Local moving companies in Santa Ana

  1. Best California Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Merit Moving Systems: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication. Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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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
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/meatheadmovers?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process. On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

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
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057481208808, https://twitter.com/meritmovingsyst
Customer Praise
  • Good communication
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Misplaced or lost items
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Moving with Merit Moving Systems stands out for smooth coordination and a dedicated customer-focused team. Of the 258 customer inputs analyzed, 95.3% express positive experiences. Customers frequently highlight prompt and friendly communication, consistent professionalism, careful handling of items, speedy service, and movers who work efficiently. Many stress that their property arrived safely, with no or minimal damage, and that the moving crews were courteous and respectful throughout. A substantial number also mention how staff provided regular updates and accommodated last-minute timeline shifts. On the downside, a small percentage report cases of belongings being damaged, items lost or misplaced, or surprise charges that were not clearly explained beforehand. Most criticism centers on damage or incomplete claims resolution, with some reviewers citing miscommunication regarding insurance or inventory. Compared to typical moving companies, Merit receives more praise for communication and professionalism, though negative feedback follows common moving industry complaints about damage and claims. For those seeking a moving partner that values customer interaction and efficiency, Merit matches or exceeds industry standards in key service areas.
Get a Quote (855) 950-4471

Company Info

State license #: 0192009

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 1839600

Alternate Names: Merit Moving & Logistics LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International 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
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/terrymoving/, https://twitter.com/terrymovingco
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful. Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

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


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/VIPMayflower/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Stellar service and professionalism are at the heart of most customer input for VIP Transport, Inc. Out of 244 reviews analyzed, 88.5% reflect positive feedback with standout praise for the company’s professional staff, reliable communication, and careful handling of possessions. Movers are routinely described as efficient, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile, making the moving process much less stressful. Customers also highlight helpful attitudes and strong organizational skills from both office and field staff, setting VIP Transport ahead of many competitors. The main negative feedback, making up about 9%, centers on damaged items, slow resolution of claims, or lapses in communication and delivery timelines. Still, these issues appear in a small minority of cases. A few neutral comments mention price competitiveness and the condition of vehicles. With consistent praise for attentive and skilled teams, transparent communication, and a reputation for reducing the hassle of relocation, VIP Transport remains a top choice for complex or long-distance moves—even if some room for improvement persists regarding claims and rare mishandled items.
Get a Quote (951) 272-3700

Company Info

State license #: 0137029

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower Transit, VIP Transport East, Inc, VIP Transport - United Van Lines, VIP Transport - Mayflower Transit, United Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

Factors influencing moving costs from Santa Ana to Renotoggle

The cost of Santa Ana movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Santa Ana to Reno might cost just $1,408 for a one-bedroom, but up to $7,804 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Santa Ana, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $498 and $1,137, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Reno

Moving from Santa Ana to Reno means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Santa Ana than in Reno, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Santa Ana compares to Reno so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Santa Ana Reno
Average rent cost $2,650 $1,700
Average home value $843,858 $523,662
Average income (per capita) $77,283 $66,486
Cost of living (single person) $6,333 $2,122
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,160 $4,887
Unemployment rate 7.0% 4.6%
Sales tax 9.25% 8.27%
State income tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Reno are 36% lower than in Santa Ana, 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 Reno.
    Home prices in Reno are 37.9% lower than in Santa Ana.
  • Income in Reno is 14.0% lower than in Santa Ana, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Reno — including Amerco, Trane, and Hamilton — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Reno. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 66.5% lower than in Santa Ana.
  • A move to Reno 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 56.2% less than what it costs in Santa Ana.
  • The unemployment rate in Reno is 34.29% lower than in Santa Ana.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Reno, since the city's sales taxes in Reno are 10.59% lower than in Santa Ana.
  • One perk of moving to Reno is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Santa Ana.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,005.21 in Reno to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Santa Ana.

How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Reno

Reno Santa Ana
Population 264,165 310,227
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 7
Walkability score 40 67
Bike friendliness score 52 62
Crime Index 46.26 54.17
Safety Index 53.74 45.83
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Reno's population is about 15% less than Santa Ana.
  • Reno's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Santa Ana's higher score of 7.
  • Reno is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Santa Ana's 67 out of 100.
  • Reno has a bike-friendliness score 52 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Santa Ana, which has a score of 62 out of 100.
  • Reno's crime rate is lower than Santa Ana with a score of 46.26 compared to Santa Ana's 54.17. This means that Reno neighborhoods are safer than 46.26% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
  • Reno is considered to be safer than Santa Ana with a safety index of 53.74 vs Santa Ana's 45.83.
  • Air quality in Reno is good, and in Santa Ana it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Ana vs. Reno move

  • Weather: Reno experiences very hot summer and very cold winter. If you're looking to relocate, consider the months of June, September and May as these months have favorable weather. December and January are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: Movers that provide relocation services within the Silver State are subject to rules and regulations set forth by the Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA). The NTA’s aims include fostering economic growth and promoting efficient, safe, and reliable moving services around the state. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Nevada, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Nevada doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Reno without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection, the cost-free choice provided by movers, albeit with minimal coverage. Movers take responsibility for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover misplaced or damaged a valuable item like a 30-pound sculpture, you would only receive $18 (60 cents x 30 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, explore alternative options with your selected moving company or consider consulting a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Reno

Ready to relocate to Biggest Little City in the World? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Reno.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • South Reno
  • Old Northwest-west University
  • Northwest
  • South Central
  • South West

Best neighborhoods for families

  • North Valleys
  • East Reno
  • North East
  • Southwest
  • Old Northwest-west University

Things to do in Reno

After getting comfortable in your new Nevada home, it's time to see what Reno is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Reno is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the National Automobile Museum, Nevada Museum of Art, The Discovery - Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, Wilbur D. May Center, and Fleischmann Planetarium.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Mt. Rose Ski Resort, Animal Ark, Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, and Virginia Lake Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Reno Aces (PCL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Santa Ana to Reno?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Santa Ana to Reno You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Santa Ana.

When is the cheapest time to move from Santa Ana to Reno?

Because spring and fall moves from Santa Ana to Reno are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Santa Ana to Reno take?

The 497-mile journey from Santa Ana, CA to Reno, NV, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Santa Ana offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Reno.

Helpful moving resources