Moving to a new home or office in San Diego can feel overwhelming, but the right moving company makes it easy. San Diego is a vibrant city with sunny beaches, bustling neighborhoods, and a growing demand for reliable movers. In July 2025, some moving companies stand out for their excellent service, fair prices, and happy customers.
This guide covers everything you need to know about movers in San Diego. We’ll explore the top 10 trusted movers, their services, costs, and tips to make your move stress-free. Written in simple, clear language, this article is easy for everyone to understand, even young readers. Let’s get started!
What Are the Best Moving Companies in San Diego in July 2025?
San Diego has many moving companies, but only a few are the best in 2025. This guide ranks the top 10 movers based on customer reviews, licensing, pricing, services, and local reputation. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, these companies offer reliable solutions. We’ve researched for you, so you can pick the perfect mover for your needs.
Why Trust Matters When Choosing a Mover in San Diego?
Trust is crucial when hiring movers. You’re letting them handle your furniture, clothes, and special belongings. A trusted mover is licensed, insured, and has great reviews. They show up on time, move your items carefully, and charge fair prices. Choosing a reliable mover means less worry and a smoother move.
Who Are the Top 10 Most Trusted Movers in San Diego in 2025?
Here are the top 10 trusted movers in San Diego for July 2025. We ranked them based on customer reviews, licensing, pricing, services, and local reputation. Each company is fully licensed, insured, and known for excellent service.
- Movers by the Sea
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 4.95/5 (347 Yelp reviews)
- Services: Local residential and commercial moves, packing, labor services, senior and college moves.
- Strengths: Great communication, expert movers, reliable with four registered drivers per vehicle.
- Website: Movers by the Sea
- Mission Movers
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 5/5 (1,000+ reviews on Yelp and Google)
- Services: Local and long-distance moves (within California), packing, loading.
- Strengths: Perfect ratings, punctual, careful movers.
- Website: Mission Movers
- 24/7 Moving and Storage
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 5/5 (900+ reviews on Yelp)
- Services: Local and long-distance moves, packing, storage, 5% military discount.
- Strengths: Affordable ($1,322 for a three-bedroom move vs. $3,520 average), fast service.
- Website: 24/7 Moving and Storage
- Hulk Movers
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 4.8/5 (Yelp, Google)
- Services: Local and long-distance moves, packing, business relocations.
- Strengths: No hidden fees, fast and professional, great for heavy furniture.
- Website: Hulk Movers
- Aloha Movers
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: A+ BBB, 4.9/5 (Yelp, Google)
- Services: Local moves, packing, storage, truck loading/unloading.
- Strengths: Over 20 years in business, high employee retention, top ratings.
- Website: Aloha Movers
- Dominant Moving Company
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 5/5 (600+ reviews)
- Services: Local and long-distance moves, packing, storage, commercial moves.
- Strengths: Affordable, no hidden fees, great for last-minute moves.
- Website: Dominant Moving Company
- Qshark Moving Company
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 4.9/5 (2,000+ Yelp reviews)
- Services: Local and long-distance moves, piano moving, packing.
- Strengths: Experienced since 2014, handles specialty items like pianos.
- Website: Qshark Moving Company
- Two Men and a Truck
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: A+ BBB, 4.8/5 (Google)
- Services: Local and long-distance moves, packing, storage, downtown high-rise moves.
- Strengths: Downtown expertise, voted Best Mover by Union-Tribune since 2021.
- Website: Two Men and a Truck
- Sullivan Moving & Storage
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 4.8/5 (Google, Yelp)
- Services: Local, long-distance, international moves, packing, storage.
- Strengths: Over 120 years of experience, handles high-value items.
- Website: Sullivan Moving & Storage
- San Diego Moving
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Rating: 4.9/5 (798 Yelp, 249 Google reviews)
- Services: Local moves, packing, junk removal, custom crating.
- Strengths: Small, experienced team, background-checked movers.
- Website: San Diego Moving
Which Moving Company in San Diego Has the Highest Customer Satisfaction?
Mission Movers leads with a perfect 5/5 rating from over 1,000 reviews on Yelp and Google. Customers love their punctuality, careful handling, and clear communication. For example, a Yelp review from June 2025 praised their team for moving a three-bedroom home in under four hours without damage. 24/7 Moving and Storage also scores a perfect 5/5 with 900+ reviews, especially for budget-friendly moves.
Which Movers in San Diego Are Fully Licensed and Insured?
All 10 movers listed are fully licensed and insured. They hold valid USDOT numbers for interstate moves and comply with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for local moves. You can verify licenses on the FMCSA website for interstate movers or the CPUC website for local movers.
What Are the Strengths of Each Top-Rated San Diego Moving Company?
Each mover has unique strengths:
- Movers by the Sea: Reliable, great for senior and college moves.
- Mission Movers: Perfect ratings, expert movers.
- 24/7 Moving and Storage: Affordable, military discounts.
- Hulk Movers: Fast, no hidden fees.
- Aloha Movers: Long-term employees, top BBB ratings.
- Dominant Moving Company: Great for last-minute moves.
- Qshark Moving Company: Specialty item handling.
- Two Men and a Truck: Downtown high-rise expertise.
- Sullivan Moving & Storage: International moves, high-value items.
- San Diego Moving: Small, trusted team.
What Services Do San Diego Movers Offer?
San Diego movers provide a variety of services to meet your needs. Here’s what you can expect.
Do San Diego Movers Offer Local, Long-Distance, and Interstate Moving?
Yes, most San Diego movers offer:
- Local Moves: Within 100 miles, like from Downtown to La Jolla.
- Long-Distance Moves: Over 100 miles within California, such as San Diego to San Francisco.
- Interstate Moves: Across state lines, requiring a USDOT number.
For example, Two Men and a Truck and Sullivan Moving & Storage handle all three types. Movers by the Sea focuses on local and California moves.
Which Movers in San Diego Provide Packing and Unpacking Services?
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Which Movers in San Diego Provide Packing and Unpacking Services?
Many top movers offer packing and unpacking services to save you time and effort:
- Qshark Moving Company: Packs single rooms or entire homes with high-quality, protective materials. They ensure fragile items are secure.
- Aloha Movers: Offers full packing services, specializing in fragile items like glassware and electronics.
- Hulk Movers: Trained staff pack delicate items safely, with options for partial or full packing.
- San Diego Moving: Provides custom crating for valuable items like art and antiques, ensuring extra protection.
Are There Movers in San Diego That Handle Specialty Items (Pianos, Antiques, Art)?
Yes, several movers specialize in handling delicate or heavy items:
- Qshark Moving Company: Experts in piano moving, using proper wrapping and equipment to prevent damage.
- We Like To Move It Moving: Handles pianos, antiques, and fine art with care, using custom padding.
- Sullivan Moving & Storage: Specializes in high-value items like sculptures and paintings, with over 120 years of experience.
- One Stop Moving & Storage: Uses specialized equipment for pianos and offers custom crating for antiques.
What Moving Companies Offer Same-Day or Emergency Moves in San Diego?
For urgent or last-minute moves, these companies are reliable:
- Dominant Moving Company: Known for same-day service, with flexible scheduling.
- Move Central: Offers same-day moves in areas like Rancho Penasquitos and Chula Vista.
- 24/7 Moving and Storage: Provides emergency move services with quick response times.
How Much Do Moving Services in San Diego Cost in 2025?
The cost of moving in San Diego depends on factors like the size of your home, the distance of the move, and the services you need. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on recent data.
What Is the Average Cost of a Local Move in San Diego?
According to 346 customer reports in 2025, the average cost of a local move in San Diego is $1,151, with a range of $996 to $1,948. Here’s a breakdown by home size:
- One-bedroom apartment: $300–$600
- Two-bedroom apartment: $600–$1,200
- Three-bedroom home: $1,322–$3,520
For example, 24/7 Moving and Storage charges around $1,322 for a three-bedroom local move, well below the higher end of the range.
