Local moving companies in Massachusetts
When you are heading from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free.
Out of 94 Massachusetts movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Oakland, CA.
- Esquire Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Marathon Moving Co.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Poseidon Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Pricing: $115/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2820253
Alternate Names: Esquire Moving Inc
Esquire Moving & Storage, a trusted local residential moving company in Waltham, MA, has been delivering exceptional service since 2015. Known for their comprehensive packing and unpacking services, they stand out from other nearby movers by offering specialized handling for pianos, art, and antiques. Customers consistently commend their professionalism and efficiency, reflected in their stellar average ratings of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, as well as an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. With transparent pricing at $115 per hour and no deposit required, Esquire Moving & Storage is a reliable choice for a hassle-free local move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 31391
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1718049
Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.
Boston Best Rate Movers has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around Waltham, MA since 2006. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them an excellent choice for meticulous movers. Clients consistently praise their reliability, as evidenced by their 4.7 average rating across 32 Yelp reviews and 530 Google reviews, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, their no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards add to their customer-friendly approach.
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 credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Gentle Giant Moving Company has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Marshfield, MA since 1981. Setting themselves apart from other nearby movers, they also offer packing, unpacking, and storage services, and are equipped to handle special items like pianos with care. The company boasts an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and consistently high customer reviews, averaging 4.2 stars on Yelp and 4.9 stars on Google. With a strong reputation and a comprehensive range of services, Gentle Giant Moving Company is a reliable choice for those looking to move locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 943487
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 943487
Alternate Names: Marathon Moving Company, Inc.
Marathon Moving Co., a reputable and seasoned moving company based in Canton, MA, has been serving the local community with excellence since 2001. Highly regarded by customers, the company boasts a 4.3 average rating on Yelp from 75 reviews and a stellar 4.7 average rating on Google My Business from 190 reviews; it also holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby moving services, Marathon Moving Co. offers an extensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques. With full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking available, they ensure peace of mind throughout the moving process, though a deposit is required.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 31816
Pricing: $120/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2522855
Alternate Names: Poseidon Moving, LLC
Poseidon Moving, a reputable local moving company based in Brookline, MA, has been providing dependable residential moving services since 2015. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 on Yelp and 4.1 on Google, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes compared to many nearby competitors. They offer a comprehensive suite of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items such as pianos, art, and antiques. Though a deposit is required and rates start at $120 per hour, Poseidon Moving accepts both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible and professional moving experience for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Cost to move from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA
See the table below for average move cost ranges from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA, organized by service type and the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,409 – $5,823 | $1,436 – $3,658 | $1,633 – $3,043 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $4,371 – $8,443 | $2,468 – $5,282 | $1,786 – $3,699 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,834 – $12,952 | $3,769 – $7,520 | $2,170 – $4,542 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,077-mile move from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes thousands of verified pricing entries from moving companies around the country to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Final costs may shift with the scale of your move, selected add-ons, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re seeing accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA, will cost between $1,409 and $5,823. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $4,371 to $8,443, and a large move will cost from $7,834 to $12,952.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA
If you’re moving from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA, expect to pay between $1,436 and $3,658 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,468 up to $5,282. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,769 and $7,520. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA, with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,633 and $3,043. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,786 and $3,699. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,170 up to $4,542 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Esquire Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Boston Best Rate Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Gentle Giant Moving Company | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Marathon Moving Co. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Poseidon Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
From our review of 3,175 movers, see how Massachusetts movers match up to the nationwide percentage of movers offering these services and discounts:
| Massachusetts | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 99% | 96% |
| Antiques | 61% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 2% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Oakland, CA to what you’re used to in Massachusetts. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. Oakland, CA
| Massachusetts | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,588 | $2,200 |
| Average home cost | $623,131 | $736,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $96,505 | $94,389 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 196 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.9% | 4.5% |
| State Income Tax | 9.0% | 13.3% |
Oakland sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Oakland is about 39% higher than in Massachusetts, so make sure to budget extra for your monthly rent.
- In Oakland, expect home prices to be about 18% higher than in Massachusetts. Get ready for a bigger down payment, increased property taxes, and higher overall homeownership expenses.
- Since income levels in Oakland are similar to those in Massachusetts, your budget shouldn’t take a hit during your move.
- Unemployment in Oakland is about 15% higher than in Massachusetts, so the job market may be more competitive. Be strategic in your job hunt and consider networking early.
- Income taxes in California come in about 48% higher than in Massachusetts, which can reduce how much of your earnings you actually keep.
How life is different in Oakland from Massachusetts
| Oakland | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 440,646 | 7,001,399 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high | 72ºF | 82ºF |
| Winter low | 44ºF | 16ºF |
| Annual rain | 24″ | 49″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 47″ |
| Crime index | 68.62 | 13.92 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the most recent presidential race, both Massachusetts and California leaned Democratic.
- Summer highs in Oakland average around 72ºF, while Massachusetts often sees temperatures soar to 82ºF. Relocating to a cooler area means escaping the intense heat, cutting down on energy costs, and enjoying more time outside.
- In the coldest months, temperatures in Oakland typically reach lows of about 44ºF, while Massachusetts can dip as low as 16ºF. By moving to Oakland, you’ll start to experience milder winters, making everyday life more comfortable, saving money, and giving you more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
- In Oakland, you’ll enjoy just 24 inches of rain each year, significantly less than the 49 inches you’re used to back in Massachusetts. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get out, discover your new neighborhood, and make yourself at home. A sunnier climate is a great way to kick off your new adventure.
- Oakland doesn’t get snow, while Massachusetts sees around 47 inches annually. Relocating to Oakland means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Crime rates in Oakland are higher than in Massachusetts, with a crime index of 68.62 compared to 13.92. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.
Things to do in Oakland
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Oakland truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in Oakland
- Oakland Museum of California
- Chabot Space & Science Center
- USS Potomac
- Oakland Aviation Museum
- African American Museum and Library
Parks in Oakland
- Redwood Regional Park
- Joaquin Miller Park
- East Bay Regional Park District
- Lakeside Park and Garden Center
- Piedmont Park
Sports teams in Oakland
- Oakland Athletics (MLB)
- Oakland Roots DC (USLC)
Universities in Oakland
- Laney College
- Merritt College
- California College of the Arts (formerly the California College of Arts and Crafts)
- Holy Names University (formerly Holy Names College)
- Lincoln University
Other considerations when moving to Oakland, CA
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: In some cities, you’ll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area’s rules before moving day.
- 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. Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Verify your California moving license on the state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: 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 matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
FAQ
How long does a move from Massachusetts to Oakland take?
How long it takes to move from Massachusetts to Oakland, CA depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
Planning a move from northern Massachusetts to Oakland? 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.
With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Oakland from Massachusetts can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Massachusetts to Oakland?
With a 3,077-mile move from Massachusetts to Oakland, it’s smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Oakland, CA?
Summer highs in Oakland can hit 72°F, while winter lows drop to 44°F. That’s why most people moving from Massachusetts to Oakland choose the milder spring or fall months. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money, try planning your move for the summer or winter instead, even if it means braving a little extra heat or cold. Check out more tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Massachusetts moving services
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