Cheapest Movers in San Mateo, CA (2025 Guide)

Quick answer: After reviewing 280 California movers, our top pick for local moves in San Mateo, CA, is Gentle Giant Moving Company based on pricing, services, and customer reviews. For long-distance and out-of-state moves from California, we recommend Safeway Moving because they provide a good balance of quality service and affordability.

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10 Cheapest movers when moving locally in San Mateo, CA

If you are moving within San Mateo or to a nearby California city like Burlingame or Foster City within 50 miles of San Mateo, check out these affordable, top-rated moving companies:

  1. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. AMS Bekins: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. SF Bay Area Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Clutch Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  6. Careful Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  7. Zapt Movers: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  8. Movee Me LLC: 4.24 out of 5 stars
  9. San Francisco Moving: 4.24 out of 5 stars
  10. Next Stop Moving & Storage: 4.14 out of 5 stars

Gentle Giant Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 373544

Years in Business: 44

361 Swift Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080 US

Moving has never been this stress-free, according to feedback from 130 customers, and nearly 95% reflect positive experiences with Gentle Giant Moving Company. Clients highlight fast-moving teams, consistently polite and friendly staff, careful treatment of belongings, and swift, organized processes. Many describe their crews as efficient, hardworking, and genuinely committed to making moves smooth. Attention to detail and respectful communication set Gentle Giant apart from most competitors. Some mention higher costs than expected and a handful report frustration with unclear estimates or communication lapses. A few note setbacks like rude customer service or lack of follow-up. Still, the overwhelming majority find Gentle Giant's efficiency, professionalism, and care exceptional compared to other moving firms.

Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Great Giant Moving Company
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Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 3670248

Years in Business: 14

274 Wattis Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080 US

Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.

Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOT #: 3670248
  • State license #: 0190673
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AMS Bekins

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 2256609

Years in Business: 76

444 Valley Dr, Brisbane, CA 94005 US

AMS Bekins earns high marks from most customers, with 82% of feedback recognizing professional, courteous crews and consistently careful handling of belongings. Movers are praised for their promptness, efficiency, and transparent communication, making the process much less stressful than with other companies. Clients commonly highlight the team’s attention to detail and respectful treatment of both property and people. On the other hand, about 17% of input, higher than industry leaders, flags issues with item damage, weak communication after problems arise, and instances of lost or misplaced goods. Delays and unsatisfactory resolution processes also appear, though less frequently. In direct comparison to other movers, AMS Bekins stands out for successful execution but risks frustrating clients when issues aren’t remedied swiftly. With 317 reviews analyzed, the vast majority strongly recommend AMS Bekins, making it a reliable option for those valuing professionalism and diligent service, yet potential customers should pay close attention to paperwork and policies to avoid disappointment if complications occur.

Get a Quote (650) 239-2430

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Bekins AMS Relocation, Inc.
  • AMS Relocation, Inc.
  • Bekins
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SF Bay Area Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.48 / 5

DOT #: 2682402

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 11

310 Shaw Rd, South San Francisco, CA 94080 US

SF Bay Area Moving impresses with a remarkable 95% favorable feedback out of 342 reviews. Most customers highlight efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of items, clear communication, and a swift moving process. Clients consistently appreciate the courteous nature of the staff and a booking experience that’s simple compared to other companies. In contrast, the few negative comments center on unexpected charges, late arrivals, and rare cases of unprofessional conduct. Where competitors may often fall short in reliability and transparency, this team stands out for delivering on speed and care but should pay attention to pricing clarity and punctuality for the best customer experience.

Get a Quote (415) 663-2001

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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Clutch Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.42 / 5

DOT #: 3046942

975 Linden Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080 US

Moving can be stressful, but customer feedback for Clutch Moving Company shows standout performance. Out of 573 reviews, nearly 90% are positive, reflecting a reliable pattern of efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, and quick, communicative moves. Customers consistently praise the hardworking teams for their speed and respect for personal property, often noting smooth coordination from booking to delivery. On the other hand, about 9% reported issues, mostly concerning damage to items, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and delays in arrival. Despite a small number of poor experiences, Clutch Moving rates higher for efficiency and communication compared to many competitors, particularly in areas of reliability and customer service during stressful moves.

