Moving from Georgia to Los Angeles
If you're moving from Georgia to California, you're looking at a 2,337-mile haul to one of the most expensive real estate markets in the country. I've reviewed hundreds of moves on this route, and the distance itself is manageable—the real challenge is finding movers who show up on time, don't damage your stuff, and charge what they quoted.
Out of movers operating this route, here are the five Georgia-based companies that actually deliver solid results:
Top Georgia Movers for Long-Distance Relocations
- Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. — 4.76 / 5
- Wirks Moving & Storage, Inc. — 4.66 / 5
- The Armstrong Company — 4.64 / 5
- Atlanta's Furniture Taxi Moving & Storage — 4.42 / 5
- Flex Moving & Storage — 4.3 / 5
Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (209 reviews)
Location: 1700 Oakbrook Dr, Suite A, Norcross, GA 30093
Phone: (770) 799-2596
License: #8948 (GA) | DOT #3306591
Hours in Business: 9 years
Hourly Rate: $125
Customers consistently call Zip the gold standard for efficiency and professionalism on this route. Out of 437 reviews analyzed, 86% were positive. What stands out: fast moves without damage, polite staff, and transparent communication from quote to delivery. Many finish early and exceed expectations on packing and handling.
The catch: about 13.5% report serious issues—damaged goods, surprise fees, and slow claims processing. Late arrivals without warning show up in a handful of complaints. If you book with Zip, nail down your contract details and confirm the final price before they arrive.
Services: Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Wirks Moving & Storage, Inc.
Rating: 4.66 / 5 (69 Yelp reviews, 2,642 Google reviews)
Location: 1470 Field Park Circle NW, Marietta, GA 30066
Phone: (470) 264-8248
License: #500873 (GA) | DOT #1942465
Hours in Business: 17 years
Wirks earns consistent praise for prompt, efficient service and courteous crews that treat your belongings like their own. Of 293 reviews tallied, 93.9% were positive. Customers highlight accurate estimates, no surprise fees, and friendly staff throughout the process—exactly what you want on a cross-country move.
Rare negative feedback centers on item damage and frustration with claims handling. Only a small slice reported poor complaint resolution, but it's something to monitor if an accident happens.
Services: Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, storage, safes.
The Armstrong Company
Rating: 4.64 / 5 (51 Yelp reviews, 198 Google reviews)
Location: 6950 Business Court, Atlanta, GA 30340
Phone: (770) 368-0368
License: #206366 (GA) | DOT #1170867
Hours in Business: 39 years
Armstrong draws strong praise for professionalism and communication. Out of 222 reviews, 170 (77%) rated them positively. Customers often highlight how coordinators keep you informed and crews handle both local and cross-country moves efficiently. Many mention staff flexibility when facing schedule changes or logistical curveballs.
Around 21% of feedback reports serious setbacks: damaged items, missed delivery windows, and poor communication. A few customers describe unprofessional crew behavior, missing possessions, and delays in claims resolution. Above-average on staff quality, but higher-than-average risk on damages and timeliness compared to top competitors.
Services: Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, storage, fragile-only packing.
Atlanta's Furniture Taxi Moving & Storage
Rating: 4.42 / 5 (59 reviews)
Location: 2340 Chamblee Tucker Rd, Atlanta, GA 30341
Phone: (404) 228-7404
License: DOT #2161279
Hours in Business: 14 years
BBB Grade: A+
Movers rave about the professional and courteous staff, quick moves, and careful handling. With 199 out of 215 feedback entries rating them positively (92.6% approval), Furniture Taxi outperforms most competitors. Customers celebrate fast service, respectful crews, and hassle-free experiences.
The downside: some flag serious issues—item damage, unexpected costs, and lackluster complaint responses. A minority encounter higher bills or broken possessions and struggle to resolve claims. Most agree the team's dedication and reliability set a local benchmark, but stay vigilant about contract details.
Services: Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, crane vans, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Flex Moving & Storage
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (24 reviews)
Location: 1372 Peachtree St NE, Suite 121, Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (786) 738-9516
License: DOT #3610638
Hours in Business: 3 years
Flex earns a glowing reputation with nearly every customer praising speed, professionalism, care, and a helpful positive attitude. Out of 41 feedback entries, more than 97% reflect highly satisfied customers—a level few companies achieve. Clients consistently note efficient service, quick moves, and respectful crews who treat belongings as their own.
Only one review highlights major issues: rude staff, careless packing, and unexpected extra charges. For a newer company, Flex stands out for swift, careful service with friendly faces, though rare lapses may occur.
Services: Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, storage.
Cost to Move from Georgia to Los Angeles
Use our moving cost calculator to get personalized quotes, but here's what you're typically looking at based on home size:
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,234 – $5,073 | $1,204 – $2,840 | $1,269 – $2,501 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,451 – $7,196 | $2,226 – $4,213 | $1,318 – $2,803 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,875 – $10,901 | $2,971 – $6,075 | $1,803 – $3,649 |
Estimates based on 2,337-mile distance. Final costs shift with move size, add-ons, parking constraints, fuel rates, and timing. Get multiple quotes for accurate pricing.
Hiring Professional Movers
A studio or one-bedroom move from Georgia to Los Angeles typically runs $1,234 to $5,073. Two- to three-bedroom homes range from $3,451 to $7,196. Large moves (4+ bedrooms) cost $6,875 to $10,901.
The range is wide because distance alone doesn't determine cost—fuel surcharges, equipment, packing services, and market demand all play a role. Comparing quotes from at least three movers is the only way to see what you'll actually pay.
Moving Container Costs
If you're considering moving containers instead of full-service movers, expect $1,204 to $2,840 for a small load. Two to three bedrooms run $2,226 to $4,213. Four bedrooms and up: $2,971 to $6,075. You load and unload; the company handles transport.
Rental Truck Costs
DIY truck rental is usually the cheapest upfront option—$1,269 to $2,501 for a studio, $1,318 to $2,803 for 2-3 bedrooms, $1,803 to $3,649 for 4+ bedrooms. But factor in gas (2,337 miles at current rates), wear on your vehicle, and the physical labor. Some people find the hourly wage saved isn't worth the exhaustion.
Service Comparison: Georgia Movers on This Route
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wirks Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | — | — |
| The Armstrong Company | ✓ | ✓ | — | — |
| Atlanta's Furniture Taxi Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | — | — |
| Flex Moving & Storage | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ |
Georgia vs. National Averages:
| Service | Georgia | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques Handling | 45% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 5% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 4% | 4% |
Cost of Living: Georgia vs. Los Angeles
Before you pack, know what your dollars will buy once you arrive.
| Metric | Georgia | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Monthly Rent | $1,221 | $2,960 |
| Avg. Home Price | $326,617 | $2,368,088 |
| Per Capita Income | $71,355 | $74,993 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91 | 162 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.6% | 10.6% |
| State Income Tax | 5.49% | 13.3% |
What this means:
- Rent is 142% higher in Los Angeles. Budget roughly $1,740 more per month.
- Home prices are 625% higher. You'll need a bigger down payment and brace for steep property taxes.
- Income is nearly identical, so your salary should feel the same.
- Unemployment is nearly three times higher in LA. The job market is tougher; network early and be strategic.
- State income tax is 7.8 percentage points higher in California, which significantly reduces take-home pay.
How Life Differs: Georgia vs. Los Angeles
| Factor | Los Angeles | Georgia |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,820,914 | 11,029,227 |
| Political Lean | Democratic 64-31 | Democrat 51-49 |
| Summer High | 84°F | 90°F |
| Winter Low | 46°F | 33°F |
| Annual Rainfall | 16" | 50" |
| Annual Snowfall | 0" | 1" |
| Crime Index | 53.81 | 20.58 |
The lived experience:
- Summers are milder in LA (84°F vs. 90°F), cutting air conditioning costs and making outdoor life more comfortable.
- Winters are significantly warmer (46°F vs. 33°F). No more shoveling, icy roads, or frozen pipes. That's a genuine lifestyle upgrade.
- You get 34 fewer inches of rain annually. LA's 16 inches versus Georgia's 50 means more sunny days for exploring your new neighborhood.
- Zero snow versus 1 inch annually in Georgia. Winters are dramatically easier.
- Crime is noticeably higher in LA (crime index 53.81 vs. 20.58). Research specific neighborhoods before committing. This isn't a dealbreaker, but it matters for safety planning.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
Los Angeles offers museums, parks, professional sports, and world-class universities. You won't struggle to find activities.
Museums: The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, Battleship USS Iowa Museum, The Broad.
Parks: Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, Echo Park, Venice Skatepark.
Sports: Clippers, Lakers (NBA); Dodgers (MLB); Kings (NHL); LA FC (MLS).
Universities: UCLA, Cal State LA, Cal State Northridge, American Film Institute, Alliant International University.
Before You Move: California-Specific Requirements
T Number licensing: Every moving company you contact in California must have a "T Number" issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Valid T Numbers mean the mover has met state requirements for insurance, safety, financial stability, and criminal clearance checks. Verify before booking—this is non-negotiable.
Parking permits: Some LA neighborhoods require permits for moving trucks. Check local rules early; parking enforcement is strict, and fines add up fast.
Elevator reservation: If your new place has an elevator, book it ahead. Many buildings charge fees for moving-day access or limit reservation windows.
HOA rules: Review any homeowners' association or community restrictions before move day.
USPS change of address: Submit your form at least one week before moving so mail forwarding starts on schedule.
Mover's insurance: Standard "Released Value Protection" caps liability at 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV worth $500 would only be reimbursed $15 if lost or damaged. Ask your mover about full-value coverage or third-party insurance if you have high-value items.
Moving permits: California doesn't require statewide moving permits, but confirm local parking restrictions in your destination neighborhood.
Verify your mover's license: Check the CAPUC website to confirm any California mover's T Number before signing anything.
FAQ
How long does a Georgia-to-Los Angeles move take?
With professional movers or moving containers, expect 3 to 14 days depending on the company's schedule and routing. If you're renting a truck and driving yourself, plan 1 to 2 days of driving (not including stops), plus loading and unloading time. Packing usually takes a day or less, even DIY.
When should I book movers for this route?
Lock in your date as soon as plans solidify. For the best availability and pricing, book 2 to 3 months in advance. This route is popular, especially spring through early fall.
What's the cheapest time to move to Los Angeles?
Summer and winter (June–August, December–January) see fewer moves, so prices dip and availability improves. Spring and fall are peak season—expect higher rates and tighter schedules. If you can move in the off-season and tolerate a little extra heat or cold, you'll save money.
Related Moving Resources
Best long-distance movers | Moving cost guide | Moving checklist | How to choose a mover
Popular routes from Georgia:
Georgia to California | Georgia to Florida | Georgia to North Carolina | Georgia to Texas
Other states I cover:
California movers | Texas movers | New York movers
Bottom line: This is a long, expensive move. The five movers listed above have track records worth trusting—but trust doesn't replace due diligence. Compare quotes from at least three companies, verify licensing, and read recent reviews specific to the Georgia-to-LA route. Small differences in price sometimes mask big differences in care.