Local moving companies in Los Angeles
Out of 102 Los Angeles movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to South Dakota.
- Seka Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Excalibur Movers Los Angeles: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0192497
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3014539
Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation
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
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
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
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
Company Info
State license #: 019128
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1383790
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0182466
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 1836576
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Los Angeles, CA
Here’s how many movers in Los Angeles include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Los Angeles, CA to South Dakota
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Los Angeles to South Dakota with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,258 – $4,581 | $973 – $2,370 | $939 – $1,835 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,800 – $6,411 | $1,702 – $3,637 | $976 – $2,183 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,141 – $9,729 | $2,390 – $4,571 | $1,204 – $2,642 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,534-mile move from Los Angeles, CA, to South Dakota using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Los Angeles to South Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Los Angeles to South Dakota, you can expect prices to land between $1,258 and $4,581. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,800 to $6,411 for the trip from Los Angeles to SD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,141 and $9,729.
Cost of moving containers from Los Angeles to South Dakota
Moving containers from Los Angeles to South Dakota will cost you $973 to $2,370 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,702 to $3,637. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,390 to $4,571. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Los Angeles.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Los Angeles to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $939 and $1,835 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Los Angeles to South Dakota with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $976 to $2,183. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,204 to $2,642.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Los Angeles to SD
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Los Angeles:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Los Angeles fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Los Angeles to SD
Making the switch from Los Angeles to South Dakota might mean adjusting to a new lifestyle while possibly saving money. Since Los Angeles is known for its higher expenses, this switch could lead to a more affordable living situation.
Take a look at the cost of living breakdown below to see exactly how Los Angeles and South Dakota stack up so you’ll be ready for what’s ahead.
Compare cost of living: Los Angeles vs. South Dakota
| Los Angeles, CA | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,960 | $878 |
| Average home cost | $2,368,088 | $306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) | $74,993 | $69,457 |
| Cost of living index | 162 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 1.9% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
South Dakota sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In South Dakota, rent is about 70% lower than in Los Angeles, making housing easier on your budget.
- Homes in South Dakota are about 87% less expensive than in Los Angeles, leaving you with a lighter mortgage.
- Expect average incomes to be roughly 7% lower in South Dakota than in Los Angeles, so financial planning will be important.
- Expect the cost of living in South Dakota to be about 38% below Los Angeles, giving you more financial flexibility.
- South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than Los Angeles by about 82%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- South Dakota has no income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to California.
How life is different in Los Angeles, CA from South Dakota
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in South Dakota stacks up against what you’re used to in Los Angeles.
| Los Angeles, CA | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,820,914 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 64-31 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 16″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 53.81 | 21.14 |
South Dakota Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, South Dakota leaned Republican, while Los Angeles supported Democratic.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 85ºF in South Dakota as well as 84ºF in Los Angeles, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
- Colder winters set in at 7ºF in South Dakota, compared to 46ºF in Los Angeles. With this change, expect brisker winters and higher costs, but also the unique appeal of a colder climate.
- Get ready for about 23 inches of rain annually in South Dakota, compared to just 16 inches in Los Angeles. More rainfall means greener scenery and wetter days, so plan ahead with good rain gear and a flexible routine.
- South Dakota gets about 39 inches of snow each year, while Los Angeles sees none. Moving to South Dakota means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- South Dakota records a lower crime rate (21.14) than Los Angeles (53.81), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Other considerations when moving to South Dakota
When you’re moving from Los Angeles to South Dakota, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- 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: Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in South Dakota, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to South Dakota. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, South Dakota has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University
FAQ
How long does a move from Los Angeles to South Dakota take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Los Angeles, CA, to South Dakota? Most moves on this route usually take four to 15 days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 78 movers in Los Angeles that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Los Angeles moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Los Angeles to South Dakota?
Need to get your car from Los Angeles to South Dakota? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Los Angeles to South Dakota car shippers.
Why are people moving from Los Angeles to South Dakota?
Many people are moving to South Dakota because of its outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to South Dakota.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Los Angeles?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Los Angeles.
Can I pay for my move from Los Angeles, CA, with cash?
There are 41 movers in Los Angeles that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!