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Local moving companies in California
When you are heading from California to Portland, OR, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free. We’ve handpicked the best local moving companies with expertise in moves from the Golden State to the Bridgetown, so your journey is seamless from start to finish.
Out of 239 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Portland, OR.
- Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Best California Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.96 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190673
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3670248
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around San Bruno, CA since 2010. They stand out with a solid reputation, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp from 429 reviews, and a 4.6 average rating on Google from 129 reviews. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, customers frequently praise their professionalism and efficiency. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, along with the specialized capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. Flexible payment options, including cash and credit cards, and no required deposit, further underscore their customer-first approach.
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
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 #: 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 #: 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 #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from California to Portland, Oregon:
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Best California Movers | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Meathead Movers | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Grace Moving Company | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,890 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how California movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| California | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 99% | 97% |
| Antiques | 63% | 48% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 2% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from California to Portland, OR
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR
| California | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,856 | $1,530 |
| Average home value | $771,057 | $522,596 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $85,876 |
| Unemployment rate | 5% | 7% |
| State income tax | 13% | 10% |
Portland sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Portland is about 18% cheaper than in California. That means extra cash in your pocket—to boost your emergency fund, spruce up your new place, or help with moving expenses.
- On average, homes in Portland are 32% cheaper than in California, making your move easier on your wallet.
- Salaries in Portland are usually about 7% lower than in California. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you relocate.
- Unemployment in Portland is about 28% higher than in California, but you can still find a great job if you’re proactive. Start networking early and approach your job search with a clear, targeted plan.
- Income taxes in Portland are 26% lower than in California, giving you the chance to save more, pay off debt sooner, or simply have more wiggle room in your budget.
How life is different in Portland from California
| Portland | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 652,503 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49-48 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 36ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 43" | 22" |
| Annual snow | 3" | 7" |
| Crime index | 57.37 | 28.43 |
Portland sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Portland voted Republican, while California leaned Democratic.
- During summer, Portland enjoys average highs of just 81°F, while California typically reaches 87°F. Relocating to a cooler spot means you’ll dodge the heat, cut down on energy costs, and get to enjoy more time outside.
- Winter in Portland brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 36°F. That’s noticeably chillier than the 59°F winters back in California. Get ready for higher heating bills and a few adjustments to your routine. The upside? Portland treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
- Expect around 43 inches of rain each year in Portland, which is quite a bit more than the 22 inches you're used to back in California. With the extra rainfall comes lusher landscapes and more rainy days, so be sure to add rain gear to your wardrobe and get ready to embrace life in a wetter, greener setting.
- In Portland, you can expect around 3 inches of snow each year, about the same as the 7 inches you’re acquainted with in California. Since snowfall is similar in both places, you probably won’t run into any unexpected weather issues when you move.
- Crime rates in Portland are higher than in California, with a crime index of 57.37 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 Portland
From beautiful parks and fascinating museums to exciting sports and stellar universities, Portland really has something for everyone.
Museums in Portland
Parks in Portland
Sports Teams in Portland
Universities in Portland
Other considerations when moving to Portland, OR
- Weather: Portland has cool and rainy winters and warm and dry summers. Portland also has overcast, wet, and changing weather conditions in fall, winter, and spring, Be sure to check your weather app to avoid rainy days,
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- 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 parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: Moving companies headquartered in Oregon must possess an up-to-date USDOT Number as well as a license issued by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Oregon moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: Oregon does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- 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 Oregon. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Released Value Protection is a cost-effective choice as it comes at no extra cost. Movers provide this option without additional charges, but the coverage it offers is minimal. With Released Value Protection, the mover's liability is limited to 60 cents per pound per article.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
FAQ
How long does a move from California to Portland take?
The time it takes to move from California to Portland, OR 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.
Planning a move from northern California to Portland? 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.
Moving your belongings from California to Portland 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 Portland?
Planning a 772-mile move from California to Portland? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Portland, OR?
Summer in Portland can reach highs of 81°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 36°F. That’s why most people moving from California to Portland opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
