Quick answer: For a 2,290-mile move from Lansing to Stockton, expect to spend around $1,631–$8,849 and seven to 18 days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

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

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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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

For a move from Lansing to Stockton, you’ll have no shortage of options. There are 4 interstate movers in your area, giving you plenty of choices… but also a big decision to make about whether to go full-service or take on more of the work yourself.

We reviewed every Lansing company against key criteria, including service variety, affordability, and what people are saying in online reviews. Only the best long-distance movers in Lansing made our final list.

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Best professional movers from Lansing to Stockton

When you’d rather skip the packing tape, heavy lifting, and scheduling hassles for your interstate move from Lansing to Stockton, full-service movers are the answer. They manage every step so you can keep your attention on the big decisions and the excitement of the move.

Here are our picks for the most reliable full-service movers ready to take you from Lansing to Stockton without the headaches.

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 Lansing?toggle

Service availability isn’t the same everywhere. This table highlights how often movers in Lansing offer each option, alongside figures for MI and nationwide, so you can quickly see what’s simple to book and what may require extra planning.

Service Lansing (Count) Lansing (%) Michigan (Count) Michigan (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 5 100% 42 98% 2044 98%
Unpacking 5 100% 41 95% 2012 96%
Fragile-only packing 1 20% 9 21% 592 28%
Packing materials 2 40% 23 53% 1055 50%
Storage
Storage 3 60% 34 79% 1755 84%
Climate-controlled storage 0 0% 18 42% 770 37%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 3 60% 30 70% 1557 74%
Art 3 60% 13 30% 1209 58%
Antiques 1 20% 12 28% 1131 54%
Piano 3 60% 27 63% 1607 77%
Hot tub 1 20% 11 26% 535 26%
Pool table 3 60% 9 21% 782 37%

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

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 38 Michigan 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 moving companies servicing Lansing to Stockton moves

When planning a move from Lansing to Stockton, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Lansing who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Lansing to Stockton.

  1. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. M & M Moving and Storage: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  3. Good Guys Moving Services: 4.14 out of 5 stars
  4. MASS Movers LLC: 4.14 out of 5 stars
  5. Handle With Care Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Home-Mover/Kingsley-Moving-Systems-1038493709523061/,
89% of all reviews were positive
8% 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.
Show more
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/MMMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/mmmovinglansing
94% of all reviews were positive
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.
Show more
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/goodguysmovinglansing/,
76% of all reviews were positive
24% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Good Guys Moving Services for their fast, professional service and careful attention to belongings. Out of 120 reviews studied, nearly 76% are positive, with many praising their efficient work, friendly attitude, good communication, and unbeatable prices. Movers often arrive on time, safeguard property, and make the process smooth, outshining competitors such as Two Men & a Truck for both value and satisfaction.
Some users mention affordable rates and organized handling as standouts for budget-conscious families and busy professionals. Negative feedback reveals incidents involving damaged items, rude or careless behavior, and delays. A few cases cite property or furniture damage without fair compensation and staff arriving late or appearing unprofessional. Despite the strong reputation among most clients, damage complaints and scattered issues with attitude or timeliness remind customers to stay vigilant about moving details and expectations.
Show more
Get a Quote (517) 485-2400

Company Info

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2405101


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Hwcmd4260, https://x.com/HWCMD
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Handle With Care Moving's exceptional efficiency, careful handling of belongings, and courteous, hard-working team. Feedback often highlights polite staff, excellent communication, and rapid, damage-free moves that stand out from other moving companies. Most clients appreciate straightforward estimates, transparent pricing, and how the company keeps moves stress-free.
Negative feedback, though rare, centers on occasional item damage, challenges in resolving complaints, and unexpected charges or discrepancies in estimates. Handle With Care outpaces competitors in reliability and professionalism, making it one of the most trusted choices for moves in and out of Ann Arbor. Over 92% of the 249 reviews express strong satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Company Info

State license #: 359936

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 808976


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Lansing to Stockton?

Lansing movers charge $240 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 $1,489 - $6,098 $1,355 - $3,468 $1,391 - $2,913
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,175 - $8,849 $2,459 - $5,403 $1,631 - $3,366
4+ bedrooms $7,763 - $13,817 $3,413 - $7,322 $1,960 - $3,962
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,290 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 Michigan to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to California typically costs between $1,489 and $6,098. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,175 and $8,849 when moving from MI to CA. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to California, you're looking at costs ranging from $7,763 up to $13,817.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to California

When you're heading from Michigan to California, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,355 and $3,468. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,459 and $5,403. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,413 to $7,322. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Michigan easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan 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, expect to spend between $1,391 and $2,913. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,631 and $3,366. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $1,960 up to $3,962 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Lansing to Stocktontoggle

The cost of Lansing movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Lansing to Stockton can be as low as $1,489 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,028.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Lansing so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,391 to $3,914. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Lansing to Stockton

Stockton typically comes with higher living costs — around 136% more for singles and 62% more for families than Lansing.

Singles pay roughly $3,767 vs. $1,595; families average $6,810 vs. $4,199.

Check the breakdown below to see where the increases show up:

Lansing Stockton
Average 1 BR rent $901 $1,500
Average 3 BR rent $1,775 $2,750
Average home value $148,542 $437,561
Average income (per capita) $64,729 $63,915
Unemployment rate 7.4% 10.3%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.0%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Stockton, since prices are typically 57% higher than in Lansing.
  • The home prices in Stockton are 194.6% higher than in Lansing, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in Stockton is 1.3% lower than in Lansing, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Stockton — including University of the Pacific, The Herrick, and San Joaquin County Office of Education — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Stockton, since the cost of living for a single person in Stockton is 136.2% higher than in Lansing. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Stockton, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Stockton is 62.2% higher than in Lansing.
  • The unemployment rate in Stockton is 39.19% higher than in Lansing.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Stockton, since its sales taxes are 50.00% higher than what you are paying in Lansing.
  • State income taxes in Stockton are 212.94% higher than in Lansing.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Lansing and Stockton:

Lansing Stockton
Basic utilities $172.97 $229.35
Cell phone plan $46 $48.67
Dozen eggs $3.52 $5.91
Loaf of bread $2.91 $4.63
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $20
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.5 $65
Gym membership $31.67 $36.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Lansing than in Stockton, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lansing than in Stockton.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lansing than in Stockton.
  • Bread costs less in Lansing than in Stockton.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Lansing than in Stockton.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Lansing than in Stockton.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Lansing than in Stockton.

How life is different in Lansing vs. Stockton

Stockton Lansing
Population 320,804 112,644
Transportation Score 4 5
Walkability score 44 46
Bike friendliness score 52 55
Crime Index 75.2 48.66
Safety Index 24.8 51.34
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Stockton is about 185% greater than Lansing, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Getting around Stockton without a car might be more difficult than in Lansing. Stockton has a public transportation score of 4 out of 10, whereas Lansing is ranked 5. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • You'll find Stockton to be about as walkable as Lansing. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 44 and 46 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
  • Stockton and Lansing are similarly bike-friendly based on their comparable ratings of 52 and 55 respectively. Bike-friendliness scores between 50 and 100 indicate varying levels of infrastructure to support cyclists, including bike lanes and roadway connectivity. Cities with scores under 50 are considered more car-dependent.
  • The crime rate in Stockton is higher than in Lansing, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 75.2 in Stockton, it is 48.66 in Lansing. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Stockton. With a crime index of 24.8, Stockton ranks lower in overall safety than Lansing, whose index is 51.34. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Stockton and Lansing is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Lansing vs. Stockton move

  • Weather: Stockton is characterized by hot to sweltering, arid summers and pleasant to warm winters.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Stockton. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Stockton

With your sights set on Asparagus Capital of the World, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Stockton.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Stonewood
  • Spanos Park
  • Weston Ranch
  • Lincoln Village Proper
  • Lakeview

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Brookside
  • Spanos Park
  • Stonewood
  • Lincoln Village West
  • Weston Ranch

Things to do in Stockton

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what Stockton has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Stockton features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Haggin Museum and Children's Museum of Stockton.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's University Park World Peace Rose Garden — 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 Stockton Heat (AHL), Stockton Kings (NBA G League), or Stockton Ports (Low-A West) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Lansing to Stockton?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Lansing to Stockton are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Lansing. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Lansing to Stockton?

Because most people are moving from Lansing to Stockton in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Lansing to Stockton take?

Moving from Lansing, MI to Stockton, CA covers 2,290 miles and usually takes seven to 18 days Need to move faster? Some Lansing movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Stockton.

Do movers in Lansing offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Lansing?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Lansing, 3 movers can manage piano relocations. 1 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Michigan has 27 piano movers and 12 antique movers, while nationwide there are 1607 and 1131 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources