Cheapest Movers in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA (2025 Guide)

Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan
 • 5 min read
checkmarkFact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Quick answer: After comparing 277 moving companies in California, our recommended local mover in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA, is Air 1 Moving & Storage thanks to their pricing, variety of moving solutions, and great customer reviews. Safeway Moving earns our top pick for out-of-state or long-distance moves from California because they are affordable without cutting corners on service.

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5 Cheapest movers when moving locally in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA

Whether you're moving within University of California-Santa Barbara, relocating to nearby Isla Vista or Goleta, or heading to another California city less than 50 miles away, here are some affordable and highly-rated movers to consider:

https://www.facebook.com/air1moving,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (20%)
  • Professional and polite staff (18%)
  • Good communication (15%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (22%)
  • Unexpected charges (20%)
Review Analysis
Night-and-day experiences define Air 1 Moving & Storage’s reputation, based on 545 customer reviews. About 71% of the feedback highlights professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient and fast moves, and affordable prices. Many people praise the company for managing stressful relocations with skill, moving items without damage or delays, and maintaining courteous communication throughout. Customers frequently mention the team’s reliability and trustworthiness, setting Air 1 apart from other movers. On the other hand, nearly 27% of the input focuses on negative incidents—most notably, unexpected charges, damaged or lost items, and delivery delays. Some report being billed far above initial quotes or experiencing broken or missing property without adequate resolution. Issues with last-minute fees and withheld communication stand out as significant frustrations. Compared to industry competitors, Air 1 garners above-average praise for its staff’s professionalism but struggles with cost transparency and consistency on long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (866) 485-1030

Company Info

State license #: 0189688

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 1095485

Alternate Names: Air 1 Moving & Storage, Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/MeatheadMovers/, https://twitter.com/MeatheadMovers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (29%)
  • Professional and polite staff (24%)
  • Careful handling (22%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (21%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (19%)
  • Unexpected charges (18%)
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—fast, careful, and professional. Across 534 customer accounts, 85% were satisfied with Meathead Movers, who consistently impress with prompt, efficient service, courteous staff, careful attention to belongings, and effective communication. Many point to their speed, skill, and ability to reduce moving stress as unmatched compared to other movers. Staff go out of their way to ensure everything is handled safely and customers feel supported throughout. Most praise the company’s organization and transparency, with workers often finishing ahead of schedule and providing clear updates. While Meathead stands out for reliability, a number of customers highlighted problems including damage to items, higher-than-expected costs than initial estimates, and issues with packing quality—especially when using packing services. Some experienced final bills much greater than the quotes they received, contributing to frustration. A few customers also reported items arriving broken or poor claim handling after reporting damage. Compared to other moving firms, feedback shows Meathead’s team typically provides a smoother, faster, and friendlier move—but attention to better estimate accuracy and meticulous packing would boost trust even further.
Get a Quote (805) 544-6328

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Packers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/martianmoversca,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Friendly and polite staff (25%)
  • Careful handling (20%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (35%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (20%)
  • Unexpected charges (15%)
Review Analysis
Rave reviews pour in for Martian Movers, spotlighting efficient service, polite staff, careful handling, fast move times, and reliable communication. Among 295 reviews, 95% of feedback describes stress-free moves by friendly, professional crews attentive to property and timing. Clients often mention rapid service, courteous demeanor, and exceptional care with belongings—even challenging items like pianos—setting them apart from less consistent competitors. For value, they frequently finish under quoted prices, with transparent estimates and easy scheduling. Less than 5% of feedback details significant issues during long-distance moves, including damaged items, late deliveries, unreliable timing, and poor handling. Some clients cite missed arrival windows, mishandling, or lack of follow-up on claims for damages. For most customers, though, reviews indicate Martian Movers outperforms other moving companies on efficiency, professionalism, and customer care, while a few experienced notable problems with high-value or out-of-area jobs.
Get a Quote (805) 549-5122

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3196615

Alternate Names: Cal-Safe Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/worldwidemovingandstorage,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (25%)
  • Good communication (20%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (15%)
  • Lack of communication (12%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (10%)
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with Worldwide Moving & Storage, Inc. set a high mark for professionalism and care. Out of 179 detailed feedback entries, 88% highlighted courteous and skilled staff, careful handling, quick and efficient service, and steady communication. Most moves were completed on time with belongings arriving intact, earning the company frequent praise for minimizing stress and exceeding expectations. Some clients even found the crew to be helpful, flexible, and thoroughly organized in both local and cross-country moves. A small number of customers, about 11%, cited item damage, poor communication, or packing lapses as key issues, sometimes impacting move logistics or claim resolutions. Such pain points appear less often than with many moving services, especially those managing complex relocations. Only one neutral entry suggested that the value of a low quote was offset by minor mishaps and delays. In comparison to competitors, Worldwide Moving & Storage stands out for reliability, respectful service, and effective communication.
Get a Quote (805) 487-3901

Company Info

State license #: 0130677

Years in Business: 68

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower, WWMS, Inc., Worldwide Moving and Storage, Inc., Worldwide Moving and Storage, Worldwide Moving & Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/alohamovingsb/, https://x.com/AlohaMoving1
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (60%)
  • Professional and polite staff (57%)
  • Careful handling (53%)
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs (15%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (10%)
  • Lack of communication (8%)
Review Analysis
Aloha Moving stands out as a trusted choice for relocation in the Santa Barbara area, with 102 pieces of feedback analyzed. A remarkable 97% of customer input rates their service positively. Most people praise the professional and polite staff, efficient service, and the careful handling of belongings. Customers often highlight excellent communication, quick moving processes, and consistently stress-free experiences compared to other movers. Costs are typically seen as fair, estimates accurate, and appointments handled on schedule. The company's owner, Paul, frequently receives personal mentions for his direct involvement and reliability. On the downside, a small number of negative comments mention higher-than-expected costs and instances of pushy or unprofessional behavior, but these are rare in comparison to the volume of praise. In terms of reliability, service, and care, Aloha Moving repeatedly exceeds what’s expected from moving companies, setting a high standard in the local industry.
Get a Quote (805) 564-8800

