It's taken me a while to write this but from when we first reached out to Joe Almeida back in October 2025 for a quote through delivery in December, the entire process with Merit was a positive experience. Joe was great to deal with on the sales side and Alyson Mattox was fantastic on the logistical side. She was a great source of information and prompt with her responses to all of our questions and changes. We can't say enough good things about our carrier, Ted Harris. From pick-up to drop-off we knew our things were in good hands. We will always be impressed with how fast and efficient his team was unloading the truck into our new home, and how careful and respectful they were with our belongings. Highly recommend the entire team. read more

Great service from start to finish. Joe Almieda handled my estimate. Super cool guy, we started with a facetime walkthrough of my house which lasted about an hour. Because I had a lot of unusual and oversized items in my garage he later came to my house for an in-person assessment. He was thorough and took the time to evaluate everything properly. I got several estimates from other companies and they all came in around the same weight range. However Merit/United was the least expensive (of the premium non-broker companies you want to use). Rest assured that savings did not come at the cost of service at all! The movers arrived on time, worked efficiently, and didn't scratch any walls or damage anything. The delivery timing matched the estimate, and the crew on the unloading end also did a great job. They're not one of those broker companies that subcontract your move and then try to raise the price later or hold your belongings hostage. Alyson Mattox was my coordinator for everything else and once my stuff was picked up she gave me daily updates about where my stuff was and when i should expect delivery! excellent communication Five stars! I would definitely recommend them. read more

Out of all the movers I considered, Merit Movers were the ones I decided to hire, and I'm glad I did. Alyson and Joe were great (honestly). Through any confusion or any hiccups, they worked to clear it up. Working with Alyson was amazing, and she is very caring about the move. On top of that, I received my belongings in less than a week. All the other moving companies were saying 14-21 days. I will most definitely work with United Van Lines/Merit Movers in the future. If you're trying to move, make sure you work with people like them. Also, there was hardly any damage to my items. They cared for my belongings as I would. From pickup to transport! read more

Moving can be very stressful. Merit did an amazing job from start to finish. Every detail was handled professionally and the whole process was smooth. I'd definitely recommend Merit for local or long distance moves, they clearly care about doing the right thing and taking care of the cushy. read more

I had a great experience with Alyson Mattox during my move. She kept in contact with me throughout my entire transfer from California to Minnesota. All of the workers who packed my items and disassembled my furniture were excellent--quick and efficient. Although the cost was a bit higher than expected, I was moving cross-country and wanted to ensure all of my items were safe. None of my items were damaged except for the TV, which was likely bumped during shipping. However, the claims process was a breeze, and it only took about a week for them to provide me with fair compensation. I would highly recommend them for my next move! read more

From start to finish, Merit Moving Systems was communicative, patient, and thorough in my work with them. I moved cross-country, and all of my items arrived without issue. read more

AVOID AT ALL COSTS. This company is negligent, evasive, and unaccountable - totally corrupt and fraudulent. If you value your belongings, do not use Merit Moving Systems. My cross-country move with Merit Moving Systems | United Van Lines has been an ongoing nightmare since delivery on September 17, after I paid them over $8000 for the move. A significant portion of my shipment arrived damaged or destroyed. They dropped and smashed my $5,000 credenza beyond repair. I have clear before-and-after video evidence, and even their own repair team confirmed it cannot be fixed. Despite paying for additional insurance, they are offering $1,800 and refusing replacement. Movers self admittedly used straps that cut into and tore my couch which can't be repaired, and they are low-balling that damage as well. Most of my boxes arrived crushed. Wardrobe boxes labeled FRAGILE were collapsed, and most of my vintage glass was shattered. My Pilates Reformer is ruined and they lost parts, but claim I did it! I paid for them to box and move artwork, and it was all damaged from improper packing - they didn't even protect it with packing material before putting it in a regular box. They also lost eight items. Four were accidentally delivered to another customer. The remaining four are still missing, and United refuses to compensate, claiming they "can't verify they were moved," despite them being matching pieces to items I received. Without my knowledge, Merit transferred my belongings from the original semi into a rented U-Haul, causing additional damage and exposing my shipment. I originally contacted United Van Lines but they farm moves out to third-party vendors and freelance day laborers, with different crews loading and unloading and no accountability, which is where Merit came into the picture. After months of desperation they finally sent a repair team to address what could be salvaged. However, for items deemed beyond repair by the team, they have either refused coverage outright or offered insultingly low compensation, regardless of documentation, video evidence, or the additional insurance I paid for. Their approach has been consistent: delay, deflect, deny. Now, four months later, I am still chasing missing items, unresolved damage claims, and unanswered emails. They are the absolute worst. Stay away. read more

Merit Moving Systems - Credenza. They dropped it and cracked the whole piece down the side, damaged corners and knocked the shelves out of alignment. - Movers Near Me - Thousand Palms, California

