Lambert & Son Moving review 2026 (Santa Cruz, CA)
In business since 2005 · Updated
Lambert & Son Moving, a Santa Cruz, CA moving company, ranks #154 of 1154 movers in California, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.42/5.
96% of Lambert & Son Moving's 354 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its affordable rates, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
In business since 2005, Lambert & Son Moving holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #3528657) and operates 4 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Lambert & Son Moving measures up
Across 354 reviews, Lambert & Son Moving in Santa Cruz, CA is rated 4.8/5 on Yelp (183 reviews) and 4.9/5 on Google (154 reviews), and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Lambert & Son Moving ranks #154 out of 1154 movers in California with a moveBuddha Score of 4.42 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.42.
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Review quality
- 4.5
- Customer service
- 4.4
- Brand
- 4.0
- Website
- 4.0
Google rating
Based on 154 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 183 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Lambert & Son Moving moveBuddha Certified?
Lambert & Son Moving 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. Lambert & Son Moving 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 Lambert & Son Moving?
Out of 354 verified reviews, 96% of customers left a positive review about Lambert & Son Moving in Santa Cruz, CA. 3.1% of reviews are negative and 1.1% are neutral. Lambert & Son Moving has a 5% higher positive review percentage than the average California moving company (96% vs the California state average of 91%).
- Positive95.8%(339)
- Neutral1.1%(4)
- Negative3.1%(11)
Based on 354 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Lambert & Son Moving
Affordable rates
Many reviewers found Lambert & Son Moving to be more budget-friendly than competitors without sacrificing quality.
Experienced movers
With years of experience, Lambert & Son Moving's crew brought confidence and know-how to each move.
Flexibility
Clients liked that Lambert & Son Moving was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Organized packing
Lambert & Son Moving is often recognized for labeling boxes clearly and packing with structure and care.
Consistency and follow-up
Reviewers liked that Lambert & Son Moving stayed in touch before and after the move to ensure everything went smoothly.
What positive reviewers say
“They showed up a little ahead of schedule and were very efficient and helpful when packing and loading. Their final price was exactly as quoted. I’ll be using them again because of their thorough communication and professionalism.”
Martin DehmlerVerified ReviewerGoogle“They are, by far, the best movers I've ever had. They were SO efficient, careful, and flexible. I've never had movers get everything done so quickly.”
Jake BymanVerified ReviewerGoogle“We've used Lambert & Son 3 times now -once to unload PODS and twice to do whole-house moves. Lambert's been exceptional. Their customer service contact, Michelle Snow, is extremely responsive, experienced, friendly, and helpful. The pricing was very fair.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Every single time Lambert and Sons has been able to help, and each of the crews we have worked with has been professional, friendly, careful and efficient.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “These guys made the process of moving as easy as a move can be. The estimator, Dan, showed up when scheduled. The final bill was as estimated so NO additional costs & the crew of 6 w/2 trucks was incredible.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
What mixed reviewers say
“The company is well organized and moved everything without any damage or losses. Everyone was courteous and polite. However, the crew of three men moved slowly. They spent time on their phones and worked in a relaxed pace.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “I called several times and was promised a call back and never got it. My wife even called them and said they'd call back. Nothing. Not even a voicemail.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “It turned out they only do piano moving as part of the full move. So, for those, like me, who need to move their piano (and piano only), keep looking.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about Lambert & Son Moving
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
Lack of communication
Poor or inconsistent updates from Lambert & Son Moving left some customers feeling in the dark.
Misplaced or lost items
In some cases, belongings went missing or were delivered to the wrong location.
What negative reviewers say
“The movers need training however in handling furniture gently. They broke a shelf in an antique sideboard. Broke a leg on an armoire and when gluing it back together they got gorilla glue on my freshly refinished wood floors.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “I will never know whether they deserve the high marks they've earned from other reviewers because, even though I called twice and was told someone would get back to me, no one ever did.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The fact that the box is missing does not mean stolen by the employees, but that it went missing while in the time that had control over my belongings.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Nothing was secured within the truck and most of the furniture and applicances weren't even wrapped; heavy stuff on top of light stuff, etc..”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Lambert & Son Moving
4.42Santa Cruz, CASince 2005
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Lambert & Son Moving
4.42
Santa Cruz, CA · Since 2005
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Lambert & Son Moving, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Santa Cruz.
Compare prices side by side
See where Lambert & Son Moving 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 Lambert & Son Moving offer?
Lambert & Son Moving handles long-distance moves from Santa Cruz, CA, with services including packing, storage, and piano moving.
