Best overall value
Local moving companies in Oakland
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Big Family Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- West Coast Moving Systems, Inc: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Got2Move Moving and Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- ShipShape Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
NorthStar Moving Company
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 1836576
Years in Business: 30
One Bush Plaza Bush St Suite B-182, San Francisco, CA 94104 USMoving dreams made easier: NorthStar Moving Company impresses with consistent high marks from more than 1,100 customer reviews, and more than 91% of that input is positive. Feedback repeatedly praises NorthStarโs efficient and friendly movers, careful handling of belongings, and prompt, open communication. Customers highlight quick moving processes, responsible care for fragile items, and smooth, stress-free experiences from booking to delivery. The price is regularly described as reasonable, and transparent quotes are common. When compared to other companies, NorthStar stands out for its professionalism and reliability. Some customers report issues such as damage to furniture, delayed arrival or delivery, or difficulties reaching customer service for status updates or claims. The most common negative feedback involves item damage, poor communication during or after moves, and occasional scheduling errors. While these issues are in the minority, prospective clients may want to clarify all details and ask specific questions about protection policies. NorthStar Moving consistently maintains better customer satisfaction rates than most competitors, making it a leading choice for efficient, careful, and responsive moving services.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1836576
- State license #: 0182466
Big Family Movers
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 2916075
Years in Business: 20
3955 Whittle Ave, Oakland, CA 94602 USMoving made simple: that's the message from customer feedback on Big Family Movers. Of 269 reviews analyzed, 95% praised the company, placing them well above competitors in consistency. Customers highlighted efficient service, careful handling, affordable rates, professionalism, and a helpful, upbeat staff. Feedback repeatedly mentioned how staff turned stressful days into easy experiences through communication and kindness. Many noted that belongings arrived safely and on time, and that prices were fair. A handful of negative reviews cited issues with damaged items, difficulty reaching the company for bookings, or minor delays. Some dissatisfied customers experienced miscommunication or unexpected handling of their property. Still, most found the company's service reliable and courteous, often better than other local movers. Nearly every review underlined trust in Big Family Movers for repeat moves and referrals, making them a standout choice for anyone seeking a dependable moving service in the Bay Area.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2916075
- State license #: 0189403
West Coast Moving Systems, Inc
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 3071646
Years in Business: 18
745 85th Ave, Oakland, CA 94621 USMoving with West Coast Moving Systems means efficiency meets professionalismโover 96% of customer feedback is positive out of 635 reviews analyzed. Customers consistently highlight fast and organized service, courteous staff, careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and a streamlined moving process. Clients appreciate that movers are prompt, wrap and protect all items, and communicate thoroughly from scheduling to completion. Some feedback suggests opportunities for better handling of high-value items, clearer communication in complex situations, or avoiding unexpected charges, but such issues are rare. With overwhelmingly positive comments about helpful attitudes and reliability, West Coast Moving Systems stands out from competitors who frequently receive lower marks for damaged items or disorganized crews. This feedback points to a company that delivers quality and peace of mind at rates considered very reasonable for the quality of service. Those seeking careful, professional movers with responsive support can expect a top-tier experience here.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3071646
- State license #: 0192456
Alternative Business Names
- West Coast Movers
- West Coast Moving Systems
Got2Move Moving and Storage
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 3070307
Years in Business: 18
1611 Abram Ct, San Leandro, CA 94577 USMoving made easyโGot2Move earns stellar customer feedback for efficient service, professional and friendly movers, careful handling, fast moves, and clear communication. After analyzing 523 reviews, 91.6% of input rated positive. Many highlighted how their moves were quick, belongings protected, and staff courteous. Pricing transparency and responsiveness frequently appeared in customer input. On the downside, some cited damages to TVs or furniture, slow or unreliable timing, or delays. A small number paid more than expected or faced long delays, especially for large moves or underprepared crews. While a handful perceived damage or slow service, these negatives were notably less frequent than with most competitors. Compared to other moving companies, Got2Move stands out with a high rate of customer satisfaction and strong attention to detail, but customers with high-value or fragile items should confirm handling preferences and insurance coverage upfront.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3070307
- State license #: 0191707
Alternative Business Names
- Got2Move
ShipShape Moving
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 3549568
Years in Business: 4
2001 Addison St, Suite 300 B, Berkeley, CA 94704 USShipShape Moving earns five-star feedback from nearly everyone, with 98% of 649 customer comments citing smooth, efficient, and careful moves. Customers repeatedly highlight the team's efficiency, exceptional attention to protecting property, professional attitude, speedy completion, and open communicationโqualities often missing from local competitors. Most clients report the company making heavy lifting, packing, and navigating stairs look easy, with no surprises on pricing or timing. A handful of reviews mention isolated incidents of damage or rushed jobs, as well as rare delays or organizational slip-ups. Even when things go wrong, responsive follow-up and accountability set ShipShape apart. Negative feedback centers on rushed service or damaged goods, but such cases are very rare given the overall volume. ShipShape stands out as one of the most consistent and trusted moving services in the area, making complex moves simpler and less stressful than with many other movers.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Full-valuation coverage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3549568
- State license #: 192323
Key factors that impact the cost of your Oakland to Philadelphia move
What to know before moving from Oakland to Philadelphia
Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Oakland than in Philadelphia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Oakland compares to Philadelphia so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Oakland | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,200 | $1,695 |
| Average home value | $736,156 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $94,389 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,146 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $8,584 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.5% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 3.07% |
- Rent prices in Philadelphia are 23% lower than in Oakland, 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 Philadelphia.
