Top 5 Long Distance Moving Companies in San Diego, CA

At MovingWaldo, we have dedicated the recent years to actively comparing long-distance moving services based on rigorous criteria and thorough verifications. In the last year, our platform has helped many people in San Diego, CA, discover highly recommended long-distance movers, including Van Lines. You can trust that the 5 companies listed on this page are experienced and fully insured, ensuring a safe and secure move to your new home.

How are moving companies selected?

Disclaimer

For moves exceeding 250 miles / 400 km, we strongly advise considering a van line or its authorized agent. Their pricing model is weight-based, ensuring precise cost calculations for your belongings. Due to the unique pricing approach of van lines and their agents, we are unable to provide exact figures and pricing is only available on demand.

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MovingWaldo's List of The 5 Best Long Distance Movers that you can trust in San Diego, CA

These reviews are not sponsored, we independently reviewed all the companies we recommend. Clicking on a link may earn us a commission. Learn more.

Featured in this article

United Van Lines

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Accreditations

Pricing

Available on demand

Verified Credentials

  • 90+ years of experience
  • USDOT: 77949
  • MC Number: 67234
  • BIPD coverage: $1,000,000
  • Basic insurance of $0.60 per pound. The company also offers additional coverage up to $6.00 per pound.

Services offered

  • Long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why United Van Lines is recommended by our expert

United Van Lines stands out as a long distance moving industry leader, owned and operated by local partners who act as agents. With a 90-year legacy, United Van Lines, part of UniGroup, operates in 150+ countries, collaborating with a vast network of 500+ movers and 300+ affiliated agencies in the U.S. The company prioritizes customization, offering tailored solutions and Full Value Protection in every quote. Certified by the American Trucking Association and ISO in the USA, they provide a seamless, secure moving experience. From a personalized online portal to premium services, United Van Lines is the optimal choice for both domestic and international relocations.

Local office

1 United Drive, Fenton, MO. 63026

The company has been a MovingWaldo network partner since 2023

Allied Van Lines

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Accreditations

Pricing

Available on demand

Verified Credentials

  • 95+ years of experience 
  • USDOT: 076235
  • MC Number: 15735
  • BBB Rating: B
  • BIPD coverage: $1,500,000
  • Basic insurance of $0.60 per pound protection. Additional coverage available upon request.

Services offered

  • Local and long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Oversea moves
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Packing supplies
  • Storage
  • Special item moves
  • Junk removal
  • White glove services

Why Allied Van Lines is recommended by our expert

With a remarkable 95-year legacy as a comprehensive moving service provider, Allied Van Lines guarantee a seamless journey for your cherished possessions. Offering an array of services spanning long-distance, commercial, interstate, and international moves, as well as packing, storage, and specialty item transportation, Allied Van Lines epitomizes versatility and expertise.

Rooted in a commitment to affordability and trust, they assist clients in meticulous planning and execution of their relocations, whether within the United States or beyond. With a sterling track record of 750,000 successful US moves and an impressive 96% satisfaction rate, their legacy of excellence speaks volumes. 

At the heart of their operation lies a dedication to excellence, manifested in a team of seasoned professionals and stringent quality control measures. Through initiatives like the Quality Service Audit (QSA), they ensure unparalleled service that prioritizes customer satisfaction above all else.

Choosing Allied Van Lines means opting for unmatched standards of reliability and efficiency in the realm of relocation.

Local office

700 Oakmont Lane Westmont, IL 60559-5551

Mayflower

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Accreditations

Pricing

Available on demand

Verified Credentials

  • 97 years of experience 
  • USDOT: 125563
  • MC Number: 969195
  • BBB Rating: A+
  • BIPD coverage: $1,000,000 
  • Basic insurance of $6.00 per pound protection. Additional coverage available upon request.

Services offered

  • Long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why Mayflower is recommended by our expert

Founded in 1927, Mayflower offers a comprehensive range of customizable moving services for moves of any size and destination.

They handle long-distance, commercial, interstate, and international moves, along with packing, unpacking, storage, and special item moves.

Mayflower’s mission is to deeply understand their customers’ needs and ensure peace of mind throughout the moving process. Much like the iconic ship in their logo, they embark on a journey, seeking opportunities and progress. Their commitment is to provide the highest level of service, offering superior solutions and adaptable processes to ensure the safe and on-time delivery of belongings.

Mayflower’s ultimate goal is to provide a seamless moving experience and guide their clients Every Step Of The Way®.

Local office

1 Mayflower Drive, Fenton, MO. 63026

North American Van Lines

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Accreditations

Pricing

Available on demand

Verified Credentials

  • 91 years of experience 
  • USDOT: 070851
  • MC Number: 107012
  • BBB Rating: A+
  • BIPD coverage: $1,500,000
  • Basic insurance of $0.60 per pound protection. The company also offers additional coverage with their Replacement Cost Protection.

Services offered

  • Local and long-distance moves
  • International moves
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Packing supplies
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why North American Van Lines is recommended by our expert

North American Van Lines provides comprehensive moving services worldwide, including long-distance, commercial, interstate, and international moves, along with storage and special item handling. With over 90 years of experience and 500+ agent locations, they offer personalized services, free estimates, and real-time shipment updates via WorldTrac® satellite technology.

Innovations like interactive driving simulators and crane vans ensure safety and efficiency. Their Quality Program maintains high standards across agents, drivers, and employees, ensuring excellence in every move. With 24-hour customer service, they handle every aspect of the move, accommodating diverse needs and budgets. Rest assured, your move with North American Van Lines will be facilitated by professionals with extensive industry expertise.

Local office

4705 Clubview Dr #100, Fort Wayne, IN 46804, United States

US Pro Logistics

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Accreditations

Pricing

  • Hourly price starting at $145 / hr for 2 movers after 3 hour minimum
  • Double-drive time charge: Yes
  • Truck fee: Yes

Verified Credentials

  • 4 years of experience
  • USDOT: 3664256
  • MC Number: MC-1268070
  • BBB Rating: A+
  • BIPD coverage: $750,000
  • Basic insurance of $0.60 per pound protection. The company also offers additional coverage upon request.

Services offered

  • Local and long-distance moves
  • Commercial and office moves
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Special item moves

Why US Pro Logistics is recommended by our expert

Based in Los Angeles, California, US Pro Logistics is a woman-owned moving company licensed to handle both local moves within LA and interstate relocations. They offer exceptional 24/7 customer support, a rarity in the industry. 

Their employees are highly trained, undergo rigorous background checks, and face random drug testing, ensuring your move is in safe hands. US Pro Logistics also provides freight delivery through ground transportation and offers both virtual and in-person estimates. 

They have storage solutions for short or long-term needs and can easily move heavy items over 150 lbs. Customers enjoy a 5% discount for cash payments, and they offer a special 10% discount to doctors, paramedics, police officers, firefighters, nurses, and military personnel.

Local office

9950 Jordan Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311, United States
Featured in this article

Conclusion

Conclusion

When it comes to long-distance moves in the United States, finding the best mover is essential for a smooth and hassle-free relocation. In San Diego there are many long-distance moving companies and Van Lines that can assist you in moving into your new property across the country or across your state. With their professionalism, licensed and fully insured services, they will handle the entire moving process from start to finish, ensuring a stress-free moving experience.

Accreditations

BBB

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a non-profit organization that collects and evaluates data from various industries, including the moving industry. By analyzing customer complaints, reviews, and ratings, the BBB provides valuable insights for individuals looking for a moving company.

These ratings act as a roadmap, assisting individuals in making informed choices when selecting a moving service. Along with delivering clear-cut reviews, the BBB also offers dispute resolution services designed specifically for the moving industry, promoting trust and transparency in the market for both customers and movers.

Waldo Verified Preliminary Verification

To become Waldo Verified, a company must first pass a preliminary verification process. Waldo Verified is a verification process for moving companies that ensures they meet certain standards of professionalism and trustworthiness. 

At a minimum, moving companies on MovingWaldo must complete a preliminary verification process, considering key factors including accreditations, reviews, years of experience, professionalism, and a positive online presence.

ATA-MSC ProMover Certification

The American Trucking Associations (ATA), with a 90-year history, serves as the voice of the entire U.S. freight industry through its nationwide representation across all 50 states.

ProMover accreditation is granted by ATA to moving companies after a thorough background investigation, including operations and prior work. These businesses commit to following the ATA’s Code of Ethics and ethical business practices. ATA-MSC ProMover Certified companies undergo an annual evaluation to ensure ongoing adherence to program requirements.

USMA

The United States Movers Association (USMA) is a national trade association that represents carriers and agents in the household goods moving industry, including moving companies that uphold high standards of customer service. 

Members of the USMA endeavor to provide competitive pricing and take exceptional care of their clients’ possessions.

Verified Credentials

USDOT Number

The USDOT number, issued by the FMCSA, acts like a unique identifier for a moving company’s vehicle safety data. This number is crucial because it helps check if the company follows the rules of the road for both commercial and private vehicles. It’s used to monitor how well they stick to these rules by doing audits, investigating crashes, and carrying out inspections.

This number is mandatory for any moving company operating on public roads, whether they’re transporting goods within a state or across state lines.

Each commercial vehicle needs to first be registered before getting its own USDOT number. While some companies opt to consolidate their fleet under a single USDOT number, others may have multiple numbers for individual vehicles.

MC Number

An MC Number, or ‘motor carrier’ identifier, is an identification issued by the FMCSA. Alongside the mandatory USDOT number, the MC Number is essential for moving companies engaged in interstate commerce, especially when transporting federally regulated commodities.

MX Number

An MX number is a registration ID for motor carriers owned or controlled by a Mexican citizen or someone based in Mexico, or for motor carriers operating between the U.S. and Mexico. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issues MX numbers to ensure movers adhere to regulations and maintain safety standards during transportation.

BIPD coverage

Bodily Injury and Property Damage (BIPD) coverage is an indispensable requirement for moving companies. It’s a legal imperative, ensuring movers can bear financial responsibility in incidents involving injury or property damage. 

This insurance encompasses medical expenses and property damage for all affected parties, including bystanders and their belongings. Across states, there’s a usual minimum mandate of $750,000 for BIPD coverage for moving businesses.

Frequently asked questions

  • What accreditations should you look for in a moving company

    BBB

    The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a non-profit organization that collects and evaluates data from various industries, including the moving industry. By analyzing customer complaints, reviews, and ratings, the BBB provides valuable insights for individuals looking for a moving company.

    These ratings act as a roadmap, assisting individuals in making informed choices when selecting a moving service. Along with delivering clear-cut reviews, the BBB also offers dispute resolution services designed specifically for the moving industry, promoting trust and transparency in the market for both customers and movers.

    Waldo Verified Preliminary Verification

    To become Waldo Verified, a company must first pass a preliminary verification process. Waldo Verified is a verification process for moving companies that ensures they meet certain standards of professionalism and trustworthiness. 

    At a minimum, moving companies on MovingWaldo must complete a preliminary verification process, considering key factors including accreditations, reviews, years of experience, professionalism, and a positive online presence.

    ATA-MSC ProMover Certification

    The American Trucking Associations (ATA), with a 90-year history, serves as the voice of the entire U.S. freight industry through its nationwide representation across all 50 states.

    ProMover accreditation is granted by ATA to moving companies after a thorough background investigation, including operations and prior work. These businesses commit to following the ATA's Code of Ethics and ethical business practices. ATA-MSC ProMover Certified companies undergo an annual evaluation to ensure ongoing adherence to program requirements.

    USMA

    The United States Movers Association (USMA) is a national trade association that represents carriers and agents in the household goods moving industry, including moving companies that uphold high standards of customer service. 

    Members of the USMA endeavor to provide competitive pricing and take exceptional care of their clients' possessions.

  • What are the credentials verified by MovingWaldo?

