The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Los Altos, CA

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: May 1, 2025 • 5 min read

Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Quick answer: Our top pick for the best long-distance moving company in Los Altos, CA, is Safeway Moving. We like Safeway Moving for its overall value. The company provides high-quality service without the high price tag.

We're here to help.

We know that every move is different. Jump to a mover that fits your unique needs:

Best overall value: Safeway Moving
Best Los Altos-based company: NOR-CAL Moving Services
Best for small moves: MiniMoves
Best moving container: PODS
Best labor-only company: HireAHelper
Best rental truck: U-Haul Truck Rental

Preferred partners

Company	Quote	Rating
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.	Get A Quote	4.76 / 5
Next Stop Moving & Storage	Get A Quote	4.14 / 5
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.85 / 5

Our track record

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 Los Altos for those moving out of state

If you’re leaving Los Altos and crossing state lines for a new home outside of California, these are our recommendations for top interstate movers:

Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Allied Van Lines: 4.75 out of 5 stars
North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.85 / 5

Get A Quote

(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

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.9 / 5

Get A Quote

(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

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

(866) 825-0554

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

Get A Quote

(866) 825-0554

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.75 / 5

Get A Quote

(866) 935-3437

At A Glance

Fragile packing
Storage options
24/7 shipment tracking
Quick & efficient
Accurate quotes

read our full review

Get A Quote

(866) 935-3437

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

(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

Get A Quote

(844) 950-2963

Best long-distance movers in Los Altos for those staying in state

Are you moving from Los Altos but staying in California? Depending on how far you’re relocating, some in-state moves are still considered long-distance.

If your move within California is a couple hundred miles or more, you should hire one of the best long-distance moving companies.

Consider these top Los Altos, CA, movers:

NOR-CAL Moving Services: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Ninja Movers, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Southwest Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
Vector Moving and Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars

NOR-CAL Moving Services

3129 Corporate Pl, Hayward, CA 94545 US

Customer Praise

Efficient service (29%)
Professional and polite staff (27%)
Careful handling (26%)

Customer Complaints

Damage to items (33%)
Delayed arrival or delivery (25%)
Lack of communication (21%)

Review Analysis

Glowing praise dominates feedback for NOR-CAL Moving Services, with 74% of customers reporting positive experiences from over 300 reviews. Most consistently describe the team as professional, communicative, and attentive, noting staff’s politeness and expertise. Customers regularly highlight careful packing and a thoroughly efficient moving process—qualities that set NOR-CAL apart from many competitors. Movers gain acclaim for diligent handling of valuable and fragile items and reliable, prompt communication throughout every stage. Some clients also point to moves completed faster than expected. Among negative input, nearly a quarter of reviews focus on issues such as item damage, poor communication, or delayed deliveries. A few cite unresolved claims or lack of timely follow-up as frustrations, especially after incidents involving breakage or misplaced belongings. Compared to other companies, NOR-CAL earns high marks for professionalism and efficiency, but should pay close attention to packing quality and keeping customers informed when delays happen.

Get a Quote (510) 269-4905

Company Info

State license #: 0145636

Years in Business: 42

DOT #: 1844592

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Hot Tubs
Pool Tables
Art
Antiques
Grandfather clocks
Crating
Shipment tracking
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Pay by credit card

Ninja Movers, Inc.

401 Nelo St, Santa Clara, CA 95054 US

Customer Praise

Professional and polite staff (29%)
Efficient service (27%)
Careful handling (25%)

Customer Complaints

Unexpected charges (31%)
Damage to items (28%)
Poor communication (26%)

Review Analysis

Customers rave about Ninja Movers’ speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings—80% of 500 reviews were positive. Crews consistently arrive on time, work efficiently, carefully wrap furniture, and provide helpful, polite service, making moving easier and less stressful than with other companies. Many mention clear communication from booking to completion, and several note rates are competitive. Some feedback highlights standout customer support when issues happen. On the downside, complaints focus on items damaged during handling, surprise charges compared to initial quotes, and delivery delays. Compared to similar moving companies, Ninja Movers earns top marks for efficient operations and courteous staff, but may fall short for those expecting flawless results, zero damages, or strictly guaranteed pricing. Most customer input strongly recommends them for local and long-distance moves, but suggests carefully reviewing estimates and policies for extra peace of mind.

