Blog/News

Things To Know About Moving to Orange County CA

Professional Student Movers of California

MovingMoving to Orange County CA?

Orange County CA is a beautiful area that consists of many well-known cities such as Irvine, Anaheim, Newport Beach, Fullerton, and Huntington-Beach.  More than three million people live in this county that is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles County.  If you are not used to living in such an expansive area Orange County can seem overwhelming, but Student Movers is here to help you get to know your new neighborhood and settle into your new home or office.

Orange County CA was named after the plentiful orange groves that used to cover the area. Today, the Orange County area is filled with many wonderful attractions including Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and more than 40 miles (64km) of California coastline.

Orange County CA also has a rich history that is rooted in the Tongva, Juaneno and Luiseno Native American groups that inhabited the area. The Spanish settled it and Mission San Juan Capistrano was constructed as the center of the European settlement.  This mission is still well worth a trip today, as it is filled with relics and the history of the area.

Get help with moving to Orange County.

There are a few major things you should be aware of before you move to Orange County. Number one, in general, it is an expensive county to move to. Check out our suggestions below about which cities are the least expensive. Number two, be sure to ask your real estate agent about the Mello Roos tax, which is a special tax added to your property taxes to pay for the city’s infrastructure.  This only applies to houses built after 1982, but it is something to keep in mind.  Besides those few downsides, Orange County is a beautiful place to live! Keep reading and learn more about which area will be a good fit.

Unsure about which city you should move to in Orange County? These five cities below have been named the best cities in Orange County to move to by Orange County’s Blog, the OC Weekly.

1)   Lake Forest: A suburban area that has an excellent education system, great public service, and affordable housing. What more could you wish for?!

2)   Long Beach: Even though Long Beach is actually Los Angeles County, OC Weekly counted it among OC’s finest because many former OC residents choose to live here. Why? Most inexpensive area on the coast and easy access to Los Angeles and Orange County.

3)   Huntington Beach: Considered one of the best costal towns to live in because of its reasonably priced housing paired with its many attractions such as the Huntington Beach pier.

4)   Fullerton: Put on the map because of its university, Cal State Fullerton, the city of Fullerton has a great downtown area with a very laid back vibe.

5)   Santa Ana: Known as the future of Orange County, Santa Ana is located in a prime location that promises easy transportation matched with super affordable housing!

Have all your Orange County neighborhoods figured out? Great! A few other things you should know about moving to Orange County are: the weather is always great, traffic can be a major bummer and you should plan your transport accordingly, it is a fabulous location if you like the outdoors (surfing and snowboarding!), and that it is the land of suburbs. Any city you move to in Orange County will have a wonderful neighborhood, a strong school system, and excellent public services such as parks and community activities.

Moving to Orange County can be the perfect step for your family and/or business.  Remember to find a reliable moving company that will help you get acquainted with your new surroundings. Our Student Mover’s headquarters are located in Newport Beach and we are always happy to share our favorite restaurants or shopping venues with our customers. Student Movers is comprised of smart, well-trained, college students who will know about your new neighborhood. Student Movers’ staff does more than move you from A to B. We will help you settle into the good life of Orange County!

Need some packing tips or a moving checklist? Be sure to check out our resource section and blog. We are always adding new content to help your moving day be as stress-free as possible. We believe in strong customer service and treating you like a member of our moving family. Student Movers will go above and beyond and we are even available on short notice, so you can stop your search for Orange County moving companies! Just call our customer service center today. Student Movers are the best movers in OC and will make sure you have the best moving experience possible!

SHARE THIS POST

Pricing List

Full Service Pricing

two-movers-gray-icon
three-movers-gray-icon
new-four-movers-gray-icon

$150/hour

Plus DDT, +30%

$190/hour

Plus DDT, +30%

$230/hour

Plus DDT, +30%

$270/hour

Plus DDT, +30%

Excludes A Nominal 30% Fuel Charge, Per Truck. Mandatory 8 Hr Min For Same Day Moves/Bookings + Additional $150 Same Day Rush Charge And Any Other Applicable Fees. 4Hrs Minimum. Anything Over Will Be Billed At The Applicable Booked Rates For Service. In Addition, 5% Will Be Billed Per Man For Anything Over 8Hrs.

