Best overall value
Local moving companies in Grand Rapids
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Powell Relocation Group: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Mulder's Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 16
1115 Taylor Avenue North, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USWhen it comes to getting valuables from point A to point B, customers say Two Men and a Truck gets the job done with speed and care. Out of 64 reviews analyzed, three-quarters pointed to positive experiences, with many praising efficient service, careful handling, and professional movers who communicate well and move quickly. Customers often feel their belongings are protected, and the team is courteous and organized. On the downside, a notable portion experienced broken items, surprise costs, or difficulties resolving complaints—especially around damaged furniture or billing. In contrast to other moving companies, this provider stands out for speed and team attitude but falls short for some when it comes to damage claims and accountability. Customers looking for responsive claims handling and zero damage should think carefully, but for most, efficient and friendly moving teams make the process much smoother.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
Alternative Business Names
- Phase Six Moving, LLC
- Two Men and A Truck/Grand Rapids North
Powell Relocation Group
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 261884
Years in Business: 61
4937 Starr St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 USPowell Relocation Group receives standout feedback, with 221 customer input sources analyzed and 94.6% describing a positive experience. Most praise highlights the movers' professionalism, careful handling, quick and efficient process, strong communication, and timely deliveries. Helpful attitudes and responsive coordinators set Powell apart, reflecting a higher standard than many competitors. On the flip side, a small but consistent minority reported issues involving property damage, delayed deliveries, and lackluster communication when resolving problems or claims. Compared to others in the moving industry, Powell’s positive feedback is notably higher, but the negative feedback stresses the importance of reliable claims support and timely, honest updates during unexpected issues.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 261884
- State license #: 261884
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Powell Moving & Storage, Inc.
Corrigan Moving Systems
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 77949
Years in Business: 97
7409 Expressway Court Southwest, Grand Rapids, MI 49548 USWord-of-mouth raves set Corrigan Moving Systems apart, with 234 customer feedback entries revealing that 92.3% praise their moves. Most people describe the crews as professional, polite, and highly careful with fragile belongings. Customers consistently mention efficient moves that run on schedule, and many felt informed and at ease throughout the process. On the flip side, a few experienced damages to personal items, and struggled to resolve claims, with some reporting slow or unhelpful follow-up when reporting issues. While some communication gaps and damage handling have frustrated a handful of clients, most report smoother relocations than with other companies, especially compared to industry averages. Customers find Corrigan stands out for quality of service, professionalism, and reliability, with only rare instances of unresolved complaints.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
Alternative Business Names
- Corrigan Moving Systems - Grand Rapids, Inc.
Mulder's Moving & Storage, Inc.
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 270885
Years in Business: 76
2400 Ravine Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49004 USMoving just got easier with Mulder's Moving & Storage, Inc., as positive feedback makes up 76% of 72 reviews. Customers praise the company's professional and polite staff, efficient and careful moving crews, and rapid service that gives peace of mind. Many highlight reliable communication, careful handling of belongings, and personal recommendations. Although Mulder's usually delivers high-quality moves, some customers reported damage to their items and were frustrated by the complaint resolution process. Others expressed dissatisfaction with higher costs or unclear pricing. In comparison to other movers, Mulder's stands out for professional care but should address concerns about damages and clear pricing to match top competitors.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 270885
- State license #: 270885
Alternative Business Names
- Mulder's Office Systems
Local Associations
Kingsley Moving Systems LLC
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 1890987
Years in Business: 15
610 Detroit Street, Lansing, MI 48912 USMoving with Kingsley Moving Systems LLC feels smooth for the vast majority of customers. Analyzing 179 pieces of customer input, 89% reflected positive experiences. Customers often praised Kingsley’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speedy moves, and reasonable rates—a combination rarely matched by competitors. Friendly staff and attention to property safety stood out repeatedly. A minority of clients encountered problems, especially damage to items, late arrivals without timely updates, and occasionally unfriendly staff. Negative feedback emphasized issues with fragile belongings, scheduling problems, or less-than-courteous service, raising caution for those transporting valuable or sensitive possessions. Kingsley outpaces typical moving companies on promptness and affordability, yet potentially risks client trust with rare but significant mishaps. Customer feedback positions them as a top choice for value and efficiency, so long as you get clear expectations for special care needs or timing.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1890987
- State license #: 34172
Factors influencing moving costs from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield
The cost of Grand Rapids movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield can be as low as $1,645 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 12,859.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Grand Rapids, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,450 to $3,768. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.
What to know before moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield
Moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Grand Rapids than in Bakersfield, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Grand Rapids compares to Bakersfield so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Grand Rapids | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,659 | $1,695 |
| Average home value | $328,256 | $389,732 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,299 | $73,827 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $5,333 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,160 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 13.3% |
- Rent prices in Bakersfield are 2% higher than in Grand Rapids, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Grand Rapids.
Home prices in Bakersfield are 18.7% higher than in Grand Rapids. - Income in Bakersfield is 16.6% higher than in Grand Rapids, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Bakersfield include Bakersfield City School District, Clinica Sierra Vista, and Kern High School District.
- The cost of living for a single person in Bakersfield is 53.3% lower than in Grand Rapids. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Bakersfield is 3.1% lower than in Grand Rapids.
- The unemployment rate in Bakersfield is 37.21% higher than in Grand Rapids.
- You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Bakersfield, since the city’s sales taxes in Bakersfield are 37.50% higher than in Grand Rapids.
- State income taxes in Bakersfield are 212.94% higher than in Grand Rapids.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,402.40 in Bakersfield to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Grand Rapids.
How life is different in Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield
| Bakersfield | Grand Rapids | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 909,235 | 198,893 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 4 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 37 | 56 |
| Bike friendliness score | 44 | 52 |
| Crime Index | 58.49 | 44.23 |
| Safety Index | 41.51 | 55.77 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Bakersfield's population is about 357% greater than Grand Rapids.
- Bakersfield's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Grand Rapids's higher score of 6.
- Bakersfield is less walkable than Grand Rapids with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Grand Rapids's 56 out of 100.
- Bakersfield has a bike-friendliness score 44 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Grand Rapids, which has a score of 52 out of 100.
- Bakersfield's crime rate is higher than Grand Rapids with a score of 58.49 compared to Grand Rapids's 44.23. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Grand Rapids neighborhoods are safer than 44.23%.
- Bakersfield is considered to be less safe than Grand Rapids with a score of 41.51 vs Grand Rapids's 55.77.
- Air quality in Bakersfield is good, and in Grand Rapids it's good.
Other things to consider for your Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield move
- Weather: Bakersfield has very hot, dry summers, and winters that consist of mild days with chilly/cold nights. Check your weather app before your move to avoid extreme heat.
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: California doesn\’t require moving permits, but it\’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Bakersfield. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Bakersfield
Ready to relocate to "California's Country Music Capital"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Bakersfield.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Bakersfield
- The Oaks
- Westchester
- Laurelglen
- Belsera
Best neighborhoods for families
- Seven Oaks
- Northwest Bakersfield
- Southwest Bakersfield
- Olde Stockdale
- Haggin Oaks
Things to do in Bakersfield
After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Bakersfield has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Bakersfield is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, Kern County Museum, Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, and Bakersfield Museum of Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s The Park at River Walk and Peacocks at Hart Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Bakersfield Condors (AHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield?
The best time to move from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Grand Rapids.
When is the cheapest time to move from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield?
Because most people are moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield take?
The 2,193-mile move from Grand Rapids, MI, to Bakersfield, CA, takes six to 17 days. Some Grand Rapids movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Bakersfield.
