Moving from Long Beach, CA to Ohio: Top Movers & Costs
If you're moving from Long Beach to Ohio, you've got options—96 movers in the area handle this route, but most won't be the right fit for your specific needs. I've narrowed it down to the five that stand out for reliability, pricing, and customer satisfaction on the Long Beach-to-Ohio corridor.
Top 5 Movers from Long Beach to Ohio
- Sterling Van Lines — 4.7 / 5 stars
- Meathead Movers — 4.72 / 5 stars
- Rigo's Moving Company Inc — 4.66 / 5 stars
- Merit Moving Systems — 4.56 / 5 stars
- Seka Moving — 4.64 / 5 stars
Sterling Van Lines
Rating: 4.7 / 5 | Reviews: 155 on Yelp, 231 on Google | License: #0189566 | DOT: 568254
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism and careful handling. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive. Their crews are known for being polite, delivering belongings safely, and finishing jobs promptly. They specialize in small moves and offer responsive support with competitive rates.
The trade-off: some customers report missed delivery windows and occasional delays. A few have experienced lost items or difficulty getting updates. Still, their track record beats most competitors for personalized attention and fair pricing on smaller hauls.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano moving, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, specialty items (art, antiques, safes).
Contact: (866) 266-8751
Meathead Movers
Rating: 4.7 / 5 | Reviews: 401 on Yelp, 11 on Google | License: #189849 | DOT: 921143
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences—well above industry average. Customers consistently mention professional staff, quick moves, careful handling, and clear communication.
Where they fall short: some feedback mentions furniture damage or unexpected costs. Occasional delivery delays happen. But the frequency of efficient, careful service noticeably outweighs these issues.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, storage.
Contact: (949) 485-7883
Rigo's Moving Company Inc
Rating: 4.66 / 5 | Reviews: 315 on Yelp, 245 on Google | License: #0191663 | DOT: 3075110
Rigo's earns solid marks for fast, polite service and respect for your belongings. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% were positive. People value their efficient loading/unloading, professionalism, and careful approach to furniture and fragile items. Staff communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress.
Caution: some customers report damage to furniture, unexpected fees, or crews arriving late. A few mention being charged for unworked hours. Before hiring, clarify all policies and extra charges.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, crating, storage, specialty items (art, antiques).
Contact: (323) 519-2845
Merit Moving Systems
Rating: 4.56 / 5 | Reviews: 115 on Yelp, 164 on Google | License: #0192009 | DOT: 1839600
Merit stands out for smooth coordination and a customer-focused team. Of 258 customer reviews, 95.3% expressed positive experiences—one of the highest approval rates on this route. Customers frequently highlight prompt communication, consistent professionalism, careful handling, speedy service, and movers who work efficiently. Many stress that property arrived safely with minimal or no damage, and crews were courteous throughout.
The caveat: a small percentage report damage or lost items, and some cite surprise charges not clearly explained beforehand. Most criticism centers on incomplete damage claims resolution.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, DOD certified.
Contact: (855) 950-4471
Seka Moving
Rating: 4.64 / 5 | Reviews: 28 on Yelp, 60 on Google | License: #0192497 | DOT: 3014539
Seka Moving receives high praise for professional, efficient moves. Out of analyzed feedback, 88% were positive. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling, quick processes, and helpful crews. Many note moves finishing ahead of schedule and damage-free delivery. Clients appreciate their responsive communication and flexibility.
Downside: some customers mention damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and occasional unprofessional behavior—though these are relatively rare (only 12% of reviews).
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, specialty items (art, antiques, grandfather clocks).
Contact: (323) 483-4288
Local Moving Services in Long Beach, CA
Here's what's available from Long Beach movers across specialty services:
- Interstate moves: 93.75% of movers
- Antiques: 67.71%
- Art: 63.54%
- Pianos: 79.17%
- Small moves: 52.08%
- Fragile-only packing: 26.04%
Cost to Move from Long Beach to Ohio
Here's what you can realistically expect to pay. The route is roughly 2,292 miles, and costs vary by home size and service type.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,158 – $5,189 | $1,177 – $2,950 | $1,233 – $2,501 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,485 – $7,457 | $2,155 – $4,200 | $1,280 – $2,919 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,354 – $10,975 | $2,787 – $5,810 | $1,650 – $3,406 |
These ranges are estimates based on 2,292 miles using verified pricing data as of January 2025. Final costs fluctuate based on move scope, add-ons, parking constraints, fuel, and timing. Always compare multiple quotes.
Cost to Hire Movers
A studio or one-bedroom from Long Beach to Ohio typically runs $1,158–$5,189. Two- or three-bedroom homes: $3,485–$7,457. Four- or five-bedroom homes: $6,354–$10,975.
The range is wide because it depends on how much stuff you have, whether the move requires special handling, and market conditions when you book.
Cost of Moving Containers
Moving containers (PODS, U-Pack, etc.) are middle ground between full-service movers and rental trucks. Expect:
- Small load: $1,177–$2,950
- Two- or three-bedroom: $2,155–$4,200
- Four+ bedroom: $2,787–$5,810
Cost of Truck Rentals
Renting a truck is usually the cheapest option, but you handle all the work. Budget:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,233–$2,501 (includes fuel)
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,280–$2,919
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,650–$3,406
Factors That Affect Your Moving Cost
Move size: Larger homes and more belongings increase the total.
