10 Best Movers Near Santa Barbara, CA
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When every moving company in Santa Barbara, CA claims they're the best, how do you really know? We analyzed 84 moving companies in Santa Barbara across 90,308 review data points and more than 20,000 movers nationwide using our 11-point rating system to help you determine the best moving company in Santa Barbara. See the top 10 Santa Barbara movers below (our top recommendation is: Ready-to-go Movers), get data-based information on Santa Barbara moving costs (expect to pay somewhere between $1,463 and $6,474), or filter movers to display the cheapest movers in Santa Barbara, or the top recommendation for a Santa Barbara long distance move out of California.
Best Moving Companies in Santa Barbara, CA
| Rank | Company | Score  | BBB Rating | Avg Move Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ready-to-go Movers | 9.62 | A+ | 4.75 hours |
| 2 | Best California Movers | 9.53 | A+ | 3 hours |
| 3 | Prodigy Moving & Storage | 9.52 | NR | 4 hours |
| 4 | Vip Pro Moving | 9.50 | NR | 6 hours |
| 5 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.47 | A+ | - |
| 6 | ASAP Movers | 9.33 | A+ | 5 hours |
| 7 | Loft Moving Inc. | 9.28 | NR | - |
| 8 | Elite Movers & Packing Services LLC | 9.23 | A+ | 3.25 hours |
| 9 | Cal-Safe Movers | 9.22 | A+ | 4 hours |
| 10 | Fit Movers LLC | 9.22 | A+ | 3.5 hours |
How Much Do Movers Cost in Santa Barbara, CA?
The average moving cost in Santa Barbara, CA is $2,354, which is based on an analysis from 144 customer reports across 23 different moving companies. In general, expect to pay somewhere between $1,463 and $6,474 for a typical move.
| Company | Median Reported Moving Cost | Avg Move Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Rigos Moving & Storage, Inc. | $544 | 2 hours |
| Excalibur Movers | $625 | 3.5 hours |
| Trek Movers | $793 | 4 hours |
| Prodigy Moving & Storage | $813 | 4 hours |
| Movegreen | $973 | 4 hours |
| Royal Moving Co | $1,463 | 4 hours |
| Sinatra Movers | $1,659 | 4 hours |
| Attention to Detail Moving | $1,822 | 3.25 hours |
| Elite Movers & Packing Services LLC | $1,853 | 3.25 hours |
| Meathead Movers | $2,163 | 4 hours |
| Volture Moving Company LLC | $2,249 | 9 hours |
| Shleppers Moving & Storage | $2,354 | 3 hours |
| PODS Moving & Storage | $2,698 | - |
| Route 66 Moving and Storage | $2,713 | 3 hours |
| Cal-Safe Movers | $4,685 | 4 hours |
| Handle With Care Packaging Store | $5,284 | - |
| NorthStar Moving Company | $5,886 | 4 hours |
| Air 1 Moving & Storage | $6,474 | 4 hours |
| Oz Moving & Storage | $8,578 | 5 hours |
| Beefcake Moving & Storage, Inc | $10,490 | - |
| Hilford Moving & Storage, Inc. | $12,201 | 8.5 hours |
| Alex Moving & Storage | $16,864 | 13 hours |
| Affordable Quality Moving and Storage | $17,692 | 4 hours |
Tipping Movers in Santa Barbara, CA
In Santa Barbara, tipping your movers is a common way to acknowledge their hard work, especially when they’re navigating narrow streets near Old Mission Santa Barbara or uphill drives in the Riviera neighborhood. A general rule is to tip 10-20% of the moving cost or about $5 per mover per hour, depending on the complexity of the move. As an extra gesture, consider offering them something refreshing like fresh-squeezed lemonade or cold fruit juice to help beat the California sunshine.
