Merit Moving Systems review 2026 (Thousand Palms, CA)
In business since 1986 · Updated
Merit Moving Systems, a Thousand Palms, CA moving company, ranks #41 of 1154 movers in California, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.52/5.
94% of Merit Moving Systems' 186 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its skilled drivers, while the most common complaint involves misplaced or lost items.
In business since 1986, Merit Moving Systems holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #1839600) and operates 6 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Merit Moving Systems measures up
Across 186 reviews, Merit Moving Systems in Thousand Palms, CA is rated 4.4/5 on Yelp (72 reviews) and 4.9/5 on Google (60 reviews), and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Merit Moving Systems ranks #41 out of 1154 movers in California with a moveBuddha Score of 4.52 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.52.
- Brand
- 5.0
- Website
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Customer service
- 4.7
- Review quality
- 4.5
Google rating
Based on 60 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 72 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Merit Moving Systems moveBuddha Certified?
Merit Moving Systems 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. Merit Moving Systems 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 Merit Moving Systems?
Out of 186 verified reviews, 94% of customers left a positive review about Merit Moving Systems in Thousand Palms, CA. 4.8% of reviews are negative and 1.1% are neutral. Merit Moving Systems has a 3% higher positive review percentage than the average California moving company (94% vs the California state average of 91%).
- Positive94.1%(175)
- Neutral1.1%(2)
- Negative4.8%(9)
Based on 186 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Merit Moving Systems
Skilled drivers
Multiple customers felt reassured by Merit Moving Systems's experienced drivers, especially on long-distance moves.
Consistency and follow-up
Reviewers liked that Merit Moving Systems stayed in touch before and after the move to ensure everything went smoothly.
Good communication
Reviewers frequently mention clear, consistent updates from Merit Moving Systems throughout the moving process.
Organized packing
Merit Moving Systems is often recognized for labeling boxes clearly and packing with structure and care.
Flexibility
Clients liked that Merit Moving Systems was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
What positive reviewers say
“Our cross-country move with Merit was excellent from beginning to end. The team was professional and responsive, Alyson coordinated everything well, and the all-inclusive quote avoided surprise charges.”
Yolanda R.Verified ReviewerYelp“The loading crew wrapped and loaded my furniture quickly and carefully. My driver handled inventory, drove the truck, and supervised unloading, while Alyson kept communication easy throughout.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “They arrived on time, communicated clearly, wrapped furniture meticulously, and delivered fragile items perfectly. Their organization and expertise made a potentially overwhelming cross-country move feel effortless.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Joe was responsive, Alyson was flexible and kind, and she arranged delivery around my travel schedule after a family emergency. Their professionalism made a complicated move manageable.”
Felix MurphetVerified ReviewerGoogle
What mixed reviewers say
“Most interactions were positive, but an estimator responded in a snarky, unprofessional way to questions. The coordinator, drivers, and crew were great.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “A shuttle was not discussed until moving day, resulting in an extra $1,500 charge. Office follow-up was consistent, but the added cost was a shock.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about Merit Moving Systems
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.
Unfriendly or rude staff
A few customers felt disrespected by curt or unhelpful movers or office staff.
What negative reviewers say
“Many boxes arrived crushed, and movers ignored my concerns. Three sentimental glassware pieces were broken, and a box of school supplies was missing.”
Amber HernandezVerified ReviewerGoogle“A third-party company lost 17 of 35 boxes and found only 12. Merit was not helpful in getting answers and took no responsibility for the move.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “About a third of our boxes arrived ripped, crushed, or damaged; our TV was cracked, and boxes containing a TV mount and video games were missing.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Upon delivery, the lead worker acted as if we were inconveniencing him, treated coworkers poorly, and kicked our dog while saying he hated dogs.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Merit Moving Systems
4.52Thousand Palms, CASince 1986
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Merit Moving Systems
4.52
Thousand Palms, CA · Since 1986
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Merit Moving Systems, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Thousand Palms.
Compare prices side by side
See where Merit Moving Systems 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 Merit Moving Systems offer?
Licensed under US DOT number 1839600, Merit Moving Systems offers full-service moving, local moves, long-distance moves, and international moves.
Services offered
- Full-service moving
- Local & in-state moving
- Long-distance moving
- International moving
- Office & commercial moving
- Small moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Fragile-only packing
- Custom crating
- Storage
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fine art
- Debris removal
Is Merit Moving Systems licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 1839600 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Merit Moving Systems is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 1839600, as MERIT MOVING & LOGISTICS LLC, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a California intrastate license, number 0192009.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Merit Moving Systems holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 0192009Issued by California. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- MERIT MOVING & LOGISTICS LLCThe 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
- 6Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Miles driven
- 235,000Reported to the FMCSA for 2024
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- June 2026
How much does Merit Moving Systems cost?
Merit Moving Systems 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 Merit Moving Systems 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
Merit Moving Systems 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 Merit Moving Systems offer?
- Accepts
- No credit cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
Merit Moving Systems 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 does Merit Moving Systems compare to other California movers?
- moveBuddha score#41 of 1154(better than average)
4.52vs 3.68 avg
Merit Moving Systems scores 4.52, above the California average of 3.68, and ranks #41 of 1154 California movers.
- Positive reviews#586 of 1154(better than average)
94%vs 91% avg
Merit Moving Systems has 94% positive reviews, above the California average of 91%, and ranks #586 of 1154 California movers.
- Negative reviews#575 of 1154(better than average)
5%vs 8% avg
Merit Moving Systems has 5% negative reviews, below the California average of 8%, and ranks #575 of 1154 California movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#387 of 1154(worse than average)
186vs 268 avg
Merit Moving Systems has 186 reviews analyzed, below the California average of 268, and ranks #387 of 1154 California movers.
- Yelp rating#190 of 1154(better than average)
4.4vs 4.3 avg
Merit Moving Systems has a Yelp rating of 4.4, above the California average of 4.3, and ranks #190 of 1154 California movers.
- Years in business#58 of 1154(better than average)
40 yearsvs 23 years avg
Merit Moving Systems has been in business for 40 years, above the California average of 23 years, and ranks #58 of 1154 California movers.
| Metric | This moverMerit Moving Systems | California avg | California rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#41 of 1154 in California | 4.52 | 3.68 | #41 of 1154 | +0.84(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#586 of 1154 in California | 94% | 91% | #586 of 1154 | +3 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#575 of 1154 in California | 5% | 8% | #575 of 1154 | −3 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#387 of 1154 in California | 186 | 268 | #387 of 1154 | −82(worse than average) |
| Yelp rating#190 of 1154 in California | 4.4 | 4.3 | #190 of 1154 | +0.1(better than average) |
| Years in business#58 of 1154 in California | 40 years | 23 years | #58 of 1154 | +17(better than average) |
Compared with 1154 California movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in California.
Merit Moving Systems
4.52Thousand Palms, CASince 1986
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 Merit Moving Systems, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Thousand Palms.
Compare prices side by side
See where Merit Moving Systems 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.
Merit Moving Systems
4.52
Thousand Palms, CA · Since 1986
Final verdict: Merit Moving Systems
Merit Moving Systems earns a 4.52/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #41 among California movers, with 94% positive feedback across 186 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its skilled drivers and consistency and follow-up. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, helpful crews, and reliable service experience.
With 6 trucks and a track record dating to 1986, it has more history than the average California mover, and the most common complaint is misplaced or lost items.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
Merit Moving Systems
4.52
Thousand Palms, CA · Since 1986
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 Merit Moving Systems
- Phone
- (760) 343-3464
- Website
- meritmovingsystems.com
Other Merit Moving Systems 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.