Local moving companies in South Dakota
When relocating from South Dakota to Modesto, CA, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 12 South Dakota movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Modesto, CA.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Brouwer Relocation Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Movin’ On Out Inc: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Advanced Moving: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- Green’s Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2575221
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 125550
Years in Business: 55
DOT #: 125550
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1201875
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 1201875
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 961086
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 961086
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 72
DOT #: 207599
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from South Dakota to Modesto, CA
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from South Dakota to Modesto, CA with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,346 – $5,634 | $1,003 – $2,398 | $925 – $1,673 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,300 – $7,229 | $1,809 – $3,467 | $972 – $1,950 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,131 – $10,905 | $2,276 – $4,447 | $1,189 – $2,557 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,567-mile move from South Dakota to Modesto, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from South Dakota to Modesto, CA
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Modesto, CA, you can expect to spend between $1,346 and $5,634. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,300 to $7,229 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $6,131 and $10,905.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Modesto, CA
When moving from South Dakota to Modesto, CA, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,003 and $2,398. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,809 to $3,467. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,276 up to $4,447. 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 South Dakota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Dakota to Modesto, CA
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 from South Dakota to Modesto, CA, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $925 and $1,673. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $972 and $1,950. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,189 and $2,557.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from South Dakota 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Brouwer Relocation Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Movin’ On Out Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Advanced Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Green’s Moving & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
Out of the 3,179 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how South Dakota movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| South Dakota | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 85% | 96% |
| Antiques | 21% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from South Dakota to Modesto, CA
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Modesto, CA is really like compared to South Dakota. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. Modesto, CA
| South Dakota | Modesto | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $878 | $1,800 |
| Average home cost | $306,944 | $442,362 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,457 | $67,011 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 116 |
| Unemployment rate | 1.9% | 8.0% |
| State Income Tax | 0.0% | 13.3% |
Modesto sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Modesto is roughly 105% higher than in South Dakota. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
- Home prices in Modesto are approximately 44% higher than in South Dakota. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
- Since income levels in Modesto are similar to those in South Dakota, your bank account won’t take much of a hit when you move.
- With unemployment 321% higher in Modesto than South Dakota, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- California has a state income tax, while South Dakota does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in Modesto from South Dakota
| Modesto | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 218,464 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 39ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 13″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 65.76 | 21.14 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Modesto voted Democratic, while South Dakota was Republican.
- Get set for summer temperatures reaching around 94ºF in Modesto, hotter than the average 85ºF in South Dakota. You’ll enjoy more sunshine and outdoor activities, but be ready for increased cooling costs and warmer days.
- During the coldest part of the year, Modesto reaches a temperature of 39ºF while South Dakota gets down to 7ºF. Relocating to Modesto means you’ll enjoy milder winters, making daily life easier, more affordable, and better for spending time outside.
- In Modesto, you’ll see just 13 inches of rain annually, much less than the 23 inches you’re used to in South Dakota. With fewer rainy days, you’ll have more opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. This sunnier climate can really lift your mood and energy as you settle into your new home.
- Modesto doesn’t get snow, while South Dakota sees around 39 inches annually. Relocating to Modesto means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Modesto has a higher crime rate than South Dakota with a crime index of 65.76 vs 21.14. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.
Things to do in Modesto
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Modesto has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
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: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
- Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to California without any delays. 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 keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from South Dakota to Modesto take?
The time frame for a move from South Dakota to Modesto, CA, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.
The farther north you are in South Dakota, the longer it’ll take to reach Modesto. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.
Delivery from South Dakota to Modesto can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from South Dakota to Modesto?
If you’re gearing up for a 1,567-mile move from South Dakota to Modesto, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Modesto, CA?
Summer in Modesto can reach highs of 94°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 39°F. That’s why most people moving from South Dakota to Modesto 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.
Helpful moving resources
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