Cheapest Movers in San Carlos, CA (2025 Guide)

Quick answer: Out of 277 movers in California, we found Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. to be the best option for local moves in San Carlos, CA, based on key areas like pricing, services, and reviews. Our go-to choice for long-distance or out-of-state moves from California is Safeway Moving, since they consistently deliver quality service at a fair price.

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6 Cheapest movers when moving locally in San Carlos, CA

Whether you're planning a move within San Carlos or relocating to a nearby California city like Belmont or Redwood City (both under 50 miles away), we’ve rounded up some of the best local movers that combine solid reputations with affordable pricing.

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Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.86 out of 5 stars

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/EagleMovingStorage/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (29%)
  • Professional and polite staff (27%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (32%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (29%)
  • Lack of communication (26%)
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 3670248


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/ChipmanRelocation/, https://twitter.com/chipmanrelo
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
https://www.facebook.com/norcalmoving, https://twitter.com/norcalmoving
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
https://www.facebook.com/sanfranciscomovers,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (41%)
  • Professional and polite staff (36%)
  • Careful handling (31%)
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges (24%)
  • Damage to items (20%)
  • Lack of communication (16%)
Review Analysis
Customer stories about Luigy's Moving & Storage highlight a company that stands out for speed, professionalism, careful handling, and friendly, supportive movers. Out of 125 customer reports, 93.6% praise efficient work, courteous teams, precise scheduling, and protected furniture. People frequently mention that staff went out of their way to assist, arriving on time and wrapping or moving items safely. While most input speaks highly of dependable service and fair pricing, a few negative reports cite unexpected extra charges, missing belongings, and unresolved insurance concerns. These serious criticisms were rare compared to industry averages but are important for transparency. Compared to other movers, Luigy's receives above-average marks for reliability, staff demeanor, and minimizing stress on moving day.
Get a Quote (415) 413-4646

Company Info

State license #: 0192210

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 02740355


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantmove
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

Other local CA moverstoggle

While these local California movers did not make our top list, they are still worth looking into:

Cheapest movers when moving out of California

Moving from California to another state involves more than just packing boxes. You’ll also need the support of an experienced moving team. These interstate moving companies have the know-how and manpower to make your move as easy as possible:

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
  3. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned

Cheapest DIY moving options in San Carlos, CA

Choosing a full-service mover for your San Carlos, California move is definitely the most convenient option, but it’s also usually the priciest. If you’re looking to cut costs, consider going with one of the top moving container companies. Or, check out moving truck rental companies in San Carlos instead.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts

Top-rated movers in other nearby California cities

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How we chose the best movers in San Carlos, CAtoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 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.

Average cost of movers in San Carlos, 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 San Carlos 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 $619 $266 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $896 $266 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,476 $380 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $3,603 $538 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $4,063 $533 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $6,165 $730 5 movers 10 hours

Compare the top San Carlos, CA movers

Let’s compare how the top movers in San Carlos, CA stack up in terms of their reputation.

Company moveBuddha rating BBB rating Yelp rating Google rating
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. 4.9/5 A+ 4.4/5 4.6/5
Chipman Relocation & Logistics 4.8/5 A- 3.6/5 4.2/5
NOR-CAL Moving Services 4.8/5 A+ 3.1/5 4.5/5
Luigy's Moving & Storage 4.8/5 A+ 4.7/5 4.6/5
Gentle Giant Moving Company 4.7/5 A+ 4.7/5 5/5
Ontrack Moving, LLC 4.7/5 A+ 4.9/5 4.8/5
AMS Bekins 4.5/5 A+ 3.3/5 4.5/5
Careful Movers 4.4/5 B+ 4.8/5 4.7/5
Zapt Movers 4.3/5 C- /5 4.4/5
Movee Me LLC 4.2/5 A+ 3/5 4.8/5

FAQs

How can I verify if my mover is legally licensed?toggle

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.

Every mover featured in our guide is fully licensed. Check out our best movers in California page for top picks.

What’s the best way to find a trustworthy San Carlos mover?toggle

Finding a dependable San Carlos moving company can be a challenge, but there are a few key things that can help you identify a reputable mover:

  • Reputation: A strong reputation is important, whether the mover is a small local business or a well-established van lines company.
  • Dispute resolution: Steer clear of movers with a track record of unresolved complaints. While every San Carlos mover may encounter customer issues, the best ones handle disputes quickly and professionally.
  • Experience with your type of move: Great reviews for short moves don’t guarantee success on a cross-country relocation. Make sure the mover has handled moves like yours before.

Can San Carlos movers help with long-distance relocations?toggle

Some moving companies in San Carlos offer long-distance services, while others stick to local moves only. If you're planning an out-of-state move, check out our list of the best long distance movers in San Carlos.

When is the most affordable day to hire movers in San Carlos, CA?toggle

Movers in San Carlos, California, are usually cheapest on weekdays, as weekends tend to be busier and more expensive. Typically, the most affordable time to move falls between October and April. Moving costs spike between May and September due to high demand during peak season.

It’s best to book your San Carlos move early. To save money, try to avoid weekends, holidays, and peak summer months. And remember, a low initial quote isn’t always a good sign. Some movers increase the price on moving day after low-balling up front.

How can I move out of state from San Carlos, CA on a budget?toggle

If you're looking to save money, renting a moving truck is the most affordable way to move out of state or even locally within San Carlos, California. It’s a DIY solution, though, so you’ll be responsible for packing, loading, unloading, and doing all the driving.

Is using a moving container a smart choice for my move from San Carlos?toggle

Moving containers give you the flexibility to move on your schedule, but you’ll need to handle all the lifting and loading yourself. Once everything is packed, the container company will take care of transporting it to your new home, so you can skip the hassle of driving a moving truck.

Can I get help loading my moving container in San Carlos?toggle

If you’re going the DIY route with a rental truck or container, labor-only moving companies are a great way to get some extra help. Hiring professionals to assist with loading and unloading can lighten the workload and speed up the process.

Can I get storage from San Carlos moving companies?toggle

Many San Carlos movers offer both short- and long-term storage options. Some companies may rely on third-party storage facilities, so be sure to ask how and where your belongings will be stored. It’s a good idea to confirm availability and costs when comparing movers.

Learn more: Should you use your mover's storage solutions?

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