($1,297) Movers From Chesapeake, VA to California
Quick answer: The cost to move 2,845 miles from Chesapeake, VA, to California averages from $1,699 to $7,926. The move can take anywhere from seven to 21 days, depending on the size, date, and distance of your move and whether you hire professional movers or handle it yourself.

|
|
|
|
|
Our track record
Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Moving from California to Chesapeake, VA guide.
The best Chesapeake, VA to California full-service moving companies
Hiring the right interstate moving company from Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake and 281 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 Chesapeake to California.
- Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- 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
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- 30 days storage included
- Local and long distance moving options
- Unlimited loading/unloading time
- Store on property or at a facility
- 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
Cost to hire full-service movers from Chesapeake, VA, to California
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 Chesapeake, VA, to California move
Using a moving container for your move from Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, VA, to make your long-distance move to California easier:
- 30 days storage included
- Local and long distance moving options
- Unlimited loading/unloading time
- Store on property or at a facility
- Long distance moves only
- Only pay for the space you use
- No deposit or initial fees
- Fast delivery time frames
- Combines affordability of DIY moving with convenience of a truck and driver
- Only pay for the truck space you use
- Offers vehicle shipping
Cost of moving containers from Chesapeake, VA, to California?
The best moving truck rentals from Chesapeake to California
Renting a moving truck is the most budget-friendly way to move from Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, VA, to help you hit the road to California with confidence:
- Competitive base prices with specialized discounts
- Round-trip and one-way moves available
- User-friendly website makes it easy to book the right truck
- 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
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chesapeake, VA, to California
The best Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, VA, to make your move to California easier:
- 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
- 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
How much does it cost to move from Chesapeake, VA, to California?
Below are average price ranges for hiring a professional moving company, renting a moving container, or using a moving truck for your Chesapeake to California move.
Hiring a professional Chesapeake 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 | $1,297 - $5,632 | $1,472 - $3,634 | $1,632 - $3,011 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $3,794 - $7,926 | $2,586 - $5,139 | $1,699 - $3,842 |
4+ bedrooms | $6,850 - $11,685 | $3,533 - $7,451 | $2,062 - $4,402 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,845 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 Chesapeake to California
The cost of Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake, VA, to California
If you’re moving to California from Chesapeake, VA, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Compare cost of living: Chesapeake vs. California
Chesapeake, VA | California | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,800 | $1,856 |
Average home cost | $375,209 | $771,057 |
Average income (per capita) | $63,484 | $91,905 |
Unemployment rate | 5.0% | 5.4% |
State income tax | 5.75% | 13.3% |
California sources: World Population Review, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation
- Rent is about 4% more expensive in California than in Chesapeake.
- Home prices are about 100.8% higher in California than in Chesapeake.
- The average income is about 32.6% higher in California than in Chesapeake.
- California has a higher unemployment rate than Chesapeake by about 13.8%.
- Income taxes are 131.30% higher in California than in Chesapeake.
How life is different in Chesapeake, VA, from California
Chesapeake, VA | California | |
---|---|---|
Population | 249,422 | 39,029,342 |
Political leaning | Democratic 52-46 | Democratic 59-41 |
Summer high | 87ºF | 87ºF |
Winter low | 31ºF | 59ºF |
Annual rain | 47" | 22" |
Annual snow | 5" | 7" |
Crime index | 25.0 | 28.43 |
California sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, BestPlaces
- The population of California is approximately 15,548% greater than the population of Chesapeake.
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Chesapeake voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in California is 87º F and in Chesapeake, it’s 87º F.
- During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59º F and Chesapeake gets down to 31º F.
- You can expect about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California vs. 47 inches of rainfall in Chesapeake.
- In California, it snows about 7 inches annually vs. 5 inches of snow in Chesapeake.
Other considerations when moving to California from Chesapeake
- 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
Parks in California
Sports Teams in California
Universities in California
FAQs
How long does a move from Chesapeake to California take?
The time it takes to move from Chesapeake, VA, 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 Chesapeake to California?
Need to get your car from Chesapeake to California? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Chesapeake to California car shippers.
Why are people moving from Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chesapeake.