Best Movers in Los Angeles, CA

We compared 43 companies and chose the top movers

    • Best overall
      Roadway Moving
      5.0(288)
    • Customer service
      Bravo Moving
      3.3(44)
    • Moving crews
      X Van Lines
      3.5(124)
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Jon Bortin

    Best Movers in Los Angeles, CA

    Based on feedback from verified local customers, Roadway Moving is the best moving company in Los Angeles. Bravo Moving is a strong option if you want representatives who are easy to reach. X Van Lines is a good choice for its experienced moving crews.

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    Our 4 moving company picks in Los Angeles

    1. Best overall: Roadway Moving
    2. Best customer service: Bravo Moving
    3. Best moving crews: X Van Lines
    4. Best packing services: MoveSafe Relocation

    To help you find the best options, we compared moving companies available in Los Angeles. Then we analyzed ratings and reviews on ConsumerAffairs from Los Angeles 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.

    Compare moving companies

    Our 4 Los Angeles moving company picks

    Learn more about our top picks for the best moving companies, based on verified reviews from Los Angeles area customers and broader California feedback on ConsumerAffairs.

    Best overall

    Roadway Moving

    Roadway Moving
    Deposit
    Undisclosed
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    1854436

    Roadway Moving earns the top spot for Los Angeles clients due to its new trucks and advanced tracking tools. You always know where your belongings are and that they’re handled with care, and the newer fleet reflects a high level of professionalism. Roadway pays extra attention to detail from start to finish, operating more like a hospitality service than a typical mover.

    What to consider: Expect higher base rates with Roadway compared with budget truck rentals since it offers a premium service.

    Pros
    • Modern clean trucks
    • Binding flat rates
    • Excellent technology
    • High customer satisfaction
    Cons
    • Higher premium pricing
    • Limited service areas
    • Busy schedule availability
    • Local and long-distance moving
    • International moving
    • Black tie VIP service
    • Storage
    • Packing
    • Quote type: {types_of_quotes:46515} (locked-in price)
    • Deposit: {deposit:46515}
    • Discounts: {discounts:46515}

    Roadway customers in LA say the company delivers consistently fast, careful and stress-free moves with highly professional, communicative and efficient teams.

    Best customer service

    Bravo Moving

    Bravo Moving
    Deposit
    Undisclosed
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    3390886

    Bravo Moving makes it easy for Los Angeles customers to get help for both local and interstate moves. Its team is known for its quick communication and follow-through. If you want updates or have a concern, Bravo’s support is available every step of the way. This kind of responsive communication makes the moving experience less stressful for customers.

    What to consider: Bravo frequently uses subcontractors, so the truck branding might not match the company name.

    Pros
    • Flexible scheduling
    • Last-minute availability
    • Detailed inventory process
    • Responsive support
    Cons
    • Broker model usage
    • Deposit required
    • Variable carrier quality
    • Long-distance moving
    • Local moving
    • Commercial relocation
    • Packing services
    • 30 days free storage
    • Quote type: {types_of_quotes:45924}
    • Deposit: {deposit:45924}
    • Discounts: {discounts:45924}

    Los Angeles customers say Bravo Moving offers professional, careful and reliable service, delivering efficient, stress-free moves with exceptional communication, honest pricing and teams that go above and beyond.

    Best moving crews

    X Van Lines

    X Van Lines
    Deposit
    Varying percentage
    Local moves
    No
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    3391195

    X Van Lines offers professional service and only uses experienced crews, so you get a team that knows how to handle the logistics and challenges of long hauls. Its movers work quickly while also focusing on safety and care, so your move takes less time without risking your belongings.

    What to consider: X Van Lines operates as a carrier, though some reviewers report that it subcontracted certain legs of their moves.

    Pros
    • Efficient crews
    • Packing expertise
    • 35 days free storage
    Cons
    • Small fleet
    • Potential for subcontracting
    • Interstate moving
    • Packing services
    • 35 days free storage
    • Local moving
    • Furniture assembly
    • Quote type: {types_of_quotes:45932} (locked-in price)
    • Deposit: {deposit:45932}
    • Discounts: {discounts:45932}

    California clients praise X Van Lines for delivering organized, detail-oriented and damage-free moves. Most say that the company shows professionalism and clear communication throughout the entire process.

    Best packing services

    MoveSafe Relocation

    MoveSafe Relocation
    Deposit
    33%
    Local moves
    Yes
    Long-distance moves
    Yes
    USDOT #
    4021844

    MoveSafe Relocation is ideal if you want thorough packing and protection for your belongings, especially for longer moves from Los Angeles. The company uses professional packers who use proper materials and itemize your goods so nothing gets overlooked. For customers with delicate, high-value or complex items, MoveSafe helps reduce risk.

    What to consider: MoveSafe is a newer broker, so it has a shorter track record than established van lines.