Get a Quote (408) 638-6963

Company Info

State license #: 0191848

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2967361

Alternate Names: Ninja Movers

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Antiques
Crating
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Safes
Pay by credit card

Southwest Moving

875 S Winchester Blvd, Ste 107, San Jose, CA 95128 US

Customer Praise

Professional and polite staff (37%)
Efficient service (35%)
Careful handling (31%)

Customer Complaints

Damage to items (28%)
Unexpected charges (24%)
Lack of communication (20%)

Review Analysis

Moving day is made easy by Southwest Moving, with the vast majority of the 343 customer responses—over 93%—praising their efficient service and careful handling of belongings. Many people mention professional, polite crews who work quickly, wrap furniture well, and show up right on schedule. Friendly staff and clear communication are evident at each step, resulting in stress-free, pleasant moves. Yet, about 5% of feedback highlights serious problems, especially related to damage to items, unexpected fees for packing materials, or unprofessional customer service following complaints. While most customers report fast, trustworthy moves at fair prices, those few dissatisfied clients cite unresolved claims, insurance issues, or feeling misled by pricing. Unlike most moving companies, Southwest attracts consistently positive input for its reliability and friendly approach, though complaints about damaged goods and responses to claims indicate room for improvement. For those wanting efficient staff and careful, friendly service, Southwest stands out, but it’s important to confirm all charges and expectations beforehand.

Get a Quote (408) 412-3269

Company Info

State license #: 0191389

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 1922488

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Crating
Pay by money order
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card
Deposit Required

Vector Moving and Storage

1185 Campbell Ave #F6, San Jose, CA 95126 US

Customer Praise

Professional and polite staff (41%)
Efficient service (38%)
Careful handling (34%)

Customer Complaints

Damage to items (38%)
Unexpected charges (31%)
Delayed arrival or delivery (25%)

Review Analysis

Fast moves, careful teams, and upbeat attitudes define the feedback for Vector Moving and Storage, based on 71 customer submissions. A strong 84.5% of clients praised their efficient work, respectfulness, and how gently possessions were handled. Customers frequently mentioned quick process times, professional approach, and feeling highly confident in their choice, noting the staff’s courtesy and attention to property. Despite many stress-free experiences, 15.5% of feedback flagged recurring problems: broken items during transit, delays, larger-than-promised bills, and unresolved complaints were cited as major setbacks. While most moving companies struggle to match Vector’s ratio of glowing to problematic feedback, issues like damage, surprise add-ons, or timing should be weighed against their reputation for speed and professionalism.

Get a Quote (844) 468-6683

Company Info

State license #: 0191802

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3152229

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Pool Tables
Art
Crating
Storage
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

1400 Coleman Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95050 US

Customer Praise

Efficient service (26%)
Professional and polite staff (22%)
Good communication (19%)

Customer Complaints

Higher-than-expected costs (25%)
Damage to items (18%)
Lack of communication (15%)

Review Analysis

When it comes to getting rid of junk or handling a move, College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving stands out for speed, professionalism, and great communication. Out of 764 pieces of customer feedback analyzed, over 96% praised the company, making it one of the top-rated services in the industry. Customers most often highlight efficient service, courteous staff, quick and streamlined moving, open communication, and clear pricing. Many appreciate the company’s transparent estimates, frequent updates, and care taken with both belongings and property. Negative feedback mainly points to pricing that’s higher than expected, unexpected charges, and the occasional incident with misplaced items. Issues around fee transparency show up more than once, and a few customers describe billing surprises or customer service challenges. Neutral input also mentions higher costs for certain jobs. Compared to others, College Hunks gets notably high marks for honest pricing, staff courtesy, and going above and beyond to make pickups easy. Their consistent, friendly help and reliable performance set them apart, but those considering the service should review pricing carefully to avoid any surprises.

Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 0192718

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Storage

Best long-distance movers in Los Altos, CA, for small moves

Did you know that most professional moving companies have a minimum requirement for the total weight of your belongings? This means that if you are moving a small amount of items, those companies will likely not be an option for your relocation.

Some companies, however, specialize in small moves. So, if you are moving a studio apartment or just have a few pieces of furniture to relocate from Los Altos, check out these suggestions:

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.8 / 5

Check prices Visit Website

At A Glance

No minimum size
Top-quality materials
Full-service packing

read our full review

Check prices Check prices

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.7 / 5

Check prices 800-626-1257

At A Glance

Specializes in small moves
Guaranteed delivery date
Online chatbot and resources for a seamless move
Car shipping services
Gives back with charitable donations

read our full review

Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Los Altos, CA

Moving containers, also known as pods, offer short- and long-term storage so you can move from Los Altos 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 Los Altos include:

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.8 / 5

Get A Quote

At A Glance

30 days storage included
Local and long distance moving options
Unlimited loading/unloading time
Store on property or at a facility

read our full review

Get A Quote

Check prices

Licensed

Insured

Price

5 / 5

Check prices Visit Website

At A Glance

Long distance moves only
Only pay for the space you use
No deposit or initial fees
Fast delivery time frames

read our full review

Check prices Check prices

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

Rental trucks are often the cheapest way to move long-distance from Los Altos, but also require the most work. You do everything yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading, driving the whole way, and unloading on your own. Costs can increase dramatically when you add on mileage fees, tolls, and gas though so make sure this option really is cheaper for your move before making a final decision.

Here are our favorite rental truck companies for long-distance moves:

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.15 / 5

Check prices (800) 468-4285

At A Glance

More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive

read our full review

Check prices (800) 468-4285

Licensed

Insured

Price

4 / 5

Check prices (844) 847-9517

At A Glance

Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool

read our full review

Check prices (844) 847-9517

Labor-only moving companies in Los Altos, 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 Los Altos, CA:

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Check prices Visit Website

At A Glance

First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
$1,000 money-back service guarantee
Fast and accurate delivery times
Free damage coverage with additional coverage options

read our full review

Check prices Check prices

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.3 / 5

Get A Quote

(866) 774-5063

At A Glance

Quick and easy booking process
National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
Dedicated move concierge specialist
Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them

read our full review

Get A Quote

(866) 774-5063

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Los Altos, CA

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

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

The average cost for professional movers in California is $122 per hour, but even the best interstate moving companies need more information about the distance and size of your move to give you a moving quote.

Here’s the average long-distance move cost from Los Altos, CA to popular cities:

Destination	Distance	Home size	Cost
Atlanta, GA	2,443 miles	3 bedroom	$5,661 - $8,805
Columbus, OH	2,484 miles	2 bedroom	$4,673 - $8,134
Virginia Beach, VA	2,992 miles	1 bedroom	$3,426 - $7,955

To get an accurate estimate of the cost for your long-distance move out of Los Altos, 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?

A moving company helping you move out of California must be properly licensed and have a U.S. Department of Transportation number. Of course, all the Los Altos movers we’ve included on this list have everything in order, but you can check for yourself on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

If you’re moving from one state to another, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move document from the FMCSA.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving from Los Altos?

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Los Altos is going to be the most cost-effective approach. If you’re moving out of California, using a national moving company like Safeway Moving comes with more experience, which may cost a bit more.

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

Moving companies in Los Altos are usually slower in November and December due to the holidays and kids being in school, so you can negotiate with a mover more during those months and save some money.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Los Altos?

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Los Altos. The cheapest options for moving out of Los Altos are usually renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. We’ve also got a helpful guide if you’re looking for the cheapest ways to move out of state.