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($1,265) Movers From Lansing, MI to California

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 2,341 miles from Lansing, MI to California averages $1,424 to $7,765. Your move could take anywhere from seven to 18 days. It all depends on the size of your move, the distance, your moving date, and whether you hire pros or go DIY.
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Best movers from Lansing, MI to California

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Lansing, MI to California

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,341-mile move from Lansing, MI, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted moving price points sourced nationwide to account for seasonality and market trends. Final pricing can vary with the size of your move, extra services, access or parking constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Comparing multiple mover quotes is the best way to nail down an accurate estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio/1 bedroom

  • Full-service mover $2,497 – $5,900
  • Moving container $1,783 – $3,310
  • Rental truck $1,342 – $2,595
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $3,613 – $7,765
  • Moving container $2,309 – $4,417
  • Rental truck $1,424 – $2,968
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $6,924 – $12,128
  • Moving container $2,899 – $6,427
  • Rental truck $1,870 – $3,492
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
BLVD Moving
Ovid, MI Pleasure Point, CA
Studio apartment
Oct 25, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Olivet, MI Clearlake, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
United Van Lines
Leslie, MI Chula Vista, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
PODS
Albion, MI Yosemite Valley, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 14, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Owosso, MI La Verne, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lansing, MI El Centro, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 28, 2025
North American Van Lines
Elsie, MI Dublin, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 25, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Perry, MI Corona, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 16, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Concord, MI North Fair Oaks, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 15, 2025
Roadway Moving
Gaines, MI Aliso Viejo, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from California to Lansing, MI guide .

Local moving companies in Lansing

Out of 11 Lansing movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to California.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. M & M Moving and Storage: 4.22 out of 5 stars
  5. Helper Moving LLC: 4.22 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.2% of all reviews were positive
3.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficiency, professionalism, and speed. Out of 262 reviews, 96% were positive, with clients praising careful item handling, courteous staff, and movers who quickly complete jobs. Many describe moving experiences as far less stressful due to clear communication and helpful workers. Competitive and transparent pricing often surpasses larger competitors. A handful of customers faced issues like damages to belongings, surprise costs, or estimates significantly off from final charges. Most negative feedback involves broken items or unexpected fees. College Hunks stands out for reliability and exceptional service, making them a top pick for moving and junk removal compared to typical moving companies.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: Hunky Monkey LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Kingsley Moving Systems LLC feels smooth for the vast majority of customers. Analyzing 179 pieces of customer input, 89% reflected positive experiences. Customers often praised Kingsley’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speedy moves, and reasonable rates—a combination rarely matched by competitors. Friendly staff and attention to property safety stood out repeatedly. A minority of clients encountered problems, especially damage to items, late arrivals without timely updates, and occasionally unfriendly staff. Negative feedback emphasized issues with fragile belongings, scheduling problems, or less-than-courteous service, raising caution for those transporting valuable or sensitive possessions. Kingsley outpaces typical moving companies on promptness and affordability, yet potentially risks client trust with rare but significant mishaps. Customer feedback positions them as a top choice for value and efficiency, so long as you get clear expectations for special care needs or timing.
Get a Quote (517) 372-7200

Company Info

State license #: 34172

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1890987

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.3% of all reviews were positive
22.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Two Men and a Truck feels like enlisting a team known for speed, professionalism, and careful handling. Of 262 pieces of feedback analyzed, over three-quarters rated their experience as positive. Customers consistently highlight efficient service, polite staff, extra care with belongings, a quick moving process, and clear communication. Moves often finish ahead of schedule, furniture arrives undamaged, and staff adapt to customer needs. On the downside, a notable portion of input points to damage to items, surprise charges, and communication issues with scheduling or billing. These issues account for most of the dissatisfaction. Compared to other moving companies, Two Men and a Truck stands out for reliable and efficient crews, but struggles with follow-through on damage claims and billing accuracy. For those seeking prompt, respectful service, they lead the pack, but anyone concerned about cost transparency or item safety should review all details closely before booking.
Get a Quote (517) 306-2441

Company Info

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.4% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently praise M & M Moving and Storage for courteous, professional service and careful handling of belongings. Most input describes efficient, prompt movers who work quickly without sacrificing attention to detail. The team earns high marks for being friendly, keeping rates affordable, and making the moving process less stressful. Common highlights include punctual arrivals, well-protected items, and competitive, transparent pricing. Some feedback reveals dissatisfaction, mostly about significantly higher final bills than initial quotes, and occasional damage to belongings. Compared to many moving companies, M & M stands out for positive customer interactions and reliability, but a few have experienced cost discrepancies or property mishaps.
Get a Quote (517) 977-8859

Company Info

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 2194234

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input paints a clear picture: Helper Moving LLC impresses with efficient service, friendly and professional staff, and great care during moves. Every review analyzed awards a perfect rating and highlights how the team made moves easier while being respectful. Clients mention team members by name, noting exceptional politeness and attention to safety, which not all moving companies can claim. The strong recommendation from multiple customers, coupled with zero complaints or negative feedback, suggests consistent high-quality performance. No drawbacks or issues appeared in the available feedback.
Get a Quote (517) 894-5319

Company Info

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2475734

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Fragile-only packing

Local moving services in Lansing, MI

Quick breakdown of Lansing movers that offer specialty add-on services:

Interstate
8 72.73%
Small moves
4 36.36%
Antiques
2 18.18%
Art
4 36.36%
Pianos
7 63.64%
Fragile-only packing
2 18.18%

Cost to move from Lansing, MI to California

The table below breaks down average costs for moves from Lansing to California, varying by home size and service option.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,265 – $5,310 $1,199 – $3,133 $1,251 – $2,519
2-3 bedrooms $3,613 – $7,765 $2,309 – $4,417 $1,424 – $2,968
4+ bedrooms $6,924 – $12,128 $2,899 – $6,427 $1,870 – $3,492

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,341-mile move from Lansing, MI, to California using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide, updating the data monthly to track seasonal patterns and market trends. Your final quote may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare estimates from several movers for an accurate picture.

Cost to hire movers from Lansing to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Lansing to California will cost between $1,265 and $5,310. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $3,613 to $7,765, and a large move will cost from $6,924 to $12,128.

Cost of moving containers from Lansing to California

If you’re moving from Lansing to California, expect to pay between $1,199 and $3,133 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,309 up to $4,417. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,899 and $6,427. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lansing 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 Lansing to California, expect to spend between $1,251 and $2,519. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,424 and $2,968. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,870 up to $3,492 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Lansing to CA

When calculating the price of Lansing 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 Lansing, 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.

What you should know before moving from Lansing to CA

Transitioning from Lansing to California offers fresh opportunities, but also a rise in expenses. Given that California’s living costs are generally steeper than in Lansing, creating a solid budget will help ease the adjustment.

Find out how Lansing contrasts with California so you can head into your move with confidence:

Compare cost of living: Lansing vs. California

Lansing, MI California
Average rent $1,129 $1,856
Average home cost $148,542 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $64,729 $91,905
Cost of living index 84 134
Unemployment rate 7.4% 5.4%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • With rent about 64% higher in California than Lansing, prepare for steeper monthly costs.
  • Homes in California cost about 419% more than in Lansing, so expect a higher mortgage payment.
  • Expect incomes in California to be about 42% higher than in Lansing, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
  • Moving to California means the cost of living runs about 60% higher than in Lansing, so you’ll want a clear financial plan.
  • In California, the unemployment rate is about 27% below Lansing’s, a positive sign of healthier job opportunities.
  • Income taxes run about 213% higher in California than in Michigan, which means less spending money.

How life is different in Lansing, MI from California

When relocating from Lansing to California, get ready for some changes. From weather and population to politics, here’s how living in California stacks up against life in the Lansing.

Lansing, MI California
Population 112,644 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 50-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 82ºF 87ºF
Winter low 17ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 33″ 22″
Annual snow 46″ 7″
Crime index 48.66 28.43
  • In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Lansing supported Republican.
  • Comparable summer highs of about 87ºF in California match those of 82ºF in Lansing. 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 17ºF in Lansing. 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 33 inches you’re used to in Lansing. 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 46 inches you’d deal with in Lansing. 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 Lansing, with indexes at 28.43 vs 48.66. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods and extra peace of mind.

Other considerations when moving to California

If you’re moving from Lansing to California, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.

  • 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.

Things to do in California

No matter what you’re into, from parks and museums to sports or college-town vibes—California is packed with things for you to explore and enjoy.

Museums in California

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa

Parks in California

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park

Sports teams in California

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)

Universities in California

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego

FAQ

How long does a move from Lansing to California take?

Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Lansing, MI to California? Typically, the process takes about seven to 18 days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.

Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.

How many Lansing movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?

There are four movers in Lansing that offer custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you need special crating, confirm with a Lansing moving company that they can accommodate your specific items.

What is the best way to get a car from Lansing to California?

Looking to move your car from Lansing to California? Choose a service that puts professionalism and vehicle care first, backed by real experience. Check out our top picks for car shippers from Michigan to California.

Why are people moving from Lansing to California?

Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to California.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Lansing?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Lansing.

Do movers in Lansing, MI, accept cash?

Yes, one movers in Lansing accept cash. However, cash is uncommon in the moving space, where traceable payment types are standard. You’ll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking before moving day. The rest of the total is due at pickup or post-delivery—confirm the schedule and permitted payment methods with your mover.

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