best moving companies in Sacramento
Updated: June 21, 2025
5 min read
Quick Answer: Planning a move in Sacramento? We've done the homework for you. For local moves, International Van Lines and Safeway Moving have earned top marks for their punctual service, fair pricing, and smooth moving experiences. For long-distance or out-of-state relocations, American Van Lines and Allied Van Lines stand out with their dependable nationwide coverage, transparent estimates, and proven track record.
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How Much Does Moving in Sacramento Cost?
Moving Tip: To keep your moving budget 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 overall space your belongings occupy, helping you avoid unexpected fees that often come with itemized pricing.
Factors that affect moving costs in Sacramento
Distance
The time and fuel can affect local moves, but if you’re moving out of Sacramento 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 Sacramento, 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. Hiring Professional Movers
Using full-service movers is the easiest choice, especially if you have a big household or valuable items to transport. These companies typically handle everything from packing to unloading, saving you time and effort. For long-distance moves, prices vary based on how far you’re moving, how much stuff you have, and the amount of labor required.
| 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 means less stress, plus many offer packing services to protect your belongings better. Some even include insurance options for extra peace of mind.
2. How Much Does It Cost to Get Moving Containers Like PODS?
If you want more control over the packing process, renting a moving container is a flexible alternative. The company drops the container at your home, you load it at your own pace, then they transport it to your new place.
| Container Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 12 ft. Container | $2,000 - $3,500 |
| 16 ft. Container | $2,500 - $4,500 |
Containers are great for avoiding the stress of packing everything in one day. They often cost less than full-service movers and let you store your belongings for a while if your schedule changes.
3. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Moving Truck?
If you’re comfortable with a DIY move, renting a truck is usually the cheapest option. Companies like U-Haul, Budget, and Penske offer various truck sizes to fit your needs.
| 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 gas, any overnight stays, and possible tolls. Also, be aware that rental companies might charge extra fees if you return the truck late or damage equipment. This option works best for smaller moves or if you’re on a tight budget.
USMPO Recommended moving companies in Sacramento
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 Sacramento Move?
1. What is a USMPO Verified Carrier?
The U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) created a registration program to make sure moving companies stick to their promises, deliver great service, and keep customers safe throughout their move. When you book a move with a USMPO verified carrier, you reduce the chances of lost or damaged items and avoid delays or other common moving headaches.
Why Verification Matters
Movers verified by the USMPO go through a thorough review process that checks their business practices and commitment to honesty. These companies promise to provide clear and trustworthy service, including:
- Honest and accurate moving estimates
- Fair and transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- A strong dedication to quality and customer satisfaction
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. Benefits of Choosing a USMPO Verified Carrier
When you pick a mover verified by the USMPO, you’re not just hiring any moving company—you’re choosing one backed by a trusted organization that stands for:
- Transparent Pricing: No surprise fees or hidden costs—just clear, honest estimates with fair adjustments if needed.
- Top-Quality Service: Every verified mover goes through a thorough review to ensure they meet high standards for professionalism and care.
- Customer Protection: The USMPO looks out for you, making sure movers keep their promises and handle your move smoothly and openly.
- Shield Against Scams: With USMPO verification, you’re protected from dishonest movers or brokers who might try to take advantage of you.
4. How Do I Know if a Moving Company Is Legit?
We get it—finding a trustworthy mover can be stressful, especially with so many moving scams out there. At the U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO), our mission is to help you feel confident and informed when choosing your moving company.
Every year, thousands of people get caught in scams—hidden fees, “hostage” shipments, or unlicensed movers disappearing after pickup. To protect you, we’ve put together clear standards and verification steps to help you spot reliable, professional movers.
USMPO’s 5-Point Legitimacy Checklist for Movers
Verified Licensing (USDOT/FMCSA Compliance):
A legit mover must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and have a valid USDOT number if moving across state lines. We personally verify every mover’s credentials so you don’t have to worry about their legitimacy.Proof of Insurance:
Responsible movers carry cargo insurance, general liability, and workers’ comp for their teams. Every mover in our network must show proof of these policies to ensure your belongings—and you—are protected in case anything goes wrong.Clear Estimates with Virtual or In-Person Surveys:
Scam movers often give quick phone quotes that balloon on moving day. To avoid surprises, USMPO requires movers to do video or in-person surveys before giving you a written, binding estimate. This helps build trust and keeps pricing transparent.Real Business Presence and Reputation:
We check that movers have a physical address (no P.O. boxes), proper branding, and a solid history of customer service. We also review their ratings and complaints from trusted sources like FMCSA, BBB, and Google.Ongoing Accountability:
Unlike other directories, USMPO doesn’t just list movers—we actively monitor their performance. Movers must follow a strict code of conduct and can be removed if they don’t meet our high standards. Plus, we offer a formal process to resolve any disputes, so you’re never left on your own.
5. How To Avoid Moving Scams in Sacramento
Searching online for movers might seem like the easiest way to find a company, but it can also expose you to scams. Some dishonest movers buy fake reviews, manipulate search rankings, and pretend to be trustworthy businesses. That’s where USMPO comes in—our thorough verification process vets movers upfront for proper licensing, legitimacy, and ethical practices, so you don’t have to worry.
Here are some practical tips to keep you safe from moving scams:
- Do Your Homework
- Get Multiple Quotes
- Confirm Credentials
- Avoid Large Upfront Payments
- Get Everything in Writing
- Watch for Red Flags
- Verify 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.