Moving out of Los Angeles: a step-by-step guide

To move out of LA, choose between a one-way truck, a portable container or long-distance movers, then reserve curb space for loading day. Within California, hire only movers with a CPUC permit; moves to another state are licensed federally. Trucks longer than 22 feet can't park overnight on City of LA streets, so load in one day.

Updated September 27, 2026

Where to rent

  • Budget Truck Rental

    Moving trucks for local and one-way moves.

    Check prices

  • Penske Truck Rental

    Moving trucks for local and one-way moves.

    Check prices

  • U-Pack

    Portable containers and trailers for moves between cities.

    Check prices

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Choose how to move

A one-way truck is usually cheapest if you can drive it. A container suits a long move where you'd rather not drive. Movers cost the most: moveBuddha's 2026 range for long-distance movers over 1,000 miles is $1,500 to $8,500 or more.

Check licensing before you book movers

For a move that stays in California, the mover must hold a California Public Utilities Commission permit, shown as a Cal T-number. For a move to another state, the mover is licensed federally instead.

Loading day in LA

If you're in the City of Los Angeles and need street space, request temporary No Parking signs from LADOT at least five working days ahead.

With a truck longer than 22 feet, finish loading the same day: it can't park overnight on city streets.

Step by step

  1. Get three kinds of quotes. Price a one-way truck, a container and movers for the same dates.
  2. Check the license. In-state movers need a CPUC permit (Cal T-number); interstate movers are federally licensed.
  3. Book the right size. Use the truck size guide or container sizes.
  4. Reserve curb space. Call LADOT at least five working days before loading day.
  5. Load in one day. Especially with a truck longer than 22 feet.

Questions people ask

What does it cost to move out of LA?

It depends on distance and method. moveBuddha's 2026 range for long-distance movers over 1,000 miles is $1,500 to $8,500 or more; driving a one-way truck yourself usually costs less.

How do I check a California mover's license?

Ask for the Cal T-number in its ads and confirm it with the California Public Utilities Commission before booking.

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