The Best Long-Distance Movers in San Marcos, CA

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best long-distance movers in San Marcos for those moving out of state

A move from San Marcos to another state calls for a reliable long-distance mover. We've highlighted the companies that consistently deliver great service across state lines.

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
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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
Licensedcheckmark
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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
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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
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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 long-distance movers in San Marcos for those staying in state

Are you moving from San Marcos 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 San Marcos, CA, movers:

Preferred Partner
Best California Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars

https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day stress gets left behind with Best California Movers, according to an overwhelming 1,177 reviews—of which 98.5% were positive. Customers repeatedly point out efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moving, and excellent communication—attributes not seen as consistently in most moving companies. Feedback shows that belongings arrive safe and undamaged, with movers working swiftly and showing courtesy at every stage. Many notice that clear communication and transparent pricing make the process easier, and crews are praised for problem-solving in tough situations. A handful of reviewers, though, cite incidents involving damaged items, unexpected charges from inaccurate price quotes, or difficulty with claims and follow-up. These lapses are rare compared to industry averages but noteworthy for those prioritizing accountability. While neutral reviews mention minor flaws with after-move support, they still highlight professionalism and care by the moving teams. Compared to other moving services, Best California Movers stands out for reliability, speed, and the personal touch so often missing in the industry.
Get a Quote (858) 997-2487

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

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/OakleyRelocation, https://twitter.com/oakleyrelo
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Oakley Relocation showcases consistent professionalism, efficient service, and care for customer belongings, with 93% of reviews being positive across 229 total inputs. Clients frequently describe the staff as polite, effective, and reliable, often highlighting quick and seamless moves, attentive communication, and careful handling of items. Many mention that the employees go out of their way to make the moving process less stressful, offering peace of mind from start to finish. On the flip side, a small number of clients experienced significant problems, most commonly citing damage to items, difficulty reaching the company when issues arose, or unexpected charges. Compared to similar moving companies, Oakley earns standout marks for staff professionalism and speed, but the occasional unresolved damage claim or communication gap keeps a small number of users from full satisfaction.
Get a Quote (858) 602-1756

Company Info

State license #: 0190480

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/CaliMoving/,
88% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Experience a move that’s a step ahead—Cali Moving & Storage Corp stands out in San Diego thanks to almost 88% positive feedback from 452 reviews. Customers most often praise the team’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and budget-friendly prices. Many report quick and stress-free moves, highlighting courteous workers who safely wrap and transport everything. On the flip side, about one-tenth of feedback calls out damage to items, bills higher than anticipated, or lack of communication when addressing problems. Some describe unexpected costs and difficulties reaching management post-move. Still, in comparison to many moving companies, Cali Moving delivers consistent, reliable results, balancing affordability with impressive care. Most customers recommend them for prompt, skilled, and friendly moving crews who get the job done right.
Get a Quote (619) 764-2680

Company Info

State license #: 0191536

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2947514


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/grizzlymovingsd,
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies. The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/colemanallied, https://x.com/colemanallied
82% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with care and professionalism stands out at Coleman Worldwide Moving. Out of 218 reviews analyzed, 82% reflect positive experiences, with many customers highlighting courteous, efficient crews and frequent, helpful communication. Feedback praises the company’s skillful staff, prompt service, and careful handling of belongings. Customers often mention organized moves and proactive updates, which help ease the stress of relocating. Some report accurate pricing and responsive coordinators, noting these factors set Coleman apart from less reliable competitors. In contrast, the negative feedback centers on damage to items, missing boxes, and communication lapses, resulting in claims frustrations. While most customers enjoy smooth, attentive moves, a minority reports that lost or broken items and claim issues impacted their confidence. Compared to similar companies, Coleman receives consistent praise for professionalism and problem-solving but could improve the moving experience by tightening quality control and claims support.
Get a Quote (877) 693-7060

Company Info

State license #: 0190444

Years in Business: 110

DOT #: 2897746

Alternate Names: Coleman American Moving Services A Georgia Corp


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/MeatheadMovers
84% of all reviews were positive
13% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Meathead Movers feels less like a hassle and more like a well-organized project. After reviewing 529 pieces of customer feedback, 84% express satisfaction with professional, efficient crews known for careful handling and great communication. Most describe staff as polite and reliable, remarking on quick booking and prompt service. Positive input consistently references efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and strong coordination as standout qualities—qualities that set this company apart from many moving firms. Some clients encountered issues, notably with damage to items, underestimates leading to higher costs, and occasional poor packing by certain crews. These concerns represent about 13% of the feedback and highlight areas where attention to detail could be improved. Around 3% of reviews were neutral, often focusing on high costs, inconsistent packing, or small mistakes offset by decent customer support. Compared to most moving companies, Meathead Movers ranks high for service consistency and professionalism, but customers should clarify estimates and discuss special packing needs in advance.
Get a Quote (951) 501-8866

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

Moving services available in San Marcos

Not all moving companies offer extras such as piano moving, antique handling, or climate-controlled storage — and availability varies by region. The comparison below shows how many movers in San Marcos, in the state, and nationwide provide these specialized services. That way, you can easily see whether local or national providers best meet your needs.

