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($1,403) Movers From California to Portland, ME

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 3,209 miles from California to Portland, ME typically costs from $1,657 to $8,321. The journey usually takes seven–21 days, with final pricing influenced by timing, how much you’re moving, and if you go DIY or professional.
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Best movers from California to Portland, ME

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from California to Portland, ME

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,209-mile move from California to Portland, ME using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We aggregate thousands of verified prices from movers across the U.S. and update them monthly to capture seasonal patterns and market movement. Your final bill can vary with shipment size, optional services, access/parking hurdles, fuel rates, and scheduling. For the clearest picture, compare quotes from multiple companies.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,720 – $6,311
  • Moving Container $1,934 – $3,926
  • Rental Truck $1,658 – $3,217
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,103 – $8,321
  • Moving Container $2,637 – $5,155
  • Rental Truck $1,657 – $3,683
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $8,032 – $13,280
  • Moving Container $3,468 – $6,975
  • Rental Truck $2,161 – $4,342
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
North American Van Lines
Oceanside, CA Westbrook, ME
Studio apartment
Nov 26, 2025
PODS
East Los Angeles, CA Sanford, ME
4 Bedrooms
Nov 23, 2025
BLVD Moving
Big Bear Lake, CA Wells, ME
4 Bedrooms
Nov 22, 2025
Roadway Moving
Los Angeles, CA Scarborough, ME
Studio apartment
Oct 13, 2025
United Van Lines
Brea, CA Standish, ME
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Safeway Moving
Rowland Heights, CA York, ME
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 05, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Calexico, CA South Portland, ME
4 Bedrooms
Sep 19, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Redwood City, CA Lewiston, ME
Studio apartment
Sep 18, 2025
American Van Lines
Berkeley, CA Saco, ME
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 06, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Walnut Creek, CA Kennebunk, ME
4 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Portland, ME, to California guide .

Local moving companies in California

When you’re moving from California to Portland, ME, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Golden State to the vibrant The Forest City.

Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Portland, ME.

  1. Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  4. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  5. Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% 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.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.7% of all reviews were positive
3.8% 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.
Get a Quote (925) 905-9889

Company Info

State license #: 0191302

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2971368

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
12.4% 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.
Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Packers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.7% of all reviews were positive
19.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo’s Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items. Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo’s stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo’s would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110

Services Offered

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

Cost to move from California to Portland, ME

This table details typical cost ranges to move from California to Portland, ME, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,403 – $5,738 $1,488 – $3,570 $1,610 – $3,124
2-3 bedrooms $4,103 – $8,321 $2,637 – $5,155 $1,657 – $3,683
4+ bedrooms $8,032 – $13,280 $3,468 – $6,975 $2,161 – $4,342

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,209-mile move from California to Portland, ME using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Portland, ME

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Portland, ME, typically costs between $1,403 and $5,738. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,103 and $8,321. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Portland, ME, you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,032 up to $13,280.

Cost of moving containers from California to Portland, ME

When relocating from California to Portland, ME, you’ll typically spend between $1,488 and $3,570 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,637 up to $5,155. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,468 and $6,975. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Portland, ME

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from California to Portland, ME, expect to pay between $1,610 and $3,124. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,657 to $3,683. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,161 and $4,342.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Compare local moving companies from California to Portland, ME

Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:

Company Full Service Antiques Military Discount Senior Discount
Grace Moving Company × ×
All Star Movers & Storage × × ×
Meathead Movers × × ×
Sterling Van Lines
Rigo’s Moving Company Inc × ×

After evaluating 3,180 movers, here’s how California movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:

California Nationwide
Full Service 98% 96%
Antiques 61% 46%
Military Discount 1% 4%
Senior Discount 1% 4%

Things to know before moving from California to Portland, ME

Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Portland, ME differs from what you’re used to in California. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.

Cost of living: California vs. Portland, ME

California Portland
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,991
Average home cost $771,057 $542,001
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $64,171
Cost of Living Index 134 112
Unemployment rate 5.4% 5.2%
State Income Tax 13.3% 5.8%
  • Rent in Portland is approximately 7% higher than in California. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
  • Buying a home in Portland could be more affordable, with prices averaging 30% less than in California.
  • Expect salaries in Portland to be approximately 30% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making your move.
  • Unemployment in Portland (5.2%) and California (5.4%) are about the same, so expect a comparable job market.
  • Income tax rates in Maine are about 56% lower than in California, which means a lighter tax burden and more take-home pay.

How life is different in Portland from California

Portland California
Population 68,408 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 50-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 79ºF 87ºF
Winter low 11ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 49″ 22″
Annual snow 61″ 7″
Crime index 32.16 28.43
  • In the last presidential election, Portland leaned Republican, while California went Democratic.
  • In summer, highs in Portland average 79ºF, compared to 87ºF in California. Making the move to a cooler place lets you beat the heat, save on energy bills, and spend more time outdoors.
  • Winter in Portland brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 11ºF. That’s noticeably chillier than the 59ºF winters back in California. Get ready for higher heating bills and a few adjustments to your routine. The upside? Portland treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
  • You can expect about 49 inches of annual rainfall in Portland vs only 22 inches in California. More rainfall equates to lusher landscapes and rainier days, so you’ll want to make a few tweaks to your routine. Grab some waterproof gear before you move.
  • Each year, Portland gets about 61 inches of snow, while California sees only 7 inches. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
  • Crime rates in Portland are higher than in California, with a crime index of 32.16 versus 28.43. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.

Things to do in Portland

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

Museums in Portland

  • Portland Museum of Art
  • Victoria Mansion
  • 5th Maine Museum
  • The Wadsworth-Longfellow House
  • Richard Boyd Art Gallery

Parks in Portland

  • Eastern Promenade Trail
  • Back Cove Trail
  • Deering Oaks Park
  • Quarry Run Dog Park
  • Western Promenade Park

Sports teams in Portland

  • Maine Celtics (G League)
  • Maine Mariners (ECHL)

Universities in Portland

  • University of Southern Maine
  • Maine College of Art

Other considerations when moving to Portland, ME

  • HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maine, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Maine moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in Maine, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to Maine on time. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: Consider cost-free Released Value Protection from movers in Maine, offering basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. If you seek full-value protection, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from California to Portland take?

The time it takes to move from California to Portland, ME depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in California, the longer the drive time to Portland 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.

Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from California to Portland can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.

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

If you’re planning a 3,209-mile move from California to Portland, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Portland, ME?

Summer temperatures in Portland can soar to 79°F, while winters can get as chilly as 11°F. That’s why most people making the move from California to Portland prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.

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