Time of year: Summer months are peak season—prices climb. If you can move in fall or winter, you'll save.
Service type: Full-service movers cost more than truck rentals, but you're paying for their labor and expertise. Containers split the difference.
What You Should Know Before Moving
Moving from Long Beach to Ohio is more than just logistics—it's a lifestyle shift. The cost of living in Ohio is substantially lower, which often means more breathing room in your budget.
Cost of Living: Long Beach vs. Ohio
| Factor | Long Beach, CA | Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,075 | $945 |
| Average home cost | $835,800 | $230,798 |
| Per capita income | $78,995 | $66,990 |
| Cost of living index | 162 | 94 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 3.5% |
Key takeaways:
- Rent is 54% cheaper in Ohio. That adds up fast—you'll pocket an extra $1,130 per month, minimum.
- Home values are 72% lower in Ohio. If you're buying, your down payment goes much further.
- Cost of living is 42% lower overall. Groceries, utilities, childcare—it's all more affordable.
- Unemployment is 31% lower in Ohio. Job market is tighter here.
- State income tax is 74% lower than California. That's real money staying in your pocket.
Climate & Lifestyle Differences
Before you pack, understand how Ohio differs from Long Beach:
| Factor | Long Beach, CA | Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 451,307 | 11,785,935 |
| Political lean | Democratic | Republican |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 20ºF |
| Annual rain | 14″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 28″ |
| Crime index | 58.58 | 20.76 |
What this means:
- Winters are real. Ohio hits 20ºF lows; Long Beach stays mild. You'll need snow boots, a good furnace, and winter driving skills.
- You'll see four seasons. After years of consistent Long Beach weather, Ohio's fall foliage and snow can feel shocking—in a good way.
- More rain and snow. Ohio gets 40 inches of rain and 28 inches of snow annually. Pack accordingly and budget for roof maintenance.
- Safety improves. Ohio's crime index (20.76) is significantly lower than Long Beach's (58.58)—safer neighborhoods overall.
- Politics shift. Long Beach leans Democratic; Ohio leans Republican. Keep that in mind for local ballot issues.
Important Details to Handle Before Moving
HOA & building rules: Check with your current building or HOA about moving-day logistics, elevator reservations, and any restrictions.
Parking permits: Some Long Beach neighborhoods require truck parking permits. Confirm before move day.
USDOT verification: Ohio doesn't require state-specific movers' licenses, but all movers must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Ask for your mover's USDOT number and verify it at fmcsa.dot.gov.
Change of address: File your USPS change of address at least one week before you move. Go to usps.com and set your official move date so mail forwards smoothly.
Moving insurance: Standard Released Value Protection covers up to 60 cents per pound per item—basically nothing. For real protection, ask your mover about full-value coverage or buy third-party insurance.
Moving checklist: Use a detailed checklist to stay organized. It keeps you from forgetting utilities, mail forwarding, and a hundred other details that sneak up on you.
Things to Do in Ohio
You're not just moving to a cheaper place—Ohio has legitimate culture and attractions.
Museums:
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland)
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (Columbus)
- Cleveland Museum of Art
- A Christmas Story House (Cleveland)
- National Museum of the US Air Force (Dayton)
Parks & outdoor:
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- Wayne National Forest
- Upper Falls at Old Man's Cave
- Maumee Bay State Park
Sports:
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
- Cleveland Guardians (MLB)
- Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)
- Cleveland Browns (NFL)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)
Higher education:
- The Ohio State University
- University of Cincinnati
- Case Western Reserve University
- Kent State University
- Bowling Green State University
FAQ
How long does a move from Long Beach to Ohio take?
Seven to 18 days, depending on the service level. Full-service movers typically take 10–14 days. Moving containers and truck rentals depend on your schedule. Peak summer season can add a few days. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before you book.
Do Long Beach movers offer custom crating?
Yes. We track 72 movers in Long Beach that build custom crates for art, antiques, electronics, and other fragile items. Confirm with your mover that materials and dimensions match your items' requirements.
How do I ship my car from Long Beach to Ohio?
Auto transport specialists handle this regularly on this route. They'll pick up your vehicle, transport it via carrier, and deliver it to your new address. Get a separate quote from a car shipping company—it's not usually included with movers.
Why are people moving from Long Beach to Ohio?
Lower cost of living, job opportunities (especially in tech and manufacturing hubs like Columbus and Cincinnati), and a slower-paced lifestyle are the big draws. You get more house for your money and a generally safer environment.
How many Long Beach movers accept cash?
About 41 movers in Long Beach take cash, though it's not standard in the industry. Most require a deposit upfront (typically credit card or check) with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment terms with your mover before signing.
Ready to Get Moving?
Use our moving cost calculator to estimate your specific move, then compare quotes from multiple movers. Getting three to five estimates takes less than an hour and can save you hundreds—sometimes thousands—on your Long Beach-to-Ohio move.
The five movers listed above all service this route regularly and have solid track records. But don't just pick one based on this article. Get a quote, ask about their long-distance moving experience, and verify their USDOT number. Your move deserves that extra 15 minutes of due diligence.