Top 5 Bay Area, CA to Los Angeles, CA Moving Companies

Moving out from Bay Area, CA is one of the most stressful things you can ever do. Whether it is residential moving, long distance moving, moving cross borders, or commercial moving, the process can be a disaster if you don’t trust the right long-distance company for your move to Los Angeles, CA.

There are several factors that determine whether you can trust a long-distance moving company. It should have a strong track record, it should be well accredited by organizations and Better Business Bureau, it should provide insurance, and it should be able to handle everything from packing to unloading.

For your move from Bay Area, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can find dozens of recommendations over the internet. However, it is difficult to weed out the good from the bad. To help make the task easier for you, we have compiled a detailed list of the best movers in Bay Area, CA.

Read on for a thoroughly researched review of the 5 best moving companies from Bay Area, CA to Los Angeles, CA.

How are moving companies selected?

We sat down with the owner to discuss their experience, credentials and credibility. Only real and trustworthy companies.

They hold a minimum of 1 million in liability insurance and protection to the cargo. You are protected.

We verified reviews across major tier party platforms like Google, Facebook, Trustpilot and more. Only top-rated movers.

We verified optional accreditations including but not limited to Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Canadian Association Of Movers (CAM)

Business experience

We sat down with the owner to discuss their experience, credentials and credibility. Only real and trustworthy companies.

Insurance certificates

They hold a minimum of 1 million in liability insurance and protection to the cargo. You are protected.

Client reviews

We verified reviews across major tier party platforms like Google, Facebook, Trustpilot and more. Only top-rated movers.

Accreditations

We verified optional accreditations including but not limited to Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Canadian Association Of Movers (CAM)

Disclaimer

For moves exceeding 250 miles / 400 km, we strongly advise considering a van line or its authorized agent. Their pricing model is weight-based, ensuring precise cost calculations for your belongings. Due to the unique pricing approach of van lines and their agents, we are unable to provide exact figures and pricing is only available on demand.

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MovingWaldo's List of The 5 Best Bay Area, CA to Los Angeles, CA Movers that you can trust in Bay Area, CA

These reviews are not sponsored, we independently reviewed all the companies we recommend. Clicking on a link may earn us a commission. Learn more.

Featured in this article

Move Central Movers & Storage

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Accreditations

Pricing

  • Hourly price starting at $139 / hr for 2 movers after 3 hours minimum. 
  • Double drive time charge: Yes 
  • Truck fee: Yes

Verified Credentials

  • 12 years of experience 
  • USDOT: 2365576
  • MC Number: 1225123
  • MTR: 191020
  • BIPD coverage: $1,000,000
  • Basic insurance of $0.60 per pound protection. Additional coverage available upon request.

Services offered

  • Local and long-distance moves 
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why Move Central Movers & Storage is recommended by our expert

Move Central Movers & Storage is a reputable moving company claiming a 97% customer satisfaction rate. They offer free estimates and specialize in handling fragile items like pianos, office equipment and large appliances. Their experienced drivers and well-equipped trucks ensure a stress-free move, with a focus on floor and carpet protection. 

Their rigorous application and interview process for selecting movers, which considers years of experience and commitment to excellent customer service, makes them a dependable option for your next move. Move Central Movers & Storage also offer their customers labor only moving services, meaning you provide the truck and they will provide professional movers to help you! 

Local office

50 8th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

The company has been a MovingWaldo network partner since 2022

Mayflower

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Accreditations

Pricing

Available on demand

Verified Credentials

  • 97 years of experience 
  • USDOT: 125563
  • MC Number: 969195
  • BBB Rating: A+
  • BIPD coverage: $1,000,000 
  • Basic insurance of $6.00 per pound protection. Additional coverage available upon request.

Services offered

  • Long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why Mayflower is recommended by our expert

Founded in 1927, Mayflower offers a comprehensive range of customizable moving services for moves of any size and destination.

They handle long-distance, commercial, interstate, and international moves, along with packing, unpacking, storage, and special item moves.

Mayflower’s mission is to deeply understand their customers’ needs and ensure peace of mind throughout the moving process. Much like the iconic ship in their logo, they embark on a journey, seeking opportunities and progress. Their commitment is to provide the highest level of service, offering superior solutions and adaptable processes to ensure the safe and on-time delivery of belongings.

Mayflower’s ultimate goal is to provide a seamless moving experience and guide their clients Every Step Of The Way®.

