Big Island Movers review 2026 (Modesto, CA)
In business since 2012 · Updated
Big Island Movers, a Modesto, CA moving company, ranks #177 of 1153 movers in California, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.38/5.
94% of Big Island Movers' 189 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its flexibility, while the most common complaint involves unexpected charges.
In business since 2012, Big Island Movers holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #4168585) and operates 3 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Big Island Movers measures up
Across 189 reviews, Big Island Movers in Modesto, CA is rated 4.8/5 on Google (97 reviews) and 4.4/5 on Yelp (65 reviews), and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Big Island Movers ranks #177 out of 1153 movers in California with a moveBuddha Score of 4.38 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.38.
- Industry experience
- 4.7
- Review quality
- 4.5
- Customer service
- 4.1
- Brand
- 4.0
- Website
- 4.0
Google rating
Based on 97 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 65 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Big Island Movers moveBuddha Certified?
Big Island Movers is not moveBuddha Certified. Certified movers are licensed carriers vetted by moveBuddha and spot-checked every quarter. They meet higher standards for insurance, pricing transparency, and customer care.
With a Certified mover, moveBuddha does the vetting for you and provides added protection. Big Island Movers hasn't gone through that certification process, so it's important to check licensing, insurance, estimates, and claims policies yourself before booking.
What movebuddha certified movers offer
- Up to $1,000 in added move coverage*. Extra protection for eligible moves.
- Vetted for licensing and insurance**. We verify state-required insurance for local movers and liability and cargo coverage for interstate movers.
- Dedicated moveBuddha support. Help through the move process.
- Dispute mediation. moveBuddha steps in if issues arise.
Before you book, check:
- USDOT and MC numbers. Look up the license and complaint history on FMCSA's site.
- Insurance coverage. Ask for proof of liability and cargo insurance.
- A written estimate. Binding or not-to-exceed, with every fee listed.
- The claims process. Ask how damage claims are filed and how long they take.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind. About moveBuddha Certified
** Local movers must hold insurance that meets state requirements for local moves. Interstate movers must carry auto liability of at least $750,000, general liability of at least $1M, and motor truck cargo coverage at or above $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurrence.
What do customers say about Big Island Movers?
Out of 189 verified reviews, 94% of customers left a positive review about Big Island Movers in Modesto, CA. 5.8% of reviews are negative. Big Island Movers has a 3% higher positive review percentage than the average California moving company (94% vs the California state average of 91%).
- Positive94.2%(178)
- Negative5.8%(11)
Based on 189 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Big Island Movers
Flexibility
Clients liked that Big Island Movers was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Affordable rates
Many reviewers found Big Island Movers to be more budget-friendly than competitors without sacrificing quality.
Friendly and approachable staff
Many customers felt at ease working with the courteous and personable team at Big Island Movers.
Quick moving process
The team at Big Island Movers often gets the job done faster than expected, saving clients time.
Respectful of property
Customers appreciated how carefully Big Island Movers's team maneuvered furniture through tight spaces without damaging walls or floors.
What positive reviewers say
“Big Island Movers was able to set up our move date with only about a week's notice. They were very communicative before and throughout the whole process.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The price they quoted me was better than the three other companies I contacted. They were able to accommodate my moving date and were punctual as well. Definitely a great experience and would use them again in a heart beat.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “On the day of the move, 3 guys arrived ready to work -they loaded everything in 2 hours and had it unloaded in another 2.5. They were incredibly nice and pleasant to work with.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Ivan and Charlie were very professional, very prompt and handled our furniture with gentle care. I would recommend this company without hesitation.”
Linda AllenVerified ReviewerGoogle“Jason was quick to get me a quote and followed through with an efficient and affordable move. It was a big relief to have Big Island Movers to count on.”
James MooreVerified ReviewerGoogle
Most common complaints about Big Island Movers
Unexpected charges
Hidden fees or surprise costs caused dissatisfaction among some Big Island Movers clients.
Unprofessional behavior
Complaints included movers using foul language, showing up late, or acting inappropriately.
Lack of communication
Poor or inconsistent updates from Big Island Movers left some customers feeling in the dark.
