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($1,281) Movers From Michigan to Modesto, CA

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,377 miles from Michigan to Modesto, CA typically costs from $1,394 to $8,111. The journey usually takes seven–18 days, with final pricing influenced by timing, how much you’re moving, and if you go DIY or professional.
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Best movers from Michigan to Modesto, CA

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

Best movers by type

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 Michigan to Modesto, CA

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,377-mile move from Michigan to Modesto, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. We aggregate thousands of verified prices from movers across the U.S. and update them monthly to capture seasonal patterns and market movement. Your final bill can vary with shipment size, optional services, access/parking hurdles, fuel rates, and scheduling. For the clearest picture, compare quotes from multiple companies.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,575 – $5,580
  • Moving Container $1,701 – $3,155
  • Rental Truck $1,327 – $2,439
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,612 – $8,111
  • Moving Container $2,293 – $4,617
  • Rental Truck $1,394 – $3,117
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,208 – $11,822
  • Moving Container $3,030 – $6,455
  • Rental Truck $1,906 – $3,672
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Climax, MI Taft Mosswood, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 28, 2025
Roadway Moving
Frankenmuth, MI Livingston, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 27, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Ecorse, MI University of California-Merced, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Oakley, MI Lodi, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
American Van Lines
Pleasant Ridge, MI Salida, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Benton Harbor, MI Hilmar-Irwin, CA
Studio apartment
Oct 05, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Le Roy, MI Patterson, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
BLVD Moving
Ionia, MI Hughson, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 18, 2025
PODS
Roosevelt Park, MI West Modesto, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
North American Van Lines
Dryden, MI Newman, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Modesto, CA, to Michigan guide .

Local moving companies in Michigan

When you’re moving from Michigan to Modesto, CA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Wolverine State to the vibrant City of Great Neighbors.

Out of 57 Michigan movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Modesto, CA.

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Powell Relocation Group: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. Handle With Care Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.0% of all reviews were positive
7.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, polite and professional staff, and speedy moving process. Movers consistently handle belongings with care while maintaining clear communication, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Most clients say workers are reliable, prompt, and attentive. People also mention transparent pricing and easy scheduling as standout features. On the flip side, a small number of clients report damages to furniture or property and say that the company is slow to address such issues. A few mention challenges reaching customer service or experiencing rude behavior. With 298 customer reviews analyzed—93% positive—College Hunks stands out as a top performer compared to many moving services, excelling in speed, professionalism, and efficiency, but occasional mishandling and follow-up hassles mean attention to claims can be improved.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Madison Heights, MI. Known for their excellent customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 74 reviews and an even higher 4.9 average rating on Google from 866 reviews, making them one of the top-rated moving companies in the area. Unlike some competitors, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, all without requiring a deposit. For those prioritizing convenience and reliability, this company stands out in the local market.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.7% of all reviews were positive
3.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about fast, efficient service, professional and courteous staff, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Nearly all feedback highlights reliability, polite movers, and stress-free moving experiences. Many noted the movers’ ability to finish jobs faster than estimated and protect both homes and possessions. A few reviews mentioned easy booking, on-time arrivals, and helpful office staff. Most clients expressed high satisfaction and trust, often returning for repeat moves or recommending the company to others. Negative input, while rare, centers on incidents of damaged items, inconsiderate staff, and unexpected charges—issues that can happen with most moving companies but are reported far less here than elsewhere. With 257 reviews analyzed and over 95% positive feedback, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for consistent professionalism and dependable moving experiences compared to typical movers, with only isolated complaints.
Get a Quote (269) 503-8488

Company Info

State license #: 29737

Years in Business: 23

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: KoHo, LLC

Two Men and a Truck has been a staple in the Kalamazoo, MI local moving scene since 2003, offering reliable residential moving services. Unlike some nearby companies, they boast an impressive portfolio with 621 reviews on Google averaging a stellar 4.9, demonstrating high customer satisfaction. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they don’t require a deposit, making the process hassle-free. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and generally favorable consumer reviews, Two Men and a Truck stand out as a reputable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.6% of all reviews were positive
4.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Powell Relocation Group receives standout feedback, with 221 customer input sources analyzed and 94.6% describing a positive experience. Most praise highlights the movers’ professionalism, careful handling, quick and efficient process, strong communication, and timely deliveries. Helpful attitudes and responsive coordinators set Powell apart, reflecting a higher standard than many competitors. On the flip side, a small but consistent minority reported issues involving property damage, delayed deliveries, and lackluster communication when resolving problems or claims. Compared to others in the moving industry, Powell’s positive feedback is notably higher, but the negative feedback stresses the importance of reliable claims support and timely, honest updates during unexpected issues.
Get a Quote (616) 956-0900

Company Info

State license #: 261884

Years in Business: 63

DOT #: 261884

Alternate Names: Powell Moving & Storage, Inc.

Powell Relocation Group, serving the Grand Rapids, MI area since 1963, stands out as a reputable local moving company. With an impressive array of services, including packing, crating, and moving valuable items like pianos and antiques, they cater to diverse moving needs. Customers consistently praise Powell Relocation Group, as evidenced by their 5.0 average rating on Yelp and a strong 4.7 on Google, coupled with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Unlike many competitors, they also offer full valuation insurance coverage and accept credit cards, making them a reliable and customer-focused choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.0% of all reviews were positive
10.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful. Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.

