Fact Checked by: 
Industry-trained crews
Local moving companies in Pennsylvania
When making the move from Pennsylvania to San Jose, CA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local moving companies that specialize in relocations from the Keystone State to the vibrant Man Jose, ensuring your move is as smooth as possible.
Out of 68 Pennsylvania movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to San Jose, CA.
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Don Farr Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Hughes Relocation Services: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Forward Moving LLC: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Gardner Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 8925314
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2969363
Zip to Zip Moving Inc has been a trusted local residential moving company in and around Exton, PA since 2018. With an impressive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, safes, and antiques, they outshine many nearby competitors. Their stellar reputation is backed by numerous positive reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and a perfect score of 5.0 on Google. Additionally, their A rating from the Better Business Bureau further cements their standing as a reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 8922932
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 345157
Alternate Names: Exclusive Services, Inc.
Don Farr Moving & Storage, a trusted name in West Mifflin, PA since 1982, specializes in local residential moving services. While consumer reviews are mixed, with average ratings of 2.2 on Yelp and 3.6 on Google, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau stands out. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Compared to other nearby movers, Don Farr's extensive experience and variety of services make them a solid 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
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 103976
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 110502
Hughes Relocation Services, based in Lansdale, PA, has been a trusted name in local residential moving since 1983. Renowned for their exceptional customer service, they boast an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and strong online reviews, including a 4.7 average rating on Google from 292 reviews. Unlike many nearby movers, Hughes Relocation Services also offers packing, unpacking, and crating services, and can handle specialty items such as pianos and art with care. Additionally, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 8920700
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3078473
Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.
Forward Moving LLC, serving Exton, PA, has been the reliable choice for local residential moving since 2018. Known for their comprehensive range of services, they handle everything from simple packing and unpacking to more specialized tasks like moving pianos, art, and antiques. While their Yelp reviews average a 3.9 rating from 11 reviewers, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.9 average from 274 reviews, and they hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Forward Moving LLC accepts credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 00108945
Years in Business: 103
DOT #: 947009
Gardner Moving, a trusted local moving company serving McDonald, PA, has been providing exceptional residential moving services since 1922. With over a century of experience, Gardner Moving stands out among nearby competitors by offering specialized services like packing, unpacking, and fragile item handling, ensuring a smooth relocation process. They boast an impressive consumer review profile with an average rating of 4.7 on both Yelp and Google, coupled with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. For those in need of reliable and comprehensive local moving services, Gardner Moving is a reputable and highly recommended choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from Pennsylvania to San Jose, California:
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zip to Zip Moving Inc | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Don Farr Moving & Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Hughes Relocation Services | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Forward Moving LLC | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✔ |
| Gardner Moving | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,594 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Pennsylvania movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Pennsylvania | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 97% | 97% |
| Antiques | 53% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 1% | 5% |
Things to know before moving from Pennsylvania to San Jose, CA
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in San Jose, CA differs from what you're used to in Pennsylvania. 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: Pennsylvania vs San Jose, CA
| Pennsylvania | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,110 | $3,095 |
| Average home value | $268,824 | $1,453,657 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,170 | $83,421 |
| Unemployment rate | 3% | 7% |
| State income tax | 3% | 13% |
San Jose sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 179% more expensive in San Jose than in Pennsylvania, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds for both your move-in expenses and ongoing monthly rent.
- Home prices are about 441% higher in San Jose than in Pennsylvania. It's important to factor in increased costs for a down payment, property taxes, and overall homeownership expenses.
- The average income is about 14% higher in San Jose than in Pennsylvania. You may find the living expenses more manageable and be able to boost your savings over time.
- Although unemployment rates in San Jose are about 94% higher than Pennsylvania, plenty of job opportunities still exist. Be strategic in your job hunt and consider networking early.
- Income taxes are 333% higher in San Jose than in Pennsylvania. It will be important to factor that into your budget and adjust for a potentially smaller paycheck.
How life is different in San Jose from Pennsylvania
| San Jose | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 971,233 | 12,961,683 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 73-25 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 42ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 17" | 44" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 38" |
| Crime index | 47.73 | 17.62 |
San Jose sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- San Jose voted Democratic, while Pennsylvania was Republican.
- Summer temperatures in San Jose typically reach 82°F, which is about the same as the average 83°F you’re used to in Pennsylvania. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
- In the coldest months, temperatures in San Jose typically reach lows of about 42°F, while Pennsylvania can dip as low as 19°F. By moving to San Jose, you’ll start to experience milder winters, making everyday life more comfortable, saving money, and giving you more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
- In San Jose, you’ll get just 17 inches of rain annually, less than the 44 inches you typically see in Pennsylvania. With all the extra sunshine, you’ll have more opportunities to explore your new surroundings. This sunnier forecast is the perfect way to start your next chapter.
- In San Jose, you’ll see just 0 inches of snow each year, much less than the 38 inches you’re used to in Pennsylvania. Milder winters mean less shoveling, safer streets, and fewer cold-weather headaches. If a gentler winter is what you’re after, San Jose is definitely the place to be.
- Crime rates in San Jose are higher than in Pennsylvania, with a crime index of 47.73 compared to 17.62. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.
Things to do in San Jose
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in San Jose.
Museums in San Jose
Parks in San Jose
Sports Teams in San Jose
Universities in San Jose
Other considerations when moving to San Jose, CA
- Weather: San Jose, like most of the Bay Area, has warm to hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters. The city is somewhat more sheltered from rain, giving it a semi-arid feel
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- 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 parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules 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 them.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- 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: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to 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 priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
FAQ
How long does a move from Pennsylvania to San Jose take?
The time it takes to move from Pennsylvania to San Jose, 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.
Planning a move from northern Pennsylvania to San Jose? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
Moving your belongings from Pennsylvania to San Jose 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 Pennsylvania to San Jose?
Planning a 2750-mile move from Pennsylvania to San Jose? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Jose, CA?
Summer in San Jose can reach highs of 82°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 42°F. That’s why most people moving from Pennsylvania to San Jose opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
