Cost of Moving from California to North Carolina
When you moving from California to North Carolina, one of the first things that you should prioritize is the expenses. Long distance relocations depend on a variety of factors including distance traveled, amount of possessions, and additional services offered.
Distance
Depending on where you life in California as well as where in North Carolina you are relocating to, the distance can range from 2400 miles to 3000 miles. This will impact the overall moving cost.
Moving Services
Using moving services that provide packing, loading, and unloading will cost more than renting a truck or getting a moving container.
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Storage
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If you need storage solutions during your transition, that will be an added cost.
Type of Service | Studio/ 1 Bedroom Apt | 2-3 Bedrooms | 4-5 Bedrooms |
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DIY/Truck Rental | $400 – $2,300 | $750 – $4,150 | $1,500 – $4,900 |
Moving Container | $700 – $2,800 | $1,200 – $4,950 | $2,500 – $7,800 |
Full Service | $1,750 – $2,750 | $2,750– $4,500 | $4,500 – $12,500 |
You can estimate the cost of moving by obtaining quotes from several moving companies. The most reputable companies specializing in long-distance relocations will usually provide competitive rates and comprehensive estimates.
Selecting The Right Moving Company For The Long Distance Move
If you are moving from one state to another, like California to North Carolina, the most critical aspect is finding a moving company that will transport your items securely and in a timely manner. Below are some strategies to locate the ideal moving company:Research and Reviews
Identify moving companies known for excellent customer satisfaction and have a good rating. You can check Google, Yelp or the Better Business Bureau for customer feedback.
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Licensed and Insured
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It’s important to check whether the moving company is licensed and insured so as to mitigate risk – if anything goes wrong, you will have some coverage.
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Free Estimates
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Most reputable moving companies should be able to provide you with an estimate without charge. You should ask for a comprehensive estimate which would include extra services such as packing and storing goods.
Best Overall Value

International Van Lines
4.9
- Best overall value
- Affordable pricing
- Same-day estimates
- Family owned & operated
- Verified by USMPO
- 10% USMPO discount
Best for Quick Quotes

Allied Van Lines
4.7
- Extensive network
- Custom moving plans
- Transparent pricing
- Reliable tracking
- Verified by USMPO
- 10% USMPO discount
Best for Custom Moves

Safeway Moving
4.6
- Flat-rate pricing
- Military-friendly services
- Secure storage options
- Nationwide coverage
- Verified by USMPO
- 10% USMPO discount
Some of the best moving companies that specialize in long-distance moving in California are known to be very efficient and deal with large interstate moves readily to ensure your move to North Carolina is smooth.
Packing Tips for Your Move
Packing is one of the most important steps when moving from California to North Carolina. It is a long distance move, so the packing must be done thorough and in a way that ensures no damages occur. Here are some more expert packing tips.-
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Start Early
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Start packing a few weeks early. Use boxes that are properly labeled so that the contents do not get mixed up and note the rooms that the boxed items need to go to.


Use Quality Packing Materials
To ensure that no damages occur to your items, make sure that the boxes, bubble wraps, and packing peanuts are of high quality.
Use Quality Declutter Before You Pack
Relocation is a great opportunity to get rid of any furniture or clothing that you do not use. Selling or donating them is always a better option.
Settling into North Carolina after California
These tips above prepare you for the initial steps of residing, but there are many additional things to adjust to culturally as well. North Carolina is special in that way, so conditioning one’s life has to be thorough and immersive after arriving.-
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Climate
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The same coastal California climate does not carry over to North Carolina. Here the climate is more of a mix, with a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers and mild winters..
Cost of Living
The expenses are generally lower in North Carolina compared to California due to the availability of housing and other resources to the population. Major cities such as Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham offer great value for money.
Median Home Price
$529,907
Median Rent
$1,611/m
Energy Bill
$192.87/m
Phone Bill
$186.57/m
Gas
$3.08/g
Lifestyle and Culture
The state of North Carolina is known for its southern hospitality alongside outdoor activities at a slower pace of life. Whether it be the Appalachian Moutains or the beaches of the Outer Banks, they are all extremely scenic.
