The BEST Movers in Monterey, CA (2024 Guide)

Our Top Pick: If you're moving locally in Monterey, our top pick is Cardinale Moving & Storage, Inc.. We've rated them 4.72 out of 5 stars. If your move extends beyond Monterey, our well-curated guide on the best movers in California is a valuable resource.


The key to a successful move in Monterey is choosing the right movers. Whether you're relocating within Monterey, across California, or seeking the best interstate moving companies for an out-of-state move, our unbiased reviews will help you choose the right moving company for you.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
Get A Quote
(855) 650-0657

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • 20 yrs experience
  • Flat rate pricing
  • Family owned
Get A Quote
(866) 835-2392

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
Get A Quote
(980) 217-6841

% of users select this mover

How we chose the best movers in Monterey, CA

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 313 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.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Best movers for those moving locally in Monterey, CA

  1. Cardinale Moving & Storage, Inc., 4.72 out of 5
  2. Mod Movers, 4.66 out of 5
  3. Tavares Packing & Loading, 4.66 out of 5
  4. Scarr Moving & Storage, Inc., 4.62 out of 5
  5. Lambert & Son Moving, 4.58 out of 5

Cardinale Moving & Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 45193

Years in Business: 51

11360 Commercial Pkwy,
Castroville , CA 95012

Cardinale Moving & Storage, Inc., a renowned moving company, has been providing exceptional local, long distance, and international residential moving services in Castroville, CA, and beyond since 1972. Compared to other moving firms in the area, Cardinale Moving stands out with their versatile offerings, including office moving, packing, unpacking, and crating services. They have drawn praise for safely moving high-value items like pianos, pool tables, art, and antiques. Offering several convenient payment options, such as credit cards and cryptocurrencies, they require no initial deposit. They also provide shipment tracking for enhanced customer peace of mind. The company has earned a high reputation among its customers, boasting a commendable average rating of 4.0 on Yelp and 4.5 on Google My Business, from 30 and 34 reviews respectively. Additionally, they possess an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, marking them as a trusted entity in the field of moving and storage services.

Get a Quote (831) 632-4100

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

Additional Information

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Mod Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 2983026

Years in Business: 6

1110 Airport Rd,
Monterey, CA 93940

Mod Movers, based out of Monterey, CA, stands head and shoulders above many local moving companies due to its comprehensive array of services and excellent customer feedback. In operation since 2017, they've built a solid reputation for both short and long-distance residential moves, as well as office relocations. Distinctly, they offer a holistic moving experience with packing, unpacking, and crating solutions which is not standard with all movers in the area. They specialize in fragile packing, meeting the specific needs of customers who wish to move precious items like pianos, pool tables, and art pieces. Uniquely, they do not require any deposit, and accept credit cards, making them more customer-friendly compared to some competitors. Evidence of their outstanding service is reflected in the high ratings of 4.5 from 56 reviews on Yelp and an impressive 4.9 from 245 reviews on Google My Business. Further cementing their credibility is an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. In comparison to other moving companies in the vicinity, Mod Movers not only provides a varied service, but also one that's consistently reliable and high-quality, according to their customers.

Get a Quote (831) 480-0381

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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Tavares Packing & Loading

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 3183311

Years in Business: 10

1321 Burton Ave,
Salinas, CA 93901

Tavares Packing & Loading is a well-established moving company in Salinas, CA, that has been making moving stress-free since 2013. They offer a comprehensive range of services few local competitors can match, from local residential to international moving, and even office relocations. Their specialist team is adept at handling tricky items, such as pianos, art, antiques, and safes. They also take the strain out of moving by offering both packing and unpacking services, along with unique crating options. Unlike many of their competitors, Tavares requires no deposit and gladly accepts credit cards. With a substantial online presence, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.5 from 83 Yelp reviews, and 4.3 from 16 Google My Business reviews. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. In comparison to other moving companies in the area, Tavares Packing & Loading stands out for its extensive array of services and consistently high customer reviews. Their years-long record of excellence makes them a reliable choice for a smooth moving experience.

Get a Quote (831) 402-8949

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Tavares Eduardo
  • Eddie Tavares Packing & Loading
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Scarr Moving & Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 44159

Years in Business: 58

1353 Dayton St,
Salinas, CA 93901

Scarr Moving & Storage, Inc., based in Salinas, CA, stands out among local moving companies due to its extensive experience and wide range of services. Since 1965, they have offered exemplary local, long-distance, and even international residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, their expertise extends to office moves and specialized items such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, and grandfather clocks. They provide comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and crating. Customers rave about their convenience, praising the company's no-deposit policy, acceptance of credit cards, and shipment tracking availability. Online reviews speak volumes about their dedication to customer satisfaction, with an impressive average rating of 4.5 on Yelp (from 11 reviews) and 4.4 on Google My Business (from 23 reviews). Their exceptional services have earned them an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, setting them apart in a crowded market.

Get a Quote (831) 424-2784

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Lambert & Son Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 3528657

Years in Business: 18

2638 17th Ave,
Santa Cruz, CA 95065

Lambert & Son Moving shines as a standout moving company in the Santa Cruz, CA region. Established in 2005, they have demonstrated superior expertise in both local and long-distance residential moving - a prowess that extends over many competitors in the area. Their versatile service range also includes office relocating, packing and unpacking, and the provision of crating services. Unique to other local movers, Lambert & Son are adept at safely moving specialty items such as pianos, hot tubs, art pieces, antiques, and safes. They accept credit cards and require a deposit, showing the clear-cut professionalism of their operations. Their impressive reputation is confirmed with a glowing 5.0 average rating from 165 reviews on Yelp, a substantial 4.8 average from 65 Google My Business reviews, and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Clearly, Lambert & Son Moving is a trusted choice for seamless moving experiences in the Santa Cruz area.

Get a Quote (831) 420-0419

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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Best movers for those moving out of California

  1. Safeway Moving, 4.5 out of 5
  2. American Van Lines, 4.5 out of 5
  3. Mayzlin Relocation, 4.45 out of 5
  4. North American Van Lines, 4.25 out of 5
  5. JK Moving Services, 4.25 out of 5
Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get A Quote
(855) 650-0657

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
  • Veteran owned
  • Long distance and cross country moves only
  • A portion of every move is donated to charity
read our full review
Get A Quote
(855) 650-0657

93% of users select this mover

Best industry reputation
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Get A Quote
(866) 835-2392

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Over 20 years in business
  • Excellent customer service score
  • Best pricing we've seen
  • Can handle last minute moves
read our full review
Get A Quote
(866) 835-2392

93% of users select this mover

Best Upfront Pricing
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
Get A Quote
(980) 217-6841

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Family owned with locations covering the east coast
  • Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
  • Packing and unpacking services available
  • Handle residential, corporate, and military moves
read our full review
Get A Quote
(980) 217-6841

93% of users select this mover

Best for complex moves
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
Get A Quote
(844) 950-2963

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Over 74 years in business
  • More than 1,800 trucks in the fleet
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Top major moving company in the U.S.
  • Highest rated agent van line among moveBuddha customers
read our full review
Get A Quote
(844) 950-2963

93% of users select this mover

Best for high-end moves
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
Get A Quote
(703) 972-1772

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Guaranteed pick up and delivery dates
  • Low deposit requirement of $250 for interstate moves
  • Easy and fast AI-powered in-home estimate tool
  • Over 40k moves in the past 3 years
  • Available Financing as low as 0% Interest for low monthly payments
  • Extremely responsive customer service
read our full review
Get A Quote
(703) 972-1772

93% of users select this mover

Alternative Monterey moving options

Moving Containers

  1. U-Pack: 5 out of 5
  2. PODS: 4.8 out of 5
Best Overall Value
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Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

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 Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

Best Nationwide Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Check prices Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

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
Check prices Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

Labor Only

  1. HireAHelper: 4.5 out of 5
  2. Bellhop: 4.3 out of 5
Best Labor Only
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

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 Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

Best customer experience
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Get A Quote
(866) 774-5063

93% of users select this mover

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

93% of users select this mover

Full DIY

  1. U-Haul Truck Rental: 4.15 out of 5
  2. Penske Truck Rental: 4 out of 5
Best Availability
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285

93% of users select this mover

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

93% of users select this mover

Most Reliable
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517

93% of users select this mover

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

93% of users select this mover

Average cost of movers in Monterey, CA

Take a look at the pricing table below to get a general idea of the costs associated with local moves in and around the Monterey area. For more details, you can also check out our guide on the moving costs in California.

Please note that the moving quotes 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 $497 $190 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $670 $190 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,072 $263 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $2,480 $365 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $2,874 $380 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $4,426 $522 5 movers 10 hours

FAQs

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 best movers in California list for more recommendations.

How do I find a reputable Monterey mover?

Looking for a reliable Monterey 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 Monterey 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.

Do Monterey moving companies handle long distance moves?

Some of the moving companies that service Monterey 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 Monterey.

What is the cheapest day to hire a mover in Monterey, CA?

The earlier you book your move from Monterey, 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 Monterey movers offer storage?

Most Monterey moving companies offer short and long-term storage solutions. However, keep in mind that some Monterey 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?

Helpful Monterey Resources

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