What negative reviewers say
“We were informed by Joe that it would be $195 per hour. When they finished at about 2 hours we were told it would be $760. There was no mention of a 4 hour minimum when we first called.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Days go by and I still had no response. We still didn't have an estimate. I called a few more times, my husband called, and we left voicemails.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “As I was talking to Joe, he responded with 'well your stupid for not getting movers sooner.' I decided to look the other way and continue with the request for a quote.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Today memorial Day Monday I get a call from the owner who tells me that the men calculated it wrong. Now the owner calls me and says I owe more money.”
Shauna KraftVerified ReviewerGoogle
Big Island Movers
4.38Modesto, CASince 2012
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Big Island Movers
4.38
Modesto, CA · Since 2012
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Big Island Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Modesto.
Compare prices side by side
See where Big Island Movers lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
What services does Big Island Movers offer?
Big Island Movers handles local moves and long-distance moves from Modesto, CA, with services including small moves, senior moves, and packing.
Services offered
Is Big Island Movers licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 4168585 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Big Island Movers is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 4168585, as JOSEPH K KAAEKUAHIWI, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a California intrastate license, number 0190630.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Big Island Movers holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 0190630Issued by California. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- JOSEPH K KAAEKUAHIWIThe entity behind the trading name, as filed with the FMCSA
- FMCSA safety rating
- Not ratedMost carriers are unrated. A rating is only assigned after a compliance review. It is not a failed one.
- Trucks registered
- 3Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- July 2026
How much does Big Island Movers cost?
Big Island Movers does not publish hourly rates or flat fees publicly. Based on moveBuddha's data on moving companies operating in California, you can expect to pay approximately $129/hr. Total local-move costs from similar movers typically run $400–$750 for a studio or 1-bedroom, $850–$1,750 for a 2-3 bedroom, and $1,700–$3,400 for a 4+ bedroom home. Long-distance (500-1,000 mi) 2-3 bedroom moves from similar movers typically run $4,500–$7,500.
What similar movers typically bill for a local move
Full-service California moving companies similar to Big Island Movers typically bill the amounts below using a $129/hr rate for a 2-person crew and scaling up for larger homes that need more movers and hours.
| Home size | Typical total | Time and crew |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $400–$750 | 3–5 hours, 2 movers |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $850–$1,750 | 5–8 hours, 2–3 movers |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,700–$3,400 | 8–12 hours, 3–4 movers |
What similar movers typically bill for a long-distance move
Big Island Movers is licensed for interstate moves, which are typically priced by weight and distance. Ranges below reflect totals from similar full-service California moving companies.
| Home size | Distance | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $4,500–$7,500 |
| 4+ bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $7,000–$11,500 |
What payment options and discounts does Big Island Movers offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
- Discounts
- MilitarySenior
Big Island Movers accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
Big Island Movers also offers military and senior discounts. Ask what you qualify for and how much you could save before you book.
How Big Island Movers compares with the top 6 Modesto movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.38 out of 5, Big Island Movers places sixth when ranked against the six top-scoring Modesto movers, just behind Casey Moving Systems and 0.10 points ahead of Brewer Moving LLC. Big Island Movers has a quote accuracy score higher than five of the six, but a brand score that trails five of the six.
The six highest-scoring local movers near Modesto, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pete's Moving ServicesSalida | 4.56 | 1,473 | 4.8 | 3.9 | A+ |
| 2 | MidCal Moving and Storage CompanyStockton | 4.56 | 110 | 4.6 | 4.1 | A+ |
| 3 | Grace Moving CompanyModesto | 4.52 | 671 | 4.9 | 4.5 | A |
| 4 | Meathead MoversClovis | 4.42 | 1,499 | 4.8 | 3.8 | A+ |
| 5 | Casey Moving SystemsCeres | 4.42 | 67 | 4.7 | 3.8 | A+ |
| 6 | Big Island MoversThis mover · ranks #6 | 4.38 | 189 | 4.8 | 4.4 | A+ |
| 7 | Brewer Moving LLCModesto | 4.28 | 394 | 4.9 | 4.3 | A+ |
How does Big Island Movers compare to other California movers?
