McCarthy Transfer & Storage review 2026 (El Cajon, CA)
In business since 1920 · Updated
McCarthy Transfer & Storage, an El Cajon, CA moving company, ranks #72 of 1154 movers in California, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.50/5.
91% of McCarthy Transfer & Storage's 222 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its knowledgeable staff, while the most common complaint involves poor packing quality.
McCarthy Transfer & Storage has been in business since 1920. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How McCarthy Transfer & Storage measures up
Across 222 reviews, McCarthy Transfer & Storage in El Cajon, CA is rated 4.8/5 on Google (142 reviews) and 4.4/5 on Yelp (102 reviews), and has a B- rating from the Better Business Bureau.
McCarthy Transfer & Storage ranks #72 out of 1154 movers in California with a moveBuddha Score of 4.50 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.50.
- Website
- 5.0
- Customer service
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Brand
- 4.5
- Review quality
- 4.5
Google rating
Based on 142 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 102 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is McCarthy Transfer & Storage moveBuddha Certified?
McCarthy Transfer & Storage 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. McCarthy Transfer & Storage 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 McCarthy Transfer & Storage?
Out of 222 verified reviews, 91% of customers left a positive review about McCarthy Transfer & Storage in El Cajon, CA. 8.1% of reviews are negative and 0.5% are neutral. McCarthy Transfer & Storage matches the average California moving company's positive review percentage (91% vs the California state average of 91%).
- Positive91.4%(203)
- Neutral0.5%(1)
- Negative8.1%(18)
Based on 222 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about McCarthy Transfer & Storage
Knowledgeable staff
Several reviewers pointed out that McCarthy Transfer & Storage's crew answered questions confidently and provided useful advice.
Experienced movers
With years of experience, McCarthy Transfer & Storage's crew brought confidence and know-how to each move.
Organized packing
McCarthy Transfer & Storage is often recognized for labeling boxes clearly and packing with structure and care.
Consistency and follow-up
Reviewers liked that McCarthy Transfer & Storage stayed in touch before and after the move to ensure everything went smoothly.
Good communication
Reviewers frequently mention clear, consistent updates from McCarthy Transfer & Storage throughout the moving process.
What positive reviewers say
“This is the third time I've used McCarthy Transfer & Storage. Every move was stress-free, with cordial, professional staff, clear communication, and movers who took great care of my possessions.”
Joseph O.Verified ReviewerYelp“After 12 military moves in 21 years, this was our most professional and courteous team. They cared for our belongings, assembled requested furniture, and helped account for missing items.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “The crew was proficient at packing my household goods, knew what should be packed, and completed the job in one day.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “The crew was knowledgeable about the process, fully equipped, efficient, and verified everything when the job was done. They made our first out-of-state move easy.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “The team was extremely respectful, communicated effectively, and informed us about paperwork and the military moving process. I will recommend McCarthy for its customer service and efficiency.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
What mixed reviewers say
“The crew communicated their arrival professionally, came early, worked hard, and completed the delivery efficiently. Their friendly attitude made the process easier, and I would use the service again.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about McCarthy Transfer & Storage
Poor packing quality
Subpar packing techniques by McCarthy Transfer & Storage led to crushed boxes or damaged goods for some clients.
Misplaced or lost items
In some cases, belongings went missing or were delivered to the wrong location.
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
What negative reviewers say
“Many items were broken or packed illogically, and a new Fire Stick went missing. The crew seemed nice, but the packing and inventory problems were very disappointing.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Every box I opened was a mess: tools were placed on a down comforter, shoes with kitchen pans, and shampoo spilled on children's toys. This was not a professional packing job.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Several valuable items went missing during transit, and multiple items were damaged. When I called, I was told to file a claim and received no further assistance.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The movers were polite and organized, but items left in drawers arrived in a mess, and they could not load all our furniture. We had to find help for the remaining items.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
McCarthy Transfer & Storage
4.50El Cajon, CASince 1920
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
McCarthy Transfer & Storage
4.50
El Cajon, CA · Since 1920
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from McCarthy Transfer & Storage, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in El Cajon.
Compare prices side by side
See where McCarthy Transfer & Storage 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 McCarthy Transfer & Storage offer?
McCarthy Transfer & Storage covers moving (local moves and long-distance moves), packing, and storage.
Services offered
Is McCarthy Transfer & Storage licensed and insured?
Registered with the FMCSA
US DOT 2059504. Operating status is not on this profile. Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
McCarthy Transfer & Storage is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 2059504. It also holds a California intrastate license, number 0154190.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover McCarthy Transfer & Storage holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 0154190Issued by California. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- FMCSA safety rating
- Not ratedMost carriers are unrated. A rating is only assigned after a compliance review. It is not a failed one.
How much does McCarthy Transfer & Storage cost?
McCarthy Transfer & Storage 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 McCarthy Transfer & Storage 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
McCarthy Transfer & Storage offers 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 McCarthy Transfer & Storage offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
McCarthy Transfer & Storage accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
How McCarthy Transfer & Storage compares with other local movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.50 out of 5, McCarthy Transfer & Storage places fourth when ranked against the four top-rated movers in the El Cajon area, level on score with Cali Moving & Storage Corp, which has more reviews, and just ahead of Coast 2 Coast Moving Inc. At 222 reviews, McCarthy Transfer & Storage has fewer reviews than three of the four. McCarthy Transfer & Storage has the highest brand score in the group, but a quote accuracy score that trails three of the four.
The four highest-scoring nearby movers, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California MoversPoway | 4.64 | 1,231 | 5.0 | 4.6 | A+ |
| 2 | 24/7 Moving and StorageSan Diego | 4.52 | 1,057 | 5.0 | 4.9 | A+ |
| 3 | Cali Moving & Storage CorpSan Diego | 4.50 | 531 | 4.8 | 4.1 | A+ |
| 4 | McCarthy Transfer & StorageThis mover · ranks #4 | 4.50 | 222 | 4.8 | 4.4 | B- |
| 5 | Coast 2 Coast Moving IncSan Diego | 4.48 | 105 | 5.0 | 4.9 | A+ |
How does McCarthy Transfer & Storage compare to other California movers?
- moveBuddha score#72 of 1154(better than average)
4.50vs 3.68 avg
McCarthy Transfer & Storage scores 4.50, above the California average of 3.68, and ranks #72 of 1154 California movers.
- Positive reviews#706 of 1154(level with average)
91%vs 91% avg
McCarthy Transfer & Storage has 91% positive reviews, in line with the California average of 91%, and ranks #706 of 1154 California movers.
- Negative reviews#728 of 1154(level with average)
8%vs 8% avg
McCarthy Transfer & Storage has 8% negative reviews, in line with the California average of 8%, and ranks #728 of 1154 California movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#333 of 1154(worse than average)
222vs 268 avg
McCarthy Transfer & Storage has 222 reviews analyzed, below the California average of 268, and ranks #333 of 1154 California movers.
- Yelp rating#201 of 1154(better than average)
4.4vs 4.3 avg
McCarthy Transfer & Storage has a Yelp rating of 4.4, above the California average of 4.3, and ranks #201 of 1154 California movers.
- Years in business#8 of 1154(better than average)
106 yearsvs 23 years avg
McCarthy Transfer & Storage has been in business for 106 years, above the California average of 23 years, and ranks #8 of 1154 California movers.
| Metric | This moverMcCarthy Transfer & Storage | California avg | California rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#72 of 1154 in California | 4.50 | 3.68 | #72 of 1154 | +0.82(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#706 of 1154 in California | 91% | 91% | #706 of 1154 | ±0 pts |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#728 of 1154 in California | 8% | 8% | #728 of 1154 | ±0 pts |
| Reviews analyzed#333 of 1154 in California | 222 | 268 | #333 of 1154 | −46(worse than average) |
| Yelp rating#201 of 1154 in California | 4.4 | 4.3 | #201 of 1154 | +0.1(better than average) |
| Years in business#8 of 1154 in California | 106 years | 23 years | #8 of 1154 | +83(better than average) |
Compared with 1154 California movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in California.
McCarthy Transfer & Storage
4.50El Cajon, CASince 1920
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 McCarthy Transfer & Storage, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in El Cajon.
Compare prices side by side
See where McCarthy Transfer & Storage 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.
McCarthy Transfer & Storage
4.50
El Cajon, CA · Since 1920
Final verdict: McCarthy Transfer & Storage
McCarthy Transfer & Storage earns a 4.50/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #72 among California movers, with 91% positive feedback across 222 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its knowledgeable staff and experienced movers. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, crew professionalism, and reliable service experience.
With a track record dating to 1920, it has more history than the average California mover, and the most common complaint is poor packing quality.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
McCarthy Transfer & Storage
4.50
El Cajon, CA · Since 1920
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 McCarthy Transfer & Storage
- Phone
- (619) 596-2594
- Website
- mccarthytransfer.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.