Quick answer: For a 2,283-mile move from San Diego to Lansing, expect to spend around $1,520–$8,855 and seven to 18 days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Lansing to San Diego 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

For a move from San Diego to Lansing, you’ll have no shortage of options. There are 22 interstate movers in your area, giving you plenty of choices… but also a big decision to make about whether to go full-service or take on more of the work yourself.

We reviewed every San Diego company against key criteria, including service variety, affordability, and what people are saying in online reviews. Only the best long-distance movers in San Diego made our final list.

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor only

Best professional movers from San Diego to Lansing

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from San Diego to Lansing far less complicated. From wrapping and packing your belongings to transporting them safely, these companies cover the entire process so you can spend your time on what matters most.

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 San Diego?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in San Diego to all of CA and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service San Diego (Count) San Diego (%) California (Count) California (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 26 100% 323 99% 2545 98%
Unpacking 26 100% 318 98% 2514 97%
Fragile-only packing 11 42% 96 30% 631 24%
Packing materials 22 85% 222 68% 1519 59%
Storage
Storage 26 100% 283 87% 2248 87%
Climate-controlled storage 9 35% 66 20% 823 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 21 81% 267 82% 1649 64%
Art 15 58% 214 66% 1271 49%
Antiques 16 62% 213 66% 1190 46%
Piano 20 77% 271 83% 1919 74%
Hot tub 12 46% 109 34% 585 23%
Pool table 13 50% 144 44% 845 33%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 259 California 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your San Diego to Lansing journey

Organizing a move from San Diego to Lansing can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in San Diego known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from San Diego to Lansing.

  1. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. McCarthy Transfer & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Grizzly Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. One Stop Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/weliketomoveitsd, https://x.com/san_movers
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude.
Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoMover/,
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about McCarthy Transfer & Storage’s professionalism and efficiency. Out of 221 feedback entries, over 91% praise the team’s politeness, careful handling, prompt communication, and quick moving process, reporting moves completed with speed and concern for personal property. Input frequently emphasizes courteous, skilled crews and services handled with respect for homes and belongings.
Some note that the company regularly exceeds experiences with other movers—especially for military relocations—earning more trust for reliability and staff friendliness. A small portion of feedback points out issues such as damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, or unexpected extra charges, particularly during military moves. Despite these isolated problems, most customer feedback compares McCarthy Transfer favorably to other moving companies for dependability and quality service.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 596-2594

Company Info

State license #: 0154190

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 2059504

Alternate Names: McCarthy Transfer & Storage Incorporated


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/grizzlymovingsd,
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies.
The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Show more
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/Onestopmoving, https://x.com/1StopMoving
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
One Stop Moving & Storage stands out for its efficient, professional service, with a remarkable 76% of customer feedback describing a positive experience. Out of 628 reviews, most customers report quick moves, careful handling of belongings, polite staff, and clear communication—qualities that set this company above many competitors. Many mention moving day being stress-free thanks to a hardworking team skilled at protecting furniture and executing moves seamlessly.
Pricing is usually transparent and estimates tend to be accurate compared to other movers. On the downside, about 23% of feedback details more serious problems: some moves resulted in furniture damage, missing items, or unexpected charges, and customers who experienced these issues struggled to get satisfactory help after the fact. A few reviews also describe poor claims handling and communication gaps. While most people recommend One Stop Moving & Storage for careful, professional relocations, anyone booking a move should confirm all terms and insurance coverage in writing to help avoid surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (858) 633-8600

Company Info

State license #: 0190616

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1956864

Alternate Names: One Stop Moving & Storage Inc, San Diego Expert Movers, Quick San Diego Movers, Coastal Movers, Manpower Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RepublicMovingStorageSanDiego/, https://twitter.com/sdmovingstorage
75% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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.
Show more
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


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

How much does it cost to move from San Diego to Lansing?

San Diego movers charge $200 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 $1,506 - $5,692 $1,341 - $3,538 $1,523 - $2,885
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,857 - $8,855 $2,534 - $5,248 $1,520 - $3,400
4+ bedrooms $7,621 - $13,032 $3,551 - $6,759 $1,900 - $4,209
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,283 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 California to Michigan

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Michigan, you can expect to spend between $1,506 and $5,692. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,857 to $8,855 on the same route (CA to MI). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to Michigan typically runs between $7,621 and $13,032.

