best moving companies in Bakersfield
Updated: July 10, 2025
5 min read
Quick Answer: For local moves in Bakersfield, International Van Lines and Safeway Moving stand out due to their professionalism and clear pricing. If you’re planning a long-distance move from Bakersfield, American Van Lines and Allied Van Lines are top choices, offering a great mix of affordability and dependable service.
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How Much Does Moving in Bakersfield Cost?
Moving Tip: To keep your moving costs predictable, request a flat fee based on the size of the truck rather than a detailed item-by-item estimate. This approach ensures you’re charged for the space you need, helping you avoid unexpected fees on moving day.
Factors that affect moving costs in Bakersfield
Distance
The time and fuel can affect local moves, but if you’re moving out of Bakersfield you may see additional fees
Size
Larger homes with more belongings require more labor and larger trucks, resulting in higher costs
Time of year
Peak moving seasons in Bakersfield, like summer or around holidays, often come with higher rates
Additional services
Services like packing, unpacking, or assembly/disassembly of furniture will add to the total cost
1. What Does It Cost to Hire Professional Movers?
Opting for full-service professional movers is often the easiest choice, especially if you have a larger household or valuable belongings. These movers handle everything—from packing and loading to transportation and unloading. For longer moves, the price usually depends on how far you’re going, the amount you’re moving, and the labor involved.
| Home Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom | $2,500 - $4,000 |
| 2-3 Bedroom | $4,000 - $7,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $7,000 - $10,000 |
Hiring professionals saves you time and effort, especially for cross-state moves. Plus, many movers offer packing services that help protect your items from damage during transit. Some companies also provide insurance options, giving you extra peace of mind.
2. What’s the Cost of Renting Moving Containers Like PODS?
If you want more control over your moving schedule, renting a portable moving container—like PODS—is a great option. The container is delivered right to your home, letting you pack at your own speed before it’s transported to your new place.
| Container Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 12 ft. Container | $2,000 - $3,500 |
| 16 ft. Container | $2,500 - $4,500 |
Using PODS is ideal if you want to avoid the rush of moving everything in one day. It’s often a more budget-friendly choice compared to hiring full-service movers. Plus, if your move-in date changes, you can keep your container stored for a while, adding flexibility to your plans.
3. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Moving Truck?
For those who prefer a hands-on approach, renting a moving truck from companies like U-Haul, Budget, or Penske is often the most affordable option. While it saves money, it also means you’ll be doing most of the work yourself.
| Truck Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 10-12 ft. Truck | $1,200 - $1,800 |
| 15-17 ft. Truck | $1,800 - $2,400 |
| 20-26 ft. Truck | $2,500 - $3,500 |
Keep in mind, you’ll also need to budget for fuel, possible overnight stays, and tolls along the way. Plus, rental companies may add extra charges if you return the truck late or use additional equipment. This option is perfect for smaller moves or anyone looking to save money by handling the move themselves.
USMPO Recommended moving companies in Bakersfield
International Van Lines
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 2293832
- MC number: 729978
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: International Van Lines
- Physical Address: 3957 NW 126TH AVE CORAL SPRINGS, FL 33065
International Van Lines Reviews
4.9/5
Average of 1239 Customer Reviews
International Van Lines Google Reviews
Review From: Google
Rating:4.9/5
International Van Lines has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on International Van Lines Profile.
Allied Van Lines
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 076235
- MC number: 15735
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: Allied Van Lines
- Physical Address: 7051 SW 21st Place Ste 100 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317
Allied Van Lines Reviews
4.7/5
Average of 198 Customer Reviews
allied van lines google reviews
Review From: Google
Rating: 4.7/5
Allied Van Lines has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on Allied Van Lines Profile.
Safeway Moving
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 3756000
- MC number: 1335229
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: Safeway Moving Inc
- Physical Address: 5217 NW 33rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA
Safeway Moving Reviews
4.3/5
Average of 239 Customer Reviews
Safeway Moving Inc Google Review
Review From: Google
Rating: 4.3/5
Safeway Moving Inc has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on Safeway Moving Inc Profile.
American Van Lines
Verified Carrier
Company Info
- US DOT: 614506
- MC number: 294798
- Entity Type: Carrier
- Legal Name: American Van Lines
- Physical Address: 1351 NW 22nd St, Pompano Beach, FL 33069, U. S.
American Van Lines Reviews
4.3/5
Average of 1,513 Customer Reviews
American Van Lines Google Review
Review From: Google
Rating: 4.3/5
American Van Lines has been audited and certified by the USMPO to provide fair pricing, reliable service, and standardized transportation protocols.
Read more on American Van Lines Profile.
Register Your Move With U.S. Moving Protection
Why shippers register their move with USMPO?
A registered move is a safer move. Registered moves will have access to resources, including a USMPO move coordinator, and receive reminders throughout their move process, minimizing discrepancies that lead to delays and price hikes.
The initiative is an added layer of protection and quality assurance for their relocation. Shippers with registered moves have access to resources that will verify the accuracy of their inventory, pricing, and quotes. Additionally, registered moves have the added benefit of conflict resolution and claims assistance.
How does USMPO ensure secure moves?
USMPO ensures consumer safety in the moving industry by tracking carrier performance. This allows for improved accountability and transparency in the moving process, as well as the implementation of safety measures such as further audits background checks on carriers.
What Makes USMPO Different?
