Top Moving Companies in Newark for California Moves
Looking to move from Newark to California? I've reviewed the local movers who handle this route regularly, and here are the five that consistently deliver solid results based on customer feedback and service track records.
- White Glove Moving & Storage — 4.72 / 5
- Flatrate Moving — 4.66 / 5
- Great Movers — 4.72 / 5
- Seka Moving — 4.70 / 5
- Molloy Bros Moving and Storage — 4.56 / 5
White Glove Moving & Storage
Address: 235 W 1st St, Bayonne, NJ 07002
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (521 Yelp reviews, 865 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 648262 | DOT #: 648262
Years in business: 29
What customers say: Nearly 90% of White Glove's 741 reviews are positive. The standout theme is meticulous handling—people consistently mention careful wrapping, professional crews, and swift execution. Customers appreciate reliable communication and friendly teams. The downside: a small but vocal minority report damaged goods on long-distance jobs, unexpected fees, or delivery delays. Property damage claims aren't rare, so clarify terms upfront.
Services offered: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano moving, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, crane service, full-valuation coverage, storage, credit card payments, DOD certified.
Get a quote: (877) 941-0568
Flatrate Moving
Address: 99 Evergreen Ave, Newark, NJ 07114
Rating: 4.6 / 5 (30 Yelp reviews, 72 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 1748105 | DOT #: 488466
Years in business: 33
What customers say: Eight out of ten reviewers praise Flatrate's punctual crews, professional attitudes, and careful handling. Communication and coordination are frequently cited as smooth. However, about one in five report major issues: damaged possessions, communication breakdowns, and surprise fees. Some describe unresolved damage claims or poor complaint handling. Strength lies in the moving day itself; follow-up on disputes lags behind top competitors.
Services offered: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano moving, crating, storage, credit card payments.
Get a quote: (917) 781-3898
Great Movers
Address: 58 2nd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (551 Yelp reviews, 2203 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 39493 | DOT #: 2180117
Years in business: 13
What customers say: This is the strongest performer in the group—95% of 221 reviews are positive. Customers rave about efficient, friendly service and careful handling. Pricing is often cited as fair, and people frequently mention stress-free relocations with respectful, well-timed crews. The 5% downside: significant damages, disappointing insurance payouts, and occasional surprise charges. Some report unprofessional behavior during damage disputes.
Services offered: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano moving, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, safe moving, cash or credit card payments, deposit required.
Get a quote: (718) 306-9980
Seka Moving
Address: 48 Wall St #1100, New York, NY 10005
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (250 Yelp reviews, 60 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 40118 | DOT #: 3014539
Years in business: 7
What customers say: Eighty-five percent of 495 reviews are positive. Customers highlight efficiency, careful property handling, polite staff, and accuracy on estimates. Speed and clear communication are recurring themes. The flip side: 13% report damaged items, delayed deliveries, or unexpected charges—particularly frustrating on long-distance jobs when delivery windows slip. Neutral reviews note solid work but unclear fee explanations. Seka excels at organization and respectful treatment, though operational hiccups happen occasionally.
Services offered: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano moving, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, multiple payment methods (money order, cash, credit card), deposit required.
Get a quote: (212) 203-0280
Molloy Bros Moving and Storage
Address: 900 S 2nd St, Harrison, NJ 07029
Rating: 4.5 / 5 (35 Yelp reviews, 41 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 125563 | DOT #: 125563
Years in business: 46
What customers say: Nearly eight out of ten of 82 reviews are positive, with consistent praise for efficiency, careful handling, professional staff, and responsive coordination. Many highlight movers who go the extra mile to reduce stress. The downside: negative feedback centers on significant item damage, inaccurate estimates, and poor communication during complex moves. Some report unexpected charges, missing items, or crew unprofessionalism. Molloy Bros scores higher than average on efficiency and care but needs stronger consistency, especially on estimates and claims resolution.
Services offered: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano moving, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, crane service, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safe moving, multiple payment methods (money order, cash, credit card), deposit required.
Get a quote: (201) 444-7711
Local Moving Services in Newark, NJ
Out of 158 Newark movers handling long-distance relocations, here's how many offer specialty services:
- Interstate moves: 145 (91.77%)
- Antiques handling: 111 (70.25%)
- Art moving: 118 (74.68%)
- Piano moving: 139 (87.97%)
- Pianos: 139 (87.97%)
- Small moves: 57 (36.08%)
- Fragile-only packing: 32 (20.25%)
Cost to Move from Newark, NJ to California
Here's what you can expect to pay for a 2,889-mile move from Newark to California, broken down by home size and service type.
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,208 – $5,142 | $1,347 – $3,563 | $1,560 – $3,027 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,748 – $7,087 | $2,486 – $5,353 | $1,706 – $3,394 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,778 – $10,981 | $3,229 – $6,891 | $2,075 – $4,339 |
Ready to get exact numbers for your move? Use our moving cost calculator to compare quotes from multiple movers.
These ranges are approximate estimates based on verified pricing data as of January 2026. Your final cost depends on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and timing. Always request quotes from multiple companies.
Cost to Hire Movers from Newark to California
A studio or one-bedroom move typically runs $1,208 to $5,142. Two or three bedrooms fall in the $3,748 to $7,087 range. If you're moving four or more bedrooms, expect $6,778 to $10,981.
These prices vary based on moving day complexity, peak season (summer costs more), and whether you're moving specific high-value items. To narrow down your budget, compare quotes from the movers listed above.
Cost of Moving Containers from Newark to California
If you're using moving containers instead of a traditional truck, expect:
- Studio or 1 bedroom: $1,347 – $3,563
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,486 – $5,353
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,229 – $6,891
Containers work well if you need flexibility on loading/unloading timelines. You pack at your own pace, the company handles transport, and they unload when you're ready.
Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Newark to California
Rental trucks are generally the cheapest option—but you're handling all the driving and loading labor.
- Studio or 1 bedroom: $1,560 – $3,027
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,706 – $3,394
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,075 – $4,339
These quotes include estimated fuel costs for a 2,889-mile trip.
Factors That Influence Moving Costs from Newark to California
Move size: A studio costs far less than a large household. The bigger your inventory, the more you'll pay.
Time of year: Summer demand drives rates up. Winter and early spring are cheaper, with longer delivery windows in exchange.
Service level: DIY rentals save money but demand your time and effort. Full-service movers cost more but handle the heavy lifting and logistics.
Timing within the week: Mid-week moves are often cheaper than weekend slots.
What You Should Know Before Moving from Newark to California
Cost of Living Comparison: Newark vs. California
| Metric | Newark, NJ | California |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,300 | $1,856 |
| Average home price | $475,797 | $771,057 |
| Per capita income | $41,335 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 135 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 13.0% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 10.7% | 13.3% |
Rent in California is about 19% lower, saving you roughly $444 per month on a typical lease. Home prices, however, run 62% higher in California, so mortgage payments will jump significantly. On the upside, salaries in California are 122% higher, which can help offset housing costs and boost savings potential. The overall cost of living is virtually identical, so you won't face major budget shock. Unemployment in California sits 58% lower, giving job seekers a real advantage. Keep in mind that state income taxes are 24% higher in California, which cuts into take-home pay.
How Life Differs: Newark, NJ vs. California
| Factor | Newark, NJ | California |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 304,960 | 39,029,342 |
| Political lean | Democratic 49.8–48.3 | Democratic 59–41 |
| Summer high | 86°F | 87°F |
| Winter low | 23°F | 59°F |
| Annual rainfall | 48″ | 22″ |
| Annual snowfall | 26″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 75.24 | 28.43 |
Both cities lean Democratic, so political culture won't feel alien. Summers are nearly identical (86°F vs. 87°F), so heat adaptation is minimal. Winters in California are dramatically milder—averaging 59°F versus Newark's 23°F. That means fewer heating bills, less snow shoveling (7″ vs. 26″), and generally easier weather management.
Rainfall in California is less than half Newark's 48 inches annually, so expect sunnier, drier conditions. Perfect if you prefer outdoor activities year-round. California's crime index is 28.43 versus Newark's 75.24, signaling a notably safer environment overall.
Other Considerations When Moving to California
HOA rules: Some neighborhoods restrict moving days or require advance notice. Check with your HOA before booking movers.
Elevator reservations: Many buildings demand advance elevator bookings for moves. Confirm your building's policy early.
Truck parking permits: Some California cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check local regulations ahead of time.
State licensing: When contacting movers, verify each has a "T Number" from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). This confirms they've met insurance, safety, and financial stability standards and passed criminal clearance checks through the California Department of Justice. Always confirm licenses before hiring.
Moving permits: California doesn't require a moving permit, but local parking rules vary. Double-check your specific neighborhood.
Change of address: File your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Set your official move date to ensure mail forwarding without gaps.
Moving insurance: Movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no cost, but coverage is minimal (60 cents per pound per item). A 25-pound TV damaged in a move might only net $15 in reimbursement. For full-value protection, discuss third-party insurance options with your mover.
Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay organized and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Things to Do in California
Museums:
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks:
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports:
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities:
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- UCLA
- University of Southern California
- UC San Diego
FAQ
How long does a move from Newark to California take?
Typically 7 to 21 days, depending on the service. Full-service movers are often slower but handle everything; rental trucks let you control the timeline. Summer moves may take longer due to carrier backlog. Ask about the delivery window before booking.
Can I find movers in Newark that offer custom crating?
Yes. About 125 Newark movers offer custom crating for artwork, antiques, and fragile items. When requesting a quote, ask specifically about crate construction, padding materials, and lead times.
What's the best way to ship a car from Newark to California?
Work with auto transport specialists who handle the logistics and protect your vehicle. Professional carriers manage all the details, freeing you to focus on your household move.
Why are people moving from Newark to California?
Economic opportunity and year-round pleasant weather are the top draws. California's job market is stronger, salaries are higher, and winters are mild—though housing costs are steeper.
Where can I find long-distance movers in Newark?
Start with our long-distance movers guide, or compare quotes from the top operators listed above.
Can I pay for my move from Newark with cash?
About 68 Newark movers accept cash, but it's uncommon. Most prefer card, ACH, or cashier's check for documentation. Typically you'll pay a deposit upfront and the balance at pickup or after delivery. Always confirm accepted payment types before booking.
Related Moving Resources
New Jersey movers:
Popular routes from New Jersey:
- New Jersey to California
- New Jersey to Florida
- New Jersey to Georgia
Moving resources:
- Best long-distance movers
- Best moving containers
- Best truck rentals
- Best car shippers
- Moving cost guide
Ready to get started? Compare quotes from Newark movers and find the right fit for your California move. The sooner you request estimates, the more options you'll have and the better your timeline planning will be.