Best Movers Near Salinas, CA (2025 Guide)

Quick answer: Our team has reviewed 370 California movers, and our top pick for local moves in Salinas, CA, is Best California Movers based on pricing, services, and customer reviews. For long-distance and out-of-state moves from Salinas, we recommend Safeway Moving because they provide a good balance of quality service and affordability.

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I've helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that's right for you.
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Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers for those moving locally in Salinas, CA

If you’re moving within Salinas or heading to a nearby California town like Prunedale or Marina, within 50 miles, these local movers should be on your radar. They excel at offering reliable service and low prices.

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Best California Movers

https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/, https://x.com/BestCAMovers_
94% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Best California Movers paints a clear picture: this company impresses with professionalism, efficient teams, careful handling of belongings, excellent communication, and speedy work. Out of 54 reviews, 94% are positive, highlighting these strengths repeatedly. Many praised accommodating movers who protected valuables, remained punctual, and communicated thoroughly. Transparent rates and easy booking also stand out. Negative feedback, making up just 3.7%, centers on unclear or unexpectedly high pricing and aggressive marketing tactics. A few clients noted delays or pressure to leave reviews. Compared to competitors, Best California Movers stands out for the dedication of its staff and consistent care, though reading terms closely can avoid pricing surprises. Most clients would confidently use or refer their services again.
Get a Quote (408) 200-0452

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/poulosmoving, https://x.com/PoulosMovingSys
89% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn't have to be hard—Poulos Moving Systems earns high praise from nearly nine out of ten customers, based on 187 feedback submissions. Most customer input points to staff professionalism, quick and careful service, transparent communication, and smooth moving days as key strengths. People often highlight how attentive movers handled belongings, explained the process, and worked efficiently, even in tricky situations like stairs or heavy loads. Communication stands out, with updates and quick responses appreciated by clients. A few customers, though, dealt with damaged items, slow responses, and unexpected charges. The main complaints involve property damage or trouble reaching the company—issues common with many moving services, but less so here given the lower rate of negative input. For those seeking a careful, courteous, and reliable moving experience, Poulos consistently outperforms most competitors in the region.
Get a Quote (831) 394-5000

Company Info

State license #: 0190661

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 2618126


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/ScarrMovingandStorage/, https://x.com/scarrmoving
88% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks dominate feedback for Scarr Moving & Storage, Inc., with 43 reviews analyzed and nearly 90% noting a standout experience. Customers praise the team's professionalism, careful handling of belongings, efficient and quick moves, as well as helpful attitudes. Many describe stress-free relocations that come in under budget, and several cite repeat exceptional service across multiple moves. Staff receive recognition for politeness, organization, and clear communication—qualities that make a big impact during stressful moves. A handful of clients report issues such as unprofessional conduct from management, misplaced items, and crews arriving without proper tools, though these remain rare within the feedback. Scarr's strengths put them ahead of many competitors for reliability and peace of mind, but consistent quality control is key to maintaining their strong reputation.
Get a Quote (831) 424-2784

Company Info

State license #: 0095753

Years in Business: 59

DOT #: 44159


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/CardinaleMovingStorage/, https://twitter.com/cardinalemoving
81% of all reviews were positive
19% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Exceeding most expectations, Cardinale Moving & Storage, Inc. receives largely enthusiastic feedback: out of 86 total reviews, more than 80% highlight professionalism, careful handling, efficient and quick service, strong communication, and prompt crews. Staff members routinely earn praise for courtesy and attention to detail. Customers commonly note that the moving process feels organized and stress-free. On the other hand, about 19% of input flags serious concerns—primarily about damaged or missing items, unanswered claims, and communication gaps, especially for interstate and storage moves. These recurring problems appear at higher rates than with top-rated long-distance competitors. Most users report a standout local moving experience, but those needing secure long-term storage or extended-haul relocation report more issues. Cardinale's consistent positive performance in local moves, combined with speedy, polite crews, often outshines others in the region, while their handful of negative reviews underscore the importance of careful communication and transparency in the claims process.
Get a Quote (831) 632-4100

Company Info

State license #: 0102808

Years in Business: 52

DOT #: 45193


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/tavarespackingandloading/,
85% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently praise Tavares Packing & Loading for efficient service, careful handling, reasonable rates, and polite, professional staff. Many highlight how quickly moves are completed while keeping belongings damage-free. Positive input also points to affordable prices and responsive communication—features rarely found in larger moving companies. Nearly every review mentions hardworking movers who maintain a friendly, courteous approach. Some feedback, though, raises major concerns about damage to items, especially during storage or complex moves, noting a lack of follow-up on claims. Several dissatisfied customers report last-minute cancellations or difficulty reaching the company before scheduled moves. While most feedback far exceeds industry standards for satisfaction, those considering high-value or time-sensitive moves should weigh these reported drawbacks.
Get a Quote (831) 402-8949

Company Info

State license #: 0191257

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 3183311

Alternate Names: Tavares Eduardo, Eddie Tavares Packing & Loading


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/southbaymoving/,
53% of all reviews were positive
40% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers praise South Bay Moving Systems Inc. for their professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficiency, and helpful staff. More than half of feedback is positive, based on 30 reviews, with many mentioning how movers took care of belongings, communicated effectively, and worked quickly. Some clients highlight an easy, stress-free process, while several describe the team as polite and responsive. Several reviews call out issues common in the industry, such as damaged or missing items and unexpected charges. A noticeable portion of clients report valuable property broken or lost during moves, and some felt pricing changed unexpectedly or claims were difficult to resolve. Compared to most moving companies, South Bay attracts more positive remarks for professionalism and careful handling, yet struggles with damage and accountability persist. These patterns provide valuable insights for those weighing reliability against risk.
Get a Quote (866) 462-3443

Company Info

State license #: 0191825

DOT #: 2967929

Alternate Names: South Bay Moving Systems Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Pay by credit card

Top-rated movers in nearby cities

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Best movers for those moving out of California

Getting ready for a move to a new state? You’ll want a moving company that’s federally licensed and meets all the requirements for interstate moves. For a smooth, stress-free relocation from Salinas, CA, take a look at these top-rated interstate moving companies.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(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
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
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
866-835-2392
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(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
(844) 950-2963
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(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
(980) 217-6841

Best moving containers in Salinas, CA

Moving containers offer a hybrid DIY solution that falls somewhere between a full-service moving company and a rental truck. With moving containers, you won’t have the help of a moving crew (you’ll have to do the loading and unloading) but you will get the benefit of a professional driver — a perk that doesn’t come with renting a truck.

Container costs in Salinas vary depending on how many containers you need and how far you’re moving. Be sure to get moving quotes from multiple companies so you can best compare prices and services.

We recommend starting with these top-tier moving container companies:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

Best rental trucks for your Salinas, CA move

Whether you’re relocating within Salinas or heading out of California — renting a moving truck is your best bet to keep moving costs down. Expect to pay a daily rate between $19 and $39, plus $0.89 to $1.39 for each mile you drive.

Renting a truck is a budget-friendly choice compared to hiring full-service movers or renting a moving container, but keep in mind you’ll be doing all the work yourself, packing, loading, and driving included.

Check out our favorite truck rental companies to make your DIY move a breeze.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Labor-only movers in Salinas, CA

If you’re renting a moving truck or container but need some muscle for the heavy work, bringing in a labor-only moving company is the way to go. They’ll take care of the loading and unloading for you, and you can also get help with packing, taking furniture apart and putting it back together, or even setting up electronics and gym gear.

Check out our favorite labor-only movers in Salinas:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
  • Years in Business: 0
  • Yelp: 3.2 / 5
  • BBB: NR
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.42 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best movers in Salinas

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 289 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.

How do I find a reputable Salinas mover?

When searching for top-notch movers in Salinas, keep an eye out for these key qualities:

  • A good reputation: Whether you're considering a trusted family-run business in Salinas or one of the big-name national van line movers serving all of California, a strong reputation is key. Watch out for warning signs and stay savvy about common moving scams to protect yourself.
  • Look into dispute resolution: Every mover hits a rough patch now and then, but how they respond makes all the difference. If you notice a moving company in Salinas consistently brushing off complaints, it’s probably wise to look elsewhere.
  • Ensure experience aligns with your move: A mover with glowing local reviews in Salinas isn’t automatically the best pick for a cross-country move. Always choose a company that has solid experience with the kind of relocation you’re planning.
  • Get multiple estimates: Reliable Salinas movers provide free estimates, so take advantage. Be sure to get quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and score the best deal for your move.

Every Salinas moving company on our list has been handpicked by the moveBuddha team for their outstanding service and reliability.

Need movers anywhere in the state? Check out our list of the best moving companies in California.

Average cost of movers in Salinas, California

Check out the table below for estimated prices on local moves in and around Salinas. Want more details? Head over to our guide on the cost to move in California for a deeper dive into moving expenses.

These price ranges are just averages — what you’ll actually pay can vary a lot based on the details of your move. For a more precise estimate, try our moving cost calculator.

You can also check out our moving cost calculator for more accurate moving cost estimate.

Local moving costs in Salinas

If you’re relocating within 50 miles of Salinas, it’s considered a local move. When you rent a truck here, expect to pay a base fee of $ 19 to $ 39, plus a mileage fee that falls between $ 0.89 and $ 1.39 per mile.

Looking for some moving help? In Salinas, you can hire movers for just $140 per hour.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $499 $196 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $695 $196 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,125 $274 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $2,607 $384 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $2,991 $384 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $4,607 $538 5 movers 10 hours

Factors that affect the cost of your move

  • Distance: How much you’ll pay to move in Salinas depends mostly on your destination. If you’re staying within 50 miles of Salinas, expect lower costs compared to a long-distance move — like heading 450 miles across California.
  • Move size: The more belongings you’re bringing, the higher your moving bill will be. Larger loads mean bigger trucks and bigger price tags. If you’re heading out of Salinas for a long-distance or interstate move, expect the moving company to price your move based on the weight and volume of your things. Try decluttering and downsizing to lighten your load and lower your costs.
  • Moving method: Full-service movers tend to cost the most, while renting a truck is usually your cheapest bet. Just be sure to weigh what you’re getting for the price — saving money isn’t worth it if you end up missing out on the support you really need for your move.
  • Additional services: Whichever type of move you choose, expect to pay extra for add-ons like packing services, help with heavy lifting, and full insurance coverage.
  • The time of the year: Moving between May and September — also known as peak season — usually means higher prices and less availability due to increased demand. If you can, schedule your move from October to April to snag better rates.

FAQs

Is a permit needed for parking during a local move in Salinas?

Residential Permit Parking Districts limit on-street parking to residents with a permit, initiated by resident petitions, requiring a certified petition, parking study, community meetings, Traffic and Transportation Commission review, and City Council approval.

For info on parking permits in Salinas, check out the local DOT website.

How can I save money when hiring a Salinas moving company?

You can save money when hiring a Salinas mover by planning your moving date outside of peak season, which runs from May through September. Moving during the week and between October and April come with the greatest savings.

There are other ways to negotiate your moving costs, including asking a company about any moving discounts or deals that may apply to you.

Do moving companies in Salinas provide storage services?

Absolutely! Most movers in Salinas provide both short- and long-term storage solutions. Some companies have their own storage facilities, while others team up with third-party warehouses. Be sure to ask about a mover’s storage options and get a quote for any extra costs.

If your Salinas moving company doesn’t provide storage—or if you need extra services—contact at least three of the best self-storage companies to compare options. Be sure to check out self-storage prices before making your decision.

Read our guide to decide if you should use your mover's storage solutions.

How can I see a list of all moving companies in California?

Explore every moving company in California by checking out our complete list of California movers.

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