10 best movers in Modesto, California

The best mover for relocating out of California is International Van Lines. Use the filters below to find other moving companies for a local move in the Modesto area.

Long-distance movers in Modesto

A long-distance move is when you move to another state or more than 50 miles away. Make sure the mover you hire has the proper federal licensing when crossing state lines. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Input these numbers or the mover's name into the FMCSA's database to verify a carrier's licensing status.

The long-distance moving companies below are reliable and have an active license. They can help get your belongings safely and efficiently to your new home.

Featured

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?

The average hourly moving rate for moving within or out of Modesto is higher than the national average, making it a fairly costly process. The higher moving rates make sense as the cost of living in Modesto is above 90.9% of the country.

Various factors are involved in moving, so expenses add up fast. Here are some common moving costs:

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

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

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move valuable, fragile or oversized items. These items commonly cost more to move:

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

If you need to move any of these items, ask potential movers whether they charge additional fees for them.

Tipping your movers

While tipping your movers isn’t mandatory, it’s common if your movers handled your belongings with care or reduced the stress of your move. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays happen. Traffic, bad weather, transportation emergencies and limited supplies can all add time and money to your move. 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

Consider these ways to reduce moving expenses in Modesto.

Be communicative

Keep your movers informed about any modifications to your schedule or inventory, especially when adding items they have to move.

While your movers can usually accommodate small items without issue, larger pieces such as new furniture or appliances should be discussed before the move. The movers may charge more for those additions and won’t start your move until you’ve consented to the additional charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Moving during the week or in the off-season can save some money and ensure you book the movers you want.

Peak moving season is from May through September. If your timeline is flexible, moving during slower months may result in lower rates or less competition.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

There are several alternatives if you can't find a cost - effective mover.

While you can move yourself, weigh the amount of labor required and the following costs:

• Fuel
• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental

Getting help from friends, family or neighbors for moving large or heavy items such as furniture can make your move quicker and easier. If you lack the time or support system needed for a self-move, employing movers is a worthwhile investment.

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

FAQ about moving in Modesto

What’s full-service moving?

When you opt for full-service moving, your hired movers will take care of the entire moving process. This includes providing packing supplies, packing your belongings, transporting them to the new location and unpacking them.

Standard moving services are more affordable than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and moving your belongings. However, full-service moving can be a justifiable expense when you consider the time, labor and packing materials you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving can provide better insurance coverage, as self-packed items are usually only protected up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be difficult to get a claim approved for self-packed damaged goods.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will show their proof of registration on physical trucks and official files. If you're making an out of state move, you should screen companies for legitimate 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?

Estimate the total worth of your belongings to accurately choose the most suitable insurance policy. Every moving company will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. A full-value protection policy may be necessary if your belongings are worth a lot, so ask to review all rates.

When is the best time of year to move?

The best moving time spans between May through September, resulting in lower supply and heightened pricing nationwide for relocations of all sizes. The steep rates may prevent you from a summer move. Moreover, you may wish to avoid relocating in the summer given Modesto's extreme heat, which could further complicate a move.

We recommend moving during the spring or early fall to experience the best possible weather and lower rates for service.

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 photo albums in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any high-end electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving companies cap insurance coverage for expensive items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about potential loss or damage, keep those priceless or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

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

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

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.