NorthStar Moving Company review 2026 (San Francisco, CA)
In business since 1995 · Updated
NorthStar Moving Company, a San Francisco, CA moving company, ranks #117 of 1125 movers in California, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.44/5.
93% of NorthStar Moving Company's 1,870 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its affordable rates, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
In business since 1995, NorthStar Moving Company holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #1836576) and operates 11 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How NorthStar Moving Company measures up
Across 1,870 reviews, NorthStar Moving Company in San Francisco, CA is rated 4.6/5 on Yelp (958 reviews) and 4.9/5 on Google (835 reviews), and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
NorthStar Moving Company ranks #117 out of 1125 movers in California with a moveBuddha Score of 4.44 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.44.
- Website
- 5.0
- Customer service
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Review quality
- 4.5
- Brand
- 4.0
Google rating
Based on 835 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 958 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is NorthStar Moving Company moveBuddha Certified?
NorthStar Moving Company 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. NorthStar Moving Company 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 NorthStar Moving Company?
Out of 1,870 verified reviews, 93% of customers left a positive review about NorthStar Moving Company in San Francisco, CA. 5.2% of reviews are negative and 1.4% are neutral. NorthStar Moving Company has a 3% higher positive review percentage than the average California moving company (93% vs the California state average of 90%).
- Positive93.4%(1,747)
- Neutral1.4%(26)
- Negative5.2%(97)
Based on 1,870 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about NorthStar Moving Company
Affordable rates
Many reviewers found NorthStar Moving Company to be more budget-friendly than competitors without sacrificing quality.
Quick moving process
The team at NorthStar Moving Company often gets the job done faster than expected, saving clients time.
Consistency and follow-up
Reviewers liked that NorthStar Moving Company stayed in touch before and after the move to ensure everything went smoothly.
Quick response times
Customer support at NorthStar Moving Company was often noted for responding to questions or concerns almost immediately
Flexibility
Clients liked that NorthStar Moving Company was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
What positive reviewers say
“They also were one of the cheapest options that we were able to find.”
Skyler SelvinVerified ReviewerGoogle“Gustavo, Rodolfo, and Agustin were quick and efficient. Completed an estimated 4 hour move in half the time. Friendly guys, would hire again.”
Dalia PinedaVerified ReviewerGoogle“I've used Northstar 4-times now and they always do a good job. Honest people who are attentive and loyal to their customers.”
Damian WolfgramVerified ReviewerGoogle“I had a great experience with NorthStar! They were extremely reliable and proactive with communication from the start of the process to finish.”
Rosa AmeliaVerified ReviewerGoogle“Very flexible company, handled the move great. Took care of my stuff. Update, I have used them twice they are awesome.”
Chris SchusterVerified ReviewerGoogle
What mixed reviewers say
“The move went great, they were prompt and the movers we're all great. However, the movers had packed two lamp shades and after the move I realized they were not in the apartment.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Decidedly average. The guys were pleasant, but the three man crew was slow -seemed like the rate that a two man crew should have been able to work. Nothing was broken, but there were scratches on some of the furniture.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “Email communication was a spotty. We ended up contacting them to confirm our move even though they sent us an extremely convuluted email with our quote and timeline that explained they would call us.”
A KahrsVerified ReviewerGoogle
Most common complaints about NorthStar Moving Company
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
Misplaced or lost items
In some cases, belongings went missing or were delivered to the wrong location.
Lack of communication
Poor or inconsistent updates from NorthStar Moving Company left some customers feeling in the dark.
What negative reviewers say
“Thought it was great at the time, but have found damage to most of my furniture while unpacking. My impression is that they try and work so fast they are not as careful as they could be.”
jyn ersoVerified ReviewerGoogle“NorthStar lost three of my boxes. Losing one box would be surprising and frustrating, but three is ridiculous.”
Kurt KaminskiVerified ReviewerGoogle“They picked up my things 2 months ago. Still have not received anything. They still don’t know when it’ll arrive and keep giving me the runaround.”
Jeremy SharvitVerified ReviewerGoogle“Following the damage, Northstar complaint handling and I played phone tag for a few weeks before I gave up trying to get any reparation.”
Kianna CrowVerified ReviewerGoogle
NorthStar Moving Company
4.44San Francisco, CASince 1995
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
NorthStar Moving Company
4.44
San Francisco, CA · Since 1995
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from NorthStar Moving Company, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in San Francisco.
Compare prices side by side
See where NorthStar Moving Company 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 NorthStar Moving Company offer?
Licensed under US DOT number 1836576, NorthStar Moving Company offers full-service moving, local moves, long-distance moves, and international moves.
Services offered
Is NorthStar Moving Company licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 1836576 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, NorthStar Moving Company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 1836576, as NORTHSTAR MOVING CORPORATION, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a California intrastate license, number CAL P.U.C. T-182466.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover NorthStar Moving Company holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- CAL P.U.C. T-182466Issued by California. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- NORTHSTAR MOVING CORPORATIONThe 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
- 11Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Miles driven
- 220,000Reported to the FMCSA for 2023
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- June 2026
How much does NorthStar Moving Company cost?
NorthStar Moving Company 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 NorthStar Moving Company 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
NorthStar Moving Company 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 NorthStar Moving Company offer?
- Accepts
- Credit CardsCash
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
- Discounts
- Mover’s own offer
NorthStar Moving Company accepts credit cards and cash. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
NorthStar Moving Company also offers discounts on request. It also lists: Offers a 25% refund of the original cost when clients return qualifying used recycled boxes. Used recycled boxes are also offered at 25% off the price of new boxes; using both programs can result in 50% total savings. Available to local and California intrastate clients. Ask what you qualify for and how much you could save before you book.
How NorthStar Moving Company compares with the top 10 San Francisco movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.44 out of 5, NorthStar Moving Company ranks fifth among the top 10 San Francisco moving companies, just behind Dependable Movers, LLC and level on score with Good Green Moving but with more reviews. At 1,870 reviews, NorthStar Moving Company has more reviews than eight of the ten. Where NorthStar Moving Company pulls ahead is customer service: it has a customer service score higher than seven of the ten.
The ten highest-scoring local movers near San Francisco, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pure Moving CompanySan Francisco | 4.56 | 2,911 | 5.0 | 4.9 | A+ |
| 2 | NorthStar Moving CompanyNorthridge | 4.52 | 787 | 4.6 | 4.4 | A+ |
| 3 | Gentle Giant Moving CompanySan Bruno | 4.50 | 134 | 5.0 | 4.7 | A+ |
| 4 | Dependable Movers, LLCSan Francisco | 4.48 | 2,554 | 4.9 | 4.7 | A+ |
| 5 | NorthStar Moving CompanyThis mover · ranks #5 | 4.44 | 1,870 | 4.9 | 4.6 | A+ |
| 6 | Good Green MovingSan Francisco | 4.44 | 353 | 4.7 | 4.5 | F |
| 7 | Zapt MoversHayward | 4.42 | 772 | 4.4 | 2.0 | A+ |
| 8 | SF Bay Area MovingSouth San Francisco | 4.42 | 445 | 5.0 | 4.6 | A+ |
| 9 | Luigy's Moving & StorageSan Francisco | 4.42 | 126 | 4.6 | 4.7 | A+ |
| 10 | AMS BekinsBrisbane | 4.38 | 633 | 4.8 | 3.2 | A+ |
| 11 | Dywer Hauling & Moving ServicesSan Francisco | 4.38 | 62 | 5.0 | 5.0 | A+ |
How does NorthStar Moving Company compare to other California movers?
- moveBuddha score#117 of 1125(better than average)
4.44vs 3.68 avg
NorthStar Moving Company scores 4.44, above the California average of 3.68, and ranks #117 of 1125 California movers.
- Positive reviews#609 of 1125(better than average)
93%vs 90% avg
NorthStar Moving Company has 93% positive reviews, above the California average of 90%, and ranks #609 of 1125 California movers.
- Negative reviews#583 of 1125(better than average)
5%vs 9% avg
NorthStar Moving Company has 5% negative reviews, below the California average of 9%, and ranks #583 of 1125 California movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#14 of 1125(better than average)
1,870vs 270 avg
NorthStar Moving Company has 1,870 reviews analyzed, above the California average of 270, and ranks #14 of 1125 California movers.
- Yelp rating#155 of 1125(better than average)
4.6vs 4.3 avg
NorthStar Moving Company has a Yelp rating of 4.6, above the California average of 4.3, and ranks #155 of 1125 California movers.
- Years in business#79 of 1125(better than average)
31 yearsvs 22 years avg
NorthStar Moving Company has been in business for 31 years, above the California average of 22 years, and ranks #79 of 1125 California movers.
| Metric | This moverNorthStar Moving Company | California avg | California rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#117 of 1125 in California | 4.44 | 3.68 | #117 of 1125 | +0.76(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#609 of 1125 in California | 93% | 90% | #609 of 1125 | +3 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#583 of 1125 in California | 5% | 9% | #583 of 1125 | −4 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#14 of 1125 in California | 1,870 | 270 | #14 of 1125 | +1,600(better than average) |
| Yelp rating#155 of 1125 in California | 4.6 | 4.3 | #155 of 1125 | +0.3(better than average) |
| Years in business#79 of 1125 in California | 31 years | 22 years | #79 of 1125 | +9(better than average) |
Compared with 1125 California movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in California.
NorthStar Moving Company
4.44San Francisco, CASince 1995
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 NorthStar Moving Company, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in San Francisco.
Compare prices side by side
See where NorthStar Moving Company 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.
NorthStar Moving Company
4.44
San Francisco, CA · Since 1995
Final verdict: NorthStar Moving Company
NorthStar Moving Company earns a 4.44/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #5 among San Francisco movers, with 93% positive feedback across 1,870 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its affordable rates and quick moving process. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, helpful crews, and reliable service experience.
With 11 trucks and a track record dating to 1995, it has more 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.
NorthStar Moving Company
4.44
San Francisco, CA · Since 1995
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 NorthStar Moving Company
- Phone
- (415) 635-3844
- Website
- northstarmoving.com
Other NorthStar Moving Company 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.