Local moving companies in Tacoma

  1. Mountain Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. All Ready Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Apex Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Atlantic Relocation Systems: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. PNW Moving and Delivery: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Mountain Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 885643

Years in Business: 62

9413 47th Ave SW Bldg 14 Suite E, Lakewood, WA 98499 US

Moving with Mountain Moving & Storage feels like working with pros who get the job done efficiently, with lots of respectful and skilled movers. Feedback from 179 customers shows that 84% found the process quick and their possessions handled carefully by helpful crews. Customers trusted the teams for professionalism, fast service, and attention to detailโ€”factors rarely matched by other moving companies. On the downside, a few experienced issues with item damage or felt the company lacked proper communication, especially when resolving problems. A small number pointed to unprofessional behavior and found claims tough to resolve. Most noted the staff was courteous and efficient, with only a handful encountering serious problems. Overall, Mountainโ€™s track record puts them ahead of many regional movers, but they could further stand out by sharpening their communication and quality controls.

Get a Quote (800) 249-2414

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOT #: 885643
  • State license #: 885643
  • DOD certified

Alternative Business Names

  • Mountain Trucking Co Inc

Local Associations

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All Ready Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 2083124

Years in Business: 21

1690 Marine View Dr., Suite D, Tacoma, WA 98422 US

All Ready Moving & Storage customers rave about the moversโ€™ professionalism, efficient service, careful handling, and positive attitudes. Across 95 reviews, 91.6% provided positive input, citing staff as friendly, polite, and highly helpful. Quick moves and support through stressful transitions stand out, with many noting items were well cared for and the teams stayed communicative throughout. Most feedback highlights a seamless experience rare among moving companies. A few clients voiced concerns regarding unexpectedly high costs, disorganized or careless packing, and occasionally unprofessional conduct, especially on more complex relocations. Only a small fraction experienced billing issues or unsatisfactory handling. Compared to other movers, All Ready delivers more consistent service with exceptional staff dedication, but clarity on pricing and consistent quality remains an area for competitors to match.

Get a Quote (360) 507-2447

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Apex Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 1064661

Years in Business: 25

914 Valley Ave NW Ste 102, Puyallup, WA 98371 US

Apex Moving & Storage stands out for its high level of customer satisfaction, with 248 reviews analyzed and about 86% offering positive feedback. Customers highlight the team's professionalism, quick and efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and strong communication from booking to delivery. Many mention thoughtful movers who show respect for property and are easy to work with, making the moving process smoother than with typical companies. Some point to better experiences with Apex compared to other movers, citing consistently prompt arrivals and accurate estimates. A handful of reviews raise concerns about items being damaged, inconsistent communication, or unexpected fees, but these make up a much smaller portion of the input. While most people report less stress and more reliability with Apex compared to other moving services, a few say their issues werenโ€™t resolved satisfactorily. Overall, Apex receives notably more positive recommendations and repeat customers than many moving companies in the region.

Get a Quote (253) 864-7870

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Apex Moving & Storage LLC
  • Apex Movers LLC
  • Apex Packing & Loading Service
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Atlantic Relocation Systems

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 2730619

Years in Business: 100

2121 S 80th St, Tacoma, WA 98409 US

Customers consistently praise Atlantic Relocation Systems for its professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, good communication, and swift moving process. Over three-quarters of feedback is positive, out of 139 reviews analyzed. Movers often receive high marks for friendliness, organization, and attention to detail, setting the company apart from many competitors. Customers appreciate how teams listen, adapt to needs, and provide strong follow-through, making relocation significantly less stressful. Negative input highlights damage to items, rude staff interactions, and delays with delivery or arrival. Issues include careless packing, property mishandling, and unsatisfactory resolution of claims, though such complaints appear less frequently than positive remarks. The overall impression is that Atlantic Relocation performs above industry standards in moving professionalism and customer care but shows room for better consistency in item protection and customer response during less-than-ideal situations.

Get a Quote (509) 258-5050

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Effort Enterprises of Tacoma Inc
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PNW Moving and Delivery

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 2919585

Years in Business: 9

2112 109th St S Suite 203, Tacoma, WA 98444 US

Customers consistently describe PNW Moving and Delivery as quick, efficient, and professional. Most feedback praises the hardworking staff, prompt service, careful handling, and accurate or affordable pricing. Many mention peace of mind, responsive communication, and attention to detail, noting that belongings arrived on time and undamaged. A few highlight flexibility with scheduling and moves under the estimated time, which sets PNW apart from many competitors. Although a small number of customers report damages or negative incidents such as unprofessional behavior, property damage, or delayed arrival, these complaints represent under 10 percent of total input. The majority of movers receive high marks for reliability, teamwork, skill, and customer care, making PNW one of the strongest choices in their field based on customer feedback from 241 reviews.

