($1,572) Movers From Portland, ME to California

1. Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
5. Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Portland to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Portland to California will cost between $1,572 and $6,900. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $4,884 to $9,132, and a large move will cost from $9,279 to $14,746.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to California

If you’re moving from Portland to California, expect to pay between $1,451 and $3,475 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,676 up to $5,337. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,518 and $7,147. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Portland.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to California

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 with a rental truck from Portland to California, expect to spend between $1,715 and $3,043. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,786 and $3,849. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,147 up to $4,542 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

When calculating the price of Portland movers, consider:

• Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
• Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Portland, so moving companies will likely charge more.
• DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.

• Rent is about 7% less expensive in California compared to Portland, leaving you more flexibility with your income.
• Homes in California cost about 42% more than in Portland, so expect a higher mortgage payment.
• Expect incomes in California to be about 43% higher than in Portland, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
• Moving to California means the cost of living runs about 20% higher than in Portland, so you’ll want a clear financial plan.
• Job availability and competition should be about the same in California and Portland, as the unemployment rate doesn’t differ much between them.
• Income taxes run about 129% higher in California than in Maine, which means less spending money.

• In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Portland supported Republican.
• Hot summer days in California can escalate up to 87ºF, providing a distinctly warmer experience than Portland, where temperatures average around 79ºF. Anticipate sunnier skies, enjoyable outdoor recreation, and possible increases in energy spending as you embrace the warmer atmosphere.
• Winter lows in California are milder, around 59ºF, compared to the colder 11ºF in Portland. This means easier winters, fewer icy days, and potentially lower heating bills.
• You’ll enjoy about 22 inches of annual rain in California, which is less than the 49 inches you’re used to in Portland. That means brighter skies, extra outdoor time, and fewer rainy-day interruptions.
• In California, you can expect about 7 inches of snow each year, much less than the 61 inches you’d deal with in Portland. So, if you’re moving to California, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
• California has a lower crime rate than Portland, with indexes at 28.43 vs 32.16. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods and extra peace of mind.

• HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see if you’ll need one 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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check a California moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
• Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
• 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
• Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to state. 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 a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.