Best Movers Near Santa Monica, CA (2025 Guide)

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Jul 1, 2025 • 5 min read

Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

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.

Preferred partner:

Best California Movers

4.76
Best local CA mover:

ABC Moving Systems

4.72
Best interstate mover:

Safeway Moving

4.85
Best DIY moving option:

U-Haul Truck Rental

4.15

Need more help? Build your move plan.

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Preferred partners

Company	Quote	Rating
Best California Movers	Get A Quote	4.76 / 5
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.85 / 5
International Van Lines	Get A Quote	4.45 / 5

Our track record

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:

ABC Moving Systems: 4.72 out of 5 stars
SOS Moving, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Simple Moving Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Royal Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
H2H Movers Inc: 4.52 out of 5 stars

Best California Movers

7241 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91605 US

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

ABC Moving Systems

1800 Vine St, Ste 330, Los Angeles, CA 90028 US

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

SOS Moving, LLC

5530 Jillson St, Los Angeles, CA 90016 US

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

Simple Moving Inc.

9696 Culver Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90232 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

Royal Moving & Storage

4133 Redwood Ave, Unit 3031, Los Angeles, CA 90066 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
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

H2H Movers Inc

17352 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90272 US

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 movers

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:

Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Safeway Moving

rating

4.85 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Best overall value
Portion to charity
Veteran owned

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

International Van Lines

rating

4.45 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

24/7 cust. service
Competitive rates
10% discounts

Get A Quote

(855) 929-4120

Mayzlin Relocation

rating

4.9 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Family owned
East coast focus
Affordable pricing

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

PODS

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Unlimited storage
3 container sizes
10% discount

Get A Quote

Visit Website

American Van Lines

rating

4.5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Certified crews
Flat-rate pricing
Family-owned

Get A Quote

(866) 835-2392

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.

PODS

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Unlimited storage
3 container sizes
10% discount

Get A Quote

Visit Website

U-Pack

rating

5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Fast delivery
Nationwide
100+ miles moves

Check prices Visit Website

MovingYourself

rating

4.5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Affordable pricing
Offers car shipping
No hidden fees

Check prices (352) 322-2920

Budget Truck Rental

rating

4.3 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Affordable pricing
Online pricing
Several discounts

Check prices Visit Website

Top-rated movers in other nearby California cities

See less

How we chose the best movers in Santa Monica, CA

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?