Get a Quote (253) 237-4291

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • PNW Delivery LLC
  • PNW Moving and Storage LLC
  • PNW Moving LLC
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Factors influencing moving costs from Tacoma to California

The cost of Tacoma movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Tacoma, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

What to know before moving from Tacoma, WA, to California

Heading from Tacoma to California comes with new adventures, but also a bump in living expenses. Because California usually has a higher cost of living than Tacoma, itโ€™s smart to budget and plan ahead.

Take a look at how living in Tacoma stacks up against California so youโ€™re prepared before making the move:

Compare cost of living: Tacoma vs. California

Tacoma, WA California
Average rent cost $1,650 $1,856
Average home cost $477,289 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $73,341 $91,905
Unemployment rate 7.3% 5.4%
State income tax 0.0% 13.3%
  • Youโ€™ll need to budget more for rent in California since the cost of living is typically 13% more expensive than in Tacoma.
  • Take into account that home prices are about 61.5% higher in California than in Tacoma, so you will need to make sure you can afford this monthly increase if youโ€™re looking to purchase a home.
  • The average income is about 25.3% higher in California than in Tacoma.
  • California has a lower unemployment rate than Tacoma by about 26.0%.
  • Be prepared to pay more in income taxes. Income taxes are 13.30% higher in California than in Tacoma.

How life is different in Tacoma, WA, from California

When planning a move from Tacoma to California, youโ€™ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Hereโ€™s what awaits when you leave the Americaโ€™s #1 Wired City behind for life in California.

Tacoma, WA California
Population 39,029,342 223,968
Political leaning Democratic 54-43 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 87ยบF 77ยบF
Winter low 59ยบF 35ยบF
Annual rain 22" 41"
Annual snow 7" 4"
Crime index 28.43 55.55
  • In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Tacoma voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in California is 87ยบ F, while the hottest itโ€™s typically going to be in Tacoma is 77ยบ F, so get ready to enjoy some warmer temperatures in the summer.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Tacoma reaches the temperature of 35ยบ F while California only gets down to 59ยบ F, so youโ€™ll be able to enjoy warmer winter weather in the Golden State.
  • When you move from Tacoma to California you can put away your raincoats, with only 22 inches of annual rainfall in California compared to the 41 inches in Tacoma that youโ€™re used to.
  • In the winter, youโ€™ll enjoy about the same amount of cold, snowy weather in California, with 7 inches of snow annually, as you did in Tacoma with 4 inches.

Other considerations when moving to California from Tacoma

When youโ€™re moving from Tacoma to California, youโ€™ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure youโ€™re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your 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 ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, youโ€™ll want to check on how to reserve it for move 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 โ€œT Numberโ€ 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.
  • 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 is 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection โ€“ 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 youโ€™ve got everything covered.

Things to do in California

Whether youโ€™re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, youโ€™ll be happy to find a plethora of these in California.

Museums in Californiatoggle

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa
  • Griffith Observatory
  • Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
  • Norton Simon Museum
  • Mission San Luis Rey
  • Tallac Historic Site

Parks in Californiatoggle

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park
  • MacKerricher State Park
  • Tilden Regional Park
  • Dinosaur Caves Park
  • Greystone Mansion and Park
  • Rancho San Antonio County Park

Sports Teams in Californiatoggle

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
  • Oakland Athletics (MLB)
  • San Diego Padres (MLB)
  • San Francisco Giants (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Chargers (NFL)
  • Los Angeles Rams (NFL)

Universities in Californiatoggle

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego
  • University of California, Davis
  • University of California, Irvine
  • California Institute of Technology
  • University of California, Santa Barbara
  • University of California, Riverside

FAQs

How long does a move from Tacoma to California take?

Curious about how long itโ€™ll take to move from Tacoma, WA to California? Typically, the process takes about two to seven days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if youโ€™re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.

Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you wonโ€™t get stuck with any surprise delays.

What is the best way to get a car from Tacoma to California?

Need to ship your car from Tacoma to California? Trust professionals whoโ€™ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Tacoma to California.

Why are people moving from Tacoma to California?

Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Tacoma?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Tacoma .

Helpful moving resources