Top-rated local movers that handle Philadelphia to Ontario moves
When planning a move from Philadelphia to Ontario, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 68 local movers in Philadelphia who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.
Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Philadelphia to Ontario.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 125550
Years in Business: 51
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Anchor Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 10
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 44
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 39PC00058806
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 939629
Alternate Names: A Action Family Moving Company, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Philadelphia to Ontario?
Movers in Pennsylvania charge $143 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 | $1,300 – $5,294 | $1,429 – $3,491 | $1,488 – $2,771 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,547 – $7,547 | $2,368 – $4,837 | $1,597 – $3,401 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,671 – $11,348 | $3,264 – $6,934 | $2,078 – $4,340 |
Cost to hire movers from Philadelphia to Ontario
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Philadelphia to Ontario, you can expect to spend between $1,300 and $5,294. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,547 to $7,547 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Philadelphia to Ontario typically runs between $6,671 and $11,348.
Cost of moving containers from Philadelphia to Ontario
When moving from Philadelphia to Ontario, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,429 and $3,491. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,368 to $4,837. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,264 up to $6,934. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Philadelphia to Ontario
Renting a moving truck in Philadelphia is usually your cheapest option to get to Ontario. 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 $1,488 and $2,771. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,597 and $3,401. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,078 and $4,340.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors that impact moving costs from Philadelphia to Ontario
The cost of Philadelphia movers will depend on:
- The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,440, but larger homes can run up to $10,827.
- Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Philadelphia.
- Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,488–$3,769) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.
What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Ontario
Many movers find Ontario easier on the wallet than Philadelphia – roughly 3% less for singles and 6% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,473 for one person in Ontario versus $2,541 in Philadelphia. For a family of four, it’s $5,793 compared with $6,190.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Philadelphia | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,791 | $1,900 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,116 | $3,000 |
| Average home value | $216,914 | $668,089 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $71,908 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,541 | $2,473 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,190 | $5,793 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 6.9% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 8.75% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 13.3% |
- As you consider relocating to Ontario, note that rent can be roughly 55% more expensive than it is in Philadelphia; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 208% higher in Ontario than in Philadelphia.
- The average income in Ontario and Philadelphia is quite similar, within about 5%, so your finances should remain fairly stable.
- Since the cost of living for a single person is within 5% of the same in both Ontario and Philadelphia, you shouldn’t see much difference.
- Moving to Ontario could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 6% less than in Philadelphia.
- Ontario experiences an unemployment rate that is about 35% lower than that of Philadelphia. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
- Sales taxes are 9% higher in Ontario than in Philadelphia. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 333% higher in California compared to Pennsylvania. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.
The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Philadelphia with Ontario:
| Living Expense | Philadelphia | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $269.29 | $226.85 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.40 | $43.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.30 | $5.45 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.59 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $90.00 | $65.00 |
| Gym membership | $48.67 | $100.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Philadelphia than in Ontario.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Philadelphia than in Ontario.
- Eggs are less expensive in Philadelphia than in Ontario.
- Bread costs less in Philadelphia than in Ontario.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Philadelphia than in Ontario.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Philadelphia than in Ontario.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Philadelphia than in Ontario.
How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Ontario
| Philadelphia | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,603,797 | 175,265 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 75 | 48 |
| Bike friendliness score | 67 | 46 |
| Crime index | 66.09 | 50.25 |
| Safety index | 33.91 | 49.75 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Ontario’s population is about 89% less than Philadelphia.
- Ontario’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Philadelphia’s score of 9.
- Ontario is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Philadelphia’s 75 out of 100.
- Ontario has a bike-friendliness score of 46 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Philadelphia, which has a score of 67.
- Ontario’s crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 50.25 compared to Philadelphia’s 66.09. This means that Ontario neighborhoods are safer than 50.25% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
- Ontario is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 49.75 vs Philadelphia’s 33.91.
- Air quality in Ontario is Good, and in Philadelphia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Philadelphia to Ontario move
- HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Ontario smoothly. Start the process 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Ontario
Now that you’ve chosen as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Ontario to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Ontario
- Piemonte
- Ontario Ranch
- Rancho Cucamonga
- Upland
Best neighborhoods for families
- Creekside
- Parkview
- Ontario Ranch
- College Park
- Downtown Ontario
Things to do in Ontario
After getting comfortable in your new California home, it’s time to see what Ontario is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Ontario offers cultural landmarks like the Museum of History and Art, Ontario.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Ontario Reign (Hockey)Ontario Professional Baseball (Dodgers Affiliate – 2026) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Philadelphia to Ontario?
The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Philadelphia to Ontario are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Philadelphia are lower.
When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Ontario?
Because spring and fall moves from Philadelphia to Ontario are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Philadelphia to Ontario take?
A move of 2,675 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Ontario, generally takes seven to 21 days. Movers in Philadelphia sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Ontario is a good fallback if you need extra time.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Philadelphia?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In Philadelphia, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts. 1 companies offer special pricing for members of the military. 1 extend savings to senior citizens.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Which movers in Philadelphia offer piano or antique moving?
Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 53 movers in Philadelphia have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 41 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across PA, there are 77 piano movers and 55 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.
Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.
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