Home prices in Philadelphia are 70.5% lower than in Oakland. - Income in Philadelphia is 25.0% lower than in Oakland, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Philadelphia include Amtak, Comcast, and COFCO.
- The cost of living for a single person in Philadelphia is 19.2% lower than in Oakland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Philadelphia is 27.9% lower than in Oakland.
- The unemployment rate in Philadelphia is 135.56% higher than in Oakland.
- You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Philadelphia, since the city's sales taxes in Philadelphia are 21.95% lower than in Oakland.
- One perk of moving to Philadelphia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 76.92% lower than in Oakland.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,423.08 in Philadelphia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Oakland.
How life is different in Oakland vs. Philadelphia
| Philadelphia | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,603,797 | 440,646 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 75 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 67 | 65 |
| Crime Index | 66.09 | 68.62 |
| Safety Index | 33.91 | 31.38 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- The population of Philadelphia is about 264% greater than Oakland, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
- Philadelphia offers better access to buses and trains than Oakland, based on public transportation ratings. Philadelphia has a transit score of 9 out of 10 compared to 8 in Oakland. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
- You'll find Philadelphia to be about as walkable as Oakland. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 75 and 75 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
- Philadelphia and Oakland are similarly bike-friendly based on their comparable ratings of 67 and 65 respectively. Bike-friendliness scores between 50 and 100 indicate varying levels of infrastructure to support cyclists, including bike lanes and roadway connectivity. Cities with scores under 50 are considered more car-dependent.
- You can anticipate the same crime rate in Philadelphia as Oakland. With the crime index, lower scores are better because they indicate less crime. Cities with scores of 20 or below, for example, have much fewer instances of crime than those with scores of 80โ100.
- Philadelphia is generally as safe as Oakland, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
- The air quality in Philadelphia and Oakland is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.
Other things to consider for your Oakland vs. Philadelphia move
- Weather: Philadelphia has hot and muggy summers and the fall and spring are generally mild, and winter is moderately cold. If you are planning a summer move make sure to check the weather to avoid overall humid and hot days,
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUCโs website is no longer functioning. So if youโre moving within Pennsylvania, youโll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a Pennsylvania moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Pennsylvania does not require any moving permits, but it is 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Philadelphia. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Philadelphia
Now that you've decided to make the move to "Philly", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Philadelphia.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cedar Park
- Fishtown
- Manayunk
- Point Breeze
- Washington Square West
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bella Vista
- Bustleton
- Fitler Square/Rittenhouse Square (City Center West)
- Foxchase
- Roxborough
Things to do in Philadelphia
Now that you've made the move to Pennsylvania, it's the perfect time to explore Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia, such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, Museum of the American Revolution, and The Franklin Institute.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love Park โ 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 Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia Flyers (NHL), or Philadelphia Phillies (MLB) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Oakland to Philadelphia?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Oakland to Philadelphia are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Oakland are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Oakland to Philadelphia?
With many people choosing to move from Oakland to Philadelphia 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 Oakland to Philadelphia take?
Moving from Oakland, CA to Philadelphia, PA covers 2,865 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days. Need to move faster? Some Oakland movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Philadelphia.