Storage

Comparing San Marcos, CA, & national movers

San Marcos
27 (96.43%)
out of 28 total movers
California
281 (88.64%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
2,317 (87.9%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top San Marcos storage movers

Custom-built crates

Comparing San Marcos, CA, & national movers

San Marcos
25 (89.29%)
out of 28 total movers
California
252 (79.5%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
1,721 (65.29%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top San Marcos custom crating movers

Antiques handling

Comparing San Marcos, CA, & national movers

San Marcos
16 (57.14%)
out of 28 total movers
California
201 (63.41%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
1,337 (50.72%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top San Marcos antique movers

Piano loading & unloading

Comparing San Marcos, CA, & national movers

San Marcos
23 (82.14%)
out of 28 total movers
California
263 (82.97%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
2,071 (78.57%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top San Marcos piano movers

Fragile-only packing

Comparing San Marcos, CA, & national movers

San Marcos
11 (39.29%)
out of 28 total movers
California
96 (30.28%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
677 (25.68%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top San Marcos fragile-only packing movers

Specialty art handling

Comparing San Marcos, CA, & national movers

San Marcos
16 (57.14%)
out of 28 total movers
California
199 (62.78%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
1,319 (50.04%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top San Marcos art movers

Best long-distance movers in San Marcos, CA, for small moves

Most professional moving companies won’t take on moves below a certain weight limit. That means small relocations often don’t qualify for their services.

The good news? Some movers specialize in small moves. So if you're heading out of San Marcos with only a few items or a studio’s worth of furniture, check out these recommendations:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • No minimum move size
  • Full-service packing
  • Short-term storage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 34+ yrs experience
  • Online chatbot
  • Car shipping

Moving containers for long-distance moves in San Marcos, CA

Moving containers, or moving pods, make it easy to manage your move from San Marcos on your terms. They’re ideal if you want storage flexibility and the freedom to pack and load at your own speed. Once you're done, the pros take over and transport everything to your new place.

Here are our top picks for moving container companies that handle long-distance moves from San Marcos:

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

Rental trucks in San Marcos, CA for a total DIY long-distance move

Rental trucks often come with the lowest base price for long-distance moves from San Marcos, but they also require the most effort. From packing to driving, you’ll be in charge every step of the way. Don’t forget to factor in hidden costs like fuel, mileage, and tolls—they can make a bigger dent in your budget than expected.

These are our recommended rental truck companies for long-distance relocations:

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
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage

Labor-only moving companies in San Marcos, CA

With labor-only moving services, you get professional help for the hardest parts — lifting, packing, and assembling furniture — while you handle the transportation and supplies. It’s a smart, cost-effective way to lighten the load without going full-service.

Here are a few reliable labor-only movers we recommend for long-distance moves from San Marcos, CA:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.48 / 5
  • Years in Business: 17
  • Yelp: 4.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Comparing the best long-distance movers in San Marcos, CA

Company Our Rating Quote
Safeway Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.85 overall rating
Get A Quote
American Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.5 overall rating
Get A Quote
North American Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.5 overall rating
Get A Quote
Allied Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.75 overall rating
Get A Quote
Mayzlin Relocation starstarstarstarstar
4.9 overall rating
Get A Quote

How we chose the best long-distance movers in San Marcos, 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 San Marcos, CA

Professional movers in California charge around $122 per hour on average. However, even the most reputable interstate moving companies need more details—like how far and how much you're moving—before giving you an accurate quote.

Here’s a look at average long-distance moving costs from San Marcos, CA to major cities:

Destination Distance Home size Cost
Atlanta, GA 2,163 miles 3 bedroom $4,979 - $7,241
Trenton, NJ 2,738 miles 2 bedroom $3,850 - $6,507
Albuquerque, NM 794 miles 1 bedroom $2,084 - $4,509

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

Movers helping you relocate from California must carry proper licensing and a USDOT number. All San Marcos movers on our list meet these standards, but you can confirm this info yourself via the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

Don’t forget to check out the FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move booklet before your interstate move.

Is it better to use local or national movers to relocate from San Marcos?

In San Marcos, 10 movers are available locally, while California has 317 in total. That middle range of options means you can shop around without being overwhelmed. To help, we’ve surfaced the top-rated local moving companies.

For interstate relocations, Safeway Moving remains our go-to recommendation for its reliable nationwide service.

Do movers in San Marcos offer any special discounts?

Some movers in San Marcos provide extra ways to cut costs through different kinds of discounts: 1 companies recognize members of the military with exclusive rates.

Because discounts and eligibility can vary, it’s always smart to double-check with each mover about what offers are currently available.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from San Marcos?

Moving companies in San Marcos 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 San Marcos?

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

Long-distance movers in nearby cities

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