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Local moving companies in California
When making the move from California to Raleigh, NC, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local moving companies that specialize in relocations from the Golden State to the vibrant The City of Oaks, ensuring your move is as smooth as possible.
Out of 300 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Raleigh, NC.
- Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Best California Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Air 1 Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 189603
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 649215
Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc , Richards Moving Company , Orange County Storage Movers
Terry Moving and Storage Inc., located in Lake Forest, CA, has been a trusted name in local residential moving services since 1997. With outstanding consumer reviews—235 on Yelp with an average rating of 4.7 and 141 on Google My Business with an average rating of 4.9, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau—they’re a standout choice among local movers. Unlike many competitors, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and the specialized handling of fragile items, as well as piano and pool table moving. No deposit is required and they accept credit cards, simplifying the moving process for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 877973
Years in Business: 18
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Dream Moore, Inc.
Two Men and a Truck, based in Chico, CA, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2007. With an impressive average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.5 on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they have established themselves as a reputable choice compared to other nearby movers. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they are capable of handling special items such as pianos and safes. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making the moving process stress-free for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
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 #: 0189688
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1095485
Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc
Air 1 Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Chatsworth, CA, since 2004. The company stands out among nearby competitors with its extensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, along with specialized care for moving pianos, art, and antiques. With an impressive 4.4 average rating on Google and a solid A- rating from the Better Business Bureau, Air 1 Moving & Storage is well-regarded for its reliability and professional service. Customers looking for a reputable local mover will find Air 1’s no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards convenient and customer-friendly.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from California to Raleigh, NC
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terry Moving and Storage Inc. | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Meathead Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Best California Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Air 1 Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 2,888 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how California movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 62% | 48% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Raleigh, NC
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Raleigh, NC stacks up against California. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: California vs. Raleigh, NC
| California | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,670 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $431,795 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $2,572 |
| Cost of Living Index | 134 | 106 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.3% |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 4.5% |
Raleigh sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Raleigh is about 10% cheaper than in California, which means extra cash for other priorities.
- Moving to Raleigh means you’ll spend about 44% less on housing compared to California, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Raleigh are typically about 97% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Raleigh is about 20% lower than in California, so you may have better chances of finding work.
- Income taxes are 66% lower in North Carolina than in California, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Raleigh from California
| Raleigh | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 467,665 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 90ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 30ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 46″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 4″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 38.87 | 28.43 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Raleigh voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
- Summers in Raleigh typically reach highs of 90ºF, which is comparable to the average 87ºF in California. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Winter in Raleigh can be significantly colder, with lows reaching 30ºF, much chillier than the 59ºF winters of California. You’ll want to get ready for those extra-cold months, which may bring higher heating bills and warrant some changes to your day-to-day habits. Still, the crisp air, beautiful winter landscapes, and seasonal activities in Raleigh have their own special appeal.
- 46 inches of rain each year in Raleigh, considerably more than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
- In Raleigh, you’ll get about 4 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, California usually sees around 7 inches annually. With snowfall levels being similar, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
- Crime rates in Raleigh are higher than in California, with a crime index of 38.87 versus 28.43. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Raleigh
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Raleigh can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Raleigh
Parks in Raleigh
Sports teams in Raleigh
Universities in Raleigh
Other considerations when moving to Raleigh, NC
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue 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 you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your North Carolina moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to North Carolina, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- 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 so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to North Carolina. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Raleigh take?
The time it takes to move from California to Raleigh, NC varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Raleigh from northern California, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from California to Raleigh typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Raleigh?
Because of the 2,677-mile move, it’s best to book your move from California to Raleigh 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 Raleigh, NC?
With summer temperatures reaching 90°F and winter nights dipping to 30°F, most people make the move from California to Raleigh in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
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