Quick answer: A typical 2,807-mile move from Baltimore to Oakland runs $1,828–$8,428 and takes seven to 21 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Oakland to Baltimore guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

Choosing an interstate mover from Baltimore, MD, to Oakland, CA, isn’t as simple as picking the first name you find. In Baltimore, there are 50 companies that can handle that route, each with their own approach, pricing, and service style.

Our team took a close look at every interstate mover in Baltimore, examining service options, costs, and what customers are actually saying in reviews. The result is a carefully curated list of the best long-distance movers in Baltimore you can trust with your Baltimore to Oakland relocation.

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Professional
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Best professional movers from Baltimore to Oakland

Making the trip from Baltimore to Oakland is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

We’ve put together a list of the best full-service movers for this route to help you make the move with ease.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Baltimore?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Baltimore to all of MD and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Baltimore (Count) Baltimore (%) Maryland (Count) Maryland (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 56 100% 51 100% 2835 98%
Unpacking 54 96% 49 96% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 14 25% 9 18% 717 25%
Packing materials 28 50% 22 43% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 54 96% 49 96% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 23 41% 23 45% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 39 70% 35 69% 1886 65%
Art 35 63% 31 61% 1400 48%
Antiques 32 57% 30 59% 1400 48%
Piano 41 73% 37 73% 2175 75%
Hot tub 17 30% 16 31% 669 23%
Pool table 24 43% 21 41% 943 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your MD to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 44 Maryland movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local movers servicing Baltimore to Oakland moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Baltimore that also provides long-distance services to Oakland can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in Baltimore who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Baltimore to Oakland.

  1. Von Paris Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Doyle Moving Services LLC: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Orly Moving Systems, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/VonParis, https://twitter.com/VonParisMoving
83% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call Von Paris Moving & Storage a standout among moving companies, with 83% of 268 reviews reflecting positive feedback. Customers frequently mention professional, polite crews who communicate well and handle items with impressive care and efficiency. Moves often finish faster than expected, and many share that personal property arrives undamaged thanks to an attentive staff.
On the downside, 15% of feedback points to complaints about damaged furniture, delayed arrivals, and weak communication. Some report claims for losses or damages that took too long to resolve or were only partially addressed. While the vast majority appreciate the reliability, professionalism, and ease of process contrasted against competitors, a few stressed that better care and more transparency with claims could drive even higher satisfaction. This company draws much stronger positive feedback than the typical moving provider, especially for handling and customer service, but there is room to further reduce negative experiences with damaged or delayed items.
Show more
Get a Quote (410) 826-4824

Company Info

Years in Business: 133

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Von Paris Moving & Storage, Inc., Von Paris Moving & Storage, B Von Paris Moving & Storage, Commercial Relocation Systems, CRS


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Storage-Facility/All-My-Sons-Moving-Storage-of-Maryland-212002168873734/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
57% of all reviews were positive
42% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
From glowing recommendations to serious complaints, customer input on All My Sons Moving & Storage paints a clear picture. More than half of 377 reviews praised fast, efficient moves, professional staff, and how carefully crews handled belongings. Many customers appreciated the team’s friendly approach, transparent rates, and timely completion, noting moves felt stress-free.
On the downside, 41% of input highlighted recurring issues: property damage, surprise costs not mentioned at booking, and crews arriving late or unprepared. Several detractors reported damaged furniture, billing much higher than expected, and slow responses to claims. In comparison to typical movers, the company’s staff earn higher marks for attitude and diligence but get criticized more often for hidden fees and damages. If you want a company where the movers’ care and efficiency stand out, All My Sons delivers, but focus on the written estimate and watch for extra fees to avoid unwanted surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (410) 705-2365

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Home-Mover/Bellhops-Moving-103666324361324/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
55% of all reviews were positive
42% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving customers regularly highlight the professionalism of the staff, fast and efficient moves, affordable pricing, and how helpful movers are during difficult circumstances. Over half the feedback—about 55%—is positive, out of 55 total reviews analyzed. Numerous customers praise polite team members who maintain positive energy, work efficiently, and handle heavy or awkward items without complaint.
Affordable rates and prompt service offer strong value compared to established competitors. In contrast, about 42% of reviews note negative experiences, pointing out issues like damaged items, late arrivals, and trouble communicating with the company, especially when problems arise. These drawbacks put Bellhop slightly behind top-tier national moving companies when reliability and care for belongings matter most. While friendly staff and affordability are recurring strengths, customers needing precise timing or worry-free handling may want to review these concerns before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (443) 957-4287

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops Moving Services


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/DoyleMovingServices/,
98% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and standout service shine in Doyle Moving Services LLC's customer feedback. Out of 278 reviews, 98% shared positive experiences. Customers frequently mentioned fast, efficient crews, professional and courteous staff, exceptional care for possessions, clear communication, and fair, affordable pricing.
Many described stress-free moves with careful packing and timely arrivals, often highlighting their satisfaction with the value provided compared to other companies. On the rare occasion of negative experiences, clients reported property damage, items lost or mishandled, and frustration with handling of complaints. A few raised concerns about unprofessional behavior from specific staff. Despite these outliers, damage or major issues occurred much less often than the industry average. Compared to competitors, Doyle stands out for customer-first communication, organization, and staff dedication—making them a strong choice for reliable, efficient, and well-priced moving services.
Show more
Get a Quote (833) 668-3367

Company Info

State license #: 3110403

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3110403


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/orlymoving/,
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Orly Moving Systems, Inc. Their feedback highlights friendly, professional crews who arrive on time, work efficiently, and show great care for items. Most found the booking and communication process straightforward, with many praising staff members by name.
Many said their belongings arrived undamaged and moves finished faster than expected. Pricing was usually transparent and competitive, making the service a great value compared to similar movers. A small share of feedback raised concerns—some described damaged or missing items, struggles with insurance claims, or rare instances of rude behavior. Other companies often generate more negative reviews, making Orly’s low complaint rate stand out. Out of 251 feedback entries, 92.8% were positive, confirming that most moves are smooth and highly satisfactory, while a few faced issues relating to item damage and difficult claim resolution.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 786-0223

Company Info

Years in Business: 32


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash

How much does it cost to move from Baltimore to Oakland?

Baltimore movers charge $110 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,364 - $5,635 $1,572 - $3,998 $1,687 - $3,510
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,198 - $8,428 $2,931 - $5,828 $1,828 - $3,855
4+ bedrooms $7,978 - $12,667 $4,044 - $8,113 $2,309 - $5,229
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,807 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Maryland to California

Planning a move from Maryland to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,364 and $5,635. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,198 and $8,428 for the same journey (MD to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,978 to $12,667.

Cost of moving containers from Maryland to California

Moving containers from Maryland to California will cost you $1,572 to $3,998 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,931 to $5,828. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $4,044 to $8,113. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Maryland.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Maryland to California

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 and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,687 and $3,510. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,828 and $3,855. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,309 and $5,229.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Baltimore to Oaklandtoggle

The cost of Baltimore movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Baltimore to Oakland might cost as little as $1,364, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $12,077.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Baltimore, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,687 to $4,317 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Baltimore to Oakland

Monthly costs run higher in Oakland than in Baltimore — roughly 42% more for singles and 69% more for families.

Singles spend $3,146 vs. $2,223, and families $8,584 vs. $5,088.

Use the comparison below to plan your budget with confidence:

Baltimore Oakland
Average 1 BR rent $1,892 $1,969
Average 3 BR rent $3,333 $4,450
Average home value $180,790 $736,156
Average income (per capita) $58,349 $94,389
Unemployment rate 7.9% 4.5%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.25%
State income tax 5.75% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Oakland, since prices are typically 38% higher than in Baltimore.
  • The home prices in Oakland are 307.2% higher than in Baltimore, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Oakland, where incomes are, on average, 61.8% higher than in Baltimore. Major employers in Oakland include Kaiser Permanente, Dreyer's, and The Clorox Company.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Oakland, since the cost of living for a single person in Oakland is 41.5% higher than in Baltimore. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Oakland, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Oakland is 68.7% higher than in Baltimore.
  • The unemployment rate in Oakland is 43.04% lower than in Baltimore.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Oakland, since its sales taxes are 70.83% higher than what you are paying in Baltimore.
  • State income taxes in Oakland are 131.30% higher than in Baltimore.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Baltimore versus Oakland.

Baltimore Oakland
Basic utilities $181.61 $277.25
Cell phone plan $56.81 $53
Dozen eggs $4.34 $6.71
Loaf of bread $3.91 $5.09
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20 $30
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80 $140
Gym membership $57.63 $54.28
  • Basic utilities cost less in Baltimore than in Oakland, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Baltimore than in Oakland.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Baltimore than in Oakland.
  • Bread costs less in Baltimore than in Oakland.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Baltimore than in Oakland.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Baltimore than in Oakland.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Baltimore than in Oakland.

How life is different in Baltimore vs. Oakland

Oakland Baltimore
Population 440,646 585,708
Transportation Score 8 8
Walkability score 75 64
Bike friendliness score 65 53
Crime Index 68.62 72.72
Safety Index 31.38 27.28
Air Quality Good Good
  • Oakland's population is about 25% less than Baltimore.
  • Oakland's public transportation has a similar score to Baltimore.
  • Oakland is more walkable than Baltimore with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Baltimore's 64 out of 100.
  • With a score of 65 out of 100, Oakland is more bike-friendly than Baltimore, which has a score of 53 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Oakland's crime rate is lower than Baltimore with a score of 68.62 compared to Baltimore's 72.72. This means that Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Baltimore neighborhoods are safer than 72.72%.
  • Oakland is considered to be safer than Baltimore with a safety index of 31.38 vs Baltimore's 27.28.
  • Air quality in Oakland is good, and in Baltimore it's good.

Other things to consider for your Baltimore vs. Oakland move

  • Weather: Oakland features warm, dry summers, and mild, wet winters.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Oakland. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Oakland

Now that you've decided to make the move to Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Oakland.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Grand Lake
  • Piedmont Avenue
  • Rockridge
  • Temescal

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Fairview Park
  • Rockridge
  • Bushrod
  • Upper Rockridge
  • Lakeshore

Things to do in Oakland

Now that you've made the move to California it's the perfect time to explore Oakland From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Oakland features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, Oakland Aviation Museum, and African American Museum and Library.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Oakland Athletics (MLB) and Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Baltimore to Oakland?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Baltimore to Oakland. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Baltimore.

When is the cheapest time to move from Baltimore to Oakland?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Baltimore to Oakland moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Baltimore to Oakland take?

Covering 2,807 miles, the move from Baltimore, MD to Oakland, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Baltimore movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Oakland can help bridge the gap.

Which discounts can you find from movers in Baltimore?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. 6 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 11 extend savings to senior citizens.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Baltimore?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 41 movers in Baltimore provide piano moving services. 32 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2175 and 1400.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources