
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%): 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, expedited delivery, and more.
Helpful Lake Forest Resources
Lake Forest Moving Services
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