Local office

1 Mayflower Drive, Fenton, MO. 63026

The company has been a MovingWaldo network partner since 2024

Clutter

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Accreditations

Pricing

  • Hourly price starting at $139 / hr for 2 movers after 2 hours minimum.
  • Double drive time charge: Yes
  • Truck fee: No

Verified Credentials

  • 9 years of experience 
  • USDOT: 2719785
  • MC Number: 934868
  • MTR: 0191122
  • BBB Rating: A+
  • BIPD coverage: $1,000,000 for personal injury and $100,000 for premises damages.
  • Basic insurance of $0.60 per pound protection. Company offers additional coverage up to ten ($10.00) dollars per pound.

Services offered

  • Local and long-distance moves 
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why Clutter is recommended by our expert

Clutter really stands out to us at MovingWaldo as a fully committed company dedicated to using technology to provide you with the most convenient moving and storage experience possible.

As written on their website, Clutter has served over 52,000 satisfied customers nationwide with over 200+ trucks and a dedicated team of 500+ thoroughly vetted members. They provide flexible scheduling options and customers can track their move in real-time on their phone. Additionally, all moves come with 1 month of free storage!

Clutter offers Smart Storage services, featuring climate-controlled facilities, a detailed photo inventory of your belongings, and on-demand pickup and delivery services. In addition, their participation in the Netflix TV series “Instant Dream Home” serves as a testament to their trustworthiness.

Local office

1305 E Pescadero Ave, Tracy, CA 95304, United States

The company has been a MovingWaldo network partner since 2022

United Van Lines

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Accreditations

Pricing

Available on demand

Verified Credentials

  • 90+ years of experience
  • USDOT: 77949
  • MC Number: 67234
  • BIPD coverage: $1,000,000
  • Basic insurance of $0.60 per pound. The company also offers additional coverage up to $6.00 per pound.

Services offered

  • Long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why United Van Lines is recommended by our expert

United Van Lines stands out as a long distance moving industry leader, owned and operated by local partners who act as agents. With a 90-year legacy, United Van Lines, part of UniGroup, operates in 150+ countries, collaborating with a vast network of 500+ movers and 300+ affiliated agencies in the U.S. The company prioritizes customization, offering tailored solutions and Full Value Protection in every quote. Certified by the American Trucking Association and ISO in the USA, they provide a seamless, secure moving experience. From a personalized online portal to premium services, United Van Lines is the optimal choice for both domestic and international relocations.

Local office

1 United Drive, Fenton, MO. 63026

The company has been a MovingWaldo network partner since 2023

Rockstar Pro Movers

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Accreditations

Pricing

Available on demand

Verified Credentials

  • 10 years of experience 
  • USDOT: 2774464
  • MC Number: 1104857
  • MTR: 0191955
  • BBB Rating: A+
  • BIPD coverage: Unavailable
  • Insurance coverage details available upon request.

Services offered

  • Local and long-distance moves 
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves 
  • Junk removal

Why Rockstar Pro Movers is recommended by our expert

Rockstar Pro Movers, a family-owned business, prioritizes treating customers like rock stars while ensuring the safety of their belongings. Although they are on the higher price point, it’s definitely worth it as their professional movers use top-tier packing techniques and moving supplies and operate a fleet of dozens of well-equipped trucks for stress-free moving. They even offer a “Move Now and Pay Later” option to ease the financial burden of moving.

The company excels in moving heavy items, especially gym equipment, and provides home staging and furniture rearrangement services. Additionally, they offer secure storage services with climate control and 24-hour CCTV surveillance including student discounts to fit various budgets.

Local office

13609 Victory Blvd #245, Van Nuys, CA 91401-6447

The company has been a MovingWaldo network partner since 2022

Featured in this article

Conclusion

When it comes to long-distance moves in the United States, finding the best mover is essential for a smooth and hassle-free relocation. In there are many long-distance moving companies and Van Lines that can assist you in moving into your new property across the country or across your state. With their professionalism, licensed and fully insured services, they will handle the entire moving process from start to finish, ensuring a stress-free moving experience.

Frequently asked questions

  • What accreditations should you look for in a moving company

    BBB

    The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a non-profit organization that collects and evaluates data from various industries, including the moving industry. By analyzing customer complaints, reviews, and ratings, the BBB provides valuable insights for individuals looking for a moving company.

    These ratings act as a roadmap, assisting individuals in making informed choices when selecting a moving service. Along with delivering clear-cut reviews, the BBB also offers dispute resolution services designed specifically for the moving industry, promoting trust and transparency in the market for both customers and movers.

    Waldo Verified Preliminary Verification

    To become Waldo Verified, a company must first pass a preliminary verification process. Waldo Verified is a verification process for moving companies that ensures they meet certain standards of professionalism and trustworthiness. 

    At a minimum, moving companies on MovingWaldo must complete a preliminary verification process, considering key factors including accreditations, reviews, years of experience, professionalism, and a positive online presence.

    ATA-MSC ProMover Certification

    The American Trucking Associations (ATA), with a 90-year history, serves as the voice of the entire U.S. freight industry through its nationwide representation across all 50 states.

    ProMover accreditation is granted by ATA to moving companies after a thorough background investigation, including operations and prior work. These businesses commit to following the ATA's Code of Ethics and ethical business practices. ATA-MSC ProMover Certified companies undergo an annual evaluation to ensure ongoing adherence to program requirements.

    USMA

    The United States Movers Association (USMA) is a national trade association that represents carriers and agents in the household goods moving industry, including moving companies that uphold high standards of customer service. 

    Members of the USMA endeavor to provide competitive pricing and take exceptional care of their clients' possessions.

  • What are the credentials verified by MovingWaldo?

    All states

    USDOT Number

    The USDOT number, issued by the FMCSA, acts like a unique identifier for a moving company's vehicle safety data. This number is crucial because it helps check if the company follows the rules of the road for both commercial and private vehicles. It's used to monitor how well they stick to these rules by doing audits, investigating crashes, and carrying out inspections.

    This number is mandatory for any moving company operating on public roads, whether they're transporting goods within a state or across state lines.

    Each commercial vehicle needs to first be registered before getting its own USDOT number. While some companies opt to consolidate their fleet under a single USDOT number, others may have multiple numbers for individual vehicles.

    MC Number

    An MC Number, or 'motor carrier' identifier, is an identification issued by the FMCSA. Alongside the mandatory USDOT number, the MC Number is essential for moving companies engaged in interstate commerce, especially when transporting federally regulated commodities.

    MX Number

    An MX number is a registration ID for motor carriers owned or controlled by a Mexican citizen or someone based in Mexico, or for motor carriers operating between the U.S. and Mexico. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issues MX numbers to ensure movers adhere to regulations and maintain safety standards during transportation.

    BIPD coverage

    Bodily Injury and Property Damage (BIPD) coverage is an indispensable requirement for moving companies. It's a legal imperative, ensuring movers can bear financial responsibility in incidents involving injury or property damage. 

    This insurance encompasses medical expenses and property damage for all affected parties, including bystanders and their belongings. Across states, there's a usual minimum mandate of $750,000 for BIPD coverage for moving businesses.

    California:

    MTR Number

    The MTR Number, also known as CAL-T Number or CPUC Permit Number, serves as a distinct identifier for property motor carriers. For intrastate carriers in California handling household goods and passengers, an active CPUC permit issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is mandatory.

    This designation needs to be visibly displayed on the power unit and incurs a one-time fee. Additionally, carriers must annually submit an equipment list and proof of insurance to maintain compliance.

    Ohio

    PUCO Number

    Moving companies operating in Ohio must obtain a PUCO number to conduct intrastate business and comply with intrastate operating authority regulations.

    Movers registered with PUCO undergo checks to ensure they have liability insurance, properly registered vehicles with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and possess relevant licenses, such as a weight distance tax permit. 

    Florida

    FDACS Number

    In Florida, Chapter 507 of the Florida Statutes mandates that any business involved in intrastate moving of goods must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). 

    Registration is compulsory for intrastate movers in addition to any local licenses, but it does not replace them. Intrastate movers and brokers need to renew their registration every two years.

    PBCCA (Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs) Number

    Palm Beach County mandates that all local household moving companies obtain a license, or "business permit," from the Consumer Affairs Division. Their license means that they meet the minimum requirements of the Palm Beach County Moving Ordinance. 

    Massachusetts

    MDPU Number

    A moving company that intends to move household items within Massachusetts must first obtain operating authority from the Department of Public Utilities (DPU). Once approved, they receive an operating number known among movers as MDPU.

    Every year, these moving companies are required to send the DPU updated insurance documents when they renew their license. They also need to update their pricing details by filing a new tariff whenever they change their rates or fees.

  • How does pricing work for long distance moves?

    Weight based pricing

    To initially determine the price of your move when you are given your moving quote, van lines and agents of van lines rely on the detailed inventory list of your home that you provided them, which helps estimate the weight of your belongings

    On moving day, industrial scales are used to officially weigh the items and establish the final price. 

    Hourly pricing

    While hourly pricing is uncommon for long distance moves, some smaller local movers offering long distance moves may utilize it. Note that these local movers are often less specialized than larger moving van lines, who charge based on weight. 

    Hourly pricing may work to your advantage if you have fewer items and are moving less than 250 miles away. This is because local movers, who typically charge lower rates than moving van lines, will have the proper expertise to move you a shorter distance. 

    Opting for local movers in this situation is not only cost-effective but also faster and more efficient than hiring a van line, making it the ideal choice for same-day delivery.

    However, if you are moving over 250 miles away, smaller local movers may lack the expertise, therefore possibly incurring additional unexpected costs. 

    For both weight-based and hourly-priced moves, items that are highly fragile, valuable, or unusually large objects requiring additional protection, such as crating, may incur additional charges.

  • What is considered a long-distance move?

    A long-distance move typically involves crossing state lines or covering a distance of over 100-250 miles. The specific criteria for long-distance moves vary among moving companies and depend on factors such as service type, routes, weight, level of service, and locations.
  • Should I hire a moving van line or a local company that offers long-distance moves?

    While local moving companies offering long-distance moves may be more affordable, especially for shorter distances (100 km), there are advantages to hiring a moving van line. Moving van lines have specialized expertise and extensive experience in the industry, increasing the chances of a smooth move. They also have the necessary equipment to properly crate and protect valuable items. However, it's important to note that moving van lines may not provide specific moving dates due to the multiple shipments they may have. Clients may experience a waiting period of up to 2 weeks from the day the movers pick up the items. Additionally, estimates provided by van lines are non-binding and based on weight. The initial estimate is an approximation, and the final weight is determined on moving day by weighing the items.
  • How is my long-distance moving quote calculated?

    Long-distance moving companies are required to provide written estimates. If you are moving across the country, there are two types of estimates you should know about. Non-binding estimates Non-binding estimates are commonly utilized by moving companies, particularly Van Lines, and they primarily rely on the estimated weight of your household items. However, it's important to note that these estimates are not binding and subject to change. To determine the precise charges, the moving company will weigh your belongings on the day of the move using a scale. This allows for a more accurate calculation of the final cost based on the actual weight of your inventory. Binding estimates Binding estimates are less commonly used by moving companies for long-distance moves. Similar to non-binding estimates, they are based on the estimated weight of your household inventory. However, the key difference is that the moving company is obligated to honor the price specified in the estimate, as long as there are no changes to the inventory list. It's important to consider that several other factors will contribute to the total cost of your move. These factors include your location, the distance of the move, any additional stops required, and the time of year. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the regulations governing moving quotes, and your chosen moving company must adhere to these guidelines when preparing your binding estimate.
  • How does long-distance moving insurance work?

    All movers are required to assume responsibility for the value of the household goods they transport. There are three types of moving insurance protections specifically for long-distance moves: Release value protection is minimal protections, and the most economical. It covers damage that occurs in the moving truck and can compensate at a rate of $0.60 per pound of the damaged item, there is no charge to you (cost typically included in the price, and no deductible). Choosing full value protection means your mover is responsible for repairing, replacing or making a cash settlement for the lost or damaged items during the move. If you don't decide the release value protection option, your mover will automatically provide this level of liability. The minimum coverage is $6 per pound for damaged items. Movers can limit liability for valuable items (antiques, jewelry), unless explicitly listed, ask them for a detailed explanation of this limitation before your move. Although not widely advertised, premium insurance is essential for valuable items worth over $5,000, such as artwork or a grand piano. This insurance will cost approximately $150 to $250, and the deductible may or may not be applied.
  • How much should I tip long-distance movers?

    Tipping long-distance movers is not mandatory but is a widespread practice to show appreciation for their hard work. The decision to tip, and the amount, is up to your discretion. When determining the tip amount, consider factors such as the level of service, professionalism, and care provided by the movers throughout the long-distance move. The typical tip amount for long-distance moves is around $5/ hour per mover, excluding the truck's transit time. It is preferable to pay the tip in cash and after the service is completed.
    Shorter long-distance moves  (100-400 km) Longer long-distance moves  (more than 400 km)
    $50 per mover *5 –10 hours $60 per mover *8 –12 hours
    Keep in mind that a different crew may handle the unloading of your belongings at your new location.

Looking for answers related to our services or platform? Visit our general FAQ page to learn more.

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Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.

Mathieu Paquette

The expert

Introducing Matt, our expert relocation specialist at MovingWaldo. With over 6 years of experience in the moving industry, coupled with a Tariff Certification accredited by Atlas Van Lines, Matt plays a central role in our wealth of moving expertise. His business background brings a unique perspective, enriching our wealth of moving knowledge and taking our services to a new level.

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