White Star Movers, Inc., a trusted name in Sterling Heights, MI since 1987, excels in local residential moving services. They stand out with an impressive Google rating of 4.5 from 343 reviews and hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their strong reputation. Unlike many competitors, White Star Movers also offers specialized services such as fragile-only packing and senior moving, ensuring a tailored experience. Notably, they provide full valuation insurance coverage and require no deposit, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.4% of all reviews were positive
5.6% 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.
Get a Quote (734) 677-2000

Company Info

State license #: 359936

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 808976

Handle With Care Moving has been a trusted name in Ann Arbor, MI, since 1994, specializing in local residential moving services. With stellar consumer feedback, boasting a 4.8 average rating from 271 Google reviews and a 4.0 average from 26 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and even fragile-only packing, ensuring all moving needs are met with utmost care. With the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no upfront deposit, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a dependable choice for local moves.

Services Offered

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

Cost to move from Michigan to Modesto, CA

This table details typical cost ranges to move from Michigan to Modesto, CA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,281 – $5,184 $1,278 – $3,080 $1,261 – $2,542
2-3 bedrooms $3,612 – $8,111 $2,293 – $4,617 $1,394 – $3,117
4+ bedrooms $7,208 – $11,822 $3,030 – $6,455 $1,906 – $3,672

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,377-mile move from Michigan to Modesto, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.

Cost to hire professional movers from Michigan to Modesto, CA

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Modesto, CA, typically costs between $1,281 and $5,184. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,612 and $8,111. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to Modesto, CA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,208 up to $11,822.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Modesto, CA

When relocating from Michigan to Modesto, CA, you’ll typically spend between $1,278 and $3,080 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,293 up to $4,617. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,030 and $6,455. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Modesto, CA

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Michigan to Modesto, CA, expect to pay between $1,261 and $2,542. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,394 to $3,117. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,906 and $3,672.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Compare local moving companies from Michigan to Modesto, CA

Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:

Company Full Service Antiques Military Discount Senior Discount
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving × × ×
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK × × ×
Powell Relocation Group × ×
White Star Movers, Inc. × ×
Handle With Care Moving × × ×

After evaluating 3,175 movers, here’s how Michigan movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:

Michigan Nationwide
Full Service 98% 96%
Antiques 22% 46%
Military Discount 6% 3%
Senior Discount 7% 4%

Things to know before moving from Michigan to Modesto, CA

Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Modesto, CA differs from what you’re used to in Michigan. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.

Cost of living: Michigan vs. Modesto, CA

Michigan Modesto
Average rent cost $1,037 $1,800
Average home cost $245,716 $442,362
Average income (per capita) $68,505 $67,011
Cost of Living Index 92 116
Unemployment rate 4.7% 8.0%
State Income Tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • Rent in Modesto is approximately 74% higher than in Michigan. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
  • Home prices are about 80% higher in Modesto than in Michigan. It’s important to factor in increased costs for a down payment, property taxes, and overall homeownership expenses.
  • Because income levels in Modesto are comparable to those in Michigan, you can expect a similar financial situation in your new hometown.
  • Even though unemployment in Modesto is 70% higher than in Michigan, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
  • Income taxes are 213% higher in California than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

How life is different in Modesto from Michigan

Modesto Michigan
Population 218,464 10,037,261
Political leaning Democratic 49.8-48.3 Republican 49.7-48.3
Summer high 94ºF 81ºF
Winter low 39ºF 14ºF
Annual rain 13″ 34″
Annual snow 0″ 64″
Crime index 65.76 19.98
  • In the last presidential election, Modesto leaned Democratic, while Michigan went Republican.
  • Get ready for summer highs of around 94ºF in Modesto, warmer than the average 81ºF in Michigan. With more sunshine, you’ll have extra chances for outdoor fun, but expect higher cooling costs and a hotter daily routine.
  • During the coldest months, temperatures in Modesto usually drop to around 39ºF, while in Michigan, they can fall as low as 14ºF. Moving to Modesto means you’ll enjoy milder winters, which makes daily life more comfortable, helps you save on heating costs, and lets you spend more time outdoors.
  • You can expect only about 13 inches of annual rainfall in Modesto vs the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
  • Modesto doesn’t get snow, while Michigan sees around 64 inches annually. Relocating to Modesto means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
  • Crime rates in Modesto are higher than in Michigan, with a crime index of 65.76 versus 19.98. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.

Things to do in Modesto

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Modesto.

Museums in Modesto

  • Great Valley Museum
  • McHenry Museum
  • Mistlin Gallery

Parks in Modesto

  • Tuolumne River Trail

Sports teams in Modesto

  • Modesto Nuts (California League)

Universities in Modesto

  • Modesto Junior College
  • Community Business College

Other considerations when moving to Modesto, CA

  • HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
  • 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 your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in California, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to California on time. Get started here.
  • Mover’s 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: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from Michigan to Modesto take?

The time it takes to move from Michigan to Modesto, CA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in Michigan, the longer the drive time to Modesto will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.

Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from Michigan to Modesto can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Michigan to Modesto?

If you’re planning a 2,377-mile move from Michigan to Modesto, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Modesto, CA?

Summer temperatures in Modesto can soar to 94°F, while winters can get as chilly as 39°F. That’s why most people making the move from Michigan to Modesto prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.

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