Fresh Start Movers review 2026 (Santa Rosa, CA)
In business since 2016 · Updated
Fresh Start Movers, a Santa Rosa, CA moving company, ranks #176 of 1154 movers in California, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.38/5.
99% of Fresh Start Movers' 975 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its flexibility, while the most common complaint involves unexpected charges.
In business since 2016, Fresh Start Movers holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #4466174) and operates 7 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Fresh Start Movers measures up
Across 975 reviews, Fresh Start Movers in Santa Rosa, CA is rated 5/5 on Google (537 reviews) and 5/5 on Yelp (108 reviews), and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Fresh Start Movers ranks #176 out of 1154 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.
- Website
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Review quality
- 4.5
- Customer service
- 4.4
- Brand
- 4.0
Google rating
Based on 537 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 108 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Fresh Start Movers moveBuddha Certified?
Fresh Start 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. Fresh Start 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 Fresh Start Movers?
Out of 975 verified reviews, 99% of customers left a positive review about Fresh Start Movers in Santa Rosa, CA. 0.8% of reviews are negative. Fresh Start Movers has a 8% higher positive review percentage than the average California moving company (99% vs the California state average of 91%).
- Positive99.2%(967)
- Negative0.8%(8)
Based on 975 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Fresh Start Movers
Flexibility
Clients liked that Fresh Start Movers was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Friendly and approachable staff
Many customers felt at ease working with the courteous and personable team at Fresh Start Movers.
Respectful of property
Customers appreciated how carefully Fresh Start Movers's team maneuvered furniture through tight spaces without damaging walls or floors.
Careful handling
Belongings are treated with caution, and many customers report zero damage thanks to Fresh Start Movers's attention to detail.
Good communication
Reviewers frequently mention clear, consistent updates from Fresh Start Movers throughout the moving process.
What positive reviewers say
“Absolutely great -service oriented, friendly, professional, and suuuper flexible because we had to change our date at least 6 times.”
Elizabeth KeelerVerified ReviewerGoogle“They were careful with our belongings, flexible as plans evolved, hardworking, and consistently pleasant to work with. Communication was clear and responsive, and costs were transparent with no surprises.”
Kate MataVerified ReviewerGoogle“David and Marcos moved everything quickly and safely, even removing a door and reinstalling it when needed. All of our furniture and doorways were wrapped with padding to protect them.”
Ford Frederick (FredSled)Verified ReviewerGoogle“John and his friendly moving crew took great care to ensure all of my furniture and belongings were carefully wrapped, protected, and transported. They placed items in the appropriate rooms and locations.”
Dee VasVerified ReviewerGoogle
Most common complaints about Fresh Start Movers
Unexpected charges
Hidden fees or surprise costs caused dissatisfaction among some Fresh Start Movers clients.
Unprofessional behavior
Complaints included movers using foul language, showing up late, or acting inappropriately.
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
What negative reviewers say
“The quoted price of $4200.-4,600 shockingly changed to $5,600+.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Movers forgot to unload truck completely at the storage unit, drove to next location and they realized then we had to go back. Go double charged for labor and a separate drive time.”
Keaton GreenVerified ReviewerGoogle“I was extremely uncomfortable with the male moving staff. Please keep your eyes to yourself while you are on the job.”
Mary McCoyVerified ReviewerGoogle“Postscript: this business belatedly provided a quote. It was $570-$670 higher than the quote provided by a competitive family company with a BBB A+ rating.”
Bob HeymannVerified ReviewerGoogle“terrible truck drivers beware if you want your tgings safe…”
Starting TechVerified ReviewerGoogle
Fresh Start Movers
4.38Santa Rosa, CASince 2016
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Fresh Start Movers
4.38
Santa Rosa, CA · Since 2016
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Fresh Start Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Santa Rosa.
Compare prices side by side
See where Fresh Start 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 Fresh Start Movers offer?
Fresh Start Movers offers full-service moving, labor-only loading help, and local moves. It also provides long-distance moves, commercial moves, and small moves.
