Moving from New York to California is a significant transition, covering over 2,500 miles across the country. California features one of the world’s most renowned lifestyles and cultures, while New York is the world’s busiest state, booming with opportunities. Switching from one state to another requires a significant amount of planning to make moving seamless. No matter the reasoning behind the move, there are always pros and cons to consider for any form of relocation. Which is why in this guide, we will be providing logistical support alongside tips that help with smooth relocations.
Cost of Moving from New York to California
Proposed estimates for the expenses and charges that would occur while relocating from New York to California ranges between $3000 and $10000. Non direct expenses can include, but are not limited to packing, storage and insurance. While quotes done by verified movers largely help lower expenses, individual charges differ based on factors such as volume of belongings and distance..Average Moving Costs
Full-Service Moves
Starting at $1,800
Truck Rental
Starting at $800
Moving Container
Starting at $1,500
1. Full-Service Moves
Full service moving from New York to California includes the loading, unloading, and transportation. Professional movers take care of the whole process, even the packing, so you don’t have to worry about anything. Although it seems like the more expensive option at first glance, if you can find a carrier with available space headed towards your destination, it actually becomes the most affordable option. List your move to find a verified carrier with available space headed from New York to California.
2. Truck Rental
A truck rental service includes a moving truck of various sizes, mileage allowance, and basic insurance coverage. It may also offer moving accessories like dollies, furniture pads, and loading ramps. With a rental truck, you just get the truck, so shippers would be responsible for handling packing, loading, driving, and unloading themselves, making it a cost-effective option for DIY moves.
Note: When considering the cost of fuel, tolls, lodging, food, and the time associated with doing it yourself with a rental truck, the cost can quickly add up.
3. Moving Container
Similar to Truck rental, shipping containers offers another budget friendly Do-it-Yourself option. The main benefit of this method is that it offers you a storage option, without having to unload and reload. The main limitation for this method is the limitation of service areas.
Directory of Verified Movers in New York
Use the database below to find and compare verified moving carriers in New York. All carriers on this directory have been audited, rated, and reviewed for safe and reliable service. Click on the carrier name to review company profiles and check company backgrounds. Use the check box to request quotes from multiple movers with one click.
What is a USMPO Verified Carrier?
- Verified Carriers are held accountable to their service and accuracy of their estimates. It isn’t just about meeting basic licensing requirements—it’s about demonstrating a sustained commitment to creating a safer moving industry. To earn verification, movers must:
- Hold a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) license.
- Maintain a minimum B rating or higher with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
- Have an active operating authority for at least two years
- Operate legitimate, independent moving operations with owned trucks and trained staff.
- Adhere to the USMPO Code of Ethics, which ensures accountability, transparency, and consumer protection.
Why choose a Verified Carrier?
- Fair Pricing: Carriers are held accountable to their estimates. No hidden fees, no bait & switch pricing, no surprises on move day—just honest quotes and fair pricing adjustments if needed.
- Quality Assurance: Verified movers are thoroughly vetted to ensure their operations meet industry-leading standards for service and professionalism.
- Consumer Protection: USMPO advocates for customers, holding movers accountable for any discrepancies and ensuring a smooth, transparent experience.
- Fraud Prevention: With USMPO, you can avoid the risk of falling victim to rogue movers or brokers who exploit unsuspecting customers.
Our Methodology to Verify Movers
- Pricing Accuracy
- Responsiveness & Customer Service
- Reliability & Delivery Time
- Integrity, Ethics & Professionalism
- Problem Resolution
- Verified & Recommended
- Not recommended
| Company Profile | DOT # | Entity Type | FMCSA Registration | BBB Rating | Request Rates & Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIFESTYLE MOVING & STORAGE | 3652616 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | |
| VELOCITY MOVING AND STORAGE | 1778330 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | |
| E SQUARE MOVING & STORAGE | 3840456 | Carrier | View Registration | A | |
| J MEDLEY MOVING HELPERS LLC | 3550999 | Carrier | View Registration | F | Buyer Beware |
| 1/2 PRICE MOVERS | 1381128 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | Unavailable |
| ACTIVE MOVING, INC. | 1278479 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | Unavailable |
| AIR SEA LAND SHIPPING & MOVING INC | 1701382 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | Unavailable |
| ALL CITY VAN LINES INC | 1551808 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | Unavailable |
| ALL EXCLUSIVE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES INC | 2553195 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | Unavailable |
| ALL THE RIGHT MOVES, LTD. | 1158267 | Carrier | View Registration | A+ | Unavailable |
List Your Move
Through the "List Your Move" tool, consumers gain access to the same resources that moving companies use to find carriers. By simply listing their move details on a load board, consumers receive competitive bids from a network of verified, audited carriers and can work with a USMPO coordinator to help protect their move.
Verify the Company’s Credentials
Ensure the mover is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as an interstate moving carrier. Check the BBB for the company’s consumer complaint history. The USMPO’s directory of verified movers compiles both this information in one easy to use platform so you can research multiple movers before reserving.
Understand the Difference Between Brokers and Carriers
While both can provide legitimate moving services, transparency about subcontracting is key. Make sure you know who is actually responsible for your delivery.
Protect Your Payment
Most moving companies will not confirm your move without a commitment of a reservation deposit. Carriers verified by the U.S. Moving Protection Organization offers a secure way to pay through a third party escrow. This way, if you need to cancel your move, or unhappy with your service, you still have the funds in your favor.
Know Your Rights and Responsibilities
Make sure to review a copy of your rights and responsibilities handbook.
Need help? Connect with a moving coordinator for assistance
A Transparent Marketplace for Moving
At the U.S. Moving Protection Organization, transparency is key. USMPO empowers consumers with the same tools that moving companies use to coordinate deliveries after pickup. Through the “List Your Move” tool, consumers can now list their move details to a job board, which are then visible to a network of verified and audited carriers. This eliminates unnecessary warehouse storage, reduces the need for subcontracting, and helps consumers find the most cost-effective way to transport their belongings.
List your move to get bids from multiple moving companies. Save thousands by pairing with a carrier that’s already headed in your direction.
Interstate moves are usually done on large trailers. If you’re not moving enough stuff to fill up the trailer, chances are your shipment is consolidated with multiple moves headed in that same direction. The trick is finding the truck that’s headed in that same direction, around your moving dates. Otherwise, movers will agree to pick it up and keep it in their warehouse until they have enough shipments to justify the profitability of the route. Depending on the size of the company or the popularity of your route, this could take weeks or months.
1. List Your Move
List your move details to our job board and connect to carriers with available space headed in your direction.
2. Recieve & Compare Bids
Receive bids from verified carriers competing for your business and compare multiple pricing options.
3. Reserve Risk Free
Book with added protection & secure payments. We hold movers accountable to their estimates.
Is Moving with USMPO from New York To California More Cost-Effective?
Absolutely. The moving industry is notorious for hidden fees, surprise up-charges, and bait-and-switch pricing tactics. USMPO’s primary mission is to eliminate fraudulent moving practices and protect consumers shipping household goods across state lines.
How Does the USMPO Hold Movers Accountable?
Shippers can pay verified movers directly and securely through an escrow account which releases funds to the mover. Protecting consumer funds and maintaining quality control is one of the USMPO’s top priorities. This is the primary method to enforce and enhance safety throughout the industry. This ensures that moving companies adhere to their agreements and that you have control over your payment until the job is completed to your satisfaction.
Secure Payments Through Escrow Accounts
Verified movers accept payment through escrow accounts. Consumers pay their movers directly, but have the option to release and distribute funds.
Consumer-Approved Payment Release
Payments are not released to the carrier until the consumer confirms the mover has arrived and provided service as agreed upon.
Fraud Prevention & Accountability
This system ensures that moving companies uphold their commitments and prevents fraudulent movers from taking payments without completing the job.
Cost of Living in California
Moving from New York to California brings major lifestyle changes. Here’s what to expect:Median Home Price
$848,000
Median Rent
$2,500/m
Energy Bill
$170/m
Phone Bill
$59.99/m
Gas
$4.87/g
How much time is needed to relocate from New York to California?
Is it pricier to hire movers than it is to rent a truck?
While renting a truck is always cheaper, you do run the risk of spending more time packing and storing your items. On the other hand, if you don't want to put too much time or energy, a full-service is the more costly but effective option.