Services offered
Is Lambert & Son Moving licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 3528657 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Lambert & Son Moving is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 3528657, as BILL LAMBERT, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a California intrastate license, number 0189973.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Lambert & Son Moving holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 0189973Issued by California. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- BILL LAMBERTThe entity behind the trading name, as filed with the FMCSA
- Doing business as
- LAMBERT AND SON MOVINGTrade name on file 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
- 4Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Miles driven
- 100,000Reported to the FMCSA for 2024
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- June 2026
How much does Lambert & Son Moving cost?
Lambert & Son Moving 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 Lambert & Son Moving 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
Lambert & Son Moving 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 Lambert & Son Moving offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
- Discounts
- Military
Lambert & Son Moving accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
Lambert & Son Moving also offers a military discount. Ask what you qualify for and how much you could save before you book.
How Lambert & Son Moving compares with the top 5 Santa Cruz movers
Lambert & Son Moving outscores all of the five highest-scoring Santa Cruz moving companies with a moveBuddha score of 4.42 out of 5, 0.06 points ahead of Careful Movers. At 354 reviews, Lambert & Son Moving has more reviews than four of the five. Lambert & Son Moving stands out with an industry experience score higher than four of the five.
The five highest-scoring local movers near Santa Cruz, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lambert & Son MovingThis mover · ranks #1 | 4.42 | 354 | 4.9 | 4.8 | A+ |
| 2 | Careful MoversMenlo Park | 4.36 | 1,059 | 4.7 | 4.8 | B+ |
| 3 | Fairprice MoversSan Jose | 4.36 | 96 | 5.0 | 4.8 | A+ |
| 4 | 831 MoversSanta Cruz | 4.28 | 28 | 5.0 | 5.0 | A+ |
| 5 | Everest MovingSunnyvale | 4.22 | 239 | 3.8 | 4.7 | — |
| 6 | Southwest MovingSanta Cruz | 4.02 | 17 | 5.0 | 5.0 | — |
How does Lambert & Son Moving compare to other California movers?
- moveBuddha score#154 of 1154(better than average)
4.42vs 3.68 avg
Lambert & Son Moving scores 4.42, above the California average of 3.68, and ranks #154 of 1154 California movers.
- Positive reviews#494 of 1154(better than average)
96%vs 91% avg
Lambert & Son Moving has 96% positive reviews, above the California average of 91%, and ranks #494 of 1154 California movers.
- Negative reviews#474 of 1154(better than average)
3%vs 8% avg
Lambert & Son Moving has 3% negative reviews, below the California average of 8%, and ranks #474 of 1154 California movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#224 of 1154(better than average)
354vs 268 avg
Lambert & Son Moving has 354 reviews analyzed, above the California average of 268, and ranks #224 of 1154 California movers.
- Yelp rating#76 of 1154(better than average)
4.8vs 4.3 avg
Lambert & Son Moving has a Yelp rating of 4.8, above the California average of 4.3, and ranks #76 of 1154 California movers.
- Years in business#141 of 1154(worse than average)
21 yearsvs 23 years avg
Lambert & Son Moving has been in business for 21 years, below the California average of 23 years, and ranks #141 of 1154 California movers.
| Metric | This moverLambert & Son Moving | California avg | California rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#154 of 1154 in California | 4.42 | 3.68 | #154 of 1154 | +0.74(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#494 of 1154 in California | 96% | 91% | #494 of 1154 | +5 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#474 of 1154 in California | 3% | 8% | #474 of 1154 | −5 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#224 of 1154 in California | 354 | 268 | #224 of 1154 | +86(better than average) |
| Yelp rating#76 of 1154 in California | 4.8 | 4.3 | #76 of 1154 | +0.5(better than average) |
| Years in business#141 of 1154 in California | 21 years | 23 years | #141 of 1154 | −2(worse than average) |
Compared with 1154 California movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in California.
Lambert & Son Moving
4.42Santa Cruz, CASince 2005
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 Lambert & Son Moving, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Santa Cruz.
Compare prices side by side
See where Lambert & Son Moving 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.
Lambert & Son Moving
4.42
Santa Cruz, CA · Since 2005
Final verdict: Lambert & Son Moving
Lambert & Son Moving earns a 4.42/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #1 among Santa Cruz movers, with 96% positive feedback across 354 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its affordable rates and experienced movers. It is best for customers prioritizing crew professionalism, helpful crews, and reliable service experience.
With 4 trucks and a track record dating to 2005, it has less history than the average California mover, and the most common complaint is damage to items.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
Lambert & Son Moving
4.42
Santa Cruz, CA · Since 2005
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 Lambert & Son Moving
- Phone
- (831) 777-4265
- Website
- lambertmoving.com
Other Lambert & Son Moving 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.