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($1,257) Movers From California to Chattanooga, TN

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Estimated cost & time: Relocating from California to Chattanooga, TN generally runs between $1,405 and $7,533. The 2,254-mile trip often takes seven–18 days. Your cost will depend on your household size, move date, and choice of DIY vs. pros.
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Best movers from California to Chattanooga, TN

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from California to Chattanooga, TN

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,254-mile move from California to Chattanooga, TN using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We collect thousands of trustworthy price points from movers nationwide, updating the figures monthly to mirror seasonal fluctuations and broader market trends. Your ultimate cost can shift with move size, service add-ons, parking/access issues, fuel prices, and schedule. Always compare multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,343 – $5,659
  • Moving Container $1,560 – $3,041
  • Rental Truck $1,260 – $2,435
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,373 – $7,533
  • Moving Container $2,062 – $4,267
  • Rental Truck $1,405 – $2,814
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,527 – $11,757
  • Moving Container $2,979 – $6,197
  • Rental Truck $1,690 – $3,658
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
United Van Lines
Orcutt, CA Lakesite, TN
3 Bedrooms
Nov 23, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Ukiah, CA Palmer, TN
4 Bedrooms
Nov 23, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Ashland, CA Powells Crossroads, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 15, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Yucaipa, CA Calhoun, TN
4 Bedrooms
Nov 06, 2025
North American Van Lines
Poplar-Cotton Center, CA Chattanooga, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
PODS
Turlock, CA Ridgeside, TN
4 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
Glendora, CA Lookout Mountain, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 08, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Solvang, CA Flat Top Mountain, TN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Williams, CA Monteagle, TN
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 25, 2025
Roadway Moving
Coachella, CA Mowbray Mountain, TN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chattanooga, TN, to California guide .

Local moving companies in California

When relocating from California to Chattanooga, TN, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.

Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Chattanooga, TN.

  1. Grace Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. All Star Movers & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Meathead Movers: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  4. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  5. Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team’s efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff. Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.7% of all reviews were positive
3.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Raving customers set All Star Movers & Storage apart from the crowd. Out of 421 reviews, 95.7% praised the company for efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, rapid moves, and strong communication. Customers consistently mention that crews show up on time, finish faster than expected, and handle belongings with care. Staff are courteous, responsive, and easy to work with. A small portion (3.8%) of feedback points to disappointment with estimate accuracy, damage to items, or surprise extra charges. Few reviewers noted moving costs exceeded quotes or felt work was rushed, sometimes resulting in minor damage. Only two customers (0.5%) shared neutral experiences, often related to pricing clarity. Compared to many movers in the region, All Star stands out for hassle-free service, transparent rates, and reliable teams. While a handful of customers experienced issues, the vast majority were relieved by stress-free moves and recommend this company as a top choice.
Get a Quote (925) 905-9889

Company Info

State license #: 0191302

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2971368

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
12.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—fast, careful, and professional. Across 534 customer accounts, 85% were satisfied with Meathead Movers, who consistently impress with prompt, efficient service, courteous staff, careful attention to belongings, and effective communication. Many point to their speed, skill, and ability to reduce moving stress as unmatched compared to other movers. Staff go out of their way to ensure everything is handled safely and customers feel supported throughout. Most praise the company’s organization and transparency, with workers often finishing ahead of schedule and providing clear updates. While Meathead stands out for reliability, a number of customers highlighted problems including damage to items, higher-than-expected costs than initial estimates, and issues with packing quality—especially when using packing services. Some experienced final bills much greater than the quotes they received, contributing to frustration. A few customers also reported items arriving broken or poor claim handling after reporting damage. Compared to other moving firms, feedback shows Meathead’s team typically provides a smoother, faster, and friendlier move—but attention to better estimate accuracy and meticulous packing would boost trust even further.
Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Packers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.7% of all reviews were positive
19.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo’s Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items. Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo’s stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo’s would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

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

Cost to move from California to Chattanooga, TN

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Chattanooga, TN with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,257 – $5,036 $1,148 – $2,819 $1,285 – $2,292
2-3 bedrooms $3,373 – $7,533 $2,062 – $4,267 $1,405 – $2,814
4+ bedrooms $6,527 – $11,757 $2,979 – $6,197 $1,690 – $3,658

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,254-mile move from California to Chattanooga, TN using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Chattanooga, TN

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Chattanooga, TN, you can expect to spend between $1,257 and $5,036. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,373 to $7,533 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $6,527 and $11,757.

Cost of moving containers from California to Chattanooga, TN

When moving from California to Chattanooga, TN, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,148 and $2,819. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,062 to $4,267. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,979 up to $6,197. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Chattanooga, TN

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from California to Chattanooga, TN, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,285 and $2,292. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,405 and $2,814. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,690 and $3,658.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Compare local moving companies from California to Chattanooga, TN

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
Grace Moving Company × ×
All Star Movers & Storage × × ×
Meathead Movers × × ×
Sterling Van Lines
Rigo’s Moving Company Inc × ×

Out of the 3,180 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 98% 96%
Antiques 61% 46%
Military Discount 1% 4%
Senior Discount 1% 4%

Things to know before moving from California to Chattanooga, TN

Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Chattanooga, TN is really like compared to California. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.

Cost of living: California vs. Chattanooga, TN

California Chattanooga
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,475
Average home cost $771,057 $302,565
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $60,164
Cost of Living Index 134 90
Unemployment rate 5.4% 5.6%
State Income Tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • Rent in Chattanooga is roughly 21% less expensive than in California, leaving room for savings or upgrades.
  • On average, homes in Chattanooga cost 61% less than in California, making your move budget-friendly.
  • The average income is about 35% lower in Chattanooga than in California. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
  • Job markets look similar since unemployment in Chattanooga and California is nearly equal.
  • In Tennessee, no income tax means more money stays in your pocket — an immediate financial boost for most people.

How life is different in Chattanooga from California

Chattanooga California
Population 181,099 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 53.8-44.1 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 89ºF 87ºF
Winter low 28ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 51″ 22″
Annual snow 2″ 7″
Crime index 53.89 28.43
  • Chattanooga voted Republican, while California was Democratic.
  • Summer in Chattanooga usually hits around 89ºF, pretty similar to the 87ºF you’re used to in California. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Chattanooga gets down to 28ºF while California only dips to 59ºF. Relocating to Chattanooga means adjusting to colder winters, which could raise your heating bill and bring some changes to your routine. Still, you’ll get to enjoy the area’s one-of-a-kind winter scenery and seasonal activities.
  • Expect about 51 inches of rain each year in Chattanooga—compared to just 22 inches in California. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
  • In Chattanooga, you’ll get about 2 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, California averages around 7 inches annually. With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
  • Chattanooga has a higher crime rate than California with a crime index of 53.89 vs 28.43. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.

Things to do in Chattanooga

From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Chattanooga has a little bit of everything waiting for you.

Museums in Chattanooga

  • Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
  • Creative Discovery Museum
  • Coker Museum – Honest Charley
  • Hunter Museum of American Art
  • International Towing and Recovery Museum

Parks in Chattanooga

  • Coolidge Park Tennessee
  • Riverpark Ross’s Landing Park
  • Enterprise South Nature Park
  • Chickamauga Dam
  • Tennessee River Park

Sports teams in Chattanooga

  • Chattanooga Lookouts (Southern League)
  • Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (USL League One)

Universities in Chattanooga

  • University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
  • Chattanooga State Community College
  • Tennessee Temple University
  • University of Tennessee -College of Medicine
  • Richmont Graduate University

Other considerations when moving to Chattanooga, TN

  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Tennessee moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Tennessee, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to Tennessee without any delays. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from California to Chattanooga take?

The time frame for a move from California to Chattanooga, TN, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.

The farther north you are in California, the longer it’ll take to reach Chattanooga. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.

Delivery from California to Chattanooga can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Chattanooga?

If you’re gearing up for a 2,254-mile move from California to Chattanooga, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Chattanooga, TN?

Summer in Chattanooga can reach highs of 89°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 28°F. That’s why most people moving from California to Chattanooga 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.

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