Services offered
Is Fresh Start Movers licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 4466174 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Fresh Start Movers is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 4466174, as FRESH START MOVERS INC, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a California intrastate license, number 0191564.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Fresh Start Movers holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 0191564Issued by California. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- FRESH START MOVERS INCThe 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
- 7Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Miles driven
- 0 (0 )Reported to the FMCSA
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- September 2026
How much does Fresh Start Movers cost?
Fresh Start 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 Fresh Start 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
Fresh Start 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 Fresh Start Movers offer?
- Accepts
- No credit cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
Fresh Start Movers does not list any accepted payment methods on moveBuddha. Confirm how they take payment before moving day. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
How Fresh Start Movers compares with the top 4 Santa Rosa movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.38 out of 5, Fresh Start Movers places third when ranked against the four top-scoring movers in Santa Rosa, 0.06 points behind Need A Hand Movers and 0.08 points ahead of XT Long Distance Movers. Fresh Start Movers has more reviews than any of them, at 975. Fresh Start Movers stands out with a customer service score higher than three of the four.
The four highest-scoring local movers near Santa Rosa, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mentors Moving & StorageSanta Rosa | 4.52 | 557 | 4.9 | 4.8 | A+ |
| 2 | Need A Hand MoversSanta Rosa | 4.44 | 423 | 4.9 | 4.6 | A+ |
| 3 | Fresh Start MoversThis mover · ranks #3 | 4.38 | 975 | 5.0 | 5.0 | A+ |
| 4 | XT Long Distance MoversDanville | 4.30 | 220 | 4.9 | 4.8 | A+ |
| 5 | Sunny MoversPetaluma | 4.08 | 146 | 4.8 | — | — |
How does Fresh Start Movers compare to other California movers?
- moveBuddha score#176 of 1154(better than average)
4.38vs 3.68 avg
Fresh Start Movers scores 4.38, above the California average of 3.68, and ranks #176 of 1154 California movers.
- Positive reviews#269 of 1154(better than average)
99%vs 91% avg
Fresh Start Movers has 99% positive reviews, above the California average of 91%, and ranks #269 of 1154 California movers.
- Negative reviews#313 of 1154(better than average)
1%vs 8% avg
Fresh Start Movers has 1% negative reviews, below the California average of 8%, and ranks #313 of 1154 California movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#75 of 1154(better than average)
975vs 268 avg
Fresh Start Movers has 975 reviews analyzed, above the California average of 268, and ranks #75 of 1154 California movers.
- Yelp rating#7 of 1154(better than average)
5.0vs 4.3 avg
Fresh Start Movers has a Yelp rating of 5.0, above the California average of 4.3, and ranks #7 of 1154 California movers.
- Years in business#286 of 1154(worse than average)
10 yearsvs 23 years avg
Fresh Start Movers has been in business for 10 years, below the California average of 23 years, and ranks #286 of 1154 California movers.
| Metric | This moverFresh Start Movers | California avg | California rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#176 of 1154 in California | 4.38 | 3.68 | #176 of 1154 | +0.70(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#269 of 1154 in California | 99% | 91% | #269 of 1154 | +8 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#313 of 1154 in California | 1% | 8% | #313 of 1154 | −7 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#75 of 1154 in California | 975 | 268 | #75 of 1154 | +707(better than average) |
| Yelp rating#7 of 1154 in California | 5.0 | 4.3 | #7 of 1154 | +0.7(better than average) |
| Years in business#286 of 1154 in California | 10 years | 23 years | #286 of 1154 | −13(worse than average) |
Compared with 1154 California movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in California.
Fresh Start Movers
4.38Santa Rosa, CASince 2016
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 Fresh Start Movers, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Santa Rosa.
Compare prices side by side
See where Fresh Start 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.
Fresh Start Movers
4.38
Santa Rosa, CA · Since 2016
Final verdict: Fresh Start Movers
Fresh Start Movers earns a 4.38/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #3 among Santa Rosa movers, with 99% positive feedback across 975 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its flexibility and friendly and approachable staff. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, crew professionalism, and reliable service experience.
With 7 trucks and a track record dating to 2016, 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.
Fresh Start Movers
4.38
Santa Rosa, CA · Since 2016
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 Fresh Start Movers
- Phone
- (707) 490-4099
- Website
- freshstartmovers1.com
Other Fresh Start Movers locations
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.