Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Dec, 01 2025
Same Day Moving Companies SF
Moving in a hurry in San Francisco may sound complicated, but you can do it without too much stress. Whether you are moving out of your apartment at the last minute or need to hire a short notice moving company because they help you line up isn’t going to work out, you can find the right vendor for your local move for the same day.
How can I find a same day mover in San Francisco?
Moving companies performing intrastate moves are regulated in California by the Bureau of Household Goods and Services, which has rules that protect consumers from fraud. Because you are looking for help at the last minute, you will need to be a little more careful. For example, the regulation stipulates that if you hire a mover three or more days ahead of the move, the company must provide you with a copy of its moving service agreement and a document called Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods (within California). But because you want same-day service, those requirements don't apply. In that case, it is up to you to ask for the information. Do some research into the rules on what the companies can do, so you are not disadvantaged in talking to the vendors. The Bureau of Household Goods website is a great place to start. If you have referrals from family or friends of 24/7 movers who have provided exemplary service, check them out there.
When you contact a moving company about your move, ask them to come to your residence to estimate the move. This is actually a requirement and is necessary to assess the cost accurately. The mover should look at everything that you want to move before offering you a written quote. In California, verbal or online estimates are not allowed. Don't overlook checking with the BHGS to verify that the company you are considering is licensed to do business and has a favorable safety and complaint record. Also, check the company out through the Better Business Bureau website. The BBB receives thousands of reviews—both positive and negative—from consumers about their experiences with moving companies. Unlike the possibly fabricated “reviews” that a company may post on its website, the BBB has valid consumer opinions. Most of the complaints involve interstate moving companies, but local vendors may be unscrupulous as well.
How much will a same day mover in San Francisco cost?
Your moving rates will depend on the size and other factors. Most local moves costs vary based on the amount of time that the mover predicts it will take to get the job done. In California, the mover must provide you with a written estimate that provides a "Not to Exceed" price. Once you have agreed on the shipment and the services, the mover can't legally charge more than that amount. On average, San Francisco moving companies charge $120 per hour for two movers, $170 per hour for three movers, and over $200 per hour for four movers. The length of time that you need them depends on how much stuff you are moving and the complexity of the move—stairs, elevators, long carries, and parking issues are all obstacles to easy loading and unloading in the city. If you have heavy furniture, the moving company may charge more for some of the work or may need additional time to prepare some of the items. If you request a full-service move, including packing, the cost will be higher.
What if I have a small move?
Your same-day mover will likely have a minimum—at least two hours, and possibly four. If you only have a few items to move, but you don't have time to shop around for a better deal, you could end up paying for more time than you need to. You may pay a premium for convenience, but if it is not peak moving season, you may be able to negotiate for a small move. High demand in the moving business runs from late spring through fall, since most people move during the summer months.
How do I protect myself from a scam when choosing a same day mover?
Use common sense when selecting a moving company. Don’t let the urgency lead you to lower your standards. Choose a company that is licensed and has been in business for a reasonable period. One tip-off for shady operators is that they lack a local address. If the company only has a PO Box, it might not be a good idea to do business with them. If the truck that shows up to do the work is a rental, not a company-owned vehicle with the business name on the side, be suspicious. You could be dealing with unskilled labor and a scam business. The biggest concern is a company that asks for a large cash deposit. Most moving companies require payment when the job is complete, and almost always accept credit cards. Paying before the work is finished is dangerous and paying in cash eliminates your ability to dispute the charges if something goes wrong.
What about insurance?
The moving company will provide you with three options for protecting the value of your household goods. There is basic coverage provided at no additional expense to you, which offers $0.60 per pound to repair or replace anything lost or damaged in your shipment. Sixty cents per pound doesn't cover much, so you may want to consider the higher-level choices. Actual cash value coverage offers recovery at the current fair-market (depreciated) value of the item. Full value provides replacement coverage for anything in the shipment that is lost or damaged. The moving company discloses actual cash value and full value coverage costs in the moving agreement. Sometimes movers and packers won't assume liability for damaged items inside a box if you packed the box unless the container is also damaged. This situation could be an issue since you are moving quickly, but just make sure you know what to expect when you talk to the vendor about the coverage. Once the delivery is complete, inspect the boxes and other items for damage promptly so you can report any issues.
Can I put my stuff into storage today?
If you are moving out of your house or apartment but haven't secured your next residence yet, you may need to put your belongings into temporary storage. The local moving company you hire to help with loading up your moving boxes and furniture can secure storage and unload the shipment into the storage unit. The company will be able to deliver the cargo out of storage when you are ready. Talk to the moving company about the storage fees and how long you expect to need the facility. You will need to extend the insurance coverage for that time as well.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Start by setting aside essentials, closing open drawers, and finishing as much packing as possible before the crew arrives. In San Francisco, tight streets and steep grades mean you should also pre-secure curb space or loading zones when possible. Have boxes sealed, labeled, and staged near entry points. Delays often come from freight elevator schedules or long carries, so confirm building access in advance. These steps help movers load quickly using a local moving service such as local moving companies .
Many crews can respond within 1–3 hours when availability allows, especially on weekdays. Response time varies by how many movers are assigned, traffic on major corridors, and whether your pickup is in dense neighborhoods like Chinatown, SoMa, or the Mission. Same-day service is prioritized for small apartments, urgent move-outs, and short-distance local relocations. For predictable arrival times, teams rely on updated schedules and proximity routing from nearby same day movers .
Most same-day local moves fall in the $450–$1,200 range for 2–4 movers, depending on apartment size, stairs, elevator availability, packing needs, and long-carry distances. Steep hills, restricted access, and last-minute parking can add billable labor time. Studios generally require 2–3 hours, while multi-bedroom units may run longer. Larger same-day jobs may require additional crew members or box delivery. For broader comparisons, review the company’s general moving prices page.
Yes. Crews can perform full or partial packing on arrival, which is helpful for last-minute moves. Packing time depends on how many items need protection, fragile handling, and whether large furniture must be wrapped or disassembled. San Francisco apartments often require elevator padding or hallway protection before packing can begin. Adding packing typically extends the job by 1–2 hours. You can also review options on the company’s moving and packing services page.
Yes. Crews are familiar with busy corridors, narrow streets, steep inclines, and limited curb availability. They often stage the truck around corners, use smaller equipment, or split loads to avoid blocking traffic. Extra time may be needed for long carries from distant parking. Buildings in SoMa, Nob Hill, and Pacific Heights may require coordination with management for loading doors or time-restricted freight elevators. Local teams also monitor city regulations to avoid citations during active loading.
Same-day movers typically handle studio–2BR units most efficiently, but larger homes may still qualify depending on crew availability and hours of daylight. Smaller cargo loads, student apartments, and partial-item moves are easiest to schedule quickly. Capacity depends on how many movers can be deployed, packing requirements, and whether a second truck is needed. Moves that cross the bay or extend beyond typical local ranges may shift into expedited intrastate service if distance exceeds 50–100 miles.
