Start your free quote now!

Or Call 800-228-3092 to start your free quote!

HELPFUL INFORMATION

  1. Moving
  2. Moving Resources
  3. Relocation Guides
  4. Moving Costs in Orange County

How Much Do Movers Cost in Orange County, CA

Budgeting for movers will be crucial as you plan your move within or out of the OC. As rising gas prices and labor shortages in California drive up the cost of long-distance transit, you don’t want to be caught unprepared.

Before you start requesting estimates from every mover in town, it helps to get a better idea of how much movers cost in Orange County, CA. Establishing a reasonable baseline can help you prep your budget and weed out egregious quotes. Factors that may influence your expected cost include labor rates, fuel costs and the logistics of Southern California transit and real estate.

Let’s take a look at how much you can expect professional movers to cost in Orange County.

Average Cost of Professional Movers in Orange County, CA

In Southern California, local moving companies tend to charge hourly rates, while long-distance movers base their quotes on the total mileage and weight of your shipment.

Try our instant moving cost calculator to get a quick estimate:


Local moves are typically defined as those under 100 miles. For our purposes, we’ll define Orange, LA, San Diego, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties as local moves.

The local moving service cost is largely determined by time. In California, movers are required to invoice for double drive time — specifically, “the total of loading, unloading and double the driving time from point of origin to point of destination.”1 This means the time spent driving between your old and new home is doubled to account for the return trip and traffic. On average, contracting two movers and a truck for a local move costs between $130 and $200 per hour.

This table can help you estimate what you might pay for a local relocation in or around Orange County:

Home Size

Crew Size

Estimated Hours

Approximate Price Range

Studio / 1 Bedroom

2 Movers

3 – 5 Hours

$500 – $950

2 Bedroom Apartment

3 Movers

5 – 7 Hours

$1,100 – $1,800

3 Bedroom House

4 Movers

7 – 10 Hours

$1,900 – $3,200

4+ Bedroom House

4 – 5 Movers

10+ Hours

$3,500+

Average Cost of Cross-Country Movers

If you’re leaving California for a different state, the billing structure changes. Long-distance movers usually provide a flat rate, or binding estimate, based on the volume of goods.

There’s a logical reason for the difference. While a local move is a matter of hours, shipping the contents of a three-bedroom home from Anaheim to Dallas or Chicago involves significant fuel, tolls and multi-day labor. Given the time involved, the flat rate is often less expensive than you would’ve paid with an hourly rate.

Here are a few examples of how much movers in Orange County charge for interstate moves:

Destination

Home Size

Average Weight

Approximate Price Range

Seattle, WA

1 – 2 Bedroom

3,000 lbs

$3,800 – $5,500

Phoenix, AZ

2 – 3 Bedroom

5,000 lbs

$3,200 – $4,800

Austin, TX

2 – 3 Bedroom

5,000 lbs

$5,500 – $7,200

New York, NY

3 – 4 Bedroom

8,000 lbs

$9,000 – $14,000

Keep in mind that long-distance moving prices fluctuate based on current diesel prices and seasonal demand. Downsizing your shipment as much as possible beforehand can typically net a lower total quote.

Key Factors That Affect Moving Costs in Orange County, CA

How much movers cost in Orange County depends on several regional variables.

  • Traffic and Geography: Moving on a Tuesday morning in Yorba Linda is different from moving on a Friday afternoon near the 5/405 interchange. Since local movers charge by the hour, Orange Crush traffic will directly increase your bill.
  • Property Access: Moving out of a high-rise apartment or a home with steep driveways can drive up labor times. If access is so limited that a moving truck cannot safely reach your front door, movers may charge for a shuttle service to haul out your belongings.
  • Time of Year: Summer is the peak moving season in Southern California. Demand is highest between May and September, leading to higher rates. You may be able to score a lower rate by scheduling your move between December and March.

Comparing DIY vs. Professional Moving Costs

Many consider renting a moving truck to save money. While a rental truck in Orange County can cost under $100 per day (plus mileage), hidden expenses can add up. You’ll handle fuel, insurance, equipment rentals, and lodging for overnight drives. Driving a bulky vehicle with a heavy load increases accident risks, while improper packing can cause items to shift during transit. 

If moving interstate, expect higher daily rates and diesel costs for both rentals and your vehicle. Additionally, a DIY move involves time for disassembly, packing, and the physical strain of loading and unloading.

While professional movers cost more upfront, they provide expertise, equipment and valuation coverage to minimize any risk to yourself or your belongings.

Hidden Fees and Extra Services to Watch Out For

Movers in California are required to provide a “Not to Exceed” price for all household moves. Additionally, they must provide notice of any changes in a “Change Order for Moving Services.”2 The states mandate these documents to protect you from predatory fees.

When researching moving companies in Orange County, do not accept any estimate provided over the phone or internet. California law requires that all estimates be provided in writing, and only after the moving company has assessed your needs.

How to Save Money on Movers in Orange County, CA

While the cost of living in the OC is high, you can still find ways to reduce your moving expenses.

      1. Declutter Before the Quote: Moving services cost more if you move more, especially for long-distance moves where weight determines the price. Sell or donate heavy furniture and clothing instead of packing them.
      2. Source Free Boxes: Check with neighbors and keep your delivery boxes. Buying all new cardboard packing boxes can cost several hundred dollars for a large home.
      3. Handle the Packing Yourself: You can save a significant amount by having everything boxed and labeled before the crew arrives.
      4. Flexible Scheduling: If your closing date allows it, aim for a mid-month move. Most leases end on the 1st or the 31st, making those the most expensive days to book a crew.
      5. Use a Moving Calculator: A professional moving calculator can provide a realistic estimate based on your needs.

Ready to Move? Get a Free Moving Quote Today

Knowing how much movers cost in Orange County, CA, is the first step toward a stress-free relocation. North American Van Lines offers personalized moving services designed to fit your needs and budget. Request a quote today.

1https://bhgs.dca.ca.gov/industry/maxratetariff4.pdf

2https://bhgs.dca.ca.gov/consumers/movers.shtml

Start your free quote now!

Call 1-800-228-3092 to speak to a representative.

Movers Serving Orange County: