The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto-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 Palo Alto for those moving out of state

If you’re leaving Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto for those staying in state

Are you moving from Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto, CA, movers:

NOR-CAL Moving Services: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Ninja Movers, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Chipman Relocation & Logistics: 4.72 out of 5 stars
All Reasons Moving & Storage: 4.72 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

Gentle Giant Moving Company

361 Swift Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080 US

Customer Praise

Professional and polite staff (38%)
Efficient service (34%)
Careful handling (30%)

Customer Complaints

Unexpected charges (20%)
Damage to items (15%)
Lack of communication (12%)

Review Analysis

Moving has never been this stress-free, according to feedback from 130 customers, and nearly 95% reflect positive experiences with Gentle Giant Moving Company. Clients highlight fast-moving teams, consistently polite and friendly staff, careful treatment of belongings, and swift, organized processes. Many describe their crews as efficient, hardworking, and genuinely committed to making moves smooth. Attention to detail and respectful communication set Gentle Giant apart from most competitors. Some mention higher costs than expected and a handful report frustration with unclear estimates or communication lapses. A few note setbacks like rude customer service or lack of follow-up. Still, the overwhelming majority find Gentle Giant's efficiency, professionalism, and care exceptional compared to other moving firms.

Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Company Info

State license #: 0167668

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Great Giant Moving Company

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Crane vans
Storage
Pay by credit card

Chipman Relocation & Logistics

1555 Zephyr Ave, Hayward, CA 94544 US

Customer Praise

Efficient service (25%)
Professional and polite staff (20%)
Good communication (18%)

Customer Complaints

Damage to items (30%)
Delayed arrival or delivery (25%)
Lack of communication (20%)

Review Analysis

Moving success is about trust and execution, and most customer input for Chipman Relocation & Logistics shows strong satisfaction. Among 244 reviews, 70.9% described positive experiences. Customers consistently praise the team’s professionalism, their clear communication, fast and careful service, and their ability to keep moves on track, even for complex cross-country relocations. Staff receive outstanding marks for courtesy and responsiveness, setting Chipman apart from typical moving companies. Some clients also mention an efficient booking process and reliable handling of goods. On the downside, 25.8% reported issues primarily centered on damaged or missing belongings and costs exceeding estimates. Difficulties with claims and compensation processes appear commonly in complaints, emphasizing the importance of careful documentation and insurance. Only a few reviews cited problems that directly affected schedules or service, less so than is common in the industry. Compared to many other large moving firms, Chipman is regarded as more dependable and communicative, but those with valuables should still pay close attention to documentation. Most feedback encourages prospective customers to expect a smooth experience, but to remain proactive during packing and claims. Eight reviews (3.3%) were neutral, mostly noting minor breakage or wishing for better packing. In summary, Chipman Relocation & Logistics earns high marks for professionalism, speed, and communication, with attention needed around item handling and resolution of claims.

Get a Quote (510) 474-3600

Company Info

State license #: 0114272

Years in Business: 86

DOT #: 233667

Alternate Names: Chipman Corporation, Chipman Adjusting Services/Chipman Van Lines, Chipman United, Caton Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Art
Antiques
Crating
Crane vans
Shipment tracking
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Pay by money order
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card

All Reasons Moving & Storage

600 E Trimble Rd, San Jose, CA 95131 US

Customer Praise

Efficient service (35%)
Professional and polite staff (30%)
Careful handling (28%)

Customer Complaints

Damage to items (25%)
Unexpected charges (22%)
Lack of communication (20%)

Review Analysis

Word of mouth meets reliability at All Reasons Moving & Storage. Out of 306 customer inputs, 90.5% were favorable, underscoring exceptional service. Clients repeatedly cite the team's professionalism, careful handling, quick and efficient moves, positive staff attitudes, and reliable communication as stand-out features. Customers appreciate on-time arrivals, accuracy in cost estimates, and meticulous treatment of their property—qualities that set the company above most competitors. Negative feedback accounts for 8.2% of responses, mainly describing damaged items, surprise fees, or rare poor staff interactions. Most concerns focus on breakage during moves or storage and disputes about extra charges. Neutral comments, at 1.3%, describe higher-than-expected costs or minor miscommunication but rarely mention major setbacks. All Reasons earns strong trust for its emphasis on permanent, well-trained crews rather than temporary day labor—a rare trait. Compared to typical moving companies, customer input shows they provide a notably stress-free moving experience.

Get a Quote (408) 240-0244

Company Info

State license #: 0189789

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 70719

Alternate Names: All Reasons Moving and Storage

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Antiques
Crating
Storage
Pay by credit card

Best long-distance movers in Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, CA

Moving containers, also known as pods, offer short- and long-term storage so you can move from Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto, CA for a total DIY long-distance move

Rental trucks are often the cheapest way to move long-distance from Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, CA to popular cities:

Destination	Distance	Home size	Cost
Fargo, ND	1,804 miles	3 bedroom	$5,281 - $8,140
Portland, OR	665 miles	2 bedroom	$2,764 - $5,657
Burlington, VT	3,047 miles	1 bedroom	$3,458 - $7,712

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

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto?

Moving companies in Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto?

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Palo Alto. The cheapest options for moving out of Palo Alto 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.