    Pros
    • Focus on safety
    • Detailed itemization
    • Storage coordination
    • Nationwide reach
    Cons
    • Broker fee structure
    • Newer company
    • Reliance on partners
    • Long-distance moving
    • Commercial moves
    • Storage
    • Packing
    • Corporate relocation
    • Quote type: {types_of_quotes:42876} (estimate only; final price may vary)
    • Deposit: {deposit:42876}
    • Discounts: {discounts:42876}

    Reviewers in the LA area say MoveSafe Relocation offers careful, organized and stress-free moving experiences, combining clear communication, fair pricing and highly professional crews.

    Moving Companies in Los Angeles Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Roadway Moving logo
    Bravo Moving logo
    X Van Lines logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Find a team that works for you & enjoy a stress-free move.

      Moving in Los Angeles is complicated by traffic and distance. A move of just 15 miles can take an hour of drive time. Plus, you may need to account for narrow hillside roads in places like the Hollywood Hills and for strictly enforced parking schedules in the city. We’ll walk you through tips for a successful LA move.

      Key insights

      California movers must be licensed by the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS). Look for a California Department of Transportation (DOT) number on the company’s website and verify it’s active using the state's online lookup tool.

      Jump to insight

      California law requires double drive time (DDT) for hourly moves. You pay double the driving time between origin and destination to cover the crew's return trip.

      Jump to insight

      Street parking is notoriously difficult in LA. Check the signs for street cleaning days and permit zones. You may need to apply for a temporary “no parking” sign from the city.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a mover in Los Angeles

      To choose a mover in Los Angeles, know your needs upfront, get written estimates from three licensed movers and check independent reviews for surprise charges or damage reports.

      Hiring the right moving company is a major financial commitment, so careful research is essential. Here are the primary steps to evaluate movers and find the best match for your specific requirements:

      1. Determine your move type

      First, assess what type of move you need. Are you moving locally within Los Angeles or relocating long-distance? Will you need full-service packing where the company handles everything, or is basic transportation enough?

      Knowing your specific moving needs helps you identify companies that offer the right services and can give you an accurate estimate. Full-service movers generally charge more but take care of packing, loading, transport and unloading. Self-service or labor-only choices are less expensive but demand much more work from you.

      2. Research movers in your area

      Ask people you trust for recommendations and check online reviews from customers in Los Angeles. The most frequent complaints about moving companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

      • Property damage: Many consumers report furniture, electronics and personal effects arriving scratched, broken or missing, often accompanied by a difficult claims process.
      • Surprise costs: Customers frequently say their final bills are much higher than their estimates, with surprise add-ons for stairs, heavy items or fuel that weren’t disclosed ahead of time.

        Los Angeles customer Kelly was very disappointed when she was charged over double on her moving day compared with her original quote. “My move started out with a quote of $2500, but when the movers arrived, they estimated that it would cost an additional $3000 to move my belongings.”

      • Unprofessional crews: Some teams arrive late, rush the job or handle items carelessly. Rude behavior or a lack of responsiveness during problems is another common issue.
      • Delays and communication gaps: Missed delivery windows are a major source of stress, with some customers unable to contact the company for status updates once the truck is on the road.

      3. Compare multiple quotes

      Online quotes are a rough starting point. An in-home survey gives a more accurate estimate.

      Contact at least three moving companies and request detailed estimates. An in-home survey typically provides more accuracy than online quotes, since the crew can assess your actual belongings and access. Compare quotes side by side, looking not just at price but at what's included.

      Be sure to ask if a quote is binding — if it is, your final price cannot exceed that amount. If it’s nonbinding, you’re more vulnerable to surprise charges.

      If a bid is significantly lower than others, it might mean you’re getting fewer services or an unreliable company. A detailed quote should itemize labor, truck fees, materials and any additional charges.

      4. Ask about extra services

      Beyond the basic move, clarify pricing for any additional services you might need. These include packing and unpacking, specialty item handling (pianos, artwork, antiques) and storage. Steep hills, narrow streets and high-rise buildings in Los Angeles can lead to added fees for long carries, elevator reservations or smaller shuttle trucks.

      Understanding the full cost picture upfront helps you stick to your budget and avoid surprise charges on moving day.

      5. Verify credentials

      All reputable movers should be licensed and insured in your state. If your move crosses state lines, the company must also have a USDOT number registered with the U.S. DOT — you can verify this on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.

      Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the company's insurance coverage and claims process in case of damage.

      How much do movers cost in Los Angeles?

      The total cost to move typically ranges from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the details of your move.

      Factors that affect pricing include:

      • Distance: Moving from Silver Lake to Santa Monica costs less than a long-distance relocation.
      • Volume: Larger homes and more belongings increase labor and truck space needs.
      • Services: Packing, unpacking and specialty item handling add to the total.
      • Timing: Peak season (summer) and weekends are more expensive; off-season rates are typically 20% to 30% lower.
      • Deposits: Brokers often require 20% to 50% upfront; the remainder is due upon completion. Deposits for carriers are typically much lower.
      DDT is the law in CA, so expect to pay double the transit hours.

