($1,390) Movers From Lansing, MI to California

Quick answer: The cost to move 2,341 miles from Lansing, MI, to California averages from $1,444 to $8,270. The move can take anywhere from seven to 18 days, depending on the size, date, and distance of your move and whether you hire professional movers or handle it yourself.

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts

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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Moving from California to Lansing, MI guide.

The best Lansing, MI to California full-service moving companies

Hiring the right interstate moving company from Lansing to California is no small task. Luckily, we’re here to make your decision a little easier.

We have analyzed 4,400 moving companies across the U.S. — including 10 local movers in Lansing and 280 throughout the Golden State — and narrowed them down to the best of the best based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Here are the top long-distance moving companies serving Lansing to California.

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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
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(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
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(980) 217-6841
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
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(866) 835-2392
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
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Best customer service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
(855) 929-4120
At A Glance
  • 10% discount for veterans and seniors
  • Very competitive rates due to their national coverage
  • Services local, long-distance, and international moves
  • Can service most domestic moves within 48 hours
  • 24/7 customer service
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(855) 929-4120

Cost to hire full-service movers from Lansing, MI, to California

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Lansing to California will cost between $1,390 to $5,438. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Lansing to CA will range from $3,775 to $8,270. A large move from Lansing to California will cost anywhere from $7,233 to $12,666.

Use our moving cost calculator to get a more accurate estimate for your moving needs.

If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.

The best moving containers for your Lansing, MI, to California move

Using a moving container for your move from Lansing to California is a smart way to save money without taking on a full DIY move. With moving containers, you pack and load your belongings. They’ll handle the transportation, so you won’t have to worry about driving a massive rental truck across state lines. Plus, since moving containers double as onsite storage pods, you can take your time unpacking.

Here are the best moving container companies in Lansing, MI, to make your long-distance move to California easier:

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
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Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
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best for large moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices (352) 322-2920
At A Glance
  • Combines affordability of DIY moving with convenience of a truck and driver
  • Only pay for the truck space you use
  • Offers vehicle shipping
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Check prices (352) 322-2920

Cost of moving containers from Lansing, MI, to California?

Moving pods from Lansing to California will cost you $1,318 to $3,145. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can range from $2,342 to $4,618. Using container for a four-bedroom home or larger will run between $3,063 and $6,326. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving containers for your move from Lansing to California.

The best moving truck rentals from Lansing to California

Renting a moving truck is the most budget-friendly way to move from Lansing to California — and it gives you complete control over your schedule. You pack, load, and drive the truck yourself, which means no waiting around for delivery dates or worrying about shared shipping space. If you're comfortable behind the wheel and want the cheapest way to move, this is the route for you to take.

Check out the top truck rental companies in Lansing, MI, to help you hit the road to California with confidence:

Best Value Rental
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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At A Glance
  • Competitive base prices with specialized discounts
  • Round-trip and one-way moves available
  • User-friendly website makes it easy to book the right truck
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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
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Check prices (800) 468-4285

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lansing, MI, to California

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,375 to $2,580. A larger move will cost $1,444 to $3,193, and a four-bedroom or bigger move from Lansing to California costs from $1,769 to $3,576.

The best Lansing to California hourly movers

If you need muscle but not a moving truck, labor-only moving companies are the way to go. These movers handle the heavy lifting — loading, unloading, and sometimes, even packing (for an extra fee). All you have to take care of is the transportation.

Here are the best labor-only moving companies in Lansing, MI, to make your move to California easier:

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
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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
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(866) 774-5063

How much does it cost to move from Lansing, MI, to California?

Below are average price ranges for hiring a professional moving company, renting a moving container, or using a moving truck for your Lansing to California move.

Hiring a professional Lansing moving company will be on the pricier side, while renting a truck or a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,390 - $5,438 $1,318 - $3,145 $1,375 - $2,580
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,775 - $8,270 $2,342 - $4,618 $1,444 - $3,193
4+ bedrooms $7,233 - $12,666 $3,063 - $6,326 $1,769 - $3,576

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,341 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Factors influencing moving costs from Lansing to California

The cost of Lansing movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have — as well as your home size and layout — will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Lansing, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

What to know before moving from Lansing, MI, to California

If you’re moving to California from Lansing, MI, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Compare cost of living: Lansing vs. California

Lansing, MI California
Average rent cost $1,129 $1,856
Average home cost $148,542 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $64,729 $91,905
Unemployment rate 7.4% 5.4%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • Rent is about 70% more expensive in California than in Lansing.
  • Home prices are about 253.3% higher in California than in Lansing.
  • The average income is about 39.7% higher in California than in Lansing.
  • California has a lower unemployment rate than Lansing by about 42.6%.
  • Income taxes are 212.94% higher in California than in Lansing.

How life is different in Lansing, MI, from California

Lansing, MI California
Population 112,644 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 50-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 82ºF 87ºF
Winter low 17ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 33" 22"
Annual snow 46" 7"
Crime index 48.66 28.43
  • The population of California is approximately 34,548% greater than the population of Lansing.
  • In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Lansing voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in California is 87º F and in Lansing, it’s 82º F.
  • During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59º F and Lansing gets down to 17º F.
  • You can expect about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California vs. 33 inches of rainfall in Lansing.
  • In California, it snows about 7 inches annually vs. 46 inches of snow in Lansing.

Other considerations when moving to California from Lansing

  • Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days..
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

Things to do in California

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in California.

Museums in California

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa
  • Griffith Observatory
  • Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
  • Norton Simon Museum
  • Mission San Luis Rey
  • Tallac Historic Site
  • Petersen Automotive Museum
  • Original McDonald's Site and Museum
  • Oakland Museum of California
  • March Field Air Museum
  • Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum

Parks in California

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park
  • MacKerricher State Park
  • Tilden Regional Park
  • Dinosaur Caves Park
  • Greystone Mansion and Park
  • Rancho San Antonio County Park
  • Serra Cross Park
  • Coyote Hills Regional Park
  • Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
  • Palisades Park
  • Irvine Regional Park

Sports Teams in California

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
  • Oakland Athletics (MLB)
  • San Diego Padres (MLB)
  • San Francisco Giants (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Chargers (NFL)
  • Los Angeles Rams (NFL)
  • San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
  • Golden State Warriors (NBA)
  • Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)
  • Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)
  • Sacramento Kings (NBA)
  • LA Galaxy (MLS)
  • Los Angeles FC (MLS)
  • San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)

Universities in California

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego
  • University of California, Davis
  • University of California, Irvine
  • California Institute of Technology
  • University of California, Santa Barbara
  • University of California, Riverside
  • University of California, Santa Cruz
  • University of California, San Francisco
  • San Diego State University
  • California State University, Northridge

FAQs

How long does a move from Lansing to California take?

The time it takes to move from Lansing, MI, to California depends on the moving method you choose. A DIY move with a rental truck can take a day or two, depending on your exact destination and how much you stop along the way. If you’re using professional movers or a moving container company, delivery times can range from a few days to two weeks, depending on demand. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.

For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.

What is the best way to get a car from Lansing to California?

Need to get your car from Lansing to California? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Lansing to California car shippers.

Why are people moving from Lansing to California?

Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Lansing?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Lansing.

Helpful moving resources