NO CASH ALLOWED

Additional 3% Processing Fee For All Moves And Additional Fees Apply After 8 Hours. There Is Also An Additional $30 Fee If You Have 2+ Crew On Your Job.

Labor Only Pricing

two-movers-gray-icon
three-movers-gray-icon
new-four-movers-gray-icon
new-four-movers-gray-icon

$90/hour

$135/hour

$180/hour

$225/hour

Labor Only Fee + $30 travel charge

NO CASH ALLOWED

What is a DDT?

DDT sounds like you’re being charged double for drive time but that’s a mistake! The California Public Utilities Commission requires all moving companies to charge DDT on hourly rated moves. DDT means you are charged for the time between the old house (origin) and the new house and the moving company is responsible for the drive time between the warehouse and the origin. DDT actually SAVES you money!

One Hour Arrival Time

Please allow a one hour window for the movers to arrive. Example: 9am-10am

Full Terms & Conditions

The information you provide on the form above is strictly confidential. Your name, e-mail address, or any of the information you provide is NEVER sold, rented, loaned, or made available to anyone outside our organization.

Terms & Conditions
I confirm that by setting an appointment with Student Movers, Inc. that I have read and understand that I’m entering into a legally binding contract with Student Movers, Inc. for moving service. Terms & Conditions The following Terms & Conditions apply to the use of this Website and all services booked. https://thestudentmovers.com/terms-conditions/ Copyright All content appearing on this Web site is the property of Student Movers® Copyright © 2008-2026. All rights reserved. As a user, you are authorized only to view, copy, print, and distribute documents on this Web site so long as (1) the document is used for informational purposes only, and (2) any copy of the document (or portion thereof) includes the following copyright notice: Copyright © 2008-2026 Student Movers®. All rights reserved. Trademarks All brand, product, service, and process names appearing on this Web site are trademarks of their respective holders. Reference to or use of a product, service, or process does not imply recommendation, approval, affiliation, or sponsorship of that product, service, or process by Student Movers. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as conferring by implication, estoppel, or otherwise any license or right under any patent, copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property right of Student Movers or any third party, except as expressly granted herein. Use Of Site This site may contain other proprietary notices and copyright information, the terms of which must be observed and followed. Information on this site may contain technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Information, including product pricing and availability, may be changed or updated without notice. Student Movers and its subsidiaries reserve the right to refuse service, terminate accounts, and/or cancel orders in its discretion, including, without limitation, if Student Movers believes that customer conduct violates applicable law or is harmful to the interests of Student Movers and its subsidiaries. Insurance It is the policy of Student Movers Services to provide equal opportunity for all employees/franchisees regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disabilities. Student Movers Service’s policy applies with equal force during the assignment of employees/franchisees to Customer. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: Customer releases Student Movers Services from any and all liability for lost or misplaced goods and any injuries whatsoever, regardless of their nature, caused by the handling of Customer’s property after the Departure Time of Student Movers Services employees, franchisees, or contractors as indicated herein. Customer agrees that Student Movers Services is under no circumstances liable for more than $.60 (sixty cents) per pound of damaged item for any damages to property directly caused by its employees, contractors, or franchisees, and reserves the right to verify all claims using any and all reasonable standards for achieving proper verification of claims. Customer agrees to, without condition, these terms and conditions regarding Student Movers Service’s limitation of liability. If you wish to obtain a higher valuation coverage than the State and Federal Minimum .60 cents per pound thats included you can obtain grater valuation coverage at https://movinginsurance.com/ or https://www.bakerintl.com/ Privacy Policy Student Movers use of personal information that you may submit to Student Movers through this Web site is governed by the Student Movers Privacy Policy. Shop Hours Customer service is available as defined on the Contact Us page of this Web site. Cancellation Once a booking is made by customer, scheduling, crew allocation, and operational preparation begin immediately. Customer acknowledges that reserved labor, equipment, and scheduling time are allocated specifically for the requested service date. Cancellations or changes to the scheduled date and time are permitted. However, Customer agrees that if cancellation or rescheduling occurs after booking, Student Movers, Inc. may charge for reasonable costs incurred in preparation for the move, including but not limited to crew reservation, dispatch scheduling, and administrative processing. These charges will be based on the minimum booked hours selected at the time of booking. Any request to change the date or time must be made at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled move date and time. By confirming the booking, Customer authorizes Student Movers, Inc. to charge the payment method on file for agreed-upon services and any applicable cancellation or preparation charges as outlined in this agreement. If crews have been assigned or dispatch preparation has begun, Customer may be charged a cancellation fee based on reserved labor and scheduled time, in addition to any non-recoverable operational costs. If the crew has been dispatched or arrives on-site, minimum service charges apply regardless of whether the move is completed. All cancellations must be submitted in writing. 4hrs is our minimum. Anything over 4 hours will be billed at the applicable booked rates for service. In addition, 5% will be billed per man for anything over 8hrs. Same day cancelations billed minimum cost, no refunds or exchanges. All cancelations must be in writing. Bids accepted are non-refundable for long distance moves. Miscellaneous NO CASH accepted. Thank you! There is also an additional 3% processing fee for all moves and additional fees apply after 8 hours. Mandatory 8 hr min for same day moves/bookings + additional $150 same day rush charge and any other applicable fees. For Labor Only container loads we have no way of getting our equipment back (e.g. moving blankets and straps) if we are only hired to load a container. This is standard in the moving industry for Labor Only moves and typically the options for packing material such as straps and moving blankets and insurance for transport are typically offered to the client from the container company such as PODS or ABF trailers. For this reason Student Movers will not provide moving blankets, straps and any tools for these types of moves. Labor Only moves mean that loading and or unloading assistance is only provided. http://podsboxes.com http://www.pods.com/Packing-Supplies/PODS-Contents-Protection.aspx VOID WHERE PROHIBITED: Although the information on this Web site is accessible worldwide, not all products or services discussed in this Web site are available to all persons or in all geographic locations or jurisdictions. Student Movers and the advertisers each reserve the right to limit the provision of their products or services to any person, geographic area, or jurisdiction they so desire and to limit the quantities of any products or services that they provide. Any offer for any product or service made in the materials on this Web site is void where prohibited. GOVERNING LAW: In the event of litigation both parties agree that the Law of California shall apply and both parties consent to the jurisdiction of the state courts of Newport Beach, Orange County CA, or in the event of diversity of citizenship, the United States District Court for the (District). Both parties expressly waive a trial by jury. MISCELLANEOUS: The Terms and Conditions constitute the entire agreement between you and Student Movers with respect to this Web site. The Terms and Conditions supercede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral or written between you and Student Movers with respect to this Web site. No modification of the Terms and Conditions shall be effective unless it is authorized by Student Movers. If any provision of the Terms and Conditions is found to be contrary to law, then such provision(s) shall be constructed in a manner to closely reflect, as much as possible, the intentions of the parties, with the other provisions remaining in full force and effect. Release of liability in regard to the damage real property such as floors, walls, ceilings, landscaping, driveways, walkways, etc. are not covered under the basic mandated liability. Damage to such real property other exceptions to the prohibition against releasing a mover’s liability include limiting liability where a shipper packs perishable, dangerous, or hazardous materials without the mover’s knowledge. A shipper who packs such items without the mover’s knowledge may be held liable. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY / CLAIMS / COMPLETION OF SERVICES Customer acknowledges that small items, loose items, owner-packed cartons, plastic bags, unsealed containers, and items not specifically identified on shipping documents or inventory records are more susceptible to loss, misplacement, or damage during the moving process. Customer is solely responsible for securing and transporting cash, jewelry, firearms, medication, documents, collectibles, negotiable instruments, electronics containing sensitive data, and other items of extraordinary or sentimental value. Items of extraordinary value are defined as articles having a value exceeding $100.00 per pound per article, including but not limited to antiques, jewelry, watches, coins, precious stones, collectibles, heirlooms, artwork, sculptures, designer goods, and similar high-value property. Customer acknowledges that it is Customer’s sole responsibility to disclose such items in writing to Student Movers Services prior to the move in order to allow for proper handling considerations and applicable valuation coverage options. Customer acknowledges that it is Customer’s responsibility to secure and monitor valuables and to maintain reasonable supervision of the premises during the moving process. Customer agrees not to leave moving personnel unattended in the residence or on the property with access to valuables, jewelry, cash, firearms, safes, collectibles, or items of extraordinary value. Student Movers Services recommends that all valuables and items of extraordinary value be removed from the premises by Customer prior to commencement of services. Student Movers Services shall not be responsible for unsecured valuables allegedly missing from areas not specifically included within the contracted moving services or from areas accessible to Customer, family members, guests, contractors, building personnel, or other third parties during or after services are performed. Customer acknowledges that movers are not private security personnel and that maintaining security of the residence and supervision of non-moving areas remains Customer’s responsibility. Prior to the departure of Student Movers Services personnel, Customer shall have the opportunity to inspect all delivered items, rooms, truck areas, and premises. Any visible damage, missing items, or service-related concerns must be specifically noted in writing on the bill of lading, invoice, damage report, or electronic completion record before crew departure. If no written claims, damages, shortages, or exceptions are noted prior to crew departure, the move shall be presumed completed in satisfactory condition and in accordance with the contracted services as acknowledged by Customer’s written and/or electronic acceptance and completion of services. Customer agrees that Student Movers Services shall not be liable for claims of alleged missing items unless: the items are specifically identified in writing; the claim is reported within a reasonable time after delivery; the items were packed, handled, and transported solely by Student Movers Services; and Customer provides reasonable documentation supporting ownership and claimed value. Any claim alleging theft, missing property, or intentional misconduct must be supported by credible documentation or evidence reasonably sufficient to permit investigation and verification of the claim. False allegations, speculation, unsupported accusations, or claims made without reasonable supporting evidence shall not constitute valid claims. Customer acknowledges that delayed reporting of alleged theft or missing items substantially impairs the ability to investigate the claim, preserve evidence, identify potential third-party access, verify timelines, or determine whether the items were misplaced, previously missing, relocated, or accessed by persons other than Student Movers Services personnel. Student Movers Services personnel are present only for the limited purpose of performing contracted moving services in designated work areas requested by Customer. Student Movers Services shall not be responsible for alleged missing items from areas, rooms, closets, cabinets, containers, drawers, or storage locations not specifically included in the moving services requested by Customer. Any claim alleging theft, missing jewelry, valuables, cash, collectibles, or intentional misconduct must be reported in writing within twenty-four (24) hours after completion of services and must include reasonable supporting evidence sufficient to permit investigation, including item description, proof of ownership, photographs where available, approximate date last seen, and factual basis for the allegation. Student Movers Services reserves the right to deny any claim that is speculative, unsupported, inconsistent, unverifiable, untimely, or not supported by credible evidence. Mere suspicion, assumption, or unsupported accusation shall not constitute proof of theft, wrongdoing, or liability. Customer further acknowledges that multiple individuals, guests, family members, contractors, building personnel, or other third parties may have access to the premises before, during, and after moving services, and Student Movers Services shall not be presumed responsible for missing items absent credible evidence directly connecting the alleged loss to Student Movers Services personnel. All claims for loss or damage must be submitted in writing within nine (9) months after delivery, as required under applicable California household goods claims procedures. Written claims shall be mailed to: Student Movers Services 2901 West Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92663 Certified Mail is preferred for all claims submissions. Claims must include, where applicable: item description; item name; manufacturer; model number; serial number; estimated weight and dimensions; date of purchase; proof of purchase, ownership, or value; photographs of alleged damage; and a description of the claimed loss or damage. Failure to provide sufficient supporting documentation may delay investigation or result in denial of the claim where verification cannot reasonably be completed. Student Movers Services shall not be liable for loss, damage, or delay caused by: owner-packed cartons or containers; concealed damage; pre-existing damage; improperly packed items by Customer or third parties; items left unattended, unsecured, or not disclosed to crew; particle board, pressboard, ready-to-assemble furniture, or items susceptible to damage through normal moving; mechanical or electrical failure of electronics or appliances not directly caused by negligent handling; loss of data stored on electronic devices; or acts beyond its reasonable control. Except where prohibited by applicable law, Customer releases Student Movers Services from liability for claims asserted after completion of services where no written exceptions were documented at the time of delivery and completion. Nothing herein shall waive or limit liability for damages caused by gross negligence, fraud, theft, conversion, or willful misconduct where such limitation is prohibited by law. Unless Customer purchases additional valuation coverage in writing prior to the move, liability for loss or damage shall be limited to Basic Released Value Protection at a rate not exceeding $.60 (sixty cents) per pound per article, consistent with the minimum released valuation provided under applicable State and Federal law for licensed household goods carriers. Customer acknowledges that the Basic Released Value Protection provided by law is weight-based coverage only and may substantially differ from the actual replacement value of an item. Customer acknowledges that additional valuation or third-party moving insurance coverage is available and may be purchased independently prior to the move, including through: movinginsurance.com If Customer purchases separate third-party valuation or insurance coverage through movinginsurance.com or another provider, Customer agrees to first submit any applicable claim directly to that carrier or insurer and to notify Student Movers Services of the claim as well. SPECIALTY SERVICES / PROPERTY CONDITIONS / HEAVY ITEMS Customer acknowledges that Student Movers Services and its personnel are household goods movers only and are not licensed plumbers, electricians, carpenters, contractors, engineers, installers, or handymen. Any assembly, disassembly, mounting, appliance disconnect/reconnect, washer or dryer hookup, refrigerator water line disconnect/reconnect, TV mounting, furniture modification, fixture removal, or similar ancillary service performed at Customer’s request is performed solely as a courtesy and without warranty or guarantee of any kind. Customer expressly assumes all risk associated with any requested ancillary or courtesy service not constituting standard household goods transportation. Except where prohibited by law, Customer waives and releases any claim for alleged plumbing leaks, electrical issues, mounting failures, appliance malfunctions, water damage, mechanical failure, or related damages arising from or related to such requested services. Items weighing in excess of one hundred (100) pounds, oversized articles, safes, gun safes, pianos, marble, stone, fitness equipment, appliances, or unusually bulky items may be subject to additional labor charges, stair fees, rigging fees, shuttle fees, crane fees, or heavy-item charges at Student Movers Services’ discretion. Customer acknowledges that moving services inherently involve navigating tight hallways, stairways, doorways, elevators, landscaping, driveways, flooring transitions, and other structural limitations. Student Movers Services is not responsible for minor cosmetic damage, ordinary wear, stress-related cracking, settling, or unavoidable contact occurring as a result of moving oversized or heavy items through confined spaces or areas with limited clearance. Customer further acknowledges that Student Movers Services does not conduct or provide a comprehensive pre-move inspection of the residence or property and may be unable to identify all pre-existing damage conditions. Accordingly, Student Movers Services shall not be responsible for pre-existing damage or for alleged damage to walls, paint, flooring, tile, wood, windows, landscaping, driveways, handrails, door frames, ceilings, fixtures, cabinetry, sidewalks, irrigation systems, or similar property conditions not specifically documented in writing by Customer prior to commencement of services. Customer is responsible for documenting and notifying Student Movers Services in writing of any known pre-existing damage conditions before services begin. Failure to do so creates a presumption that any alleged condition existed prior to services or was not caused by Student Movers Services. Nothing herein shall waive liability for gross negligence or willful misconduct where prohibited by applicable law. Customer acknowledges acceptance of these terms and conditions by signing electronically or in writing. The timestamp and name of customer at time of booking will be proof of service as agreed to by customer these terms and conditions at time of booking said service. Consumer Information Disclosure (California Household Goods Moves) Electronic Disclosure & Consumer Information Acknowledgment Customer acknowledges that, prior to booking and/or accepting services, they have been provided electronic access to the California “Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods” booklet, available at: https://thestudentmovers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/important_information_for_persons_moving_household_goods_booklet.pdf Customer further acknowledges receipt of the 2026 Student Movers® Information Booklet, available at: https://thestudentmovers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Student-Movers-informationbooklet.pdf Customer confirms they have had a reasonable opportunity to review this information prior to entering into this agreement and voluntarily agrees that electronic delivery of such documents satisfies any applicable disclosure requirements. By proceeding with booking and/or checking the acknowledgment box, Customer expressly confirms receipt, access, and understanding of the required consumer information and agrees that Student Movers, Inc. has fulfilled its obligation to provide such disclosures electronically in accordance with applicable California household goods moving regulations administered by the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services. Customer acknowledges that, prior to booking and/or accepting services, they have been provided electronic access to the California “Important Information for Persons Moving Household Goods” booklet, available at: https://thestudentmovers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/important_information_for_persons_moving_household_goods_booklet.pdf Customer further confirms that they have had a reasonable opportunity to review this information prior to entering into this agreement and voluntarily agrees that electronic delivery of such information satisfies any applicable disclosure requirements. https://thestudentmovers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Student-Movers-informationbooklet.pdf By proceeding with booking and/or checking the acknowledgment box, Customer expressly confirms receipt and understanding of the required consumer information and agrees that the Company has fulfilled its obligation to provide such disclosure electronically. Customer also agrees that the name entered at the time of booking and the electronic booking timestamp (date and time of submission) shall serve as the Customer’s legal acknowledgment and record of acceptance of this disclosure and agreement. For any other questions not listed on this terms & conditions page, please email [email protected] or go to our Contact Page.

Cancellation Fee

Cancellation Once a booking is made by customer, scheduling, crew allocation, and operational preparation begin immediately. Customer acknowledges that reserved labor, equipment, and scheduling time are allocated specifically for the requested service date. Cancellations or changes to the scheduled date and time are permitted. However, Customer agrees that if cancellation or rescheduling occurs after booking, Student Movers, Inc. may charge for reasonable costs incurred in preparation for the move, including but not limited to crew reservation, dispatch scheduling, and administrative processing. These charges will be based on the minimum booked hours selected at the time of booking. Any request to change the date or time must be made at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled move date and time. By confirming the booking, Customer authorizes Student Movers, Inc. to charge the payment method on file for agreed-upon services and any applicable cancellation or preparation charges as outlined in this agreement. If crews have been assigned or dispatch preparation has begun, Customer may be charged a cancellation fee based on reserved labor and scheduled time, in addition to any non-recoverable operational costs. If the crew has been dispatched or arrives on-site, minimum service charges apply regardless of whether the move is completed. All cancellations must be submitted in writing. 4hrs is our minimum. Anything over 4 hours will be billed at the applicable booked rates for service. In addition, 5% will be billed per man for anything over 8hrs. Same day cancelations billed minimum cost, no refunds or exchanges. All cancelations must be in writing. Bids accepted are non-refundable for long distance moves.Mandatory 8 hr min for same day moves/bookings + additional $150 same day rush charge and any other applicable fees. I authorize Student Movers, Inc. to assign any charges associated with services to my credit card account I provide prior to the move and/or for any cancellation fee, when 72hrs notice was not given prior to the move date.Bids accepted are non-refundable for long distance moves.

Weight Requirements

Any item that weighs over 250 lbs or requires special equipment may be subject to an additional charge. Please be sure you let us know about any bulky or heavy items before your movers arrive.

2 Days Notice

Please plan for two days in advance and make sure to select the time you prefer so that we can give you priority. Two days notice is recommended, yet we can accommodate same day moves depending on our schedule.