Cost of moving containers from California to Michigan

If you're relocating from California to Michigan, you'll typically spend between $1,341 and $3,538 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,534 up to $5,248. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,551 and $6,759. 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 Michigan

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 $1,523 and $2,885. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,520 and $3,400. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,900 and $4,209.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from San Diego to Lansingtoggle

The cost of San Diego 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 San Diego to Lansing can be as low as $1,506 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $12,905.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in San Diego 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 $1,523 to $3,728. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from San Diego to Lansing

Lansing often delivers a lighter monthly spend than San Diego — around 52% less for singles and 46% less for families.

Expect about $1,595 per month for singles and $4,199 for families in Lansing, versus $3,346 and $7,719 in San Diego.

Check the categories below to see where costs diverge:

San Diego Lansing
Average 1 BR rent $2,704 $901
Average 3 BR rent $4,914 $1,775
Average home value $1,003,444 $148,542
Average income (per capita) $72,963 $64,729
Unemployment rate 6.6% 7.4%
Sales tax 7.75% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.25%
  • Rent prices in Lansing are 61% lower than in San Diego, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Lansing.
    Home prices in Lansing are 85.2% lower than in San Diego.
  • Income in Lansing is 11.3% lower than in San Diego, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Lansing — including Health Management Associates, Michigan State Police, and Sparrow Health System — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Lansing. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 52.3% lower than in San Diego.
  • A move to Lansing can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 45.6% less than what it costs in San Diego.
  • The unemployment rate in Lansing is 12.12% higher than in San Diego.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Lansing, since the city's sales taxes in Lansing are 22.58% lower than in San Diego.
  • One perk of moving to Lansing is paying less in state income taxes, which are 68.05% lower than in San Diego.

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

San Diego Lansing
Basic utilities $277.55 $172.97
Cell phone plan $66.79 $46
Dozen eggs $5.26 $3.52
Loaf of bread $4.5 $2.91
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $21 $18
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100 $68.5
Gym membership $65.68 $31.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Diego than in Lansing.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Diego than in Lansing.
  • Eggs cost more in San Diego than in Lansing.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Diego than in Lansing.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in San Diego than in Lansing.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Diego than in Lansing.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Diego than in Lansing.

How life is different in San Diego vs. Lansing

Lansing San Diego
Population 112,644 1,386,932
Transportation Score 5 6
Walkability score 46 53
Bike friendliness score 55 43
Crime Index 48.66 39.83
Safety Index 51.34 60.17
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Lansing's population is about 92% less than San Diego.
  • Lansing's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus San Diego's higher score of 6.
  • Lansing is less walkable than San Diego with a score of 46 out of 100 vs San Diego's 53 out of 100.
  • With a score of 55 out of 100, Lansing is more bike-friendly than San Diego, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Lansing's crime rate is higher than San Diego with a score of 48.66 compared to San Diego's 39.83. This means that Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
  • Lansing is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 51.34 vs San Diego's 60.17.
  • Air quality in Lansing is good, and in San Diego it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Diego vs. Lansing move

  • Weather: Best months to consider moving in Lansing are August, July and June as these months have favorable weather. Summer in Lansing are one of the best in the country as the heat are not that extreme so it's still comfortable. Snowfall, which normally occurs from November to April.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Michigan, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Lansing Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Lansing

Ready to relocate to Capital City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lansing.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Haslett
  • Waverly
  • Edgemont Park
  • DeWitt
  • Mason

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Okemos
  • Haslett
  • Waverly
  • DeWitt Charter Township
  • Holt

Things to do in Lansing

Now that you've made the move to Michigan it's the perfect time to explore Lansing From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Lansing, such as the Michigan History Center, Impression 5 Science Center, and R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Woldumar Nature Center, Potter Park Zoo, Hawk Island Park, and River Trail — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Lansing Lugnuts (Baseball) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from San Diego to Lansing?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from San Diego to Lansing?

With many people choosing to move from San Diego to Lansing 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 San Diego to Lansing take?

The 2,283-mile move from San Diego, CA, to Lansing, MI, takes seven to 18 days. Some San Diego movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Lansing.

Are there special savings available from movers in San Diego?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 1 have discounts for military personnel.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Which movers in San Diego offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 20 movers in San Diego have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 16 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across CA, there are 271 piano movers and 213 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 1919 and 1190.

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

Helpful moving resources