Best Movers Near Santa Monica, CA (2025 Guide)

Quick answer: Out of 277 movers in California, we found Best California Movers to be the best option for local moves in Santa Monica, 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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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
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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

6 Cheapest movers when moving locally in Santa Monica, CA

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

Preferred Partner
Best California Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087595352355&locale=hi_IN&paipv=0&eav=AfYl3F1baf7dYlytsT1vJ4qqCMxR61WJia7PWnVIv-foWa4O8Sx9Pd5Y4ZdlGSffqCU, https://x.com/BestCAMovers_
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Transparent pricing
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
  • Inaccurate estimates
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—that’s how customers describe Best California Movers. After analyzing 414 reviews, 98.3% of all input gave positive marks for efficient service, careful handling, polite staff, quick moves, and clear pricing with no surprise charges. Customers often mention the company sets higher standards compared to other movers, especially with speed and ensuring belongings stay safe. A handful of negative reviews highlight problems such as item damage, slow or frustrating complaint responses, and some inaccurate estimates. Negative feedback is rare but should be noted if you worry about claims or high-value items. Most feedback points to a moving service that is fast, reliable, honest, and delivers what it promises.
Get a Quote (213) 377-5776

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/abcmovingsystems, https://twitter.com/abcmovingsystem
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Careful handling
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unprofessional behavior
Review Analysis
Movers who hustle and deliver—customer input shows ABC Moving Systems stands out for fast, skilled, and friendly service. Out of 322 feedbacks, 92.5% are positive, making ABC Moving one of the most highly rated in the industry. Clients consistently highlight efficient crews, professional behavior, speedy moves, careful handling, and excellent communication. Many found the booking process simple and reported transparent pricing, with several customers saying final costs were at or below initial quotes. Still, a small percentage of users experienced item damage, higher-than-expected costs, or unprofessional conduct, especially during complex jobs or with high-value items. These negative incidents receive more emphasis here than at many competitors. Most neutral accounts mention minor billing issues or less professional temporary staff, but they still respect the core team’s reliability. With glowing recommendations outpacing complaints, ABC Moving ranks among the most dependable movers for those seeking a swift, safe move with courteous staff.
Get a Quote (310) 746-3376

Company Info

State license #: 178603

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 2437030

Alternate Names: A B C Moving & Storage, ABC Office Moving Systems, ABC MSC Moving and Storage Systems


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/sosmoving.net/, https://twitter.com/SosMoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Unfriendly or rude staff
Review Analysis
From start to finish, SOS Moving, LLC leaves most customers raving about fast, careful, and efficient moves—1,560 reviews were analyzed, with nearly 94% of feedback being positive. People often highlight how staff work quickly while keeping belongings safe, show up on time, communicate clearly, and make stressful moves easier. Attendants are regularly described as professional and polite, and efficient teamwork stands out compared to many competing companies. Some negative input centers on damaged items, surprise extra charges, or staff being rude, though these experiences are much less frequent. When issues do arise, customers sometimes report slow claims or unsatisfactory resolutions. Compared to typical moving companies, SOS Moving garners a notably higher proportion of satisfied feedback, especially for speed and carefulness. Most find prices fair for the trustworthy, courteous service received. Fewer reviews describe genuinely mixed or neutral experiences, with only minor check-in or professionalism complaints. SOS Moving consistently outperforms in professionalism, speed, and attention to care, but customers should still confirm details and insurance options in advance.
Get a Quote (909) 324-5535

Company Info

State license #: 0192140

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3398018


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/simplemoving.us/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Straightforward moves and fast service are what set Simple Moving Inc. apart, according to nearly all of the 1,355 pieces of customer feedback analyzed—over 95% rated their experience as positive. Customers routinely praise the team's efficiency, careful handling, professional and polite staff, as well as strong communication. Many highlight a quick moving process where items are protected and tasks completed within or under quoted timeframes. Transparent pricing helps remove stress, while friendly and highly organized crews make for a seamless experience. On the flip side, a small portion of feedback mentions damage to items, occasional delays with arrival or during moves, and some reported unexpected or unclear charges. These negative experiences appear in about 3% of the input—lower than what is typical for similar companies. In comparison, Simple Moving Inc.'s volume of consistently positive feedback, especially about speed, care, and communication, places them above many competitors in the moving industry. Anyone considering a move will likely find that this company delivers reliable, hard-working crews with attention to detail and respect for property, though potential customers should stay attentive to billing details and clarify expectations to minimize surprises.
Get a Quote (888) 588-4118

