($1,303) Movers From Detroit, MI to California

1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
4. Handy Relocations: 4.28 out of 5 stars
5. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Detroit to California will cost between $1,303 and $5,339. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $3,653 to $7,551, and a large move will cost from $6,797 to $12,272.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to California

If you’re moving from Detroit to California, expect to pay between $1,205 and $3,241 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,274 up to $4,811. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,158 and $6,282. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit 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 Detroit to California, expect to spend between $1,255 and $2,453. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,344 and $3,161. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,877 up to $3,876 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

When calculating the price of Detroit 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 Detroit, 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.

• With rent about 48% higher in California than Detroit, prepare for steeper monthly costs.
• Homes in California cost about 954% more than in Detroit, so expect a higher mortgage payment.
• Expect incomes in California to be about 143% higher than in Detroit, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
• Moving to California means the cost of living runs about 46% higher than in Detroit, so you’ll want a clear financial plan.
• In California, the unemployment rate is about 40% below Detroit’s, a positive sign of healthier job opportunities.
• Income taxes run about 213% higher in California than in Michigan, which means less spending money.

• In the last presidential election, both Detroit and California voted Democratic.
• Comparable summer highs of about 87ºF in California match those of 84ºF in Detroit. With similarly warm temperatures, adjusting to your new climate might prove easy. Consider examining humidity, climate patterns, and energy demands for a full representation of how summers will unfold in your new home.
• Winter lows in California are milder, around 59ºF, compared to the colder 19ºF in Detroit. 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 34 inches you’re used to in Detroit. 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 33 inches you’d deal with in Detroit. 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 Detroit, with indexes at 28.43 vs 72.92. 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.