Local moving companies in California
When you’re moving from California to Lansing, MI, 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 Capital City.
Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Lansing, MI.
- Best California Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Double Move: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
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
Company Info
State license #: 0190673
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3670248
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 2
DOT #: 4027902
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
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
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc , Meathead Movers Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from California to Lansing, MI
This table details typical cost ranges to move from California to Lansing, MI, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,210 – $4,975 | $1,180 – $2,960 | $1,243 – $2,501 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,316 – $6,914 | $2,226 – $4,346 | $1,332 – $2,918 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,679 – $11,137 | $3,000 – $6,315 | $1,734 – $3,508 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,341-mile move from California to Lansing, MI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. 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 Lansing, MI
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Lansing, MI, typically costs between $1,210 and $4,975. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,316 and $6,914. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Lansing, MI, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,679 up to $11,137.
Cost of moving containers from California to Lansing, MI
When relocating from California to Lansing, MI, you’ll typically spend between $1,180 and $2,960 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,226 up to $4,346. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,000 and $6,315. 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 Lansing, MI
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 Lansing, MI, expect to pay between $1,243 and $2,501. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,332 to $2,918. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,734 and $3,508.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from California to Lansing, MI
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best California Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Double Move | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Grace Moving Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
After evaluating 3,179 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 Lansing, MI
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Lansing, MI 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. Lansing, MI
| California | Lansing | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,129 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $148,542 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $64,729 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 84 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 7.4% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 4.25% |
Lansing sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Lansing is about 39% cheaper than in California, giving you more flexibility in your budget.
- Buying a home in Lansing could be more affordable, with prices averaging 81% less than in California.
- Expect salaries in Lansing to be approximately 30% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making your move.
- Even though unemployment in Lansing is 37% higher than in California, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
- Income tax rates in Michigan are about 68% lower than in California, which means a lighter tax burden and more take-home pay.
How life is different in Lansing from California
| Lansing | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 112,644 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 50-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 17ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 33″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 46″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 48.66 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Lansing leaned Republican, while California went Democratic.
- Summer temperatures in Lansing typically reach 82ºF, which is about the same as the average 87ºF you’re used to in California. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
- Winter in Lansing brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 17ºF. 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? Lansing treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
- You can expect about 33 inches of annual rainfall in Lansing 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, Lansing gets about 46 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 Lansing are higher than in California, with a crime index of 48.66 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 Lansing
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Lansing.
Museums in Lansing
- Michigan History Center
- Impression 5 Science Center
- R.E. Olds Transportation Museum
Parks in Lansing
- Woldumar Nature Center
- Potter Park Zoo
- Hawk Island Park
- River Trail
- Carl G. Fenner Nature Center
Sports teams in Lansing
- Lansing Lugnuts (Baseball)
Universities in Lansing
- Lansing Community College
- Great Lakes Christian College
- Michigan State University
Other considerations when moving to Lansing, MI
- 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: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in Michigan, 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 Michigan on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- 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 Lansing take?
The time it takes to move from California to Lansing, MI 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 Lansing 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 Lansing 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 Lansing?
If you’re planning a 2,341-mile move from California to Lansing, 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 Lansing, MI?
Summer temperatures in Lansing can soar to 82°F, while winters can get as chilly as 17°F. That’s why most people making the move from California to Lansing 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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