The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Santa Ana, CA

Quick answer: After comparing prices, services, quality ratings, and customer satisfaction, we recommend Safeway Moving as the top long-distance moving company in Santa Ana, CA. Safeway Moving provides the best overall value, thanks to its balance of stellar service and reasonable rates.

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We know that every move is different. Jump to a mover that fits your unique needs:
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
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  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Same-day estimates

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best long-distance movers in Santa Ana for those moving out of state

If you’re moving out of California, here are our top picks for best interstate moving companies in Santa Ana:

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best for Quick Quotes
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(844) 794-6004
At A Glance
  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Binding estimates
read our full review
(844) 794-6004
Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
(866) 835-2392

Best long-distance movers in Santa Ana for those staying in state

Even if you’re just relocating from Santa Ana to another California city, your move could still be a couple hundred miles or more. In that case, you’ll want to hire one of the top long-distance movers.

Here are the best long-distance moving companies that are located within Santa Ana:

  1. Meathead Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Maison Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Executive Moving Systems: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Laaks Moving Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Student Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Pros
  • Efficient service (24%)
  • Professional and polite staff (21%)
  • Careful handling (19%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (18%)
  • Unexpected charges (16%)
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers has 563 online customer reviews, with 78% of them being positive. Customers praise the company for its efficient service, friendly staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many reviewers noted that the movers were punctual and hardworking, often exceeding expectations. However, some feedback highlighted issues with damage to items, delays, and unexpected charges, which left a few customers feeling dissatisfied with their experience.
Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc


Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Santa Ana, CA, has been a trusted local residential mover since 1998. Renowned for their exceptional customer service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.1 from 378 reviews and a Google rating of 4.3 from 150 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services without requiring a deposit. Meathead Movers’ commitment to quality and reliability sets them apart in the local moving industry.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Careful handling (28%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (36%)
  • Unexpected charges (28%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (22%)
Review Analysis
Maison Moving has 285 online customer reviews, with 70% of them being positive. Many customers praised the efficiency and professionalism of the moving crew, highlighting their careful handling of items and excellent communication. However, several reviews pointed out issues with damage to belongings and unexpected charges, which left some customers feeling dissatisfied. While most feedback was favorable, the negative experiences regarding broken items and high costs should be taken into account when considering this company for your next move.
Get a Quote (800) 832-5950

Company Info

State license #: 0190726

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 76628

Alternate Names: Orange County Movers Inc, College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County, Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County


Maison Moving, a trusted local residential moving company based in Tustin, CA, has been serving the community since 2008. Known for its reliability and professionalism, Maison Moving stands out among nearby competitors with an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Google and 4.4 on Yelp, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company not only offers local moving services but also specializes in office moves, packing and unpacking services, and can handle delicate items like pianos, art, and antiques. Clients appreciate that no deposit is required, and they accept credit cards, making the moving process as convenient as possible.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Pros
  • Efficient service (32%)
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Careful handling (27%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (29%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (26%)
  • Lack of communication (24%)
Review Analysis
Executive Moving Systems has 145 online customer reviews, 76% of which are positive. Many customers praise the company for its efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling of belongings. However, several customers report issues with damaged items, delayed deliveries, and poor communication. Overall, the company is viewed as a reliable choice compared to other movers, but some customers experienced significant problems that impacted their moving experience.
Get a Quote (714) 406-2400

Company Info

State license #: 0166469

Years in Business: 40

DOT #: 614506

Alternate Names: Executive Moving Systems Inc


Executive Moving Systems has been a trusted local moving company in and around Anaheim, CA since 1984, offering a wealth of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction that stands out among nearby competitors. Their services include packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for fragile items, art, and antiques, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of needs. They boast an impressive reputation with an average Yelp rating of 4.0 and a Google rating of 4.3, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. With no deposit required, Executive Moving Systems provides a seamless, customer-focused moving experience.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • DOD certified
Pros
  • Efficient service (37%)
  • Professional and polite staff (31%)
  • Careful handling (29%)
Cons
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (24%)
  • Damage to items (20%)
  • Unexpected charges (18%)
Review Analysis
Laaks Moving Services has 138 online customer reviews, with 83% of them being positive. Customers frequently praise the team's efficiency, professionalism, and friendly demeanor. Many express satisfaction with the careful handling of their belongings and clear communication throughout the moving process. On the downside, some feedback highlights issues like delayed arrivals, damage to items, and unexpected charges. Despite these concerns, Laaks is often recommended as a reliable option compared to other moving companies, showcasing their commitment to customer service and care for possessions.
Get a Quote (877) 238-5141

Company Info

State license #: 0191604

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2995987


Laaks Moving Services has been a reliable choice for local residential moving in and around Irvine, CA since 2015. Their dedication to customer satisfaction is reflected in impressive online reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.7 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, as well as a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Laaks Moving Services also offers packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized moving for items like pianos, art, and antiques. With comprehensive services and exceptional customer feedback, Laaks Moving Services stands out as a reputable and capable option for your local moving needs.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Pros
  • Efficient service (36%)
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Careful handling (28%)
Cons
  • Damage to items (34%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (30%)
  • Lack of communication (25%)
Review Analysis
Student Movers has 191 online customer reviews, 78% of which are positive. Customers praised the movers for their efficient service, friendly staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many felt the team was professional and made moving easy. However, negative feedback highlighted issues like damage to items, delayed arrivals, and poor communication from management. Overall, while many found the service satisfactory, some experienced significant challenges that could deter potential customers.
Get a Quote (714) 842-1523

Company Info

State license #: 0190759

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 2769852


Student Movers has been a reliable choice for local residential moving services in and around Newport Beach, CA since 2011. While nearby competitors may not always measure up, Student Movers stands out with their comprehensive packing and unpacking options, and their specialized capabilities in moving pianos, pool tables, art, and antiques. Consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation with a 4.5 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though Yelp reviewers offer a more moderate 3.6 average rating. Accepting credit cards for convenience, they do require a deposit, ensuring commitment and reliability for your local move.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Best long-distance movers in Santa Ana for small moves

Many full-service moving companies have a 3,000-pound minimum requirement and may not be able to help you if you are moving a college dorm or studio apartment — or have decided to just take a few items with you.

In that case, you might be better off going with a long-distance company in Santa Ana that specializes in small moves.

Here are our top suggestions:

Best for Small Moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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At A Glance
  • No minimum size
  • Top-quality materials
  • Full-service packing
read our full review
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best for small moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Check prices 800-626-1257
At A Glance
  • Specializes in small moves
  • Guaranteed delivery date
  • Online chatbot and resources for a seamless move
  • Car shipping services
  • Gives back with charitable donations
read our full review
Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Santa Ana

A moving container can be a great solution if you want to save a little money on your move from Santa Ana to another California city or out of state. While you will have to handle the heavy lifting, you can load and unload containers at your preferred pace over several days or more. And the container company will still handle the driving for you.

Container costs vary depending on the distance of your move and the size and number of your containers, so it’s good to get multiple moving quotes to compare pricing for your specific relocation.

You can start with these two companies:

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices
Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
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Labor-only moving companies in Santa Ana

If you don’t mind driving from Santa Ana but want some helping hands in terms of loading and unloading, look into labor-only moving companies.

Here’s who we suggest:

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Rental trucks in Santa Ana for a total DIY long-distance move

While you’ll save some money with the two alternatives above, the cheapest way to move out of state is by handling all aspects — the heavy lifting and the driving — yourself. On average, a full DIY move from Santa Ana costs $19–$39 a day for a truck rental, plus a per-mile fee of $0.79–$1.09.

Using moving rental trucks definitely requires the most work, but if budget is your biggest concern, check out these options:

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Santa Ana, CA

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best moving companies.

We look at:

  • 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, expedited delivery, and more.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of long-distance movers in Santa Ana

The average cost for professional movers in Santa Ana is $75 per hour, but even the best interstate moving companies need more information about the distance and size of your move to give you a moving quote.

Factors that affect the cost of moving from Santa Ana

  1. How far you’re moving: Distance is the most impactful cost factor. Naturally, the farther you are moving, the more it will cost. Relocating a couple hundred miles from Santa Ana to another California city will not be as expensive as a cross-country move.
  2. The moving option you choose: Your costs will vary significantly depending on whether you choose a full-service mover, a moving container, or a rental truck. Every move is different, so balance your needs and your budget when deciding on the best relocation method.
  3. The amount of belongings you have: Movers determine cost by the total estimated weight of your household items and furnishings, so be sure to itemize your belongings to get the most accurate quote. You may also want to consider downsizing before moving out of Santa Ana to reduce your moving expenses.
  4. Any add-on services you choose: Additional services like third-party labor assistance or packing and unpacking help are convenient, but they will also contribute to your total moving costs.
  5. When you move: The time of the year, month, and even week can all affect what you pay. Summer moves are typically more expensive because they are the busiest season for movers. Moving between October and April can be more cost-effective. Mid-month and mid-week moves are also cheaper, since most people tend to move on the weekends around the start or end of the month.

To give you an accurate estimate, we’ve created a moving cost calculator to help you get a good idea of your long-distance move cost. Plus, we’ve put together a detailed post all about moving costs in Santa Ana.

FAQs

What else should I know about moving out of California?

A moving company helping you move out of California must be properly licensed and have a U.S. Department of Transportation number. Of course, all of the Santa Ana movers we’ve included on this list have everything in order but you can check for yourself on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

If you’re moving from one state to another, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move document from the FMCSA.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving out of Santa Ana?

If you’re moving across town, a local moving company in Santa Ana is going to be the most cost-effective approach. If you’re moving out of California, using a national moving company comes with more experience, which may cost a bit more.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Santa Ana?

Moving companies in Santa Ana are usually slower in November and December due to the average winter low of 47°F, the holidays and kids being in school, so you can negotiate with a mover more during those months and save some money.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Santa Ana?

DIY moving will always be cheaper, especially when moving within 50 miles of Santa Ana. The cheapest options for moving out of Santa Ana are usually renting a moving truck like U-Haul or a moving container like PODS. We’ve also got a helpful guide if you’re looking for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

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