Company Info

State license #: 0191816

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 2660138


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage

Other local CA movers

While these local California movers did not make our top list, they are still worth looking into:

Cheapest movers when moving out of California

Moving from California to another state involves more than just packing boxes. You’ll also need the support of an experienced moving team. These interstate moving companies have the know-how and manpower to make your move as easy as possible:

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
  3. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
Get A Quote
(855) 650-0657
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts
Get A Quote
(855) 929-4120
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
Get A Quote
(980) 217-6841
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
Get A Quote
Visit Website
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
Get A Quote
866-835-2392

Cheapest DIY moving options in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA

While a full-service mover is the most convenient option for your University of California-Santa Barbara, California relocation, it will also likely be the most expensive route. To save some money, you may want to consider using one of the top moving container companies, or moving truck rental companies in University of California-Santa Barbara instead.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
Get A Quote
Visit Website
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
Check prices Visit Website
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
Check prices (352) 322-2920
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
Check prices Visit Website

Top-rated movers in other nearby California cities

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How we chose the best movers in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top five best movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of movers in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA

Take a look at the pricing table below to get a general idea of the costs associated with local moves in and around the University of California-Santa Barbara area. For more details, you can also check out our guide on the moving costs in California.

Please note that the moving quotes provided in the table are rough estimates, and your actual costs may differ depending on the unique needs of your move. For a more precise estimate, consider using our moving cost calculator.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $447 $134 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $599 $139 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $900 $192 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $1,896 $263 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $2,181 $260 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $3,267 $376 5 movers 10 hours

Compare the top University of California-Santa Barbara, CA movers

Let’s compare how the top movers in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA stack up in terms of their reputation.

Company moveBuddha rating BBB rating Yelp rating Google rating
Air 1 Moving & Storage 4.9/5 A+ 3.7/5 4.3/5
Meathead Movers 4.9/5 A+ 4.1/5 4.7/5
Martian Movers 4.8/5 A+ 4.7/5 4.9/5
Worldwide Moving & Storage, Inc. 4.8/5 A+ 3.7/5 4.9/5
Aloha Moving 4.7/5 A+ 4.4/5 5/5
Unique Moving Inc. 4.7/5 C+ 4.2/5 4.9/5
Camelot Moving & Storage 4.7/5 A+ 4.6/5 4.6/5
Mammoth Moving & Storage, Inc. 4.6/5 A+ 4.5/5 4.8/5
Hazelwood Allied Moving and Storage, Inc 4.6/5 A+ 4.5/5 5/5
Lompoc Van and Storage 4/5 NR /5

FAQs

How do I know if my mover is properly licensed?

When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice.

All of the movers on our list are properly licensed. Take a look at our best movers in California list for more recommendations.

How do I find a reputable University of California-Santa Barbara mover?

Looking for a reliable University of California-Santa Barbara moving company can be difficult, but there are certain things to consider to ensure you choose a trustworthy mover. These include:

  • Reputation: A mover's reputation is crucial, whether they're a new mom-and-pop business or a seasoned van lines company.
  • Dispute resolution: It's best to avoid movers with lots of unresolved customer complaints. Every University of California-Santa Barbara moving company will face customer issues. The best companies resolve customer disputes in a timely manner.
  • Relevant experience: Even if a mover has great reviews for local moves, they may not have the experience needed to handle a cross-country move. Check if they have experience with the type of move you require.

Do University of California-Santa Barbara moving companies handle long-distance moves?

Some of the moving companies that service University of California-Santa Barbara can handle long distance moves, while others only offer local moving services. If you're moving out of state, see our list of the best long distance movers in University of California-Santa Barbara.

What is the cheapest day to hire a mover in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA?

The cheapest day to hire a mover in University of California-Santa Barbara, California, will typically be a weekday, since weekends are typically busier times for moving. In general, the cheapest time to move is between October and April. The peak season for movers is May–September, so you’ll pay more during this time due to increased demand.

The earlier you book your move from University of California-Santa Barbara, the better. Avoid weekends, holidays, and peak moving seasons (summer) to save money. Beware of choosing a mover solely based on the lowest quote, as some companies may low-ball their initial quote and raise the price significantly on moving day.

What is the cheapest way to move out of state from University of California-Santa Barbara, CA?

Renting a moving truck is the cheapest way to move out of state or locally within University of California-Santa Barbara, California. Keep in mind, though, that this is also the most bare-bones moving option — you’ll have to handle the packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, and driving.

Are moving containers a good idea for my move from University of California-Santa Barbara?

Moving containers allow you to move at your own pace… although you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself. Once you’re loaded up and ready to move, the container company will pick up your container and transport it to your new home, so you won’t have to worry about driving.

What if I need help loading my moving container in University of California-Santa Barbara?

Labor-only moving companies can be a great addition to a more DIY move done with a rental moving truck or moving container. Hiring third-party assistance with loading and unloading can help cut down on the workload and make your move quicker and more efficient.

Do University of California-Santa Barbara movers offer storage?

Most University of California-Santa Barbara moving companies offer short- and long-term storage solutions. However, keep in mind that some University of California-Santa Barbara movers use third-party warehouses to store your items. It's best to ask about storage options and pricing when screening potential movers.

Learn more: Should you use your mover's storage solutions?

Helpful University of California-Santa Barbara Resources

University of California-Santa Barbara Moving Services

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