- moveBuddha score#177 of 1153(better than average)
4.38vs 3.67 avg
Big Island Movers scores 4.38, above the California average of 3.67, and ranks #177 of 1153 California movers.
- Positive reviews#581 of 1153(better than average)
94%vs 91% avg
Big Island Movers has 94% positive reviews, above the California average of 91%, and ranks #581 of 1153 California movers.
- Negative reviews#622 of 1153(better than average)
6%vs 8% avg
Big Island Movers has 6% negative reviews, below the California average of 8%, and ranks #622 of 1153 California movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#382 of 1153(worse than average)
189vs 268 avg
Big Island Movers has 189 reviews analyzed, below the California average of 268, and ranks #382 of 1153 California movers.
- Yelp rating#196 of 1153(better than average)
4.4vs 4.3 avg
Big Island Movers has a Yelp rating of 4.4, above the California average of 4.3, and ranks #196 of 1153 California movers.
- Years in business#213 of 1153(worse than average)
14 yearsvs 23 years avg
Big Island Movers has been in business for 14 years, below the California average of 23 years, and ranks #213 of 1153 California movers.
| Metric | This moverBig Island Movers | California avg | California rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#177 of 1153 in California | 4.38 | 3.67 | #177 of 1153 | +0.71(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#581 of 1153 in California | 94% | 91% | #581 of 1153 | +3 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#622 of 1153 in California | 6% | 8% | #622 of 1153 | −2 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#382 of 1153 in California | 189 | 268 | #382 of 1153 | −79(worse than average) |
| Yelp rating#196 of 1153 in California | 4.4 | 4.3 | #196 of 1153 | +0.1(better than average) |
| Years in business#213 of 1153 in California | 14 years | 23 years | #213 of 1153 | −9(worse than average) |
Compared with 1153 California movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in California.
Big Island Movers
4.38Modesto, CASince 2012
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Big Island Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Modesto.
Compare prices side by side
See where Big Island Movers lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
Big Island Movers
4.38
Modesto, CA · Since 2012
Final verdict: Big Island Movers
Big Island Movers earns a 4.38/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #6 among Modesto movers, with 94% positive feedback across 189 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its flexibility and affordable rates. It is best for customers prioritizing crew professionalism, helpful crews, and reliable service experience.
With 3 trucks and a track record dating to 2012, it has less history than the average California mover, and the most common complaint is unexpected charges.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
Big Island Movers
4.38
Modesto, CA · Since 2012
Why moveBuddha?
- 30%+Average savings
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before booking.
Calculate your California moving cost - $1,000Added move coverage*
When you choose a moveBuddha Certified mover, you get $1,000 in added move coverage*, plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- 1-on-1Dispute mediation
If something goes wrong, moveBuddha provides dispute mediation with Certified movers to help resolve the issue and protect your move.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind.
Contact Big Island Movers
- Phone
- (209) 780-7037
- Website
- bigislandmovers.com
Helpful California moving resources
How we score moving companies
Every mover on moveBuddha is scored on the same six factors, weighted by how much each one changes a move.
- Quotes & payment optionsWeighs most
The heaviest factor, because price certainty is where moves go wrong. We reward estimates you can hold a mover to, and terms disclosed before you pay.
- Online reputationMajor factor
An objective read from third parties rather than from the mover. The Google rating for the company's headquarters sets the band; Trustpilot, BBB, and independent review sites are read alongside it.
- ServicesMajor factor
The range a mover can actually cover, scored across seven categories, with extra credit for the uncommon ones most companies hand off to a subcontractor.
- Customer supportSupporting factor
How easily you can reach a human, and how clearly the mover sets expectations before, during, and after the move. Verified against company documentation and direct outreach.
- Review feedbackSupporting factor
A company's share of positive customer feedback, converted straight to points, with no curve and no editorial adjustment.
- State availabilityMinor factor
The lightest factor, and deliberately so: wide coverage helps more readers reach a mover, but it says nothing about how good the move will be.
What the scores are built on
- 4,500+Moving companies analyzed
- 1M+Authenticated reviews
- 25+Independent data sources
- 1,000+Live price points a month
- $0Paid for a ranking
- MonthlyRefreshed and re-verified
Written by
Ryan CarriganCo-founder, moveBuddha
Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.