Detailed 11-Point Review Analysis
We've analyzed more than 90,308 review data points to compare the top Santa Barbara movers across 11 important moving criteria. Here's how they stack up:
 Quality |  Punctuality |  Affordability |  Communication |  Stick to Prices |  Speed |  Friendliness |  Will Hire Again |  Professionalism |  Conflict Handling |  Precision & Care | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Ready-to-go Movers Exceptional9.62 | 99 | 100 | 93 | 100 | 96 | 99 | 99 | 100 | 100 | 96 | 100 |
2 | Best California Movers Exceptional9.53 | 100 | 100 | 99 | 99 | 99 | 99 | 100 | 99 | 100 | 81 | 98 |
3 | Prodigy Moving & Storage Exceptional9.52 | 94 | 97 | 93 | 96 | 97 | 98 | 96 | 93 | 95 | 97 | 88 |
4 | Moving Pro, Inc. Exceptional9.47 | 90 | 86 | 72 | 97 | 88 | 94 | 96 | 91 | 90 | 100 | 98 |
5 | ASAP Movers Exceptional9.33 | 92 | 98 | 79 | 89 | 94 | 90 | 81 | 88 | 86 | 94 | 86 |
6 | Loft Moving Inc. Exceptional9.28 | 98 | 82 | 93 | 87 | 81 | 91 | 84 | 98 | 93 | 85 | 96 |
7 | Elite Movers & Packing Services LLC Exceptional9.23 | 92 | 71 | 81 | 87 | 93 | 84 | 78 | 91 | 88 | 90 | 90 |
8 | Cal-Safe Movers Exceptional9.22 | 88 | 94 | 91 | 97 | 94 | 95 | 89 | 91 | 87 | 78 | 80 |
9 | Fit Movers LLC Exceptional9.22 | 88 | 96 | 94 | 80 | 77 | 99 | 95 | 86 | 87 | 88 | 88 |
Percentile Ranking
Santa Barbara Moving Companies Historical Ranking
DIY Moves in Santa Barbara, CA
Taking on a DIY move in Santa Barbara can offer more control but also means managing all details yourself, from renting a truck and gathering packing supplies in Goleta to planning around traffic on Highway 101. You’ll need to factor in fuel costs, time, and energy required for heavy lifting, especially when juggling a busy schedule. For a quick overview of nearby truck rental services, check this resource before you start planning.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Compare The Top-Ranked Santa Barbara Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Ready-to-go Movers
400 Autumnwood St
Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360
About Ready-to-go Movers
Ready To Go Movers lives up to its business name with emergency moving crews that are ready to provide moving services...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
- International moving services
- Small moving services
- Piano moving services
- Pool table moving services
- Appliance moving services
- Last-minute moving services
- Furniture moving services
Pros
- Efficient and careful with all belongings
- Professional and communicative team
- Fast and seamless moving experience
- Reasonable and competitive pricing
Cons
- Additional charges for services like wrapping
- Some unexpected charges despite initial quotes
- Hidden costs made final price higher
- Minor damages reported infrequently
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 2777901 | Not Authorized | 8/7/2024 |
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
- Residential moving services
- Packing services
- Commercial moving services
- Moving labor services
- Furniture protection services
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Pros
- Efficient and fast service
- Professional and polite team
- Affordable pricing with no hidden fees
- Excellent communication throughout the move
Cons
- Some reports of overcharging
- Issues with bed assembly not rectified
- Unresolved reimbursement for damages
- Rare complaints about customer service post-move
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 3489907 | Authorized For HHG | 1/10/2025 |
Prodigy Moving & Storage
9349 Oso Ave
Chatsworth, CA, 91311
About Prodigy Moving & Storage
Since 2003, Prodigy Moving & Storage has been helping families and businesses relocate within the state of California. As a trusted...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
- Storage Services
Pros
- Competitive and affordable pricing
- Professional and friendly team
- Efficient and quick moving service
- On-time or early arrival of movers
Cons
- Products and clothing items lost or stolen
- Poor communication regarding service issues
- Damage to belongings and furniture
- Customer complaints about unprofessional behavior
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 3983945 | Authorized For HHG | 1/10/2025 |
| California | CAL-T189613 | Active | 12/6/2024 |
Vip Pro Moving
Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
Services
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 3803920 | Not Authorized | 1/11/2025 |
| California | CAL-T192551 | Active | 12/6/2024 |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
- Packing Services
- Storage
- White Glove Pre & Post Services
Pros
- Efficient and fast service
- Excellent communication and coordination
- Handled belongings with care
- Professional and experienced team
Cons
- Charged more than the quoted price
- Very unprofessional drivers in some cases
- Estimate error nearly 300%, suggesting possible bait and switch
- Quote dramatically increased on the day of the move
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 1864442 | Authorized For Property, HHG | 1/10/2025 |
ASAP Movers
925 Buckley Rd
San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
About ASAP Movers
Any home, any business, across town, or out of state, ASAP Movers provides professional moving services and quality supplies for all...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Storage
- Packing Services
- Labor Only Services
- Senior Moving
- Final Mile Delivery
- Military Moves
- Warehousing & Distribution
Pros
- High quality of professionalism exhibited
- Offered competitive and reasonable pricing options
- Efficient in handling and moving belongings
- Friendly and courteous staff interaction
Cons
- Rare occurrences of poor customer service
- Instances of delays and late arrivals noted
- Some cases of items damaged during move
- Occasional miscommunication and organizational issues
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 1278931 | Authorized For Property, HHG | 1/10/2025 |
| California | CAL-T190288 | Active | 12/6/2024 |
Loft Moving Inc.
San Fernando, CA, 91340
About Loft Moving Inc.
Loft Moving Inc., operating since 2016, is a distinguished moving company located in Los Angeles, California. Providing both local and long-distance...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Packing/Unpacking Service
- Moving Labor
- Piano Moving
- Storage Service
- Commercial Moving
- Furniture Assembly/Disassembly
- Appliance Handling
- Junk Removal
Pros
- Professional and courteous team
- Efficient moving process
- Affordable pricing
- No damages to items reported
Cons
Elite Movers & Packing Services LLC
230 W Pueblo St Floor 2
Santa Barbara, CA, 93105
About Elite Movers & Packing Services LLC
Elite Movers & Packing Services is a Santa Barbara-based moving company that has been providing quality services to surrounding areas since...
Services
- Professional Packing
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Art Movers
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Professional and caring staff
- Excellent communication and responsiveness
- Meticulous with packing and careful with belongings
Cons
- Artwork and furniture occasionally damaged
- Rudy described as combative and unapologetic in some cases
- Some reports of being late and slow with moves
- Issues with billing and hidden fees in rare instances
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 3356160 | Not Authorized | 1/10/2025 |
| California | CAL-T192064 | Active | 12/6/2024 |
Cal-Safe Movers
San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
About Cal-Safe Movers
Cal-Safe Movers is a locally owned and operated business that has served San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties since 2013....
Services
- Comprehensive residential moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Storage services
Pros
- Highly responsive and easy to communicate with
- Offers competitive pricing and often undercuts estimates
- Professional and courteous team members
- Efficient and quick in completing moves
Cons
- Rare instances of belongings being broken during the move
- Some experiences with pricing higher than initially quoted
- Occasional issues with claims being unaddressed
- Infrequent communication lapses post-move concerning issues
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 3196615 | Not Authorized | 1/10/2025 |
| California | CAL-T191812 | Active | 12/6/2024 |
Fit Movers LLC
2005 Eye St
Bakersfield, CA, 93301
About Fit Movers LLC
Fit Movers LLC is a professional moving company that provides first-rate service at an unbeatable value. This family-owned and operated business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Loading and Unloading
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Packing and Unpacking
- Storage
- Hourly Services
- Piano Moving
- Pool Table Moving
Pros
- Extremely hard working and efficient movers
- Consistently on time or early for moves
- Affordable rates compared to competitors
- Professional and polite staff, including helpful phone support
Cons
- Rare cases of stolen items reported
- Occasional damage to items or homes
- Some customers reported overcharging issues
- Infrequent communication issues post-move, particularly with refunds
Moving Licenses
| License Type | Number | Status | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 3455958 | Not Authorized | 1/10/2025 |
How do we review a moving company?
Imagine the challenge of sifting through and reading every single review a moving company has ever received. Could you spot the fake reviews? Could you formulate a well-rounded analyses, or would you be left relying on a gut feeling?
Our rigorous evaluation process addresses this by meticulously vetting each moving company based on 11 crucial aspects of the moving experience:
- 1. Quality
Overall quality of the service provided on moving day.
- 2. Punctuality
Did the crew show up on-time with the required equipment?
- 3. Affordability
1 = extremely expensive, 10 = extremely affordable
- 4. Communication
Was the office staff quick to respond to questions prior to moving day? Did the moving crew notify you on the day of move regarding any changes to the original schedule? If there were any issues to resolve after moving day, was an office manager quick to respond and address problems encountered?
- 5. Stick to Prices
Was a lowball quote provided to earn business only to see the final moving day price increase substantially?
- 6. Speed
Did the movers seem to take their precious time in an attempt to increase the overall cost of the move? Remember, moving is HARD work and some breaks should be expected!
- 7. Friendliness
Was the moving crew cordial and friendly to be around on moving day?
- 8. Will Hire Again
How likely a customer is to hire the same movers again for their next move.
- 9. Professionalism
Did the moving crew behave in a professional manner on moving day?
- 10. Conflict Handling
Accidents can and will likely happen at some point on moving day. How a moving company responds to these accidents can say a lot about the company.
- 11. Precision & Care
Were walls scratched? Did furniture get scuffed, broken, or lost?
Labor-Only Moves in Santa Barbara, CA
If you only need help loading or unloading your belongings in Montecito or along Cliff Drive, labor-only moves can save you time and money by focusing on manpower rather than a full-service truck rental. For instance, you can hire hourly movers in Santa Barbara who specialize in providing flexible, muscle-only assistance to tackle the heavy lifting while you take care of transportation yourself.
List of All Santa Barbara Moving Companies Analyzed
See all of our Santa Barbara moving company reviews- Rigos Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Affordable Quality Moving and Storage
- Worldwide Moving & Storage
- Unique Moving and Storage
- PODS Moving & Storage
- Alex Moving & Storage
- Coast Transfer & Storage
- U-Pack
- Royal Moving Co
- Attention to Detail Moving
- City Pro Movers
- Ready-to-go Movers
- Best Move
- NorthStar Moving Company
- Air 1 Moving & Storage
- RC Moving Company
- NMS Moving Systems, Inc.
- E Movers
- Oz Moving & Storage
- Aloha Moving
- Jared's Moving Services
- Hilford Moving & Storage, Inc.
- State To State Moving and Auto Transport
- ASAP Movers
- Louie’s Central Coast Movers
- North American Van Lines
- JFK Moving Company
- Optimal Movers
- Trek Movers
- Cal-Safe Movers
- Aussie Moving
- Mammoth Moving & Storage Inc.
- Elite Movers & Packing Services LLC
- SB SOS LLC
- Hazelwood Allied Moving and Storage
- Flat Price Moving and Auto Shipping
- LoadStar Movers
- State Street Storage
- Moving Miss Daisy
- Big Win Moving
- Sinatra Movers
- Moving Pro, Inc.
- Excalibur Movers
- Meathead Movers
- Lompoc Van and Storage
- Shleppers Moving & Storage
- Transparent Moving
- Next Moving Company
- Movegreen
- Prodigy Moving & Storage
- Chas Movers. Moving & Relocation Specialists.
- Fit Movers LLC
- Beefcake Moving & Storage, Inc
- Handle With Care Packaging Store
- Volture Moving Company LLC
- Hazelwood Allied Moving and Storage
- Russell's Moving and Storage
- Stratton & Sons Moving & Storage
- UNITS Moving & Portable Storage of Ventura County
- Victory Moving Company
- BenHur Moving and Storage Inc
- Ventura Moving Company
- Route 66 Moving and Storage
- Black Horse Delivery
- Same Day Junk Hauling by Ignacio
- West Coast East Coast Express
- Platinum Movers Inc.
- Quick Moves
- Best California Movers
- Continental Moving Service Inc.
- Greystone Relocation Concierge
- Father & Son Moving & Storage
- Freedom Moving Company
- Davis Piano Moving
- Man and a Van
- Boyd Move Management Inc
- A & R Movers
- Adept Moving and Storage Inc
- Conrad's Hauling & Delivery
- American Budget Moving
- Loft Moving Inc.
- Superior Moving & Storage Inc.
- The One Moving and Storage Inc.
- Vip Pro Moving
Specialty Moves in Santa Barbara, CA
Whether you’re transferring a grand piano out of a historic home on State Street or moving a large sculpture from a gallery in the Funk Zone, you’ll want professionals who understand how to handle delicate valuables. That’s why many homeowners rely on experienced piano movers for elaborate instruments and pool table movers for bulky game tables, ensuring items stay secure throughout the journey.
Special Considerations for Moving in Santa Barbara
You can't control the weather, but being informed and prepared for Santa Barbara, CA's specific weather and city-related issues can help you plan a smoother move. This chart outlines special considerations to keep in mind for an effective relocation in this region.
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Additional Resources
Santa Barbara Moving Services
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