Company Info

State license #: 0191762

Pricing: $119/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3126394


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/royalmovingcompany/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unprofessional behavior
Review Analysis
Moving with Royal Moving & Storage feels like a breeze for most, as shown by 546 feedback entries—more than 95% praise their efficiency and care. Customers consistently highlight the organized, professional attitude, careful handling of belongings, prompt arrivals, and open communication. Many users found the team quick, polite, and easy to work with; others valued clear upfront pricing and quotes that avoided hidden fees, making the cost structure more transparent than many moving companies. Some feedback also notes flexible scheduling and responsive service, which isn't as common among industry competitors. The most common downsides include occasional item damage, rare delays, and a few accounts of unprofessional staff or poor behavior—issues not unique to Royal but still important to watch for when selecting movers. While negative feedback is minimal, it often mentions serious incidents, such as significant damage or communication lapses, reminding customers to verify details up front. Compared to similar companies, Royal stands out for its consistent care, fast and safe process, and overall customer satisfaction.
Get a Quote (424) 500-2221

Company Info

State license #: 0191476

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2894555

Alternate Names: Royal Moving Co., Royal Moving and Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/h2hmoversLA/, https://twitter.com/h2hmoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
H2H Movers Inc receives high marks for making moving much easier than expected. After analyzing 613 pieces of customer feedback, 86.8% were positive. Most praised the efficiency of service, polite and professional movers, and the careful handling of belongings. Others valued the speed of the process and frequent communication before and during moves. Customers frequently enjoyed stress-free moves completed quickly, often for less than the estimated price. Some reviews specifically noted that H2H manages logistics with precision and care, often exceeding what competitors offer, especially with responsiveness and skill. In contrast, a small but consistent group reported negative experiences: damaged or lost items, delays in arrival or delivery, and unexpected upcharges. A few reviewers mentioned that communication after an issue could be slow or lacking. Most neutral feedback included minor problems such as missing items, unclear fees, or crews that were less organized, but often also described management efforts to resolve complaints. H2H Movers stands out from other moving companies for reliability, consistent professionalism, and efficiency; though some customers experienced damage or delays, the overwhelming majority found the experience affordable, careful, and courteous.
Get a Quote (213) 784-0373

Company Info

State license #: 0192046

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 2428328


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

If you're relocating from California to a new state, choosing a trusted interstate moving company is key to making the transition smooth. Here are a few of our top picks to get you started:

  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 Santa Monica, CA

Choosing a full-service mover for your Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica, CA

Use the pricing table below to get a general sense of what local moving costs look like in and around Santa Monica. If you want more in-depth info, check out our full guide on moving costs in California.

Keep in mind that the moving quotes provided are just rough estimates. Your actual cost will depend on the specifics of your move. For a more accurate estimate, use our moving cost calculator.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $354 $133 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $473 $137 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $798 $194 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $1,769 $266 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $2,051 $263 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $3,158 $380 5 movers 10 hours

Compare the top Santa Monica, CA movers

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

Company moveBuddha rating BBB rating Yelp rating Google rating
ABC Moving Systems 4.7/5 A+ 4.3/5 4.9/5
SOS Moving, LLC 4.7/5 F 4.8/5 4.9/5
Simple Moving Inc. 4.6/5 A+ 4.8/5 4.8/5
Royal Moving & Storage 4.5/5 A 4.8/5 4.9/5
H2H Movers Inc 4.5/5 A+ 4.3/5 4.6/5
Green Mountain Moving & Storage 4.5/5 NR 4.7/5 4.9/5
5 Star Moving 4.5/5 A+ 4.8/5 4.8/5
Sinatra Movers 4.5/5 F 4.8/5 4.8/5
Trek Movers 4.4/5 F 4.7/5 4.9/5
Starving Students 4.2/5 NR 2.6/5 5/5

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 Santa Monica mover?toggle

Finding a dependable Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica movers help with long-distance relocations?toggle

Some moving companies in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica.

When is the most affordable day to hire movers in Santa Monica, CA?toggle

Movers in Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica?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 Santa Monica?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 Santa Monica moving companies?toggle

Many Santa Monica 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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