      Local moves average $130 to $170 per hour for two movers. The unique California DDT law means you do not pay a separate trip fee; instead, the time spent driving from your old home to your new one is doubled on the bill. This replaces the travel charge for the crew’s return trip.

      Many LA moves also incur extra charges due to limited parking, required building COIs and the impact of heavy traffic on hourly billing.

      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.

      Should you tip your movers?

      Tipping isn't required but is standard practice. A typical tip for movers ranges from $20 to $50 per mover for local moves. For long-distance moves, consider a larger amount or a percentage of total cost. Nonmonetary gestures like cold drinks and snacks are also appreciated.

      » COMPARE: Our picks for the best national movers

      Tips for a 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.

      Get temporary no-parking signs from the city if you have street parking.
      • Start planning at least two months in advance: This gives you time to get multiple quotes, organize your belongings and handle any unexpected issues.
      • Create a moving budget: Consider all costs, including movers or truck rental, distance, volume, packing supplies, travel expenses, storage, insurance and tips. Research average costs for similar moves to get a realistic estimate.
      • Declutter before packing: Most movers charge by weight and volume. Getting rid of unnecessary items before your move saves money and hassle. Host a garage sale, donate gently-used items or recycle what you don't need.
      • Pack intelligently: Start with less-used areas (guest rooms, closets, garage). Go room by room and label every box with contents and destination. Use quality supplies and the right materials for fragile items.
      • Prepare an essentials box: A week before moving, pack a box with items you'll need immediately: toiletries, medications, a few changes of clothes and important documents.
      • Get contact information: Confirm the moving company's day-of contact so you can discuss parking, timing and access.

      » MORE: Budget-friendly ways to move across the country

      Moving regulations in Los Angeles

      All legitimate U.S. moving companies should be licensed and insured. For moves crossing state lines, companies must register with the U.S. Department of Transportation and hold a valid USDOT number.

      Moving rates are capped by the state, and companies must provide you with a not-to-exceed price before the move begins. Moving companies are regulated by the BHGS, which offers a mediation program to help resolve disputes without going to court.

      Moving within or to California?

      We’ve got some resources for you:

      FAQ

      How far in advance should I book a moving company?

      It’s best to secure your moving date at least two months before your move, especially if you’re planning to relocate during the busy summer season. This gives you enough time to compare quotes, check company availability and prepare your home.

      What's included in a full-service move?

      Full-service moves mean the moving company handles packing, loading, transportation and unloading at your new address. You can also request unpacking services for an additional fee, or choose to unpack items yourself.

      Do movers charge extra for apartment buildings or parking restrictions in Los Angeles?

      Yes, street parking can be very difficult in the city, and you may need a permit. If the truck cannot park close to the entrance, you will be charged a long-carry fee. Additionally, many buildings lack elevators, which can trigger extra fees for stairs.

      When is the cheapest time to move in Los Angeles?

      Winter (January through March) is the most affordable time to move in LA. Summer is busy, and traffic is heavier, which means rates go up. Avoid moving during major award shows or marathons, as roads are often closed.

      Methodology: How we pick the top moving companies in Los Angeles

      To select our top moving companies, we start with reputable movers available in Los Angeles, then rank them based on how they actually perform in your area.

      Our approach: Local reviews and national standards

      We score each company by combining:

      • Local customer reviews (65%): What people in Los Angeles and nearby areas say about the company.
      • National track record (22%): How the company performs outside of California.
      • Service offerings and user experience (13%): An evaluation of each mover's logistical capabilities, cost transparency and ease of booking.

      This way, companies with strong national reputations are judged on their actual local performance.

      How we use local data

      We gather customer feedback in layers to make sure we have enough information to rank companies fairly:

      1. Reviews from your city: If a company has several reviews from Los Angeles, we use those (and weight them more heavily).
      2. Reviews from nearby areas: If not enough Los Angeles reviews exist, we look at reviews from the surrounding metro area.
      3. Statewide data: If regional data is still limited, we use the company's overall performance across the state.

      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.

      What we measure

      We analyze customer reviews for:

      • Moving crew quality
      • Customer service
      • On-time delivery
      • Packing and care
      • Quote accuracy
      • Damage prevention
      • Fair pricing

      We also research what pricing and services each company offers, including:

      • Quote for a 500-mile, 2-bedroom move
      • Storage options
      • Packing services
      • Available discounts
      • How easy it is to get an accurate quote
      • Types of moves offered (local, long distance, international)
      • Digital ease of use

      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

      1. California Department of Consumer Affairs, “Household Movers Information.” Accessed Nov. 30, 2025.
      2. California Department of Motor Vehicles, "Active Motor Carriers." Accessed Nov. 30, 2025.
      3. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, "Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration." Accessed Nov. 30, 2025

      Not sure how to choose?

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