The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Santa Cruz, 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.
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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Preferred partners

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
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:

  • 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 Santa Cruz for those moving out of state

If you’re moving out of California, here are our top picks for best interstate moving companies in Santa Cruz:

Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
(866) 935-3437
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
Best customer service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
(855) 929-4120
At A Glance
  • 10% discount for veterans and seniors
  • Very competitive rates due to their national coverage
  • Services local, long-distance, and international moves
  • Can service most domestic moves within 48 hours
  • 24/7 customer service
read our full review
(855) 929-4120
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 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 long-distance movers in Santa Cruz for those staying in state

Even if you’re just relocating from Santa Cruz to another California city, your move could still be a couple hundred miles or more. In that case, you’ll want to hire one of the top long-distance movers.

Here are the best long-distance moving companies that are located within Santa Cruz:

Preferred Partner
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/EagleMovingStorage/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication
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/BestCAMovers/, https://x.com/BestCAMovers_
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Overly complex pricing
  • Misleading marketing
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
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/allreasonsmoving/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Unfriendly or rude staff
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
https://www.facebook.com/LambertAndSonMovingCompany/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Lack of communication
  • Damage to items
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—that’s the takeaway from 336 customer reviews of Lambert & Son Moving. Nearly 96% of feedback praised the team’s efficient service, professional attitude, careful handling of belongings, quick moving process, and clear communication. People noted that the company stays on schedule and treats property with respect, helping customers go through even complex or last-minute moves without stress. Rates were described as fair, estimates accurate, and the booking process direct. While most reviewers called out the movers’ positive attitudes and helpfulness, a small share of customers experienced communication issues, especially with unreturned calls or inquiry follow-up. A few mentioned damage to items during moves or issues with missing belongings, particularly related to special circumstances like third-party transport. Compared with the industry, Lambert & Son’s consistently positive input, flexible service, and reputation for care and reliability put them ahead of many local and national competitors in customer satisfaction.
Get a Quote (831) 420-0419

Company Info

State license #: 0189973

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3528657


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/fairpricemovers/, https://twitter.com/FairpriceMovers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unclear policies
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Reliable, quick, and caring—feedback for Fairprice Movers points to a standout moving company. Out of 63 reviews analyzed, an impressive 97% praised the movers for speed, careful handling, professionalism, solid communication, and budget-friendly pricing. Most reports mention staff showing up on time, working efficiently, and treating belongings with respect. Customers found booking straightforward and appreciated transparent quotes, noting few surprises when it came to prices. Unlike many moving companies that receive complaints about lost or damaged items, Fairprice Movers consistently delivered worry-free experiences. In rare neutral comments, customers wished for better up-front info about payment discounts. Compared to others in the industry, Fairprice Movers wins repeated recommendations from realtors, students, and families—earning a reputation for hassle-free, affordable, and considerate service.
Get a Quote (831) 440-7939

Company Info

State license #: 0190880

Years in Business: 2

DOT #: 2192738


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 Santa Cruz for small moves

Many full-service moving companies have a 3,000-pound minimum requirement and may not be able to help you if you are moving a college dorm or studio apartment — or have decided to just take a few items with you.

In that case, you might be better off going with a long-distance company in Santa Cruz that specializes in small moves.

Here are our top suggestions:

Best for Small Moves
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 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
best for small moves
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 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 Santa Cruz

A moving container can be a great solution if you want to save a little money on your move from Santa Cruz 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 two companies:

Best Nationwide Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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
Check prices
Best value container
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 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

Labor-only moving companies in Santa Cruz

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

Here’s who we suggest:

Best Labor Only
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 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
Best customer experience
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(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
(866) 774-5063

Rental trucks in Santa Cruz 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 Cruz costs $19–$39 a day for a truck rental, plus a per-mile fee of $0.89–$1.39.

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

Best Availability
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 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
Most Reliable
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 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

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Santa Cruz, CAtoggle

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 Cruz

The average cost for professional movers in Santa Cruz is $99 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 Cruz

  1. How far you’re moving: Distance is the most impactful cost factor. Naturally, the farther you are moving, the more it will cost. Relocating a couple hundred miles from Santa Cruz to another California city will not be as expensive as a cross-country move.
  2. The moving option you choose: Your costs will vary significantly depending on whether you choose a full-service mover, a moving container, or a rental truck. Every move is different, so balance your needs and your budget when deciding on the best relocation method.
  3. The amount of belongings you have: Movers determine cost by the total estimated weight of your household items and furnishings, so be sure to itemize your belongings to get the most accurate quote. You may also want to consider downsizing before moving out of Santa Cruz to reduce your moving expenses.
  4. Any add-on services you choose: Additional services like third-party labor assistance or packing and unpacking help are convenient, but they will also contribute to your total moving costs.
  5. When you move: The time of the year, month, and even week can all affect what you pay. Summer moves are typically more expensive because they are the busiest season for movers. Moving between October and April can be more cost-effective. Mid-month and mid-week moves are also cheaper, since most people tend to move on the weekends around the start or end of the month.

To give you an accurate estimate, we’ve created a moving cost calculator to help you get a good idea of your long-distance move cost. Plus, we’ve put together a detailed post all about moving costs in Santa Cruz.

FAQs

What else should I know about moving out of California?toggle

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 of the Santa Cruz 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 Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move document from the FMCSA.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving out of Santa Cruz?toggle

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Santa Cruz is going to be the most cost-effective approach. If you’re moving out of California, using a national moving company comes with more experience, which may cost a bit more.

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

Moving companies in Santa Cruz are usually slower in November and December due to the average winter low of 40°F, 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 Santa Cruz?toggle

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Santa Cruz. The cheapest options for moving out of the Surf City 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.

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