Local moving companies in Montana
When making the move from Montana to Oakland, CA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 10 Montana movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Oakland, CA.
- InterWest Moving and Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Mesa Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Montana Transfer: 4.22 out of 5 stars
- All Lanes Moving & Storage: 4.22 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 125550
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: West One Logistics
InterWest Moving and Storage, serving Belgrade, MT since 1992, specializes in local residential moves and stands out as a highly reputable option compared to other nearby moving companies. With an impressive consumer review profile—boasting a 5.0 average rating on Yelp and a 4.8 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ Better Business Bureau rating—InterWest’s commitment to customer satisfaction is clear. The company also offers a range of additional services including packing, unpacking, and crating, and provides full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind. For those seeking reliable, top-rated local moving services, InterWest Moving and Storage is a standout choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck, operating in and around Missoula, MT since 2018, stands out for its reliable local residential moving services. With a solid reputation, the company boasts an impressive 4.5-star average on Google My Business from 76 reviews and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, reflecting customer satisfaction and trust. Comparing favorably to other movers in the area, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they accept credit cards with no deposit required. Whether moving a piano or a safe, Two Men and a Truck provides an all-encompassing solution for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3280355
Alternate Names: Mesa Moving and Storage Helena, LLC
Mesa Moving & Storage, operating since 2020, offers comprehensive local residential moving services in and around Helena, MT. Known for their impressive Google rating of 4.7 from 159 reviews and a stellar A+ BBB rating, they consistently outshine many nearby competitors. While their Yelp reviews suggest some mixed experiences, their overall consumer feedback remains highly positive. In addition to local moves, Mesa Moving & Storage excels in packing, unpacking, and crating services, and caters to specialized needs like moving pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. With no deposit required and both cash and credit card payments accepted, they provide a flexible and reputable choice for those seeking reliable local movers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 61
DOT #: 514197
Montana Transfer, a reputable moving company established in 1965, offers local residential moving services in and around Missoula, MT. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an average rating of 3.8 from 68 Google reviews, Montana Transfer outshines many local competitors despite mixed feedback on Yelp. They provide a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and the fragile-only packing if needed, accommodating specialized needs such as piano and art moving. Montana Transfer accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 917105
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 917105
All Lanes Moving & Storage, based in Missoula, MT, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2001. They stand out from other nearby moving companies with their extensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for pianos and safes. Client feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with a Yelp rating of 4.2 and a perfect Google rating of 5.0, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. For those seeking a trustworthy and comprehensive local moving company, All Lanes Moving & Storage proves to be a reputable choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Montana to Oakland, CA
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Montana to Oakland, CA, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,331 – $5,590 | $917 – $2,068 | $762 – $1,452 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,267 – $7,313 | $1,594 – $3,258 | $791 – $1,660 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,157 – $10,052 | $2,029 – $4,271 | $975 – $2,146 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,196-mile move from Montana to Oakland, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Montana to Oakland, CA
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Montana to Oakland, CA, you can expect prices to land between $1,331 and $5,590. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,267 to $7,313. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,157 and $10,052.
Cost of moving containers from Montana to Oakland, CA
Moving containers from Montana to Oakland, CA, will cost you $917 to $2,068 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,594 to $3,258. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,029 to $4,271. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Montana.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Montana to Oakland, CA
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $762 and $1,452 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Montana to Oakland, CA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $791 to $1,660. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $975 to $2,146.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Montana to Oakland, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| InterWest Moving and Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Mesa Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Montana Transfer | ✓ | × | × | × |
| All Lanes Moving & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Montana movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Montana | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 91% | 96% |
| Antiques | 16% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Montana to Oakland, CA
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Oakland, CA stacks up against Montana. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Montana vs. Oakland, CA
| Montana | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $974 | $2,200 |
| Average home cost | $462,631 | $736,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,341 | $94,389 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 196 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 4.5% |
| State Income Tax | 6.75% | 13.3% |
Oakland sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 126% more expensive in Oakland than in Montana, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- In Oakland, home prices run about 59% higher than in Montana. Be prepared for a larger down payment, steeper property taxes, and higher overall homeownership costs.
- On average, incomes in Oakland are about 42% higher than in Montana. This could help you stay on top of living expenses or grow your savings over time.
- Unemployment in Oakland runs 36% above Montana, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes in California are 97% higher than in Montana, leaving you with less take-home pay to cover expenses or save.
How life is different in Oakland from Montana
| Oakland | Montana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 440,646 | 1,132,812 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Republican 58.4-38.5 |
| Summer high | 72ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 44ºF | 12ºF |
| Annual rain | 24″ | 15″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 49″ |
| Crime index | 68.62 | 23.37 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Oakland voted Democratic and Montana voted Republican.
- Summers in Oakland average 72ºF, while Montana typically sees highs of 84ºF. Choosing to move somewhere cooler can mean less extreme heat, reduced energy costs, and more time to enjoy being outside in the summer.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Oakland generally drop to around 44ºF, while Montana can get as cold as 12ºF. Moving to Oakland means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- 24 inches of rain each year in Oakland, considerably more than the 15 inches you’re used to in Montana. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
- Oakland doesn’t get snow, while Montana sees around 49 inches annually. Relocating to Oakland means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Crime rates in Oakland are higher than in Montana, with a crime index of 68.62 versus 23.37. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Oakland
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Oakland can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Oakland
- Oakland Museum of California
- Chabot Space & Science Center
- USS Potomac
- Oakland Aviation Museum
- African American Museum and Library
Parks in Oakland
- Redwood Regional Park
- Joaquin Miller Park
- East Bay Regional Park District
- Lakeside Park and Garden Center
- Piedmont Park
Sports teams in Oakland
- Oakland Athletics (MLB)
- Oakland Roots DC (USLC)
Universities in Oakland
- Laney College
- Merritt College
- California College of the Arts (formerly the California College of Arts and Crafts)
- Holy Names University (formerly Holy Names College)
- Lincoln University
Other considerations when moving to Oakland, CA
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- 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 booking.
- State regulator: You can check your California moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- 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 so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. 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: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Montana to Oakland take?
The time it takes to move from Montana to Oakland, CA varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Oakland from northern Montana, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Montana to Oakland typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Montana to Oakland?
Because of the 1,196-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Montana to Oakland as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Oakland, CA?
With summer temperatures reaching 72°F and winter nights dipping to 44°F, most people make the move from Montana to Oakland in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Montana moving services
Popular Montana routes
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