Quick answer: A move from Montgomery to Lancaster costs $1,682–$10,149 and takes six to 17 days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you're moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 2,100-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Lancaster to Montgomery guide.

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 Movers By Type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best Professional Movers from Montgomery to Lancaster

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Montgomery to go to Lancaster can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 33 Alabama movers and listed the top 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.

Local moving companies servicing Montgomery to Lancaster moves

When planning a move from Montgomery to Lancaster, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Montgomery who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Montgomery to Lancaster.

  1. Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Admiral Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. McCorquodale Transfer: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. C & R Movers, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/colemanallied, https://twitter.com/colemanallied
63% of all reviews were positive
25% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and standout service describe much of the feedback for Coleman Worldwide Moving, with 63% of reviews giving glowing input. Customers repeatedly praised the professionalism of the staff, clear and regular communication, and careful attention to belongings. Many moves proceeded efficiently and quickly, earning appreciation for coordinators who ensured everything ran smoothly.
On the flip side, 25% of reviewers reported serious issues such as items arriving damaged, significant delivery delays, or poor communication throughout their moves. These issues stand out more sharply than in reviews for other moving companies, affecting high-value or irreplaceable possessions. While many praised courteous, experienced teams, several customers described instances of unprofessional or unskilled local help leading to mishandled items. The company’s strength in reliability and professionalism often earns high regard, but recurring complaints about delays and item damage set it apart from the highest-rated movers. Neutral feedback, though less frequent, usually centered on facility logistics rather than service. In summary, those prioritizing friendly, efficient teams and strong communication will likely be satisfied, but anyone with fragile or high-value items should clarify care and delivery expectations up front.
Show more
Get a Quote (877) 693-7060

Company Info

State license #: 457

Years in Business: 111

DOT #: 2897746

Alternate Names: Covan World-Wide Moving, Inc., Coleman American Moving Services, Coleman World Group, LLC, Coleman Worldwide Moving, Covan Worldwide Moving


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/admiralmovers/, https://x.com/AdmiralMovers1
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Admiral Movers stands out for fast service and genuine professionalism. Out of 225 customer feedback entries reviewed, 213 were positive—far above the industry average—highlighting Admiral's skilled, respectful staff and how quickly and carefully moves are handled. Many reviews describe movers going out of their way to protect furniture and homes, making the process smooth and reducing stress for both residential and business clients.
Customers appreciate the crew's politeness, attention to detail, and willingness to accommodate tough schedules, which helps them stay ahead of most moving companies. A few complaints mention broken items, last-minute price increases, or delays; some noted confusion over estimates or slow follow-up after issues. Still, most feedback praised Admiral for being organized, responsive, and treating belongings as if they were their own—a reputation that makes repeat business and referrals common for this mover.
Show more
Get a Quote (334) 262-6666

Company Info

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 1254788


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063763082456&ref=ts, https://twitter.com/mtmoves
91% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about McCorquodale Transfer for its professionalism, careful handling of belongings, and efficient, stress-free moving process. Many highlight the team’s courteous attitude and timely delivery, setting this company apart from typical moving services. People who moved valuable antiques and high-end items often report damage-free results and recommend the company to others.
Pricing is noted as reasonable by several clients. On the other hand, a handful of customers had significant problems with item damage and encountered poor complaint resolution, particularly around insurance coverage and payout fairness. Slow or lacking communication after damage also frustrated some clients. The extremely high proportion of positive customer feedback distinguishes McCorquodale Transfer from many competitors, though the serious nature of reported issues points to areas for improvement in claims responsiveness and transparency.
Show more
Get a Quote (334) 202-9059

Company Info

State license #: 3783

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 713589

Alternate Names: McCorquodale Transfer Warehouse Division


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/crmovers, https://twitter.com/moverscr
71% of all reviews were positive
25% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
C & R Movers, LLC receives strong praise for their professional staff, speed, careful handling of items, and competitive rates. Seventy-one percent of the 52 customer reviews were positive, with many noting polite movers and fast service. Clients often mention timely arrivals, efficiency, and respectful treatment of belongings—qualities that set this company above most local competitors.
Some customers also appreciate the fair and affordable pricing compared to other movers. In contrast, a quarter of the feedback reports trouble reaching the company, last-minute cancellations, inconsistent communication, and in rare cases, damage or lost items. While professionalism and efficiency drive recommendations, ongoing complaints about communication and reliability suggest the business should address these gaps to maintain its lead in customer satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (334) 233-6766

Company Info

State license #: 4043

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2813027


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/MotivatedMoversBirmingham, https://twitter.com/MMoversBham
89% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for Motivated Movers, Inc. consistently highlights speedy, professional, and courteous service, with staff often going above expectations to ensure items arrive safely and moves finish on time. Out of 406 reviews analyzed, nearly 90% offered strong praise and cited careful handling, polite crew members, affordable rates, and a quick, efficient process as standout qualities. Customers frequently mention the company’s ability to manage complex or large moves without damage, and their movers’ friendly, responsive attitude compares favorably to other moving services in the region.
Some negative input, about 10%, centers on damaged items, poor communication, or episodes of unprofessional behavior—issues that fall short of the high standards set by most crews. Damage complaints and communication lapses appear most often in these reviews, emphasizing the need for consistent quality across all teams. Only a fraction of feedback falls into the neutral range, with most remarks either enthusiastically positive or voicing strong dissatisfaction due to service problems. Motivated Movers stands out for efficiency and professionalism, but, as with many moving companies, ensuring every team upholds these strengths could further minimize complaints.
Show more
Get a Quote (334) 221-1222

Company Info

Years in Business: 18


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Montgomery to Lancaster?

Montgomery movers charge $133 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,643 - $6,776 $1,520 - $3,505 $1,464 - $2,912
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,621 - $10,149 $2,543 - $5,302 $1,682 - $3,535
4+ bedrooms $8,834 - $14,336 $3,525 - $7,091 $2,144 - $4,459
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,100 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Alabama to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Alabama to California will cost between $1,643 and $6,776. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from AL to CA will range from $4,621 to $10,149, and a large move from Alabama to California will cost from $8,834 to $14,336.

Cost of moving containers from Alabama to California

If you're relocating from Alabama to California, you'll typically spend between $1,520 and $3,505 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,543 up to $5,302. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,525 and $7,091. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to California

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,464 to $2,912. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,682 to $3,535, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Alabama to California costs around $2,144 to $4,459.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors influencing moving costs from Montgomery to Lancastertoggle

The cost of Montgomery movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Montgomery to Lancaster might cost just $1,643 for a one-bedroom, but up to $13,087 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Montgomery, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,464 and $3,991, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Montgomery to Lancaster

Moving from Montgomery to Lancaster comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Lancaster is generally more expensive than Montgomery, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Montgomery Lancaster
Average rent cost $1,200 $2,600
Average home value $140,563 $473,053
Average income (per capita) $49,989 $74,723
Cost of living (single person) $1,651 $2,540
Cost of living (family of 4) $3,569 $5,562
Unemployment rate 5.8% 15.6%
Sales tax 10.0% 10.25%
State income tax 5.0% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Lancaster, since prices are typically 117% higher than in Montgomery.
  • The home prices in Lancaster are 236.5% higher than in Montgomery, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Lancaster, where incomes are, on average, 49.5% higher than in Montgomery. Major employers in Lancaster include Antelope Valley Hospital, Antelope Valley Union High School District, and Lancaster School District.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Lancaster, since the cost of living for a single person in Lancaster is 53.8% higher than in Montgomery. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Lancaster, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Lancaster is 55.8% higher than in Montgomery.
  • The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 168.97% higher than in Montgomery.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Lancaster, since its sales taxes are 2.50% higher than what you are paying in Montgomery.
  • State income taxes in Lancaster are 166.00% higher than in Montgomery.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,615.38 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Montgomery.

How life is different in Montgomery vs. Lancaster

Lancaster Montgomery
Population 173,516 200,603
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 2
Walkability score 29 26
Bike friendliness score 40 33
Crime Index 45.5 65.25
Safety Index 54.5 34.75
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Lancaster might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 14% less than Montgomery.
  • Getting around Lancaster without a car might be more difficult than in Montgomery. Lancaster has a public transportation score of 0 out of 10, whereas Montgomery is ranked 2. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • You'll find Lancaster to be about as walkable as Montgomery. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 29 and 26 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
  • If cycling is your thing, Lancaster is considered more bike-friendly than Montgomery in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Lancaster has a bike-friendliness score of 40 out of 100, while Montgomery is rated as 33 out of 100.
  • Lancaster has a lower crime rate than Montgomery based on scores of 45.5 and Montgomery's 65.25, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Lancaster than in Montgomery, based on Lancaster's safety index of 54.5 versus 34.75 for Montgomery. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Lancaster has better air quality than in Montgomery. Lancaster has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Montgomery. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your Montgomery vs. Lancaster move

  • Weather: If you're looking to move to Lancaster, consider doing this on the months of May, October and April. Summers are hot and nearly rainless while winter could be mildly cold.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Lancaster. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Lancaster

Now that you've chosen as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Lancaster to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Lancaster
  • Central Lancaster
  • East Lancaster
  • College Terrace
  • Skytower Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Quartz Hill
  • West Lancaster
  • Rancho Vista
  • Brentwood
  • El Dorado

Things to do in Lancaster

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what Lancaster has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Lancaster is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Lancaster Museum of Art & History, Western Hotel Museum, and Boyle Heights History Studios & Tours.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Apollo Community Regional Park, Saddleback Butte State Park, and Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Montgomery to Lancaster?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Montgomery to Lancaster. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Montgomery.

When is the cheapest time to move from Montgomery to Lancaster?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Montgomery to Lancaster moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Montgomery to Lancaster take?

Covering 2,100 miles, the move from Montgomery, AL to Lancaster, CA typically takes six to 17 days. Some Montgomery movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lancaster can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources