The average cost of hiring movers for a San Diego to LA move can range from less than $1,000 to more than $4,000. Of course, there are many factors that play a role in the final cost not least of which is the size of your move.
The costs for Los Angeles movers are flexible and change depending on demand when you are moving (weekday vs. a weekend), how much furniture and other possessions need to be moved, any extra mover services, which one of the quality moving companies Los Angeles offers you choose to work with, and other factors.
What Affects Moving Costs?
- Distance: Making local moves like staying within 100 miles of your current area is cheaper than, say, moving to NYC from San Diego because local movers typically charge by the hour. Since San Diego to Los Angeles is just a little over 100 miles, you’ll likely find that most movers will treat it as a local move although it will depend on your precise destination.
- Move size: The more belongings you have, the more you’ll be paying to move them. Overall, the volume of your shipment makes a significant impact on your moving quote. Many people find it beneficial to donate, sell, or leave behind items.
- Special items: Special items are items that are heavy, oversized, fragile, valuable, or antique. These items require special care, so LA movers typically charge additional fees to pack and transport them. Some items may even require special equipment, such a crane, to move them into or out of the home.
- Full packing services: Whether you’re packing on your own or hiring movers, there are going to be costs associated. Moving supplies will be required, such as protective material, boxes, and packing tape.
- Move date: A lot of people don’t know this, but moving is a seasonal industry. There are times when costs are higher due to higher demand and lower due to lower demand. To lower moving costs, move during off season – October through March – and avoid weekends when possible.
- Storage services: If there are complex factors in your move, or if you simply don’t have enough space for your stuff, storage costs will need to be calculated. Movers provide storage or you can find a separate facility for your belongings.
- Moving insurance: National moving companies are mandated to provide protection for items, but this protection is often limited and does not provide reimbursement for one hundred percent of the item’s value. More protection, though, means higher insurance costs.
Beyond those listed above, there are additional factors that can add to or detract from the costs of your move. Oftentimes, though, these factors don’t have a significant effect.
Should I Get Moving Insurance?
Speaking of moving insurance, should you get it? Many people wonder if they even need moving insurance, but one thing you should know is that state-to-state movers always provide limited moving insurance. Los Angeles movers are also required to offer several types of moving insurance, most commonly Released Value Protection and Full Value Protection.
Released Value Protection typically covers items for a partial amount of their value, usually $0.60 per pound. Full value protection, as the name implies, offers full coverage for the value of your belongings.
Full Value Protection is the higher cost option, but it ensures that any damaged or lost items don’t cause your moving costs to rise. Instead, the items can be replaced and you don’t have to worry about valuable items being lost in the move.
If you’re going to be transporting items like jewelry, family heirlooms, antiques, statues, art pieces, and other valuable items, then Full Value Protection is the best option. There are also companies specializing in moving insurance, offering additional coverage.
What to Look for When Hiring Los Angeles Movers?
You shouldn’t just choose any moving company when it’s time to get ready to relocate. When it comes to moving companies, Los Angeles has a variety of options that may be right for you. This can make it tough to choose movers, so let’s explore at some of the things you should look for when hiring Los Angeles movers.
- Reputation: The first thing to look for in a moving company is their reputability. Look at reviews from customers as well as testimonials to get an idea of how the company works.
- Licensing: Every moving company in California is required to obtain a California Household Goods Mover License. The company you work with should have all proper licensing, otherwise you may face issues with your move.
- Services: Some movers offer full moving services while others only offer partial services. Your needs will determine the moving company you choose, as the movers need to be able to meet the requirements of your move and handle all belongings safely.
- Permits: Different cities have different requirements for permits, so movers should have a good handle on what is required. They should help you through the process of obtaining all the proper permits for your move so you avoid problems, such as parking permits.
Do I Get a Tax Break for Moving?
Unfortunately, there are not many situations in which moving can be used as a deduction on taxes. There are some exceptions, such as if you are military personnel or if your move is related to a job relocation and passes the time test. However, you will need to meet the requirements set forth by the government to qualify.
If you do qualify, tax-deductible moving expenses include:
- Gas and/or mileage
- Packing costs
- Insurance
- Rental trucks
You may sparingly be able to find instances in which you can deduct moving expenses from your taxes, but more often than not moving is not tax-deductible. If you’re curious about your eligibility, a tax professional can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I pack to move a long distance?
Try to make sure that all essentials have been packed up and are accessible to you at any point during your move. Protect items that may break, such as glass items or electronics, and shield them from the elements while waiting for movers. If you’re not sure how to pack, packing services are available from long-distance moving companies.
How much do movers in San Diego cost?
For local moves within San Diego, you can complete an entire move of a 2 bedroom household for less than $600 on average. For long-distance moves, usually considered to be anything more than $100, prices will be higher and depend on how much is being moved and how far it is being transported. Moving services and other aforementioned factors will also influence the costs of a San Diego move.
Is a DIY move cheaper than hiring movers?
In many instances, moving is cheaper than hiring movers. However, you could end up spending more on a DIY move if it is not properly done, if you are moving long-distance, or if you have a lot of items to move. A partial DIY move can be ideal in many situations, allowing you to handle part of the move while professionals handle the rest.
Find Out the Costs of Your LA Move
When it’s time to make the move from San Diego to LA, you’ve got the information you need to make the right choices along the way. Get things settled with movers and ensure that your belongings get to their brand new home safely and efficiently.
