Best Movers from North Carolina to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: When you’re moving from North Carolina to California, you’ll typically spend between $1,924 and $8,881. Most moves take around seven–21 days. Keep in mind that your final cost can vary based on your home’s size, when you move, and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to North Carolina guide.
Our track record
The best North Carolina to California full-service movers
Heading from North Carolina to California? With so many moving companies out there, finding the perfect interstate mover can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the homework for you, narrowing down the top picks based on positive customer reviews, transparent pricing, and standout services.
Kick off your move to California with these leading long-distance moving companies that serve North Carolina.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in North Carolina
With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in North Carolina, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.
- You Move Me: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- American Moving & Hauling, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Misplaced or lost items
Company Info
State license #: 2572
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2518689
Alternate Names: TEC Ventures LLC
You Move Me is a well-established local moving company that has been serving Charlotte, NC, and the surrounding areas since 2015. Unlike many nearby movers, You Move Me offers comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and even piano moving, making them a versatile choice for local residential moves. With an impressive 4.9 rating from 590 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are highly regarded for their reliability and professionalism. Customers particularly appreciate that the company accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, adding convenience to their already stellar service.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Lack of communication
- Unfriendly or rude staff
- Overly complex pricing
Company Info
State license #: 2406
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Co. (NC), LLC
Gentle Giant Moving Company has been a trusted name for local residential moving services in and around Charlotte, NC since 1981. With an impressive track record, they have garnered an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and a perfect 5.0 on Google, alongside an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Gentle Giant stands out for its additional offerings such as packing and unpacking services, crane vans, and specialized piano moving. Customers appreciate their reliability and professionalism, making them a top choice for those seeking a reputable local mover.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Friendly and approachable staff
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
State license #: 601
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: Bournias, LLC
All My Sons Moving & Storage has been providing local residential moving services in and around Charlotte, NC since 1999, establishing itself as a reputable choice for those in need of reliable local movers. Compared to other nearby moving companies, All My Sons stands out with a diverse range of services, including packing, unpacking, and office moving services, as well as the capability to handle delicate items like pianos and antiques. They accept credit cards, though a deposit is required. Consumer reviews are mixed; while they boast a high rating of 4.4 on Google with over 2000 reviews and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp profile indicates some dissatisfaction with an average rating of 1.7 from 243 reviews.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Good communication
- Efficient service
- Helpful movers
- Damage to items
- Misplaced or lost items
- Higher-than-expected costs
Company Info
State license #: 2774
Years in Business: 143
DOT #: 1222904
Alternate Names: E. E. Ward Moving & Storage Co., EE Ward Moving & Storage
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage has been a cornerstone of the moving industry in Charlotte, NC, since 1882, offering reliable local residential moving services. Unlike many newer, untested companies, E.E. Ward boasts over a century of experience and holds a strong reputation, reflected in their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Customer reviews generally speak highly of the company, with a 4.8 average rating on Google My Business outshining their 3.7 rating on Yelp. They provide comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques, making them a versatile choice for any local move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Inaccurate estimates
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: 2411
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 2007351
American Moving & Hauling, Inc. offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Winston-Salem, NC, and has been a trusted name in the industry since 2007. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they provide a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and special care for fragile items, as well as the ability to move large items such as pianos, hot tubs, and safes. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 from 635 Google reviews, a solid 3.8 from 48 Yelp reviews, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they demonstrate a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability. Accepting credit cards and providing full valuation insurance coverage, American Moving & Hauling, Inc. ensures a dependable and seamless moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best North Carolina to California moving container companies
Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in North Carolina and delivering it to your new place in California.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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The best North Carolina to California moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from North Carolina to California, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best North Carolina to California labor-only movers
If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.
Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from North Carolina to California:
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How we chose the best moving companies for your NC to CA move
How much does it cost to move from North Carolina to California?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from North Carolina to California, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,579 - $6,033 | $1,729 - $4,096 | $1,868 - $3,621 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,466 - $8,881 | $2,980 - $6,274 | $1,924 - $4,056 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,568 - $13,476 | $3,941 - $8,204 | $2,381 - $4,925 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,659 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from North Carolina to California
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from North Carolina to California, you can expect to spend between $1,579 and $6,033. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,466 to $8,881 on the same route (NC to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from North Carolina to California typically runs between $8,568 and $13,476.
Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to California
If you're moving from North Carolina to California, expect to pay between $1,729 and $4,096 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,980 up to $6,274. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,941 and $8,204. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from North Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina to California
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,868 and $3,621. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,924 and $4,056. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,381 and $4,925.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NC to CA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from North Carolina to California. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
- Move size: Larger homes are pricier to move than smaller spaces like studios.
- Time of year: Prices rise during summer, which is peak moving season in North Carolina.
- DIY vs. professional movers: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you time and hassle.
What to know before moving from NC to CA
If you’re moving from North Carolina to California, it’s a good idea to see how your new state compares to your old one.
Cost of living: North Carolina vs. California
Before you move, it’s smart to see how cost of living compares between North Carolina and California. This quick, side-by-side breakdown covers essentials like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a better idea of how your budget might be affected. Check out how these two states stack up when it comes to cost of living:
| North Carolina | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,093 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $328,715 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,186 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.7% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.98% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 4.5% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 70% higher in California than in North Carolina. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 135% more than what you'll find in North Carolina.
- Good news—you can expect to earn about 39% more in California than in North Carolina. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be paying 40% more than you did in North Carolina. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is roughly 46% higher than in North Carolina. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
- Sales taxes are 24% higher in California than in North Carolina. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes in California are 196% higher than in North Carolina. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in California vs. North Carolina
Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in California versus North Carolina across some essential lifestyle factors:
| California | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 10,835,491 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 88ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 29ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 48" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 4" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 24.69 |
- The population of California is approximately 260% greater than the population of North Carolina. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and North Carolina voted Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in North Carolina, it’s 88ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF while North Carolina gets down to 29ºF. A move to California with milder winters offers greater day-to-day convenience, lower costs, and more freedom to explore outdoors. It’s a great fit for those who prefer sun over snow and fewer weather-related interruptions.
- You can expect only about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California versus 48 inches of rainfall in North Carolina. Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
- In California, it snows about 7 inches annually while North Carolina gets 4 inches of snow. With snow levels being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
- California has a higher crime rate than North Carolina with a crime index of 28.43 vs. 24.69. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of North Carolina vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against North Carolina.
| Pros of living in North Carolina | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Great communities | Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living | Pleasant weather |
| Ample economic opportunity | Abundant recreational options |
| High quality of life | High quality of life |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in North Carolina vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from North Carolina to California, keep these tips in mind.
| Cons of living in North Carolina | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Hurricanes | High cost of living |
| Bland weather | Heavy tax burdens |
| High crime rate | Natural disasters |
| High tax burden | Terrible traffic |
| Poor education | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your North Carolina to California move
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
- HOA rules: Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- 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 has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Easily verify a California moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to California right on schedule. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. 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: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in California
While you’re in California, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
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
