($1,471) Cost of Moving From Iowa to California

There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to California will depend on these factors:

• Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
• Time of year: The peak moving season in Iowa is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
• DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.

• Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something 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 ahead of time with your new local rules.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
• Moving permits: California 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 so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
• Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance — also called “released value protection” — free of charge to all moving customers. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

While you’re in California, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:

• Yosemite National Park
• Golden Gate Bridge
• Disneyland Park
• Big Sur Coastline
• Universal Studios Hollywood
• Death Valley National Park
• San Diego Zoo
• Lake Tahoe
• Santa Catalina Island
• Redwood National and State Parks
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Hearst Castle
• Channel Islands National Park
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
• The Hollywood Sign
• Lombard Street
• Venice Beach
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Griffith Observatory
• Santa Monica Pier
• Alcatraz Island
• Winchester Mystery House
• Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Solvang
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• Burney Falls
• Anza Borrego Desert State Park
• Bodie State Historic Park