The Best Long-Distance Movers in Santa Ana, 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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  • 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 Santa Ana when moving out of state

Planning a move out of California? Check out our top choices for the best interstate moving companies in Santa Ana:

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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 Santa Ana when staying in state

A move within California might sound local, but if you’re leaving Santa Ana, you could still be looking at a long haul. That’s where one of the best local long-distance movers can make all the difference.

Below are our top picks for long-distance moving companies based in Santa Ana:

Preferred Partner
Best California Movers

https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication. Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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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/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/meatheadmovers?lang=en
77% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process. On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

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
https://www.facebook.com/maisonmoving/, https://twitter.com/MaisonMoving
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word spreads fast about a moving company that gets the job done. Out of 293 customer reviews, Maison Moving earned high marks, with 84% giving glowing feedback. Customers repeatedly mention the efficiency, professionalism, and care shown by the movers, highlighting strong communication, timely arrivals, and careful handling of belongings. Many found booking straightforward, pricing transparent, and crews helpful and polite. Moving day stresses were often eased by their quick, organized approach. Negative feedback, making up 14% of input, centered on damaged or missing items and rare delays or unprepared crews. Some clients were frustrated by the claims process or communication breakdowns after problems. Only 1% described neutral experiences, usually pointing out minor issues like unexpected fees or average service. Compared to others, Maison Moving stands out for its reliable, efficient service but could improve on accountability and claims handling when things go wrong.
Get a Quote (800) 832-5950

Company Info

State license #: 0190726

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 76628

Alternate Names: Orange County Movers Inc, College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County, Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/bestfitmovers/, https://twitter.com/BestFitMovers
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers at Best Fit Movers deliver speed and professionalism. Analyzing 227 customer reviews, 92.5% reflect favorable experiences, often calling out efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and polite, helpful staff. Many mention quick moving processes and attention to customer needs. On the downside, 7% of feedback notes serious problems, mostly tied to belongings being damaged, prices ending up higher than expected, or crews arriving later than planned. A small slice of feedback highlighted inconsistent communication and issues resolving claims. Customers choosing Best Fit Movers will likely notice a much higher satisfaction rate than found at most moving companies, although the sharpest concerns come from those whose items were damaged or whose final bills differed from what they’d been quoted. For those seeking reliability and fast-moving teams, Best Fit Movers stands out, but a handful of users report major disappointments related to mishandled property or added expenses.
Get a Quote (949) 996-9940

Company Info

State license #: 0191680

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3051481

Alternate Names: Best Fit Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarMoving, https://twitter.com/northstarmoving
94% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day becomes stress-free with NorthStar Moving Company, based on feedback from 68 customers—94% shared strong praise. Their most valued traits include efficient service, careful handling of items, and a professional, helpful crew. Customers frequently highlight the movers’ speed, organization, and willingness to assist with unplanned needs, setting NorthStar apart from other companies. Pricing transparency and reliable scheduling also add extra appeal, while both large and small moves often run smoothly, thanks to teams going above and beyond. Some dissatisfied input focused on hard-to-reach representatives, poor communication, and a few timing issues which caused frustration. Still, negative experiences accounted for less than 5% of all feedback, and most clients endorsed NorthStar for local, long distance, and even last-minute relocations. Compared to other moving companies, NorthStar consistently impresses with attentive teams and smooth execution, making it a top choice for those seeking security and reliability during a move.
Get a Quote (800) 275-7767

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1836576

Alternate Names: NorthStar Moving Corporation


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/terrymoving/, https://twitter.com/terrymovingco
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful. Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

Company Info

State license #: 189603

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 649215

Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc, Richards Moving Company, Orange County Storage Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

What add-on services do Santa Ana movers offer?

Not all moving companies are equipped to handle the same specialty requests. In Santa Ana, the mix of available services can look different from what’s common statewide or nationally.

We break down these differences below so you can see where Santa Ana movers stand compared to California and the rest of the country, followed by our top choices for each service.

