PODS

- Deposit
- Varies
- Local moves
- Yes
- Long-distance moves
- Yes
- USDOT #
- 1397252



After reviewing feedback from real customers in the Fresno area, PODS is the top moving company for local moves. Northern Moving Systems is our recommendation if you want clear communication every step of the way. MoveSafe Relocation is a strong choice for those who want experienced movers who minimize disruption.
To help you find the best options, we compared moving companies available in Fresno. Then we analyzed ratings and reviews on ConsumerAffairs from Fresno customers.
To make our picks, we also considered pricing, the quote and deposit processes and the availability of packing services and storage options. Read our full methodology below for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.
| Company | Customer rating | Our pick for | Carrier vs. broker | Local moves | Long-distance moves | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() PODS | Learn More | 4.6
5,347 reviews
5,347 reviews
| Best overall | Container company | Yes | Yes |
![]() Northern Moving Systems | Learn More | 4.7
156 reviews
156 reviews
| Customer service | Broker and carrier | Yes | Yes |
![]() MoveSafe Relocation | Learn More | 4.3
326 reviews
326 reviews
| Moving crews | Broker | Yes | Yes |
![]() Roadway Moving | Learn More | 5.0
303 reviews
303 reviews
| Quote accuracy | Carrier | Yes | Yes |
Learn more about our top picks for the best moving companies, based on verified reviews from Fresno area customers and broader California feedback on ConsumerAffairs.




» MORE: Best movers in California
Jump into our guides and start learning
Moving to and around Fresno involves navigating its heat and air quality. Summer temps over 100°F mean early starts are non-negotiable. Plus, air quality can be poor, so if you have asthma, stay indoors while the movers work.
Movers must be licensed by the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS). Check for a Cal-T number.
Jump to insightDouble Drive Time applies. You pay double the driving time between your old and new home.
Jump to insightHydrate the crew. Providing water isn't just nice; it keeps the move going in 105°F heat.
Jump to insightWhen searching for a moving company in Fresno, start by figuring out what services you need for your situation. Ask at least three movers for written quotes, then check each company’s license with the California BHGS and look through independent reviews for complaints like surprise fees or frequent claims of damaged items.
Hiring the right moving company is one of the largest expenses of your relocation, so it's worth taking the time to research carefully. Here are the key steps for evaluating movers and finding the best fit for your needs:
Begin by deciding whether your move is local or long-distance, and consider if you want a full-service mover that handles packing and loading, or if you’re comfortable with just transportation. Read more about moving company types.
If you’re moving across Fresno, a local company may be best. If you’re heading out of state, look for long-distance specialists. Full-service movers will pack and load everything, but self-service or labor-only options require more effort but cost less.
Ask people you trust for referrals and look up independent feedback. Before you hire, check online reviews from customers in Fresno. The most common complaints about moving companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:
Stacey from Fresno had this unfortunate experience. She reported: “The Movers did not arrive on the scheduled date for pickup and we had to wait over 3 weeks for items to be delivered.”
Contact at least three movers and request a detailed, written estimate. In-person surveys are most accurate, but video or virtual walk-throughs can be effective too. Review each quote carefully — don’t just look at the bottom line. Make sure you understand what’s included and question any unusually low or high prices.
Find out what additional services are available and what they cost. If you need help with packing, storage, moving oversized items or navigating tricky entryways, clarify these prices up front. This helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises on moving day.
Only hire movers with a current license and insurance in California. For moves leaving California, the mover also needs a USDOT number that you can check on the FMCSA website. Before you sign, ask for proof of insurance and review the claims process in case something gets damaged.
Moving costs can range from several hundred dollars for a short local move to several thousand for a long-distance or full-service relocation.
Double Drive Time applies, meaning you’re charged for both directions of travel.
You’ll pay more or less based on:
Rates average $120 to $150 per hour. Cheaper than the coast, but Double Drive Time applies.
The figures below are based on current (as of publishing) industry estimates for a three-bedroom home with no additional services.
| Distance | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Under 10 miles | $2,747 to $5,045 |
| 200 to 300 miles | $2,623 to $6,223 |
| 1,000+ miles | $8,287 to $11,250 |
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but most people do it. A typical moving tip is $20 to $50 per mover for local jobs. For longer moves, you might tip more or give a percentage of your bill. A cold drink or snack is always welcome, especially in Fresno’s summer heat.
» COMPARE: Best national movers
Start at 6 a.m. in summer to avoid peak heat.
All moving companies working in the U.S. should be licensed and insured. If your move leaves California, your mover must also have a USDOT number registered with the Department of Transportation (you can check this on the FMCSA website).
Moves are regulated by the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS). Movers must provide a Not-To-Exceed price, and you have 9 months to file a claim.
Moving within or to California?
We’ve got some resources for you:
With full-service movers, you get packing, loading, transportation and unloading at your new place. Some companies will also unpack if you want. If you go with a basic service, you’ll need to box up your own belongings.
Most moves include basic protection, but it may fall short for expensive or irreplaceable items. If you have high-value belongings, look into extra coverage and ask your mover about your options.
Winter is usually the cheapest time to move in Fresno. Summer is brutally hot and busy.
Fresno is fairly affordable for California, and a move there is usually below the state average. Labor is cheaper than on the coast, but state regulations keep prices higher than in other states.
To select our top moving companies, we start with reputable movers available in Fresno, then rank them based on how they actually perform in your area.
We score each company by combining:
This way, companies with strong national reputations are judged on their actual local performance.
We gather customer feedback in layers to make sure we have enough information to rank companies fairly:
The more reviews we have, the more confident we are in the ranking. If lots of companies have reviews in a city, we prioritize them over companies that lack local reviews.
We make sure our top picks are actually active in your area. Companies with solid local reviews rank higher than those relying only on national reputation, even if they perform well nationally.
We analyze customer reviews for:
We also research what pricing and services each company offers, including:
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
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| Company | Customer rating | About | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
PODS
| 4.6
5,347 reviews
| Provides residential and commercial moving and storage solutions. Offers various container sizes. Local moves tend to cost about $500. Most long-distance moves cost between $1,000 and $3,000. Month-to-month pod rental. | Read reviews |
Northern Moving Systems
| 4.7
156 reviews
| Offers commercial and residential moving services. Price match guarantee on all moves. Available nationally. Storage and packing options available upon request. | Read reviews |
MoveSafe Relocation
| 4.3
326 reviews
| Moving broker based in Lake Worth, Florida. Offers long-distance and office relocation services throughout the U.S. and local moving services in the Florida area. Coordinates short- and long-term storage. Free quotes. | Read reviews |
Roadway Moving
| 5.0
303 reviews
| Full-service moving carrier. Offers local, interstate and international moving services. 99.3% on-time moves. Packing services and storage available. Provides free quotes. Licensed and insured. Track your move with mobile app. | Read reviews |
International Van Lines
| 4.8
1,429 reviews
| Licensed moving company that offers local, long-distance and international moves. Services available by van, freight, air and ocean. Works in the entire U.S. and more than 180 countries. Free moving quotes available. | Get a Quote |
U-Pack
| 4.9
31 reviews
| Provides movable storage boxes you pack and unload yourself. Handles moves of at least 100 miles. Offers free quotes and flexible storage options. Does not offer services for local moves. Typical moves cost from $500 to $2,500. | Read reviews |
AmeriSafe Van Lines
| 4.5
1,208 reviews
| Carrier moving services. Offers long-distance moves nationwide, including Alaska and Hawaii. Works with residential and commercial customers. Offers packing services as well as long and short-term storage. Provides free quotes. | Get a Quote |
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
| 4.7
505 reviews
| Licensed moving broker. Offers long-distance and military moves, auto transport and packing services. Free quotes. Works with authorized carriers. Available across the U.S. Online payments. | Get a Quote |
Perennial Van Lines
| 4.7
112 reviews
| A brokerage company that arranges transportation for your move. Offers auto transport, packing and storage services. Not available in all states. Serves some states only partially. Free quote online or by phone. | Read reviews |
Colonial Van Lines
| 4.4
2,976 reviews
| Tailored moving services. Professional, experienced movers. Commitment to customer satisfaction, transparent pricing and a track record of reliable service. Moves out of state. Backed by years of expertise. | Get a Quote |
America First Moving
| 4.5
292 reviews
| Long-distance, long-haul moving services. Licensed and insured moving broker. 24/7 customer support. Partner network of carriers across U.S. Online quotes. Quoted price is 100% binding. Packing and unpacking services. | Get a Quote |
iMoving.com
| 4.4
147 reviews
| Offers local, long-distance, international and commercial moving services. Local moves cost $150 to $900. Most interstate moves cost $1,000 to $4,000. Storage services, auto transport and specialty packing services available. | Get a Quote |
American Van Lines
| 4.2
2,726 reviews
| Offers long-distance, military, commercial and corporate moving services. No extra charges for last-minute moves. Requires a significant deposit to reserve a move. Cross-country moves typically cost from $2,000 to $5,000. | Get a Quote |
New Start Relocation
| 3.9
1,121 reviews
| Offers storage and local, long-distance and office moving services from its location in Boynton Beach, Florida. Hires carriers for moves and provides a team of moving professionals. | Read reviews |
Moving APT
| 3.4
259 reviews
| Broker that specializes in interstate moves for residential and commercial customers. Handles moves of all sizes. Packing services available. Free quotes include tolls, taxes, fuel and all other fees. | Read reviews |
Allied Van Lines
| 3.0
844 reviews
| Over 95 years in service. Cross-country and long-distance moves. Offers a variety of packing, moving and storage services. Vehicle shipping. Covers all 50 states and international moves. | Read reviews |
Safebound Moving & Storage
| 3.1
287 reviews
| Specializes in long-distance moves. Charges around $2,500 for a cross-country move. Full packing and unpacking services. Short- and long-term storage options available. Provides a dedicated moving coordinator. Military discounts. | Read reviews |
United Regions Van Lines
| 3.0
824 reviews
| Offers long-distance moving and corporate relocation services. Packing services and storage available. Serves the continental U.S. Charges between $2,500 and $5,000 for a two-bedroom move from Philadelphia to Kansas City. | Read reviews |
North American Van Lines
| 2.8
521 reviews
| Over 90 years in service. Cross-country and long-distance moves. Offers a variety of packing, moving and storage services. Vehicle shipping. Covers all 50 states and international moves. | Read reviews |
24/7 Logistic Services
| 2.3
289 reviews
| Specializes in moves for corporations, military personnel and seniors. Charges from $2,000 to $5,000 for long-distance moves. Provides door-to-door relocation options. Offers furniture assembly and protection. | Read reviews |
Van Lines Inc.
| 2.3
194 reviews
| National mover licensed in all 50 states. Provides a single point of contact for support on all moves. Offers multiple services, including white-glove delivery, antique moving and motorcycle moving. Rents storage units. | Read reviews |
Alltrust Moving & Storage
| 2.3
139 reviews
| Miami moving and storage company. Local, long-distance and corporate moving services available. Optional storage services at its secure storage facility. Prices start at $435 for a three-hour local move. | Read reviews |
JK Moving Services
| 2.1
58 reviews
| Transports locally, long-distance and internationally. Offers residential and commercial moving. Also offers storage and archive services. Uses sustainable practices. Offers 24-hour customer support and mobile app. | Read reviews |
Penske Truck Rental
| 1.9
348 reviews
| Rents 12- to 26-feet-long moving trucks. Sells packing materials. Free unlimited mileage on one-way trips. Discounts for AAA members and other programs. Minimum rental periods apply. A move from Houston to Dallas costs about $202. | Read reviews |
Mayzlin Relocation
| 1.9
220 reviews
| Moving company based in North Carolina. Offers local, long-distance, commercial and military moving services. Packing and storage options are available. Provides a free quote with no hidden costs. Available 24/7. | Read reviews |
Mayflower
| 1.9
239 reviews
| Provides moving services for all types of households. Performs local, long-distance and international moves as well as military and government relocations. Add-on packages start at $195. | Get a Quote |
Bellhop
| 1.5
290 reviews
| Matches clients with moving service providers. Local and long-distance moving in 28 states. Provides tailored packages. Offers hourly labor for loading and unloading. Sells packing supply kits. Offers a tracking app. | Read reviews |
U-Haul
| 1.3
1,335 reviews
| Offers container shipping, storage, moving tools, packing supplies and hitches. Rental options include pickups and 26-foot trucks. Serves the U.S. and Canada. Hourly and per-mile fees. Local moves cost as little as $19.95 a day. | Read reviews |
Budget Truck Rental
| 1.1
953 reviews
| Rents out moving trucks and accessories for residential and commercial moves. Offers packing, loading and unloading assistance. Sells packing supplies. Available nationwide. Provides discounts for students, vets and older adults. | Read reviews |
All Coast Moving Group
| 1.0
270 reviews
| Handles moving and relocation services across the contiguous U.S. Offers commercial and residential moving services, packing services and auto transport. Provides discounts for military, early booking and same-day booking. | Read reviews |
Action Movers
| No reviews | Family-owned and operated business. Serves the entire state of California. Requires a two-hour minimum. | |
Courtesy Moving and Storage
| No reviews | Specializes in full-service local, long-distance and international moves. Provides quick quotes and free estimates. Offers long-term, short-term and monthly storage options. | |
D. W. Ewing Movers
| No reviews | Makes most local moves in a single day with the help of two or three movers. Bases rates on the total move time with a minimum of two hours. Offers packing services with prices on a per-box basis. | |
Economy Movers
| No reviews | One of the oldest moving companies in Fresno. Bases shipment costs on weight for moves of a hundred miles or more. Offers free use of their plastic totes and wardrobe boxes. Charges hourly for moves of less than 100 miles. | |
Haulmark Moving
| No reviews | Provides full-service moving and on-site moving labor help. Specializes in expert quality moving services throughout the state of California. Offers commercial moving. | |
Meathead Movers
| No reviews | Employs student-athletes working their way through college. Offers long-distance, local moving services, commercial moving and senior moving. Provides a personal moving concierge available seven days a week. | |
Olympic Move & Transport
| No reviews | Serving Clovis and Fresno County for over a decade. Provides full-service moves that includes loading, unloading, packing, piano moving and special handling of furniture. Crew members complete a rigorous training program. | |
Well Done Moving
| No reviews | Has experience helping with on-site moves, such as nursing homes, apartment complexes and storage units. Trucks have lift gates to move heavy and fragile items with minimum risk. Specializes in local and long-distance moves. |