10 best movers in Los Angeles, California

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for moving out of California. For a local move around Los Angeles, use the filters below to find other movers that meet your needs.

Long-distance movers in Los Angeles

A long-distance move is when you move to a different state or more than 50 miles away. If you're moving across state boundaries, you need to be especially careful that the mover you hire has the proper federal licensing. Interstate movers are required to have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Input the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database to verify a carrier's licensing status.

The long-distance movers below are experienced 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?

Relocating within or out of Los Angeles is fairly costly, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. This makes sense given that the cost of living in Los Angeles is higher than 96.5% of the country.

Many factors are involved in moving, causing expenses adding up fast. Here are some typical moving costs:

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

These extra factors can cause your final moving bill to rise even more:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring a moving companiy, you may have to pay more for moving fragile, valuable or oversized items. The following items can be more expensive to move:

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

When vetting movers, ask if they move these items and charge extra for them.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they get your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays are common due to issues such as traffic, a lack of supplies, transportation emergencies and inclement weather. These can increase your moving costs and prolong your timeline. Although delays are unpredictable, you can prepare for them by keeping a flexible schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can save you money on moving in Los Angeles.

Be communicative

To avoid surprise charges on your moving day, be communicative with your movers, particularly about items you add to your inventory after a virtual or in-person walkthrough with your movers.

For example, small items can usually be added to the truck without issue, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — need to be discussed before the move. The movers may need to adjust their quote for these item and get your consent to these fees before starting the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Since dependable and affordable movers are highly sought after, consider moving during the week or in the off-season to lower the cost while still booking your preferred relocation service.

Peak moving season is 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

If you have difficulty finding a cheap moving company that works for you, there are several alternatives to consider.

One alternative is handling the move by yourself. Consider the amount of labor required and the following costs when deciding between professional moving team and moving on your own:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

You may also need to get help from friends, family or neighbors for moving bulky or heavy items such as furniture. Hiring movers is beneficial if you lack the time or anyone who can help you move.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. Hiring hourly help can be cheaper, but freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Los Angeles

What’s full-service moving?

Hiring full-service movers means they will manage the entire moving process. They provide packing supplies, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Standard moving services are more affordable than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. However, full-service moving can be worth it when you factor in the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Full-service moving may also provide more comprehensive insurance coverage. Self-packed items are usually only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these items can be tough to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will display their proof of registration on physical trucks and official files. If you're making an interstate move, you should screen companies for valid USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting 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?

See what insurance policies your movers provide. All movers should offer released-value coverage, which pays 60 cents per pound per item. If you're moving high-value items, inquire about your mover's full-value protection policies. A full-value protection policy may be practical if your belongings are worth a lot, so ask to explore rates.

When is the best time of year to move?

The warmer months between May to September is the peak moving time. This means a limited supply of available moving companies, and increased costs for moves of all sizes. The steep seasonal prices may prevent you from choosing a summer move.

We recommend moving in the spring or early fall seasons when you can expect more favorable weather and lower costs.

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

For peace of mind, move items like identification documents, financial records and valuable keepsakes in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any expensive electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving companies cap insurance coverage on high-value possessions, like jewelry and family heirlooms. Keep these yourself, as well as any other irreplaceable belongings, if you're concerned about possible loss or damage.

There are certain goods and materials prohibited for transportation by movers. These include the following:

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

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.