Art handling

Comparing Santa Ana, CA, & national movers

Santa Ana
54 (62.07%)
out of 87 total movers
California
199 (62.78%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
1,319 (50.04%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Santa Ana art movers

Junk removal

Comparing Santa Ana, CA, & national movers

Santa Ana
13 (14.94%)
out of 87 total movers
California
55 (17.35%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
875 (33.19%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Fragile-only packing

Comparing Santa Ana, CA, & national movers

Santa Ana
26 (29.89%)
out of 87 total movers
California
96 (30.28%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
677 (25.68%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Santa Ana fragile-only packing movers

Storage

Comparing Santa Ana, CA, & national movers

Santa Ana
75 (86.21%)
out of 87 total movers
California
281 (88.64%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
2,317 (87.9%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Santa Ana storage movers

Hot tub relocation

Comparing Santa Ana, CA, & national movers

Santa Ana
24 (27.59%)
out of 87 total movers
California
108 (34.07%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
628 (23.82%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Santa Ana hot tub movers

Piano moving

Comparing Santa Ana, CA, & national movers

Santa Ana
69 (79.31%)
out of 87 total movers
California
263 (82.97%)
out of 317 total movers
Nationwide
2,071 (78.57%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Santa Ana piano movers

Best long-distance movers in Santa Ana for small moves

If your move is on the lighter side — think dorm room, studio apartment, or just a few personal items — many full-service movers with weight minimums may not be a good fit.

Instead, check out Santa Ana movers that specialize in long-distance small moves.

Here are the ones we recommend:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 30
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.48 / 5
  • Years in Business: 11
  • Yelp: 4.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Santa Ana

A moving container can be a great solution if you want to save a little money on your move from Santa Ana to another California city or out of state. While you will have to handle the heavy lifting, you can load and unload containers at your preferred pace over several days or more. And the container company will still handle the driving for you.

Container costs vary depending on the distance of your move and the size and number of your containers, so it’s good to get multiple moving quotes to compare pricing for your specific relocation.

You can start with these top 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

Labor-only moving companies in Santa Ana

If you don’t mind driving from Santa Ana to your new home, but want some helping hands in terms of loading and unloading, look into labor-only moving companies.

Here’s who we suggest:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 7
  • Yelp: / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 6
  • Yelp: 4.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.48 / 5
  • Years in Business: 11
  • Yelp: 4.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Rental trucks in Santa Ana for a total DIY long-distance move

While you’ll save some money with the two alternatives above, the cheapest way to move out of state is by handling all aspects — the heavy lifting and the driving — yourself. On average, a full DIY move from Santa Ana costs $19–$39 a day for a truck rental, plus a per-mile fee of $0.79–$1.09.

Using moving rental trucks definitely requires the most work, but if budget is your biggest concern, check out these options:

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
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Santa Ana, 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%): 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, expedited delivery, and more.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of long-distance movers in Santa Ana

The average cost for professional movers in Santa Ana is $75 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.

Factors that affect the cost of moving from Santa Ana

  • Type of moving service: Whether you choose a full-service mover, a rental truck, or a container company, each option affects both cost and convenience. Match the method to your budget and how hands-on you want to be.
  • Volume of your belongings: More stuff means more money. Movers base quotes on total weight or space, so downsizing before leaving Santa Ana could help reduce your overall cost.
  • How far you're going: Distance plays a major role in pricing. A short in-state move is far less expensive than a trek across the country from Santa Ana.
  • Move timing: High-demand seasons like summer and weekends drive prices up. If possible, aim for an off-season, mid-month, or mid-week date for a better deal.
  • Extra services requested: Hiring help for packing, disassembly, or unloading adds convenience, but also increases your final bill.

Use our moving cost calculator to get a personalized quote for your long-distance move. Plus, explore our full breakdown of moving costs in Santa Ana.

FAQs

What else should I know about moving out of California?

Planning a move out of California? Make sure your movers are fully licensed and registered with a valid US Department of Transportation number. All of our top picks in Santa Ana meet these standards, so you’re in safe hands. Want to double-check for yourself? You can easily look up any moving company in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

Planning an out-of-state move? Check out the FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move guide to understand what to expect and learn about your protections every step of the way.

Local vs. national movers: what’s best for your Santa Ana move?

If you’re planning a move within Santa Ana or nearby, hiring a local mover is almost always the most economical choice. You’ll have 87 local movers to consider, and we’ve flagged the standouts to make it easier.

For relocations leaving California, however, national movers may be worth the extra cost because of their experience in coordinating long-distance moves across state lines.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Santa Ana?

Moving in Santa Ana during November and December can actually work in your favor. With temperatures around 47°F and fewer people moving because of the holidays and school, moving companies tend to have more availability. This gives you a great opportunity to land discounts and even negotiate for better rates. Don’t miss these tips on how to negotiate with moving companies and save even more.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Santa Ana?

For moves under 50 miles in Santa Ana, doing it yourself is often the most affordable route. Renting a truck from U-Haul or using a moving container service like PODS can help you save a lot. Want even more budget-friendly tips? Take a look at our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

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