How Do Hourly vs. Flat-Rate Pricing Compare for San Diego Movers?
- Hourly Rates: Common for local moves. Rates range from $25–$50 per hour for 1–2 movers or $100–$200 per hour for 4+ movers. Little Guy Big Truck charges $200/hour with a three-hour minimum.
- Flat-Rate Pricing: Used for long-distance moves. Best Fit Movers offers flat rates to avoid unexpected costs, providing clarity for customers.
Hourly rates are better for small, local moves, while flat rates are ideal for long-distance moves to avoid surprises.
Are There Affordable Moving Companies in San Diego With Good Reviews?
Yes, several movers offer affordable services with excellent reviews:
- 24/7 Moving and Storage: $1,322 for a three-bedroom move, 5/5 Yelp rating.
- Little Guy Big Truck: Starts at $200/hour, 4.9/5 Yelp rating.
- Dominant Moving Company: Competitive rates, 5/5 rating on Google.
These companies provide high-quality service without breaking the bank.
What Are Hidden Fees to Watch Out for When Hiring a San Diego Mover?
Hidden fees can increase your moving costs. Watch out for:
- Stair or elevator fees: $50–$100 for navigating stairs or elevators.
- Wardrobe box fees: Some movers, as reported on Reddit, charge up to $500 for wardrobe boxes.
- Fuel surcharges: Added for long-distance moves, often $50–$200.
- Late arrival fees: Charged if movers are delayed due to unforeseen issues.
Always request a detailed, written quote to avoid surprises. Companies like Hulk Movers are known for transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
How to Choose a Trusted San Diego Mover?
Choosing the right mover requires careful research. Here’s how to make a smart choice.
What Certifications or Licenses Should San Diego Movers Have?
San Diego movers must have:
- CPUC License: Required for local moves within California. Verify licenses on the CPUC website.
- USDOT Number: Required for interstate moves. Check on the FMCSA website.
All top 10 movers listed in this guide are fully licensed and insured, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
How Can You Verify a Moving Company’s Reputation in San Diego?
To ensure a mover is trustworthy:
- Check reviews on Yelp, Google, and BBB.
- Ask for references from past customers.
- Look for A+ BBB ratings, like those of Aloha Movers and Two Men and a Truck.
- Search for complaints on the CPUC website or FMCSA database.
Should You Choose a National Brand or a Local Mover in San Diego?
- National Brands (e.g., Two Men and a Truck): Offer consistent service, more resources, and are ideal for interstate moves. They often have larger fleets and standardized processes.
- Local Movers (e.g., Movers by the Sea, San Diego Moving): Know San Diego’s neighborhoods well, are often more affordable, and provide personalized service.
Choose a local mover for small, local moves and a national brand for long-distance or complex relocations.
How Do You Compare San Diego Moving Quotes Effectively?
To compare quotes:
- Get at least three quotes from different movers.
- Compare services included, such as packing, storage, or specialty item handling.
- Check for hidden fees like fuel or stair charges.
- Use online tools like My Good Movers to compare quotes easily.
For example, Dominant Moving Company provides detailed quotes with no hidden costs, making comparisons straightforward.
Where Are the Top Movers in San Diego Located?
San Diego movers serve various parts of the city and county, from urban downtown to rural areas.
Which Movers Are Based in Downtown San Diego vs. Suburban Areas?
- Downtown San Diego: Two Men and a Truck specializes in high-rise apartment moves in downtown areas like Gaslamp Quarter.
- Suburban Areas: San Diego Moving serves suburbs like La Jolla, Chula Vista, and Carlsbad. Move Central operates in Rancho Penasquitos and surrounding areas.
Are There Highly Rated Movers in La Jolla, North Park, or Chula Vista?
Yes, highly rated movers serve these neighborhoods:
- La Jolla: San Diego Moving (4.9/5) is praised for handling coastal moves with care.
- North Park: 24/7 Moving and Storage (5/5) is popular for its efficiency in urban settings.
- Chula Vista: Movers by the Sea (4.95/5) offers reliable service in this southern suburb.
Which Companies Offer Cross-County or Rural San Diego Moving Services?
Some movers serve rural areas of San Diego County:
- Sullivan Moving & Storage: Covers rural areas with nationwide partner networks.
- Aloha Movers: Services all of San Diego County, including rural routes like Ramona.
- Two Men and a Truck: Handles moves in East County’s hilly areas with ease.
When Is the Best Time to Hire Movers in San Diego?
Timing your move can save money and reduce stress.
What Are the Peak Moving Seasons in San Diego?
San Diego’s peak moving season is May to September. Warm weather and school breaks make these months busy. Movers book up quickly, and prices may be higher. For example, Qshark Moving Company reports a 20% increase in bookings during summer.
Is It Cheaper to Move During Weekdays or Off-Peak Months?
- Weekdays: Moving on weekdays (Monday–Thursday) is often cheaper. San Diego Moving offers 5% discounts for weekday moves.
- Off-Peak Months: October to April is less busy, with rates 10–20% lower. 24/7 Moving and Storage provides off-season discounts.
How Far in Advance Should You Book a Mover in San Diego?
Book 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (May–September). For same-day or emergency moves, Dominant Moving Company and Move Central offer quick scheduling options.
What Do Real Customers Say About San Diego Movers?
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into mover performance.
What Are the Most Common Compliments in San Diego Mover Reviews?
Customers frequently praise:
- Punctuality: Mission Movers is noted for arriving on time, with a June 2025 Yelp review highlighting a move completed 30 minutes early.
- Careful Handling: Hulk Movers is commended for wrapping furniture securely to prevent damage.
- Communication: Movers by the Sea keeps customers updated throughout the process, earning high praise.
What Are Common Complaints About Movers in San Diego?
Some common issues include:
- Hidden Fees: A Reddit user reported a $500 wardrobe box fee from an unnamed mover.
- Slow Service: Move Central received a complaint for taking longer than expected on a long-distance move.
- Damaged Items: Rare, but some customers reported minor damages with Best Fit Movers.
Which Movers Have 5-Star Google, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau Ratings?
- Mission Movers: 5/5 on Google and Yelp.
- 24/7 Moving and Storage: 5/5 on Yelp.
- Aloha Movers: A+ BBB rating, 4.9/5 on Google.
How Safe and Reliable Are San Diego Movers?
Safety and reliability are critical when choosing a mover.
How Do San Diego Movers Handle Damaged or Lost Items?
Most movers offer:
- Basic Coverage: $0.60 per pound per item, standard in California.
- Full-Value Protection: Covers repair or replacement costs for an additional fee.
- Dominant Moving Company provides a clear claims process for damaged items.
What Kind of Insurance Do Movers in San Diego Offer?
All top movers are insured:
- Liability Insurance: Covers damage to property, such as walls or floors.
- Cargo Insurance: Protects your items during transport.
- Two Men and a Truck offers detailed insurance options upon request.
Do Trusted Movers in San Diego Perform Background Checks on Employees?
Yes, trusted movers prioritize employee safety:
- San Diego Moving: Conducts thorough background checks on all workers.
- Two Men and a Truck: Follows a “No Stranger in Your Home” policy, ensuring vetted staff.
- Aloha Movers: Employs long-term staff with clean records.
What Are Eco-Friendly or Green Movers in San Diego Offering in 2025?
Eco-friendly moving is becoming popular in San Diego as people aim to reduce waste.
Which San Diego Movers Use Recyclable or Reusable Materials?
- Aloha Movers: Uses reusable moving blankets and recyclable cardboard boxes.
- San Diego Moving: Offers eco-friendly packing materials, like biodegradable tape.
- Two Men and a Truck: Provides reusable plastic bins as an alternative to cardboard.
Are There Movers Offering Electric or Low-Emission Trucks?
While no San Diego movers advertise fully electric trucks in 2025, some use fuel-efficient vehicles:
- Two Men and a Truck: Uses modern, low-emission trucks to reduce carbon footprints.
- Sullivan Moving & Storage: Partners with eco-conscious carriers for long-distance moves.
How Can You Have a Zero-Waste Move in San Diego?
To minimize waste:
- Rent reusable bins from BoxHero instead of cardboard boxes.
- Donate unwanted items to Goodwill San Diego or Father Joe’s Villages.
- Choose movers like Aloha Movers that use recyclable packing materials.
Are There Specialized Movers for Different Needs in San Diego?
Some movers cater to specific groups or needs.
Who Are the Best Apartment Movers in San Diego?
- Movers by the Sea: Specializes in apartment moves, navigating tight spaces and elevators.
- Stella Moving & Delivery: Known for quick, efficient apartment relocations in urban areas.
What Are the Best Movers for Senior Citizens in San Diego?
- Movers by the Sea: Offers senior moving services with extra care and patience.
- Stella Moving & Delivery: Specializes in senior relocations, helping with packing and unpacking.
Are There Student or Military Discount Movers in San Diego?
- 24/7 Moving and Storage: Offers 5% discounts for military personnel.
- San Diego Moving: Provides 5% discounts for students and military members.
- Move Central: Offers special rates for military families relocating to or from San Diego bases.
Who Offers Corporate or Office Relocation Services in San Diego?
- Hulk Movers: Minimizes downtime for businesses with efficient office moves.
- Dominant Moving Company: Handles office logistics, including furniture and equipment.
- Sullivan Moving & Storage: Specializes in large-scale corporate relocations.
How Do San Diego Movers Compare to Movers in Nearby Cities?
San Diego movers have unique advantages compared to nearby cities.
How Do San Diego Movers Compare to Those in Los Angeles or Orange County?
- San Diego: Average local move costs $1,151, more affordable than Los Angeles ($1,500) and slightly cheaper than Orange County ($1,300).
- Los Angeles: Offers more options for interstate moves due to a larger market but higher prices.
- Orange County: Similar pricing to San Diego but fewer local specialists for unique needs like piano moving.
San Diego movers are ideal for local expertise and affordability.
Is It Worth Hiring a San Diego-Based Mover for Interstate Moves?
Yes, San Diego-based movers like Sullivan Moving & Storage and Two Men and a Truck have nationwide networks, making them reliable for interstate moves. They offer competitive pricing and local knowledge for a smooth transition.
What Is the Booking Process Like With Top San Diego Movers?
Booking a mover in San Diego is straightforward with the right information.
How Easy Is It to Get a Quote or Book Online With San Diego Movers?
- Online Quotes: Qshark Moving Company and Dominant Moving Company offer quick online quote forms on their websites (Qshark Moving Company, Dominant Moving Company).
- Phone or In-Person Quotes: Sullivan Moving & Storage provides free on-site estimates for accurate pricing.
- Virtual Quotes: 24/7 Moving and Storage offers video-call estimates for convenience.
What Happens on Moving Day? What Should You Expect From a Pro Mover?
On moving day:
- Movers arrive on time with the necessary equipment.
- They wrap furniture in protective blankets or padding.
- Items are loaded onto the truck carefully and secured.
- The movers transport your belongings to the new location and unload them.
- You review the inventory, sign the contract, and pay the agreed amount.
Do San Diego Movers Provide a Moving Checklist or Coordinator?
- Two Men and a Truck: Provides a detailed moving checklist on their website Two Men and a Truck.
- Move Central: Assigns a dedicated moving coordinator to guide you through the process.
- Aloha Movers: Offers personalized checklists for complex moves.
What Are the Legal and Regulatory Requirements for Movers in San Diego?
Movers in San Diego must follow strict state and federal regulations.
Are Movers in San Diego Required to Be Registered With the CPUC?
Yes, movers operating within California must be registered with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). You can verify registration on the CPUC website. Interstate movers require a USDOT number from the FMCSA.
How Can You File a Complaint Against a San Diego Moving Company?
If you have an issue:
- File a complaint with the CPUC for local moves.
- Contact the FMCSA for interstate move issues.
- Report to the Better Business Bureau for unresolved disputes.
What Are Your Consumer Rights When Moving in California?
Your rights include:
- Receiving a written estimate before the move.
- Filing claims for damaged or lost items.
- Clear pricing with no hidden fees. Learn more at the California DMV website.
How Can You Prepare for a Move With a San Diego Company?
Good preparation makes your move smoother.
What Packing Tips Do San Diego Movers Recommend?
- Use sturdy, high-quality boxes to protect your items.
- Label boxes clearly with the room and contents.
- Pack fragile items with bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Aloha Movers suggests packing a “first-night” box with essentials like toiletries, clothes, and chargers.
What Should You Do the Week Before Moving Day?
- Confirm details with your mover, including time and address.
- Pack personal items you don’t want movers to handle.
- Notify neighbors or apartment management about the move.
- Disconnect appliances and utilities.
- Prepare payment for the movers.
What Documents and Paperwork Should You Prepare Before Moving?
- Moving contract or agreement.
- Inventory list of items being moved.
- Proof of insurance (if purchasing extra coverage).
- Identification and payment method for the mover.
How Are AI and Technology Changing Moving Services in San Diego in 2025?
Technology is transforming the moving industry in San Diego, making it more efficient and user-friendly.
Are Any Movers in San Diego Using AI for Inventory or Route Planning?
- Two Men and a Truck: Uses AI-powered software to optimize routes, reducing fuel costs and time.
- Sullivan Moving & Storage: Employs AI for inventory tracking, ensuring accurate item counts.
- Qshark Moving Company: Uses AI tools to streamline scheduling and resource allocation.
Can You Get Virtual Estimates From San Diego Movers?
Yes, virtual estimates are widely available:
- Dominant Moving Company: Offers video-call estimates via Zoom or FaceTime.
- 24/7 Moving and Storage: Provides virtual estimates through their website 24/7 Moving and Storage.
- Move Central: Uses virtual surveys for accurate quotes without in-person visits.
Are There Apps or Dashboards Offered by San Diego Moving Companies?
- Two Men and a Truck: Offers an online customer portal for tracking move progress Two Men and a Truck.
- My Good Movers: Provides a mobile app for comparing quotes and booking My Good Movers.
- Qshark Moving Company: Features a dashboard for customers to monitor move schedules and payments.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
How far in advance should I book a San Diego mover?
Book 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during the peak season (May–September). For last-minute moves, try Dominant Moving Company or Move Central.
What should I do if my mover doesn’t show up?
Call the company immediately to resolve the issue. If unresolved, file a complaint with the CPUC or FMCSA.
Are tips expected for movers in San Diego?
Yes, tipping is customary. Tip $20–$50 per mover for a half-day move or $50–$100 for a full day.
Can I move on weekends or holidays in San Diego?
Yes, but expect higher rates. Move Central and Hulk Movers offer weekend and holiday services.
What happens if something breaks during the move?
File a claim with the mover. Most offer basic coverage ($0.60 per pound) or full-value protection for repairs or replacements.
Do movers in San Diego charge extra for stairs or elevators?
Yes, expect $50–$100 extra for stairs or elevators. Always confirm with your mover, like San Diego Moving, for transparency.
Is it cheaper to rent a truck or hire a mover in San Diego?
Renting a truck from U-Haul costs $100–$300, which is cheaper than hiring movers ($300–$3,520). However, movers save time and effort, especially for large moves.
Do moving companies offer storage in San Diego?
Yes, Aloha Movers, Sullivan Moving & Storage, and Two Men and a Truck offer short- and long-term storage solutions.
Are there unionized movers in San Diego?
There’s no clear data on unionized movers in San Diego. Most movers, including the top 10 listed, are non-unionized.
Can I deduct moving expenses on my taxes in 2025?
You may deduct moving expenses if relocating for work, subject to IRS rules. Check eligibility on the IRS website.
Conclusion
Moving in San Diego doesn’t have to be stressful. With trusted movers like Mission Movers, 24/7 Moving and Storage, and Two Men and a Truck, you can enjoy a smooth, reliable move.
