10 best movers in Huntington Beach, California

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for moving out of California. Use the filters below to find other moving companies for a local move in the Huntington Beach area.

Long-distance movers in Huntington Beach

A long-distance move is when you move to a different state or over 50 miles away. When moving across state lines, check that your moving company has the right federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To confirm a carrier's licensing status, you can input these numbers or the mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

The long-distance movers below are reliable and actively licensed. They can help get you and your belongings safely and efficiently across state lines.

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

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3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

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Why is moving so expensive?

Moving within or out of Huntington Beach is relatively expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense considering the cost of living in Huntington Beach is higher than 98.5% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly based on what services you need. Here are some common moving costs:

• Professional labor
• Supplies
• Junk removal
• Storage
• Packing
• Fuel

These additional factors can add even more to your total cost:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are valuable, fragile or oversized. Some common items that can be more expensive to move include these:

• Safes
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology
• Pianos
• Family heirlooms or antiques
• Artwork and sculptures

When deciding between moving companies, ask if they move these items and charge extra for them.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers isn’t required, but it’s a common practice if your movers provided quality service. For long-distance moves, a standard tip is $20–$40 per mover per day. For local moves, tip $5–$10 per mover per hour.

Unexpected delays

Limited supplies, transportation emergencies, traffic and bad weather can all delay your move and increase the time and cost. You can't avoid delays, but you can prepare for them by being flexible with your schedule and adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping these ways in mind can save you money on moving in Huntington Beach.

Be communicative

Be communicative about any changes to your schedule or inventory to avoid unexpected charges on the day of your move. Tell them about additional items that weren’t included in the initial inventory.

For example, your movers can usually add small items to the truck without issue, but large items — like new furniture or appliances — need to be discussed beforehand. Additional fees may apply for large items, and your movers won’t begin the move until you’ve consented to the cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Since dependable and cost-effective movers are in high demand, consider moving on a weekday or in the off-season to lower the cost while still getting your preferred moving company.

Movers are busiest between May and September. Consider moving outside of those months if you have a flexible schedule, as there may be lower moving rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

Consider an alternative if you have difficulty finding an affordable that meets your needs.

Handling the move by yourself is an option. Before going this route, consider the labor required and the following costs:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

You may also need to ask friends, family or neighbors for help moving large items such as furniture. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you don’t have the time or support to commit to self-moving.

Hiring movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr is another alternative. While hiring hourly help can be more cost-effective, these gig workers may not have the necessary licensing or insurance coverage.

FAQ about moving in Huntington Beach

What’s full-service moving?

When you opt for full-service moving, your hired movers will tackle the entire moving process. This includes supplying packing materials, packing your belongings, transporting them and unpacking everything for you.

Standard moving services cost less than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. However, full-service moving can be a justifiable expense when you take into account the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving may offer more comprehensive insurance coverage compared to self-packed items, which are typically only covered up to 60 cents per dollar. Getting a damage claim approved for self-packed goods can also be difficult.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving companies will display proof of registration on their moving trucks and on paperwork such as estimates and contracts. As stated above, you should check a company’s USDOT and MC numbers when planning an interstate move by checking the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in California are also required to have a license from the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services.

How does moving insurance work?

Estimate the complete worth of your belongings to accurately choose the most suitable insurance policy. Released-value coverage applies to all moves, which insures 60 cents per pound per item. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're transporting valuable goods — just understand that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The optimal moving time falls between May and September, creating increased demand and raised rates for moves of all sizes. The lofty prices could prevent you from making a move in the summer. Moreover, Huntington Beach's sweltering summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose extra challenges.

We advise moving in the springtime or early autumn so that you have optimal weather conditions and more affordable pricing for services.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

To be safe, keep important financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your personal car. We also recommend keeping expensive technology with you while moving.

Most moving companies restrict insurance coverage for high-value goods, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about irreplaceable and valuable items being lost or damaged, bring those belongings with you.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

• Compressed tanks or gas
• Fuel sources
• Aerosols
• Batteries
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Fertilizers
• Plants
• Perishable foods and produce
• Flammable chemicals of any kind

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.