Local moving companies in California

  1. Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Grace Moving Company: 4.86 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication.
Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

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/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/MeatheadMovers
85% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—fast, careful, and professional. Across 534 customer accounts, 85% were satisfied with Meathead Movers, who consistently impress with prompt, efficient service, courteous staff, careful attention to belongings, and effective communication. Many point to their speed, skill, and ability to reduce moving stress as unmatched compared to other movers.
Staff go out of their way to ensure everything is handled safely and customers feel supported throughout. Most praise the company’s organization and transparency, with workers often finishing ahead of schedule and providing clear updates. While Meathead stands out for reliability, a number of customers highlighted problems including damage to items, higher-than-expected costs than initial estimates, and issues with packing quality—especially when using packing services. Some experienced final bills much greater than the quotes they received, contributing to frustration. A few customers also reported items arriving broken or poor claim handling after reporting damage. Compared to other moving firms, feedback shows Meathead’s team typically provides a smoother, faster, and friendlier move—but attention to better estimate accuracy and meticulous packing would boost trust even further.
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Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Packers


Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/RepublicMovingStorageSanDiego/, https://twitter.com/sdmovingstorage
75% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
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Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs.
Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic's track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
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Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving, Republic Relocation Services


Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/allstarmoverscal/, https://twitter.com/AllStarCal1
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Raving customers set All Star Movers & Storage apart from the crowd. Out of 421 reviews, 95.7% praised the company for efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, rapid moves, and strong communication. Customers consistently mention that crews show up on time, finish faster than expected, and handle belongings with care.
Staff are courteous, responsive, and easy to work with. A small portion (3.8%) of feedback points to disappointment with estimate accuracy, damage to items, or surprise extra charges. Few reviewers noted moving costs exceeded quotes or felt work was rushed, sometimes resulting in minor damage. Only two customers (0.5%) shared neutral experiences, often related to pricing clarity. Compared to many movers in the region, All Star stands out for hassle-free service, transparent rates, and reliable teams. While a handful of customers experienced issues, the vast majority were relieved by stress-free moves and recommend this company as a top choice.
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Get a Quote (925) 905-9889

Company Info

State license #: 0191302

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2971368


All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Grace-Moving-Company-122466311129611/, https://twitter.com/gracemovingco?lang=da
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team's efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff.
Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
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Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730


Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card

Things to know before moving from California to Tampa, FL

Cost of living: California vs Tampa, FL

California Tampa
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,930
Average home value $771,057 $371,271
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $66,802
Unemployment rate 5% 5%
State income tax 13% 0%
  • Rent is about 4% more expensive in Tampa than in California.
  • Home prices are about 52% lower in Tampa than in California.
  • The average income is about 27% lower in Tampa than in California.
  • Tampa has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 7%.
  • Income taxes are 100% lower in Tampa than in California.

How life is different in Tampa from California

Tampa California
Population 403,364 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 49-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 90ºF 87ºF
Winter low 52ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 51" 22"
Annual snow 0" 7"
Crime index 46.15 28.43
  • The population of Tampa is approximately 99% lower than the population of California.
  • In the last presidential election, Tampa voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in Tampa is 90ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Tampa reaches the temperature of 52ºF and California gets down to 59ºF.
  • You can expect about 51 inches of annual rainfall in Tampa vs 22 inches of rainfall in California.
  • In Tampa, it snows about 0 inches annually vs 7 inches of snow in California.
  • Tampa has a higher crime rate than California with a crime index of 46.15 vs 28.43.

Things to do in Tampa

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Tampa.

Museums in Tampatoggle

  • Glazer Children's Museum
  • Henry B. Plant Museum
  • Tampa Bay History Center
  • Museum of Science and Industry
  • SS American Victory Mariners' Memorial and Museum Ship
  • Tampa Museum of Art
  • Ybor City Museum State Park
  • Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
  • Tampa Firefighters Museum
  • Phoenix Glass Studio & Gott Glass Gallery
  • La Casita House Museum
  • Tampa Police Museum
  • USF Contemporary Art Museum
  • Wandering Eye Art gallery

Parks in Tampatoggle

  • Lettuce Lake Regional Park
  • Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
  • Sparkman Wharf
  • Ballast Point Park
  • Picnic Island Park
  • Cypress Point Park
  • Lowry Park
  • Eureka Springs Park
  • Waterworks Park
  • Davis Island Dog Beach
  • Al Lopez Park
  • Morris Bridge Park
  • Upper Tampa Bay Park
  • Julian B Lane Riverfront Park
  • Jose Marti Park
  • Veterans Memorial Park and Museum

Sports Teams in Tampatoggle

  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
  • Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)
  • Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
  • Tampa Bay Vipers (XFL)
  • Tampa Bay Titans (TBL)
  • Tampa Bay Rowdies (XFL)

Universities in Tampatoggle

  • University of South Florida
  • University of Tampa

Other considerations when moving to Tampa, FL

  • Weather: Tampa's climate generally features hot and humid summers with frequent thunderstorms and dry and mild winters. Tampa seldom feels major effects from tropical storms or hurricanes.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
  • State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Florida moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Florida does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Florida. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover's liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

FAQ

How long does a move from California to Tampa take?

The time frame for a move from California to Tampa, FL, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in California, the longer the drive time to Tampa will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.

With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Tampa from California can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Tampa?

Because of the 2661-mile move, it’s best to book your move from California to Tampa as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Tampa, FL?

With the summer highs of 90ºF and the winter lows of 52ºF, most people move to Tampa from California during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Tampa during summer or winter.

Helpful moving resources