Quick answer: A move from Montgomery to San Jose costs $1,694–$9,174 and takes seven to 18 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 2,372-mile move yourself.

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

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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

Choosing an interstate mover from Montgomery, AL, to San Jose, CA, isn’t as simple as picking the first name you find. In Montgomery, there are 5 companies that can handle that route, each with their own approach, pricing, and service style.

Our team took a close look at every interstate mover in Montgomery, examining service options, costs, and what customers are actually saying in reviews. The result is a carefully curated list of the best long-distance movers in Montgomery you can trust with your Montgomery to San Jose relocation.

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Professional
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Best professional movers from Montgomery to San Jose

For an interstate move from Montgomery to San Jose, choosing a full-service mover means you won’t have to manage the packing, loading, or transport yourself. These companies handle the details so you can concentrate on your schedule and plans for settling in.

Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for full-service movers equipped to get you from Montgomery to San Jose efficiently and with minimal stress.

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

What moving services are available in Montgomery?toggle

Markets differ, and so do mover offerings. Scan this table to compare Montgomery with the broader AL landscape and national totals, helping you spot services that are common versus those that might be tougher to find.

Service Montgomery (Count) Montgomery (%) Alabama (Count) Alabama (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 5 100% 44 100% 2835 98%
Unpacking 4 80% 43 98% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 2 40% 11 23% 717 25%
Packing materials 3 60% 27 60% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 5 100% 39 88% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 2 40% 16 35% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 5 100% 29 65% 1886 65%
Art 3 60% 11 23% 1400 48%
Antiques 3 60% 15 33% 1400 48%
Piano 4 80% 34 77% 2175 75%
Hot tub 2 40% 11 23% 669 23%
Pool table 4 80% 14 30% 943 33%

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 San Jose moves

When planning a move from Montgomery to San Jose, 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 San Jose.

  1. Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. McCorquodale Transfer: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Admiral Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. C & R Movers, LLC: 4.48 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/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/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/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 San Jose?

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 $1,570 - $5,975 $1,454 - $3,503 $1,505 - $2,793
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,156 - $9,174 $2,506 - $5,462 $1,694 - $3,361
4+ bedrooms $7,728 - $14,326 $3,551 - $7,409 $2,078 - $4,333
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,372 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

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Alabama to California typically costs between $1,570 and $5,975. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,156 and $9,174 when moving from AL to CA. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Alabama to California, you're looking at costs ranging from $7,728 up to $14,326.

Cost of moving containers from Alabama to California

If you're moving from Alabama to California, expect to pay between $1,454 and $3,503 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,506 up to $5,462. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,551 and $7,409. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to California

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you'll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you're moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,505 and $2,793. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,694 and $3,361. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,078 and $4,333.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from Montgomery to San Josetoggle

The cost of Montgomery movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Montgomery to San Jose can be as low as $1,570 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,355.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Montgomery so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,505 to $3,953. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Montgomery to San Jose

Moving to San Jose typically means higher monthly totals — roughly 123% more for singles and 134% more for families compared with Montgomery.

Singles spend around $3,674 in San Jose vs. $1,651 in Montgomery, and families see $8,354 vs. $3,569.

Use the breakdown below to plan your budget:

Montgomery San Jose
Average 1 BR rent $1,232 $3,027
Average 3 BR rent $1,567 $5,240
Average home value $140,563 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $49,989 $83,421
Unemployment rate 5.8% 6.6%
Sales tax 10.0% 9.38%
State income tax 5.0% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Jose, since prices are typically 158% higher than in Montgomery.
  • The home prices in San Jose are 934.2% 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 San Jose, where incomes are, on average, 66.9% higher than in Montgomery. Major employers in San Jose include Cisco Systems, Western Digital, and Infineon Technologies.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Jose, since the cost of living for a single person in San Jose is 122.5% higher than in Montgomery. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to San Jose, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 134.1% higher than in Montgomery.
  • The unemployment rate in San Jose is 13.79% higher than in Montgomery.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in San Jose, since the city's sales taxes in San Jose are 6.20% lower than in Montgomery.
  • State income taxes in San Jose are 166.00% higher than in Montgomery.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Montgomery and San Jose, from monthly bills to routine purchases.

Montgomery San Jose
Basic utilities $180 $293.08
Cell phone plan $50.33 $48.44
Dozen eggs $3.99 $4.8
Loaf of bread $1.57 $4.93
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.5 $20.5
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $51.49 $100
Gym membership $37.5 $123.75
  • Basic utilities cost less in Montgomery than in San Jose, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Montgomery than in San Jose.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Montgomery than in San Jose.
  • Bread costs less in Montgomery than in San Jose.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Montgomery than in San Jose.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Montgomery than in San Jose.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Montgomery than in San Jose.

How life is different in Montgomery vs. San Jose

San Jose Montgomery
Population 971,233 200,603
Transportation Score 7 2
Walkability score 51 26
Bike friendliness score 62 33
Crime Index 47.73 65.25
Safety Index 52.27 34.75
Air Quality Moderate Moderate
  • San Jose's population is about 384% greater than Montgomery.
  • San Jose's public transportation has a score of 7 out of 10 versus Montgomery's lower score of 2.
  • San Jose is more walkable than Montgomery with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Montgomery's 26 out of 100.
  • With a score of 62 out of 100, San Jose is more bike-friendly than Montgomery, which has a score of 33 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • San Jose's crime rate is lower than Montgomery with a score of 47.73 compared to Montgomery's 65.25. This means that San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Montgomery neighborhoods are safer than 65.25%.
  • San Jose is considered to be safer than Montgomery with a safety index of 52.27 vs Montgomery's 34.75.
  • Air quality in San Jose is moderate, and in Montgomery it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Montgomery vs. San Jose move

  • Weather: San Jose, like most of the Bay Area, has warm to hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters. The city is somewhat more sheltered from rain, giving it a semi-arid feel
  • 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose

Now that you've decided to make the move to Man Jose, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in San Jose.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Burbank
  • Downtown
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Berryessa
  • Cambrian Park
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Things to do in San Jose

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it's time to see what San Jose is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: San Jose features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children's Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, and New Almaden Mercury Mining Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an San Jose Barracuda (AHL), San Jose Earthquakes (MLS), San Jose Giants (California League), or San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Montgomery to San Jose?

The best time to move from Montgomery to San Jose is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Montgomery.

When is the cheapest time to move from Montgomery to San Jose?

With many people choosing to move from Montgomery to San Jose in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Montgomery to San Jose take?

The 2,372-mile move from Montgomery, AL, to San Jose, CA, takes seven to 18 days. Some Montgomery movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in San Jose.

Which movers in Montgomery offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 4 movers in Montgomery have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 3 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across AL, there are 34 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2175 and 1400.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources