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Best Movers in Los Angeles, CA

We compared 39 companies and chose the top movers

    • PODS
      4.6(4,245)
    • United Regions Van Lines
      4.3(782)
    • Bronze Star Moving & Storage Inc.
      4.1(106)

    Best Movers in Los Angeles, CA

    Author picture
    By: Cassidy McCants
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Jon Bortin

    Our 3 picks for moving companies in Los Angeles

    1. Moving containers: PODS
    2. Affordable moves: United Regions Van Lines
    3. Punctuality and speed: Bronze Star Moving & Storage

    To help find the best options for you, we've compared 80 moving companies and determined which were available in Los Angeles. Then we analyzed ratings and reviews on ConsumerAffairs from Los Angeles customers.

    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 but may impact the order in which companies appear.

    PODS
    PODS
    4.6
    4,245 reviews
    Highlight
    Flexible timelines
    Types of moves
    Local, long-distance, international
    Discounts available
    Military
    Read Reviews

    PODS provides moves to and from Los Angeles. It offers quotes over the phone, or you can request a quote online.

    Highlights

    • Broker vs. carrier: Carrier and broker
    • Type(s) of quotes: Phone
    • Storage options: Various container sizes for short- or long-term storage
    • Packing services: Professional third-party packing services

    Pros

    • Flexibility
    • Cheaper than traditional moving companies
    • Simplified moving process

    Cons

    • Not available in all locations
    • Some delivery delays, according to reviewers
    • Upfront charges
    • Deposit requirements: None; full amount charged one to seven days prior
    • Moving quote: $1,364.35*
    • Discounts: Military

    *For a 120-mile move for a three-bedroom house as of publishing

    • “Mother died, wanted to take furniture from Austin area to Los Angeles. They delivered as promised, recommended companies to help both pack, unpack, load and unload the unit. It was slightly more expensive that driving a U-Haul, but worth it. It was easy, I'll do it again should the need ever arise.” — Michael from Los Angeles
    • “My wife and I moved back to California from Texas and the entire process from beginning to end was incredible. Very friendly staff over the phone and in person. The contents of my pod were well taken care of and handled in a professional manner throughout the entire trip. Highly recommend using this service rather than using a rental truck to do it yourself!” — Alonso from Long Beach
    United Regions Van Lines
    United Regions Van Lines
    4.3
    782 reviews
    Highlight
    Military and senior moving packages
    Types of moves
    Commercial, residential, military, senior
    Discounts available
    Seasonal
    Get a Quote Read Reviews

    United Regions Van Lines offers commercial, residential, military and senior moves. It provides packing services for large items, furniture and fragile items, as well as do-it-yourself packing boxes. It’s a carrier and provides moving services to and from Los Angeles.

    Highlights

    • Broker vs. carrier: Carrier
    • Type(s) of quotes: Binding
    • Storage options: Climate-controlled; secured with cameras/guards 24/7
    • Packing services: Large items, furniture, fragile items; DIY packing boxes

    Pros

    • Competitive pricing and transparent communication, according to reviewers
    • Dedicated moving coordinators
    • Climate-controlled storage units with security guards and cameras

    Cons

    • Some reports of last-minute changes in moving date
    • No international or local moves
    • Deposit requirements: Generally 20% to 25%
    • Moving quote: Undisclosed
    • Discounts: Seasonal
    • “Moving from New York to California was making me nervous. I was thinking about a bunch of things that could go wrong. Like, I didn't think they'd find parking because it's always so packed. Plus, my elevator is super small, and I was worried my big furniture wouldn't fit. And then, I was also stressed they wouldn't deliver everything on time. I already planned my moving-in day and didn't want any delays. But you know what? It was all good. They found parking without any problem. They fit my furniture into the elevator just fine. And guess what? They were right on time for delivery. I was worried for nothing. These guys are pros, they handled everything perfectly.” — Thomas from Los Angeles
    • “I have a lot of appliances. I like to keep my home smart. And what other companies were charging me to move from Chicago to LA, well let's just say it was extortion. They weren't even trying to hide it. My neigbour told me about these guys and when they gave me their first quote they won my heart and dollars. They have it all. An affordable service, great customer service and a diligent and efficient team. Thank you all and props.” — Alexander from Los Angeles
    Bronze Star Moving & Storage Inc.
    Bronze Star Moving & Storage Inc.
    4.1
    106 reviews
    Highlight
    Free 30-day storage
    Types of moves
    Residential and commercial
    Discounts available
    Military
    Read Reviews

    Bronze Star Moving & Storage offers residential and commercial moves to and from Los Angeles. It provides binding and nonbinding quotes, so your initial quote may or may not change by the final bill — make sure to clarify the type of quote you're getting.

    Highlights

    • Broker vs. carrier: Broker and carrier
    • Type(s) of quotes: Binding and nonbinding
    • Storage options: Free 30-day storage; long-term storage available
    • Packing services: Full-service packing, unpacking, loading, unloading, assembly and disassembly

    Pros

    • Transparent cancellation policy
    • Nationwide availability
    • Efficient crews, according to reviewers

    Cons

    • Some reports of price fluctuations
    • Occasional issues with subcontractors
    • Deposit requirements: Undisclosed
    • Moving quote: Undisclosed
    • Discounts: Military
    • “I am extremely happy with how this company has provided the moving services for me to move my stuff. Everyone in the team was world-class. Thank you. for making my move very easy. Most importantly, the cost of the move is very affordable. I would recommend and use their services in the future.” — Derick from Los Angeles
    • “These guys were punctual, efficient, and hard-working. They communicated with me every step of the way and were very professional. They hustled the entire day and had great attitudes. Because there were no hidden fees or surcharges, I paid exactly what I anticipated paying. I couldn't be happier with the service I received!” — Matthew from Los Angeles

    Moving Companies in Los Angeles Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

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      What to consider when hiring a moving company in Los Angeles

      Moving can be a daunting task, but careful planning and hiring the right movers can make all the difference. Start by determining what type of mover best suits your needs: Is your move local or long-distance, and do you need full-service packing services or basic transport?

      Research companies available in your area — check their licensing, insurance and online reviews. Get multiple quotes to compare pricing and services, and get everything in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

      It’s also smart to declutter beforehand and to make sure you understand how pricing works. Ask about extra services like packing and unpacking, and factor in potential costs for bulky items or difficult access. Don't hesitate to ask about insurance coverage and the claims process in case of damage.

      Cost to move in Los Angeles

      The cost of hiring a mover ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on several factors. Long-distance moves naturally cost more than local relocations. The volume of your belongings also plays a role — larger homes require more labor and truck space. Extra services like packing, unpacking and the handling of specialty items add to the overall cost.

      The time of year and even the day of the week can also influence pricing (peak seasons and weekends are generally more expensive times to move). To get an accurate estimate, request quotes from multiple movers and provide a detailed inventory of your possessions.

      Average cost for moving services from and within Los Angeles

      The figures below are based on current (as of publishing) industry estimates for a three-bedroom home with no additional services.

      Tipping movers

      While not mandatory, tipping movers is a common practice. It shows appreciation for the crew’s hard work, especially in cases of excellent service.

      A typical tip ranges from $20 to $50 per mover for a standard local move, but you can adjust this based on the complexity and duration of the job. For long-distance moves, consider tipping a larger amount or a percentage of the total cost. You can also provide nonmonetary gestures of gratitude (e.g., offering cold drinks and snacks on moving day).

      What about DIY moves?

      Moving yourself can be a cost-effective option, but it requires significant effort and planning. You might need to rent a truck, purchase or gather various packing supplies, and recruit friends or family to help.

      If you plan to move yourself, factor in truck rental fees, fuel, insurance and potential equipment rentals, like dollies and moving blankets. Consider the time commitment, including packing, loading, driving, unloading and unpacking. Will you have to take off work? Assess your available time, your physical capabilities and the potential for reliable help before deciding if a do-it-yourself move is the right choice for you.

      Tips for a successful Los Angeles move

      A few things can save money, time and energy when you’re moving to Los Angeles — including creating a budget, having less stuff and packing efficiently.

      1. Create a moving budget: Estimate the expenses associated with hiring movers or renting a truck, factoring in distance, the volume of your belongings and any additional services. Include costs for packing supplies, potential travel expenses (e.g., gas, tolls, lodging) and temporary storage if needed. Don't forget to account for insurance, cleaning fees and tipping your movers. Research average costs for moves like yours and get multiple moving quotes for a realistic budget.
      2. Declutter and sell or donate: While it takes time to sort through your belongings and determine what’s worth keeping and what needs to go, downsizing can ultimately make every part of the move go more smoothly. You can host a garage sale if you’d like to get cash for things you’re parting with, or you can donate gently used items. Many charities offer donation pickup services, making it easy to declutter while supporting a good cause. (Remember to get a donation receipt for potential tax deductions.)
      3. Pack smartly: Start by gathering quality packing supplies — get some sturdy boxes, packing tape, cushion wrap and markers. Pack room by room, and label boxes with their contents and destination (e.g., “Kitchen — Utensils”). Use appropriate packing materials to protect fragile items, and consider buying wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes. Maximize box space by filling in gaps with towels or clothing. It’s also a good idea to pack an essentials box or bag with items you'll need immediately after arrival at your new home.

      Moving within or to California?

      We’ve got some resources for you.

      » MORE: Moving checklist

      Moving regulations in Los Angeles

      All moving companies in the U.S. should be licensed and insured — if a mover isn’t licensed, cross it off your list. If the moving company has to cross state lines for a move, it’s also required to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (you can check for a USDOT number on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website).

      Verify current state regulations with California’s transportation authority. The California Department of Consumer Affairs’ Bureau of Household Goods and Services has resources online to help protect consumers from illegitimate movers.

      » LEARN MORE: What is a USDOT number?

      FAQ

      How much does it cost to rent a moving truck?

      Truck rentals for local moves (typically under 100 miles) are generally priced by the day, with rates starting around $20. Rental truck companies usually calculate costs for long-distance moves based on mileage. You might plan to spend $2,000 or more for a larger move, depending on the distance and duration of the rental.

      The size of the truck and fuel costs are major cost considerations, especially for long-distance moves. Don't forget to factor in potential taxes, environmental fees, insurance coverage and the cost of necessary moving supplies like dollies and blankets.

      » CALCULATE: How much does a moving truck cost?

      Is hiring a mover worth it?

      If you can afford it, hiring a mover is likely worth it. When moving, going the DIY route is typically the cheapest option, but the associated stresses aren’t always worth it. While hiring a mover typically comes with a higher price tag, it can save a significant amount of time, stress and even money. In some cases, the combined expenses of renting a truck and handling the logistics yourself can even exceed the cost of hiring professional movers, so it's crucial to weigh your options carefully.

      How much does it cost to ship a car?

      The cost of shipping a car can vary significantly ($500 to $1,700 is typical as of publishing). Distance is the biggest cost factor, but time of year also plays a role (peak moving times, including summer and holidays, tend to have higher prices). The type of carrier you choose — open or enclosed — also affects the cost. Enclosed carriers offer more protection but at a higher price.

      Your vehicle's size and weight also factor into the equation, and extras like expedited shipping will increase the cost. The good news: Urban areas like Los Angeles are often cheaper to ship to or from because they’re less remote and easier to get to than rural destinations. To get the best rate, get quotes from multiple auto transport companies and compare their services and pricing.

      Does Los Angeles have a high cost of living?

      While Los Angeles’ rent is more affordable than in other California cities, like San Diego, the cost of living is still fairly high. Our recent study found that a single adult would need a salary of $111,659 to live comfortably in the City of Angels.

      Methodology

      ConsumerAffairs carefully collects in-depth, verified reviews to tell each customer’s experience with a company. We believe customer experiences are a crucial indicator when evaluating companies, so these reviews are a significant factor when we make our top picks.

      To choose the top moving companies in Los Angeles, we started with the 80 popular providers listed in our main moving guide. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Los Angeles. We then weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      • Storage options: We looked at the availability of storage units and any free storage periods.
      • Packing services: We considered the types of packing services offered, including whether a company offers packing services and whether it offers both full and partial packing.
      • Deposit requirements: We prioritized companies that ask for a down payment of 20% or less over those with higher deposit requirements.
      • Discounts: We outlined how many discounts each company offers and what types (e.g., senior, military, student).
      • App: We gave a company preference if it has an app with a useful service, like requesting a quote or tracking a move.
      Guide Sources

      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:

      1. California Department of Consumer Affairs, “Household Movers Information.” Accessed Nov. 4, 2024.

      Not sure how to choose?

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