The BEST Movers in Palo Alto, CA (2024 Guide)

Our Top Pick: If you're moving locally in Palo Alto, our top pick is Gentle Giant Moving Company. We've rated them 4.86 out of 5 stars. If your move extends beyond Palo Alto, our well-curated guide on the best movers in California is a valuable resource.


The key to a successful move in Palo Alto is choosing the right movers. Whether you're relocating within Palo Alto, 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
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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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, CA

  1. Gentle Giant Moving Company, 4.86 out of 5
  2. NOR-CAL Moving Services, 4.8 out of 5
  3. All In Moving Systems, 4.76 out of 5
  4. Ninja Movers, Inc., 4.76 out of 5
  5. Careful Movers, 4.66 out of 5

Gentle Giant Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 373544

Years in Business: 43

361 Swift Ave,
South San Francisco, CA 94080

Gentle Giant Moving Company, established since 1980, is a premier moving service in South San Francisco, CA, boasting an impressive range of services that set it apart from most local competitors. Not only do they provide local residential moves, but they also accommodate long distance and international relocations. With a strong reputation in the community, they have a 4.5 average rating from 72 Yelp reviews and a perfect 5.0 from 16 Google My Business reviews. Gentle Giant also holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They go above and beyond, offering specialized services such as office moving, and the moving of large items such as pianos with their crane vans. Their comprehensive full-package approach is evident with packing, unpacking, and even storage facilities available at the customer's convenience. Notably, they accept credit card payments and require no deposit upfront. Compared to other local movers, Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out as an experienced, reliable, and highly-rated choice for any type of move.

Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Great Giant Moving Company
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NOR-CAL Moving Services

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 1844592

Years in Business: 40

3129 Corporate Pl,
Hayward, CA 94545

NOR-CAL Moving Services, a stalwart in the moving industry since 1983, is a formidable competitor amongst Hayward, CA moving companies. This company stands out with its expansive range of services, including local, long distance, and international residential moving. Compared to other local movers, NOR-CAL’s comprehensive offerings cannot be underplayed. The company goes above and beyond with packing, unpacking and crating services, and even offers fragile-only packing for your most precious items. The company's special capabilities like moving pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques and even grandfather clocks sets them apart from nearby competitors. Their flexibility extends to payment options as well, accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit. They offer full valuation insurance and shipment tracking for complete peace of mind during your move. Their reputation shines through their 3.0 Yelp rating from 114 reviews, a commendable 4.5 Google My Business rating from 146 reviews, and a remarkable A+ Better Business Bureau rating, making NOR-CAL Moving Services a trusted, comprehensive choice for all moving needs.

Get a Quote (510) 269-4905

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
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

Local Associations

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All In Moving Systems

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 2417086

Years in Business: 9

2081 Bering Dr,
San Jose, CA 95131

All In Moving Systems is a reputable moving company that stands as a significant player in the moving industry around San Jose, CA since 2014. In comparison to many other local moving companies, they handle both local and long distance residential moves with a skill level that is seen in their impressive Yelp score of 4.5 from 292 reviews and an even higher Google My Business average rating of 4.8 from 336 reviews. Unlike many competitors, All In Moving Systems also caters to office moves and provides comprehensive packing, unpacking, crating, and labor-only services. Their ability to move specialty items like pianos and safes further sets them apart. They accept credit card payments, and notably, do not require a deposit. Given their A+ Better Business Bureau rating, All In Moving Systems evidently surpasses most nearby moving companies in terms of reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.

Get a Quote (888) 259-0707

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

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

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Professional Los Angeles Movers Inc
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Ninja Movers, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 2967361

Years in Business: 6

401 Nelo St,
Santa Clara, CA 95054

Ninja Movers, Inc. is a highly-rated moving company with an established presence in the Santa Clara, CA area. In operation since 2017, the company has outshone many nearby competitors with their extensive range of services. Not only do they provide local and long-distance residential moving services, they also cater to office moves, offering additional packing, unpacking, and crating services. Ninja Movers truly stand out from the crowd with their unique capabilities of safely transporting pianos, art, antiques, and even safes. With a customer-friendly payment method, accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit, they offer full valuation insurance coverage for an added security. Their reputation speaks volumes, boasting 416 reviews on Yelp and 45 on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.0 and 4.1 respectively. Moreover, they have earned the coveted A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, affirming their commitment to customer satisfaction and professionalism.

Get a Quote (408) 638-6963

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
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Ninja Movers
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Careful Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 1464935

Years in Business: 17

3641 Haven Ave C,
Menlo Park, CA 94025

Careful Movers, a seasoned moving company in Menlo Park, CA, stands out as a leading provider of both local and long-distance residential moving services. Established in 2006, they have distinguished themselves from many nearby moving companies through their comprehensive range of services. Beyond regular house moves, they also specialize in office relocations, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal business interruption. They offer packing and unpacking services, along with crating services for more delicate items. Unlike many competitors, they can handle unique items such as pianos, hot tubs, art pieces, antiques, and safes, ensuring complete customer satisfaction. They accept credit cards and require a deposit, providing a full valuation insurance coverage. Their reputation is underscored by an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, a stellar 5.0 average rating from 578 Yelp reviews, and a high score of 4.7 based on 103 reviews on Google My Business. Careful Movers truly lives up to their name with their meticulous service and attention to detail.

Get a Quote (650) 595-8400

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Carfull Movers, Inc.
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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
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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
  • GPS tracked trucks and tractors
  • Barcode scanned and tracked inventory of your possessions
  • Dedicated move coordinator assigned to each client
  • 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
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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
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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 Palo Alto moving options

Moving Containers

  1. U-Pack: 5 out of 5
  2. PODS: 4.8 out of 5
Best value container
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto 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 $597 $277 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $880 $272 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,490 $372 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $3,442 $544 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $4,047 $527 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $6,408 $753 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 Palo Alto mover?

Looking for a reliable Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto moving companies handle long distance moves?

Some of the moving companies that service Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto.

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

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

Most Palo Alto moving companies offer short and long-term storage solutions. However, keep in mind that some Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto Resources

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