Waters Moving & Storage review 2026 (Martinez, CA)
In business since 1975 · Updated
Waters Moving & Storage, a Martinez, CA moving company, ranks #220 of 1154 movers in California, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.34/5.
90% of Waters Moving & Storage's 342 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its flexibility, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
In business since 1975, Waters Moving & Storage holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #1125579) and operates 35 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Waters Moving & Storage measures up
Across 342 reviews, Waters Moving & Storage in Martinez, CA is rated 4.8/5 on Google (189 reviews) and 4.2/5 on Yelp (136 reviews).
Waters Moving & Storage ranks #220 out of 1154 movers in California with a moveBuddha Score of 4.34 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.34.
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Brand
- 4.5
- Review quality
- 4.5
- Customer service
- 4.1
- Website
- 4.0
Google rating
Based on 189 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 136 reviews
Is Waters Moving & Storage moveBuddha Certified?
Waters Moving & 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. Waters Moving & 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 Waters Moving & Storage?
Out of 342 verified reviews, 90% of customers left a positive review about Waters Moving & Storage in Martinez, CA. 8.8% of reviews are negative and 0.9% are neutral. Waters Moving & Storage has a 1% lower positive review percentage than the average California moving company (90% vs the California state average of 91%).
- Positive90.4%(309)
- Neutral0.9%(3)
- Negative8.8%(30)
Based on 342 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Waters Moving & Storage
Flexibility
Clients liked that Waters Moving & Storage was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Affordable rates
Many reviewers found Waters Moving & Storage to be more budget-friendly than competitors without sacrificing quality.
Consistency and follow-up
Reviewers liked that Waters Moving & Storage stayed in touch before and after the move to ensure everything went smoothly.
Respectful of property
Customers appreciated how carefully Waters Moving & Storage'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 Waters Moving & Storage's attention to detail.
What positive reviewers say
“The team was friendly & communicative, and the job was done efficiently. The price was super reasonable and the crew that loaded/unloaded was professional and handled everything beautifully.”
Carrie CaudillVerified ReviewerGoogle“I tend to ask them to reposition beds and couches multiple times while I make decisions, and they’re always positive and helpful. I’m consistently pleased with their work and pricing.”
Susan McEvillyVerified ReviewerGoogle“Waters came out, saw how much needed packing and gave me a fair quote within 2 days. They also supplied 50 totes for me to start packing, which was invaluable.”
Lynda MeikleVerified ReviewerGoogle“Waters was responsive to my needs by phone. They were able to set me up for a walk through quickly and Abel was professional, warm and competent.”
KMVerified ReviewerGoogle“The team put down floor runners to protect the floors and placed our items where I directed them to be placed. Again they were respectful and careful with our belongings.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
What mixed reviewers say
“Was a five star review for the first move, great services. Contacted them for the second move and the price they quoted me was INSANE.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “The movers were beyond helpful and truly amazing on a stressful day. ... they were calling because I was undercharged.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about Waters Moving & Storage
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
Unprofessional behavior
Complaints included movers using foul language, showing up late, or acting inappropriately.
Unexpected charges
Hidden fees or surprise costs caused dissatisfaction among some Waters Moving & Storage clients.
What negative reviewers say
“Most of my antiques and furniture were returned with some damage, one antique chair in my dining set can not be repaired. Everything was covered in dirt and dust. I'm missing boxes but I can't prove it.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Cabinets came back scraped, legs missing from cabinets, pieces missing from other furniture, and I saw the guys moving cabinets letting items fall out and not picking the items up. Would not recommend.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “His complaining (complete with cursing) set the tone for the rest of the crew & the rest of the day.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The final amount turned out to be $3800, over $1600 more than quoted. The only positive from this day was that Brandon and his moving crew were spectacular and very helpful.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Waters Moving & Storage
4.34Martinez, CASince 1975
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Waters Moving & Storage
4.34
Martinez, CA · Since 1975
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Waters Moving & Storage, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Martinez.
Compare prices side by side
See where Waters Moving & 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 Waters Moving & Storage offer?
Waters Moving & Storage handles local moves and long-distance moves from Martinez, CA, with services including packing and storage.
Services offered
Is Waters Moving & Storage licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 1125579 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Waters Moving & Storage is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 1125579, as WATERS MOVING & STORAGE INC, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a California intrastate license, number 0189214.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Waters Moving & Storage holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 0189214Issued by California. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- WATERS MOVING & STORAGE INCThe entity behind the trading name, as filed with the FMCSA
- FMCSA safety rating
- SatisfactoryAssigned after a compliance review
- Trucks registered
- 35Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Miles driven
- 243,645Reported to the FMCSA for 2025
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- June 2026
How much does Waters Moving & Storage cost?
Waters Moving & 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 Waters Moving & 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
Waters Moving & Storage 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 Waters Moving & Storage offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
Waters Moving & Storage accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
How Waters Moving & Storage compares with other local movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.34 out of 5, Waters Moving & Storage trails the four top-rated movers near Martinez, just behind Valley Relocation & Storage. Where Waters Moving & Storage falls behind is customer service, with a customer service score that trails three of the four.
The four highest-scoring nearby movers, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chipman Relocation & LogisticsFairfield | 4.56 | 122 | 4.3 | 3.1 | A+ |
| 2 | 680 MoversWalnut Creek | 4.48 | 1,383 | 4.8 | 4.3 | A+ |
| 3 | OCD Moving ServicesEl Sobrante | 4.44 | 743 | 5.0 | 5.0 | A+ |
| 4 | Valley Relocation & StorageConcord | 4.38 | 165 | 4.8 | 3.3 | A+ |
| 5 | Waters Moving & StorageThis mover · ranks #5 | 4.34 | 342 | 4.8 | 4.2 | — |
How does Waters Moving & Storage compare to other California movers?
- moveBuddha score#220 of 1154(better than average)
4.34vs 3.68 avg
Waters Moving & Storage scores 4.34, above the California average of 3.68, and ranks #220 of 1154 California movers.
- Positive reviews#739 of 1154(worse than average)
90%vs 91% avg
Waters Moving & Storage has 90% positive reviews, below the California average of 91%, and ranks #739 of 1154 California movers.
- Negative reviews#754 of 1154(worse than average)
9%vs 8% avg
Waters Moving & Storage has 9% negative reviews, above the California average of 8%, and ranks #754 of 1154 California movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#235 of 1154(better than average)
342vs 268 avg
Waters Moving & Storage has 342 reviews analyzed, above the California average of 268, and ranks #235 of 1154 California movers.
- Yelp rating#234 of 1154(worse than average)
4.2vs 4.3 avg
Waters Moving & Storage has a Yelp rating of 4.2, below the California average of 4.3, and ranks #234 of 1154 California movers.
- Years in business#41 of 1154(better than average)
51 yearsvs 23 years avg
Waters Moving & Storage has been in business for 51 years, above the California average of 23 years, and ranks #41 of 1154 California movers.
| Metric | This moverWaters Moving & Storage | California avg | California rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#220 of 1154 in California | 4.34 | 3.68 | #220 of 1154 | +0.66(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#739 of 1154 in California | 90% | 91% | #739 of 1154 | −1 pts(worse than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#754 of 1154 in California | 9% | 8% | #754 of 1154 | +1 pts(worse than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#235 of 1154 in California | 342 | 268 | #235 of 1154 | +74(better than average) |
| Yelp rating#234 of 1154 in California | 4.2 | 4.3 | #234 of 1154 | −0.1(worse than average) |
| Years in business#41 of 1154 in California | 51 years | 23 years | #41 of 1154 | +28(better than average) |
Compared with 1154 California movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in California.
Waters Moving & Storage
4.34Martinez, CASince 1975
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 Waters Moving & Storage, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Martinez.
Compare prices side by side
See where Waters Moving & 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.
Waters Moving & Storage
4.34
Martinez, CA · Since 1975
Final verdict: Waters Moving & Storage
Waters Moving & Storage earns a 4.34/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #220 among California movers, with 90% positive feedback across 342 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its flexibility and affordable rates. It is best for customers prioritizing helpful crews, careful handling of belongings, and reliable service experience.
With 35 trucks and a track record dating to 1975, 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.
Waters Moving & Storage
4.34
Martinez, CA · Since 1975
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 Waters Moving & Storage
- Phone
- (925) 372-0914
- Website
- watersmoving.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.