Get a Quote (650) 753-8428

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • South San Francisco Moving Company
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Careful Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.42 / 5

DOT #: 1464935

3641 Haven Ave C, Menlo Park, CA 94025 US

Moving day runs smoothly for most who use Careful Movers, with 95% of input highlighting speedy service, responsible teams, and especially careful handling. Customers consistently note staff professionalism and efficient moves, making even complex jobs feel manageable. Communication impresses, from detailed quotes to proactive check-ins, and crews routinely arrive on time. Furniture and fragile items are protected well, with very few reports of damage compared to typical moving companies. Pricing is perceived as fair for the quality, though some find the quotes higher than local alternatives. Negative input, representing just over 3%, points to rare but frustrating reports of damaged items, surprise charges, or, in a handful of moves, lost belongings. Neutral feedback mainly reflects minor billing issues or slightly mixed experiences but rarely questions the overall reliability. With nearly 800 positive reviews out of more than 800 total, Careful Movers earns outstanding customer loyalty and sets a higher bar for moving companies in the region.

Get a Quote (650) 595-8400

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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Zapt Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.28 / 5

DOT #: 3438977

Years in Business: 4

101 Industrial Rd #11, Belmont, CA 94002 US
Get a Quote (415) 843-2532

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • ZAPT MOVERS
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Movee Me LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.24 / 5

DOT #: 3935706

Years in Business: 3

338 Highland Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401 US

Customer feedback for Movee Me LLC stands out for praising efficiency, careful handling, and professionalism. Of 59 reviews studied, an impressive 94.9% express satisfaction, with customers specifically valuing the team’s fast service, friendly attitude, and affordable pricing. Many reports highlight movers’ attentiveness and helpfulness, even accommodating pets and last-minute scheduling. While nearly every review reflects positive moving experiences, three clients voice concern over misplaced items and difficulty accessing insurance support for losses. Unlike most moving companies that struggle with consistent care, Movee Me LLC receives praise for reliability and quality but should improve claims handling to further strengthen trust.

Get a Quote (415) 699-6883

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Movee Me, LLC
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San Francisco Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.24 / 5

Years in Business: 14

384 Oyster Point Blvd suite 10, South San Francisco, CA 94080 US

Outstanding feedback powers San Francisco Moving’s reputation, with 223 reviews analyzed and 99.6% expressing satisfaction. Customers praise the company's efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, speedy work, and clear communication. Many highlight impressive booking and help with complex logistics, describing moves completed faster than expected without damage to belongings. Movers receive compliments for respectfulness, punctuality, and their approachable manner. Several reviewers mention accurate or transparent pricing and recommend the service over others in the Bay Area. One negative review points to unexpected charges and lack of active supervision during the move, in contrast to the otherwise consistent reliability. Compared to competitors, San Francisco Moving stands out for speed, careful handling, and customer care, leading many to become repeat clients. The vast majority report smooth and worry-free relocations.

Get a Quote (800) 771-9385

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

  • Pay by credit card
  • State license #: 190802
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Next Stop Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.14 / 5

DOT #: 3756197

Years in Business: 15

1332 San Mateo Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080 US

Customers frequently praise Next Stop Moving & Storage for delivering professional, efficient moving services led by a courteous and knowledgeable team. The company stands out for taking great care with personal belongings, offering affordable rates, and earning high recommendations from clients who have used their services multiple times. Positive feedback highlights the movers' punctuality, skill, and willingness to handle complex moves such as scientific equipment and furniture assembly. None of the 26 reviews mention negative experiences or dissatisfaction, setting this company apart from many competitors with its consistent record of satisfaction. All input described hassle-free, trustworthy service, confirming a reliable reputation in the moving industry.

Get a Quote (877) 307-0101

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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Other local CA moverstoggle

While these local California movers did not make our top list, they are still worth looking into:

Cheapest movers when moving out of California

Relocating from California to a new state? You’ll need an experienced interstate moving company to get you there. Here are our recommendations:

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
  3. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned

Cheapest DIY moving options in San Mateo, CA

While a full-service mover is the most convenient option for your San Mateo, California relocation, it will also likely be the most expensive route. To save some money, you may want to consider using one of the top moving container companies, or moving truck rental companies in San Mateo instead.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts

Top-rated movers in other nearby California cities

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How we chose the best movers in San Mateo, CAtoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 280 California movers and listed the top five best movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of movers in San Mateo, CA

Take a look at the pricing table below to get a general idea of the costs associated with local moves in and around the San Mateo area. For more details, you can also check out our guide on the moving costs in California.

Please note that the moving quotes provided in the table are rough estimates, and your actual costs may differ depending on the unique needs of your move. For a more precise estimate, consider using our moving cost calculator.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $482 $204 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $698 $204 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,128 $291 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $2,682 $400 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $3,081 $400 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $4,852 $547 5 movers 10 hours

Compare the top San Mateo, CA movers

Let’s compare how the top movers in San Mateo, CA stack up in terms of their reputation.

Company moveBuddha rating BBB rating Yelp rating Google rating
Gentle Giant Moving Company 4.8/5 A+ 4.7/5 5/5
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. 4.8/5 A+ 4.4/5 4.6/5
AMS Bekins 4.6/5 A+ 3.3/5 4.5/5
SF Bay Area Moving 4.5/5 A+ 4.6/5 4.9/5
Clutch Moving Company 4.4/5 F 4.5/5 4.8/5
Careful Movers 4.4/5 B+ 4.8/5 4.7/5
Zapt Movers 4.3/5 C- /5 4.4/5
Movee Me LLC 4.2/5 A+ 3/5 4.8/5
San Francisco Moving 4.2/5 A+ 4.6/5 /5
Next Stop Moving & Storage 4.1/5 NR 1/5 /5

FAQs

How do I know if my mover is properly licensed?toggle

When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice.

All of the movers on our list are properly licensed. Take a look at our best movers in California list for more recommendations.

How do I find a reputable San Mateo mover?toggle

Looking for a reliable San Mateo moving company can be difficult, but there are certain things to consider to ensure you choose a trustworthy mover. These include:

  • Reputation: A mover's reputation is crucial, whether they're a new mom-and-pop business or a seasoned van lines company.
  • Dispute resolution: It's best to avoid movers with lots of unresolved customer complaints. Every San Mateo moving company will face customer issues. The best companies resolve customer disputes in a timely manner.
  • Experience for your move: Even if a mover has great reviews for local moves, they may not have the experience needed to handle a cross-country move. Check if they have experience with the type of move you require.

Do San Mateo moving companies handle long-distance moves?toggle

Some of the moving companies that service San Mateo can handle long distance moves, while others only offer local moving services. If you're moving out of state, see our list of the best long distance movers in San Mateo.

What is the cheapest day to hire a mover in San Mateo, CA?toggle

The cheapest day to hire a mover in San Mateo, California, will typically be a weekday, since weekends are typically busier times for moving. In general, the cheapest time to move is between October and April. The peak season for movers is May–September, so you’ll pay more during this time due to increased demand.

The earlier you book your move from San Mateo, the better. Avoid weekends, holidays, and peak moving seasons (summer) to save money. Beware of choosing a mover solely based on the lowest quote, as some companies may low-ball their initial quote and raise the price significantly on moving day.

What is the cheapest way to move out of state from San Mateo, CA?toggle

Renting a moving truck is the cheapest way to move out of state or locally within San Mateo, California. Keep in mind, though, that this is also the most bare-bones moving option — you’ll have to handle the packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, and driving.

Are moving containers a good idea for my move from San Mateo?toggle

Moving containers allow you to move at your own pace… although you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself. Once you’re loaded up and ready to move, the container company will pick up your container and transport it to your new home, so you won’t have to worry about driving.

What if I need help loading my moving container in San Mateo?toggle

Labor-only moving companies can be a great addition to a more DIY move done with a rental moving truck or moving container. Hiring third-party assistance with loading and unloading can help cut down on the workload and make your move quicker and more efficient.

Do San Mateo movers offer storage?toggle

Most San Mateo moving companies offer short- and long-term storage solutions. However, keep in mind that some San Mateo movers use third-party warehouses to store your items. It's best to ask about storage options and pricing when screening potential movers.

Learn more: Should you use your mover's storage solutions?

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