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($1,154) Movers From California to Missoula, MT

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 1,081 miles from California to Missoula, MT averages between $744 and $6,115. Expect your move to take two–eight days, depending on your move date, distance, load size, and whether you hire movers or do it yourself.
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Best movers from California to Missoula, MT

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 Missoula, MT

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,081-mile move from California to Missoula, MT using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of confirmed price points nationwide and refreshes the dataset every month to reflect seasonal swings and market conditions. Your end price may differ based on load size, add-on services, parking or access challenges, fuel, and when you move. We recommend collecting several quotes to gauge true costs.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,947 – $4,471
  • Moving Container $1,200 – $2,131
  • Rental Truck $641 – $1,281
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,372 – $6,115
  • Moving Container $1,530 – $2,936
  • Rental Truck $744 – $1,585
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,315 – $7,483
  • Moving Container $2,046 – $3,794
  • Rental Truck $906 – $1,818
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Upland, CA Missoula, MT
3 Bedrooms
Oct 12, 2025

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

Local moving companies in California

When you are heading from California to Missoula, MT, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free.

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

  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 Missoula, MT

See the table below for average move cost ranges from California to Missoula, MT, organized by service type and the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,154 – $4,817 $853 – $1,921 $641 – $1,256
2-3 bedrooms $2,372 – $6,115 $1,530 – $2,936 $744 – $1,585
4+ bedrooms $4,315 – $7,483 $2,046 – $3,794 $906 – $1,818

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,081-mile move from California to Missoula, MT using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes thousands of verified pricing entries from moving companies around the country to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Final costs may shift with the scale of your move, selected add-ons, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re seeing accurate pricing.

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Missoula, MT

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Missoula, MT, will cost between $1,154 and $4,817. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,372 to $6,115, and a large move will cost from $4,315 to $7,483.

Cost of moving containers from California to Missoula, MT

If you’re moving from California to Missoula, MT, expect to pay between $853 and $1,921 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,530 up to $2,936. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,046 and $3,794. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Missoula, MT

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from California to Missoula, MT, with a rental truck, expect to spend between $641 and $1,256. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $744 and $1,585. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $906 up to $1,818 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Compare local moving companies from California to Missoula, MT

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 × ×

From our review of 3,180 movers, see how California movers match up to the nationwide percentage of movers offering these 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 Missoula, MT

Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Missoula, MT to what you’re used to in California. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.

Cost of living: California vs. Missoula, MT

California Missoula
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,322
Average home cost $771,057 $544,475
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $59,180
Cost of Living Index 134 113
Unemployment rate 5.4% 4.4%
State Income Tax 13.3% 6.75%
  • Rent in Missoula is approximately 29% lower than in California, freeing up money for other expenses.
  • Home prices are about 29% lower in Missoula than in California, which could make buying a home more affordable.
  • Salaries in Missoula are usually about 36% lower than in California. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you relocate.
  • Missoula has an unemployment rate 19% below California, which could mean a more favorable job market.
  • Income taxes are 49% lower in Montana than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

How life is different in Missoula from California

Missoula California
Population 77,757 39,029,342
Political leaning Democratic 58.4-38.5 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 85ºF 87ºF
Winter low 16ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 15″ 22″
Annual snow 40″ 7″
Crime index 33.27 28.43
  • In the most recent presidential race, both California and Montana leaned Democratic.
  • Summers in Missoula usually hit highs of 85ºF, right in line with the average 87ºF you’re used to in California. So, you can expect a smooth transition in terms of temperature. Still, don’t forget to factor in the local humidity, typical weather patterns, and changes in energy costs to get a full sense of what summer will really feel like in your new place.
  • Winter in Missoula packs a colder punch, often dipping to lows of 16ºF, which is quite a bit chillier than the 59ºF winters you’re used to in California. Be prepared for those frosty months with potentially higher heating costs and a few changes to your daily routine. On the bright side, Missoula offers crisp air, stunning winter scenery, and plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy.
  • In Missoula, you’ll enjoy just 15 inches of rain each year, significantly less than the 22 inches you’re used to back in California. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get out, discover your new neighborhood, and make yourself at home. A sunnier climate is a great way to kick off your new adventure.
  • Each year, Missoula sees about 40 inches of snowfall, while California averages just 7 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
  • Crime rates in Missoula are higher than in California, with a crime index of 33.27 compared to 28.43. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.

Things to do in Missoula

Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Missoula truly offers something for everyone.

Museums in Missoula

  • Fort Missoula Museum
  • Missoula Art Museum
  • Montana Natural History Center
  • Museum of Mountain Flying

Parks in Missoula

  • Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
  • Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
  • Caras Park
  • Blue Mountain Recreational Area
  • McCormick Park

Sports teams in Missoula

  • Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)

Universities in Missoula

  • The University of Montana
  • University Of Montana School Of Forestry
  • University of Montana
  • University of Montana School of Music

Other considerations when moving to Missoula, MT

  • HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
  • Parking permits: In some cities, you’ll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area’s rules before moving day.
  • State licensing: In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
  • State regulator: Verify your Montana moving license on the state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: Montana does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to Montana right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.

FAQ

How long does a move from California to Missoula take?

How long it takes to move from California to Missoula, MT depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.

Planning a move from northern California to Missoula? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.

With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Missoula 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 Missoula?

With a 1,081-mile move from California to Missoula, it’s smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Missoula, MT?

Summer highs in Missoula can hit 85°F, while winter lows drop to 16°F. That’s why most people moving from California to Missoula choose the milder spring or fall months. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money, try planning your move for the summer or winter instead, even if it means braving a little extra heat or cold. Check out more tips on peak moving seasons.

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