Santa Cruz, CA - Best Moving Companies Near Me

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I've helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that's right for you.
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Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
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Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers for those moving locally in Santa Cruz, CA

Preferred Partner
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/EagleMovingStorage/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (29%)
  • Professional and polite staff (27%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (32%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (29%)
  • Lack of communication (26%)
Review Analysis
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

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 3670248


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LunardiMovingServices/, https://twitter.com/lunardimovers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (28%)
  • Careful handling (27%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (15%)
  • Unexpected charges (12%)
  • Lack of communication (10%)
Review Analysis
Moving made easy: Out of 544 customer feedback entries, 94.7% praised Lunardi Moving for efficiency, care with belongings, professionalism, and helpful staff. Customers repeatedly highlighted attentive and polite crews, swift moving, and careful handling of items. Some reviewers described consistent experiences across multiple moves, including delicate items and complex jobs. A small number of clients, about 3.5%, cited higher-than-expected bills, unexpected fees, or occasional item damage. Neutral feedback often referenced additional charges or less-than-perfect estimates, despite generally satisfactory service. Compared to other moving companies, Lunardi stands out with strong service consistency and attentive staff, though clarity in quoting could be improved to match industry leaders on price transparency.
Get a Quote (408) 849-9630

Company Info

State license #: 0190625

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2762936


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LambertAndSonMovingCompany/,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (34%)
  • Professional and polite staff (28%)
  • Careful handling (26%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (18%)
  • Lack of communication (15%)
  • Unexpected charges (12%)
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—that’s the takeaway from 336 customer reviews of Lambert & Son Moving. Nearly 96% of feedback praised the team’s efficient service, professional attitude, careful handling of belongings, quick moving process, and clear communication. People noted that the company stays on schedule and treats property with respect, helping customers go through even complex or last-minute moves without stress. Rates were described as fair, estimates accurate, and the booking process direct. While most reviewers called out the movers’ positive attitudes and helpfulness, a small share of customers experienced communication issues, especially with unreturned calls or inquiry follow-up. A few mentioned damage to items during moves or issues with missing belongings, particularly related to special circumstances like third-party transport. Compared with the industry, Lambert & Son’s consistently positive input, flexible service, and reputation for care and reliability put them ahead of many local and national competitors in customer satisfaction.
Get a Quote (831) 420-0419

Company Info

State license #: 0189973

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3528657


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/fairpricemovers/, https://twitter.com/FairpriceMovers
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (37%)
  • Efficient service (31%)
  • Careful handling (29%)
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (16%)
  • Lack of communication (12%)
Review Analysis
Reliable, quick, and caring—feedback for Fairprice Movers points to a standout moving company. Out of 63 reviews analyzed, an impressive 97% praised the movers for speed, careful handling, professionalism, solid communication, and budget-friendly pricing. Most reports mention staff showing up on time, working efficiently, and treating belongings with respect. Customers found booking straightforward and appreciated transparent quotes, noting few surprises when it came to prices. Unlike many moving companies that receive complaints about lost or damaged items, Fairprice Movers consistently delivered worry-free experiences. In rare neutral comments, customers wished for better up-front info about payment discounts. Compared to others in the industry, Fairprice Movers wins repeated recommendations from realtors, students, and families—earning a reputation for hassle-free, affordable, and considerate service.
Get a Quote (831) 440-7939

Company Info

State license #: 0190880

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2192738


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/831Movers,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (44%)
  • Professional and polite staff (36%)
  • Good communication (32%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (16%)
  • Unexpected charges (12%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (8%)
Review Analysis
Move day can be stressful, but feedback on 831 Movers shows customers experience relief and confidence when using them. With 27 reviews analyzed, every response was positive. Clients repeatedly recognize the team for their professionalism, efficiency, and excellent communication. Many mention careful handling of belongings, friendly and polite staff, and responsive service. Customers appreciate flexible scheduling and clear estimates with no surprises. Compared to many movers, 831 Movers stands out for reliability, attentive care, and consistent recommendations. No major complaints appear within the feedback, reflecting a reputation that sets a high benchmark in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (831) 212-3330

Company Info

State license #: 0191403

Years in Business: 7

Alternate Names: Services On Demand


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card

Best movers for those moving out of California

As you may guess, interstate — or out-of-state — moves are those that cross state lines. Movers must meet certain federal licensing requirements and standards to handle interstate moves. Consider one of these highly rated, fully licensed interstate moving companies if you’re leaving California for a new state:

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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 for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Best moving containers in Santa Cruz, CA

Moving containers offer a hybrid DIY solution that falls somewhere between a full-service moving company and a rental truck. With moving containers, you won’t have the help of a moving crew (you’ll have to do the loading and unloading) but you will get the benefit of a professional driver — a perk that doesn’t come with renting a truck.

Container costs in Santa Cruz vary depending on how many containers you need and how far you’re moving. Be sure to get moving quotes from multiple companies so you can best compare prices and services.

We recommend starting with these two top-tier moving container companies:

Best Nationwide Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Check prices Check prices

Best rental trucks for your Santa Cruz, CA move

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to move out of state or locally in Santa Cruz, a moving truck rental is your best option. On average, a truck rental in California costs a base rate of $19–$39 a day and a fee of $0.89–$1.39 per mile.

While you’ll certainly save money by renting a truck rather than hiring full-service movers or using a moving container, you will ultimately be responsible for every aspect of your move — including the driving.

We recommend these top truck rental companies for a full DIY move:

Best Availability
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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

Labor-only movers in Santa Cruz, CA

Labor-only companies can be helpful if you are using a moving container or rental truck but still want some assistance with the heavy lifting. A labor-only mover will provide you with a moving crew to load and unload your items, and you can also pay for additional packing support, as well as disassembly and reassembly of furniture, fitness equipment, and electronics.

Check out our picks for labor-only companies in Santa Cruz:

Best Labor Only
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Check prices Check prices
Best customer experience
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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

Top-rated movers in nearby cities

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How we chose the best movers in Santa Cruztoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 278 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.

How do I find a reputable Santa Cruz mover?

If you’re looking for the best movers in Santa Cruz, here’s what you should look for:

  • A good reputation: Whether they’re a new family-owned business in Santa Cruz or a large van lines company with years of experience operating all over California, a good reputation is absolutely essential. Watch out for red flags and common moving scams.
  • Look into dispute resolution: All businesses may have some hiccups, but it's how they handle these incidents that shows the company’s true colors. If a mover in Santa Cruz has a history of unresolved customer complaints, it might be best to look elsewhere.
  • Ensure experience aligns with your move: A mover with excellent reviews for local moves in Santa Cruz may not be the best interstate moving company. Verify that the company has adequate experience with the type of move you're planning.
  • Get multiple estimates: Reputable Santa Cruz movers should provide a free estimate for your move. Getting moving quotes from multiple companies will give you a good idea of a fair price for the services you need.

Fortunately, the Santa Cruz movers on this list all pass this checklist with flying colors and have been hand selected by our experts at moveBuddha.

If you want to broaden your search to the whole state, check out the best moving companies in California.

Average cost of movers in Santa Cruz, California

The pricing table below shows ballpark costs for local moves within the Santa Cruz area and its surrounding suburbs. Or check out our post on the cost to move in California for more pricing info.

Keep in mind the price ranges listed are only averages. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the specific requirements of your move.

You can also check out our moving cost calculator for more accurate moving cost estimate.

Local moving costs in Santa Cruz

If you’re moving within 50 miles of Santa Cruz, it’s considered a local move. The cost of a rental truck combines a base fee and the mileage fees. In Santa Cruz, the base fee ranges from $19 to $39 while the mileage ranges from $0.89 per mile to $1.39 per mile.

And if you’re looking for some labor help, the average cost for movers in Santa Cruz is $99 per hour.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $389 $139 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $528 $139 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $832 $194 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $1,882 $272 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $2,154 $272 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $3,290 $380 5 movers 10 hours

Factors that affect the cost of your move

  • Distance: Your moving costs in Santa Cruz will be determined in large part by where you are relocating. A local move within 50 miles of Santa Cruz will be less expensive than moving 450 miles across California state lines.
  • Move size: The more stuff you have, the more your move will cost, since moving companies determine price based on how large your truck and moving truck need to be. For long-distance and interstate relocations out of Santa Cruz, a moving company will base your price on the total estimated weight and volume of your belongings. Decluttering and downsizing to reduce those total measurements can help you keep costs down.
  • Moving method: A full-service mover will likely be the most expensive option, and renting a truck will save you the most money. Just make sure you are factoring in services with pricing, so you don’t end up skimping on the help you need for your specific move just to cut costs.
  • Additional services: No matter what kind of move you opt for, extra options like packing, labor, and comprehensive insurance will all come with added fees.
  • The time of the year: Relocating during peak moving season (May–September) will cost you more because demand is higher and availability is lower. If possible, plan your move between October and April for a lower rate.

FAQs

Do I need to get a parking permit for local movers in Santa Cruz?toggle

Only the slip licensee of record may pick up parking permits. Bring photo ID, vessel documentation/registration, and proof of current insurance to receive stickers from the harbor office, open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

For more info on parking permits in Santa Cruz, visit the local DOT website.

How can I save money when hiring a Santa Cruz moving company?toggle

You can save money when hiring a Santa Cruz mover by planning your moving date outside of peak season, which runs from May through September. Moving during the week and between October and April allows for the greatest savings.

There are other ways to negotiate your moving costs, including asking a company about any moving discounts or deals that may apply to you.

Do Santa Cruz movers offer storage?toggle

Yes, many Santa Cruz movers offer short- and long-term storage options. Many moving companies operate their own storage facilities, but some may partner with a third-party warehouse. It's always worth asking about a mover’s storage options and getting estimates for the added cost.

If your Santa Cruz mover doesn’t offer storage — or you need services beyond what they can provide — reach out to at least three of the best self-storage companies to get an idea of the price of self-storage before choosing one.

Should you use your mover's storage solutions?

How can I see all moving companies in California?toggle

You can see all moving companies in California by taking a look at our full list of California movers.

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