    All states

    USDOT Number

    The USDOT number, issued by the FMCSA, acts like a unique identifier for a moving company's vehicle safety data. This number is crucial because it helps check if the company follows the rules of the road for both commercial and private vehicles. It's used to monitor how well they stick to these rules by doing audits, investigating crashes, and carrying out inspections.

    This number is mandatory for any moving company operating on public roads, whether they're transporting goods within a state or across state lines.

    Each commercial vehicle needs to first be registered before getting its own USDOT number. While some companies opt to consolidate their fleet under a single USDOT number, others may have multiple numbers for individual vehicles.

    MC Number

    An MC Number, or 'motor carrier' identifier, is an identification issued by the FMCSA. Alongside the mandatory USDOT number, the MC Number is essential for moving companies engaged in interstate commerce, especially when transporting federally regulated commodities.

    MX Number

    An MX number is a registration ID for motor carriers owned or controlled by a Mexican citizen or someone based in Mexico, or for motor carriers operating between the U.S. and Mexico. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issues MX numbers to ensure movers adhere to regulations and maintain safety standards during transportation.

    BIPD coverage

    Bodily Injury and Property Damage (BIPD) coverage is an indispensable requirement for moving companies. It's a legal imperative, ensuring movers can bear financial responsibility in incidents involving injury or property damage. 

    This insurance encompasses medical expenses and property damage for all affected parties, including bystanders and their belongings. Across states, there's a usual minimum mandate of $750,000 for BIPD coverage for moving businesses.

    California:

    MTR Number

    The MTR Number, also known as CAL-T Number or CPUC Permit Number, serves as a distinct identifier for property motor carriers. For intrastate carriers in California handling household goods and passengers, an active CPUC permit issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is mandatory.

    This designation needs to be visibly displayed on the power unit and incurs a one-time fee. Additionally, carriers must annually submit an equipment list and proof of insurance to maintain compliance.

    Ohio

    PUCO Number

    Moving companies operating in Ohio must obtain a PUCO number to conduct intrastate business and comply with intrastate operating authority regulations.

    Movers registered with PUCO undergo checks to ensure they have liability insurance, properly registered vehicles with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and possess relevant licenses, such as a weight distance tax permit. 

    Florida

    FDACS Number

    In Florida, Chapter 507 of the Florida Statutes mandates that any business involved in intrastate moving of goods must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). 

    Registration is compulsory for intrastate movers in addition to any local licenses, but it does not replace them. Intrastate movers and brokers need to renew their registration every two years.

    PBCCA (Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs) Number

    Palm Beach County mandates that all local household moving companies obtain a license, or "business permit," from the Consumer Affairs Division. Their license means that they meet the minimum requirements of the Palm Beach County Moving Ordinance. 

    Massachusetts

    MDPU Number

    A moving company that intends to move household items within Massachusetts must first obtain operating authority from the Department of Public Utilities (DPU). Once approved, they receive an operating number known among movers as MDPU.

    Every year, these moving companies are required to send the DPU updated insurance documents when they renew their license. They also need to update their pricing details by filing a new tariff whenever they change their rates or fees.

  • How does pricing work for long distance moves?

    Weight based pricing

    To initially determine the price of your move when you are given your moving quote, van lines and agents of van lines rely on the detailed inventory list of your home that you provided them, which helps estimate the weight of your belongings

    On moving day, industrial scales are used to officially weigh the items and establish the final price. 

    Hourly pricing

    While hourly pricing is uncommon for long distance moves, some smaller local movers offering long distance moves may utilize it. Note that these local movers are often less specialized than larger moving van lines, who charge based on weight. 

    Hourly pricing may work to your advantage if you have fewer items and are moving less than 250 miles away. This is because local movers, who typically charge lower rates than moving van lines, will have the proper expertise to move you a shorter distance. 

    Opting for local movers in this situation is not only cost-effective but also faster and more efficient than hiring a van line, making it the ideal choice for same-day delivery.

    However, if you are moving over 250 miles away, smaller local movers may lack the expertise, therefore possibly incurring additional unexpected costs. 

    For both weight-based and hourly-priced moves, items that are highly fragile, valuable, or unusually large objects requiring additional protection, such as crating, may incur additional charges.

  • What is considered a long-distance move?

    A long-distance move typically involves crossing state lines or covering a distance of over 100-250 miles. The specific criteria for long-distance moves vary among moving companies and depend on factors such as service type, routes, weight, level of service, and locations.
  • Should I hire a moving van line or a local company that offers long-distance moves?

    While local moving companies offering long-distance moves may be more affordable, especially for shorter distances (100 km), there are advantages to hiring a moving van line. Moving van lines have specialized expertise and extensive experience in the industry, increasing the chances of a smooth move. They also have the necessary equipment to properly crate and protect valuable items. However, it's important to note that moving van lines may not provide specific moving dates due to the multiple shipments they may have. Clients may experience a waiting period of up to 2 weeks from the day the movers pick up the items. Additionally, estimates provided by van lines are non-binding and based on weight. The initial estimate is an approximation, and the final weight is determined on moving day by weighing the items.
  • How is my long-distance moving quote calculated?

    Long-distance moving companies are required to provide written estimates. If you are moving across the country, there are two types of estimates you should know about. Non-binding estimates Non-binding estimates are commonly utilized by moving companies, particularly Van Lines, and they primarily rely on the estimated weight of your household items. However, it's important to note that these estimates are not binding and subject to change. To determine the precise charges, the moving company will weigh your belongings on the day of the move using a scale. This allows for a more accurate calculation of the final cost based on the actual weight of your inventory. Binding estimates Binding estimates are less commonly used by moving companies for long-distance moves. Similar to non-binding estimates, they are based on the estimated weight of your household inventory. However, the key difference is that the moving company is obligated to honor the price specified in the estimate, as long as there are no changes to the inventory list. It's important to consider that several other factors will contribute to the total cost of your move. These factors include your location, the distance of the move, any additional stops required, and the time of year. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the regulations governing moving quotes, and your chosen moving company must adhere to these guidelines when preparing your binding estimate.
  • How does long-distance moving insurance work?

    All movers are required to assume responsibility for the value of the household goods they transport. There are three types of moving insurance protections specifically for long-distance moves: Release value protection is minimal protections, and the most economical. It covers damage that occurs in the moving truck and can compensate at a rate of $0.60 per pound of the damaged item, there is no charge to you (cost typically included in the price, and no deductible). Choosing full value protection means your mover is responsible for repairing, replacing or making a cash settlement for the lost or damaged items during the move. If you don't decide the release value protection option, your mover will automatically provide this level of liability. The minimum coverage is $6 per pound for damaged items. Movers can limit liability for valuable items (antiques, jewelry), unless explicitly listed, ask them for a detailed explanation of this limitation before your move. Although not widely advertised, premium insurance is essential for valuable items worth over $5,000, such as artwork or a grand piano. This insurance will cost approximately $150 to $250, and the deductible may or may not be applied.
  • How much should I tip long-distance movers?

    Tipping long-distance movers is not mandatory but is a widespread practice to show appreciation for their hard work. The decision to tip, and the amount, is up to your discretion. When determining the tip amount, consider factors such as the level of service, professionalism, and care provided by the movers throughout the long-distance move. The typical tip amount for long-distance moves is around $5/ hour per mover, excluding the truck's transit time. It is preferable to pay the tip in cash and after the service is completed.
    Shorter long-distance moves  (100-400 km) Longer long-distance moves  (more than 400 km)
    $50 per mover *5 –10 hours $60 per mover *8 –12 hours
    Keep in mind that a different crew may handle the unloading of your belongings at your new location.

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Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.

Mathieu Paquette

The expert

Introducing Matt, our expert relocation specialist at MovingWaldo. With over 6 years of experience in the moving industry, coupled with a Tariff Certification accredited by Atlas Van Lines, Matt plays a central role in our wealth of moving expertise. His business background brings a unique perspective, enriching our wealth of moving knowledge and taking our services to a new level.

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