Choosing a mover from the open market often means taking a leap of faith. But when you choose a USMPO-verified mover, you’re relying on an industry-standard safeguard designed to protect your move and your money.
Here’s what you get with USMPO:
- Access to a list of verified, trustworthy, and compliant moving companies.
- Peace of mind through oversight, support, and consumer education.
- Protection from rogue operators and misleading pricing tactics.
- Free tools like our Moving Cost Calculator.
- Ongoing advocacy and dispute resolution—because your move deserves protection.
Why Choose U.S. Moving Protection for Your Bakersfield Move?
1. What Does It Mean to Be a USMPO Verified Carrier?
The U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) created its verification program to keep moving companies honest and reliable. By registering with USMPO, movers agree to stick to their quotes, maintain high standards, and put customer safety first. This registration helps protect your belongings from getting lost or stolen and ensures issues like delayed deliveries are handled properly.
Why Verification Matters
Movers verified by USMPO go through a thorough review to confirm they operate ethically and transparently. These companies promise to provide:
- Accurate, upfront estimates
- Fair, straightforward pricing
- A strong commitment to quality service
2. Why Choose a USMPO Verified Carrier?
Avoid Pricing Surprises
Many customers fall victim to rogue movers by choosing companies based on attractive low quotes or misleading online reviews. Unfortunately, these initial “deals” often come with hidden costs. Rogue movers may use bait-and-switch estimates, incomplete itemized inventories, or vague terms that allow them to dramatically inflate prices on moving day.
Even when presented with a so-called “binding estimate”, customers are often blindsided by inflated final charges due to overlooked items or “required additional services.” These shady tactics erode trust and can leave customers stranded with skyrocketing costs.
By contrast, USMPO Verified Carriers undergo rigorous auditing to ensure they honor their original quotes. Through a system of random audits comparing estimates with final charges, the USMPO holds its carriers accountable. Movers who fail to meet these high standards are promptly removed from the network, ensuring that only ethical and transparent operators remain.
3. Advantages of Hiring a USMPO Verified Carrier
Picking a USMPO Verified Carrier means more than just hiring movers—you’re choosing a company backed by a trusted organization dedicated to your protection. Here’s what you get:
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or last-minute surprises. You receive clear, honest estimates, with fair adjustments if necessary.
- High-Quality Service: Each mover is carefully reviewed to meet top industry standards for professionalism and reliability.
- Customer Support: USMPO stands up for you, making sure movers stick to their promises and handle your move smoothly.
- Protection Against Scams: With USMPO, you’re less likely to fall prey to dishonest movers or shady brokers who take advantage of customers.
4. How Can You Tell if a Moving Company Is Legit?
Finding a reliable mover can feel overwhelming, especially with so many scams and shady companies out there. At the U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO), we’re dedicated to helping you make smart, confident choices when it’s time to move.
Every year, thousands of people get caught in moving scams—hidden fees, hostage loads, or movers who disappear after loading your stuff. To keep you safe, we’ve set up clear standards and verification tools to help you spot trustworthy movers.
USMPO’s 5-Point Legitimacy Checklist for Movers
Proper Licensing (USDOT/FMCSA Compliance):
A real mover must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and have a valid USDOT number for interstate moves. We verify all movers in our network to make sure they’re properly licensed and authorized to operate.Proof of Insurance:
Responsible movers carry cargo insurance, liability coverage, and workers’ comp for their team. USMPO requires movers to provide proof of these policies so your belongings—and you—are protected if something goes wrong.Clear, Transparent Estimates:
Many scam movers give low phone quotes that balloon on moving day. To avoid this, our movers offer in-person or video surveys to provide accurate, written estimates you can trust.Real Business and Reputation:
We confirm that movers have a physical office (no P.O. boxes), professional branding, and positive customer feedback. We also cross-check their record on federal sites, the Better Business Bureau, and review platforms like Google.Ongoing Accountability:
USMPO doesn’t just verify movers once—we continually monitor their service quality. Movers who don’t meet our high standards are removed from our network. Plus, if problems arise, we provide a formal dispute resolution process to have your back.
5. How to Protect Yourself from Moving Scams in Bakersfield
Looking for movers online might seem quick and easy, but it can be risky. Without proper oversight, dishonest movers can buy fake reviews, manipulate search results, and appear trustworthy when they’re not. That’s where USMPO comes in—we carefully vet movers to make sure they’re licensed, legit, and run honest businesses.
Here are some simple, reliable tips to help you avoid moving scams:
- Do Your Homework
- Get Several Quotes
- Check Credentials
- Avoid Large Upfront Deposits
- Get Everything in Writing
- Confirm Contact Info
6. USMPO Tip: Look for these red flags
- The mover gives you a quote without inspecting your belongings.
- The mover tells you they’ll give you the cost after they load the truck.
- The mover wants a big deposit before the move.
- The mover wants you to sign forms that aren’t filled in.
- The mover doesn’t give you a copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” and “Ready to Move,” which are brochures that federal laws require movers to supply to customers.
- The mover’s website doesn’t have a local address, registration information or insurance information.
- The movers tell you their insurance covers your stuff (“full value protection” is not insurance).
- The movers don’t answer the phone with the name of the company you hired.
- The movers don’t have an office.
- The movers show up with a rented truck instead of one with the company logo on it.
- The movers claim you have more stuff than what they put in the estimate.
Your Moving Questions, Our Expert Answers
We’re here to address your concerns and provide non-biased guidance.