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When quoting with merit for an out of state move I worked with Joe Almeida, I provided a list of all large items and their dimensions a video walk through in which I showed inside every cabinet, drawer, and closet in my home as well as a virtual walk through with Joe. He quoted me 36 boxes for all the miscellaneous stuff. This doesn't include mattress, tv, wardrobe. His quote was also much higher than others. I expressed that I thought 36 boxes was extremely conservative as I had downsized significantly in prep. He assured me that it's to make sure my price is no more than expected, but if I didn't use those boxes my price will be adjusted to reflect the volume actually moved. He also gave me the pitch about how merit is one of the good ones and every one with be a merit employee, and the trucks are their trucks etc. I decided to use merit based on these assurances. They did not need 17 of the 36 boxes, which I thought was great. But when talking with Ellie, I discovered that no what Joe told me is not accurate it is a firm quote and my cost will not be adjusted. So I paid for a significant overage for joe's extreme conservatism and was misled about the companies practices Additionally, I found out that every person I interacted with was actually an independet that works for all moving companies, merit provides them t-shirts to make it appear they are direct employees. The trick was a third party contracting, the packers, the movers, everyone. So yet another misleading statement. The kicker, days after my move I got a bill from merit in which I actually need to pay them more than their "firm" quote despite the fact that they moved about 50% of the volume I was quoted. I got lucky with the contractor I was assigned and he did a great job. But I give merit no credit for this. They are not actually a moving company, they are brokers and I was directly misled. I would encourage you to look elsewhere. read more

This company really takes pride in customer service! From the in-home estimator (Joe) to the movers themselves (Zack & Mike) I felt ultimate confidence and comfort with their handling of all my mother's possessions. It was an interstate mov, and the pricing was very realistic and fairly reasonable. I had seven other estimates- some less but most more. I feel we chose the best out there!! I highly recommend this company and its employees (contractor) for any move you make! read more

The entire team from quoting, logistics to loading and unloading was very reliable, professional and carin, they handled all of our household belongings as it was their own. the cost was very competitive. I did recommend them to a friend that was moving as well. read more

I cannot thank Merit Moving Systems/United Van Lines enough for helping me with a stressful cross-country (LA-NY) move in record time! From start to finish, every contact in every department was in lock-step with each other and there was no small detail that went without a hitch, as described. I am in disbelief how smoothly (and reasonably priced!) this experience was. Joe Almeida, Alyson Mattox, and Stan (on-site moving supervisor), were a dream. I never once had to worry about where my stuff was and they delivered everything as estimated in the window stated (and it was FAST; competitors added an extra 5-7 days to this schedule). Also, nothing was lost or damaged!! YAY! So happy. Thank you! read more

Merit Moving Systems, Alyson Mattox and Frank were fantastic from start to finish. We moved within the state of CA and had to adjust move dates a couple times. Alyson and team were so understanding and flexible with my requests, I couldn't be more grateful. Moving is stressful but they made it so seamless. Frank and his team treated all our belongings with expert care. The team was alway prompt if not early and took extraordinary care of our belongings and the home. Last but not least, when I did run into some communication issue with a third party vendor, Alyson stepped up to the task and resolved the issue for me so quickly. Pricing was very reasonable for pack and move. Truly a wonderful company to work with, goes above and beyond and professionals all around! Recommend 10/10 and would use again! read more

Merit Moving system made what is a very stressful thing to do, as comforting as possible. The guys who move everything were cheerful, very nice and accommodating I searched and did my homework and am eternally grateful for their services. You won't go wrong! read more

May 2024 we used Merit Moving Systems, Thousand Palms, CA for our relocation from SoCal to Michigan. Alyson and the gang were very professional from beginning to end. Alyson kept in touch along the way to see how everything was going. The packing/loading was exceptional as was the delivery. Everyone was fun, friendly and professional. I would highly recommend these folks for your next move. read more

Merit Moving Systems - The truck, yes huge and beautiful! - Movers Near Me - Thousand Palms, California

From my initial phone call to inquire about our move to Kevin, who came out to assess the job, to Alyson, the office manager and to the fabulous crew who packed our house and then moved us into our new place, our experience was truly exceptional. I really appreciated the personal care given by the entire team that made our move from a home in Palm Desert to a condo in Marina Del Rey in LA smooth and easy. It was very helpful to have the same team that packed up the house move us into our new place, as they had knew where we had kept things in the house and this helped them to place things in the corresponding places in the condo. The condo association has rules about when work can be done in the complex. We were concerned because they had an 8AM-5PM window of time for the move in and we had a lot of stuff to move. The team left the desert at around 5 AM and arrived at the front gate of the condo development before opening time, at 7:30 AM! Thanks to the dedicated work of the entire team at Merit, we were moved in on schedule and without any problems. If you are looking for a moving company that is professional and meticulous, call Merit Moving Systems in Thousand Palms. read more

From beginning to end, Merit was an outstanding experience. Alyson, my moving coordinator, was communicative and kept my informed during the whole process. The movers at both pick-up delivery were friendly and thorough. There was no damage to any of my belongings. Highly recommend! read more

Excellent pack up, move and partially unpack.Everyone was friendly, efficient and no breakage! Great outfit! Thank you!​

It took 2 weeks to get my shipment delivered after sitting in Long Beach from Maui. Upon delivery the lead guy acted like we were inconveniencing him by asking to see our goods unwrapped. He treated his 2 co-workers very poorly, and even kicked our little dog, because as he stated 'I hate F-ing dogs!'. read more

I had a great experience with Merit Moving Systems as they helped with my move from LA to the Bay. The entire process was extremely smooth, efficient, and timely, starting from my virtual survey and estimate with Joe, to coordination with Alyson, and pick up and delivery of my belongings with their drivers. I was kept updated throughout the process and they were easy to reach and responsive to any additional questions when needed. Would definitely use them if I were to move again. read more

Mayflower STOLE from us and denied it. This was a nightmare of a moving experience... We hired Mayflower and they contracted us out to multiple different companies, so I will be posting this review to every associated company. Beware of these companies. All they care about is lining their pockets. Mayflower Transit, Figueroa Relocation, United Van Lines, Merit Moving Systems, Unigroup. We moved from Menifee, CA to Pflugerville, TX. Our move date was Oct. 31, 2022. Before the initial moving date, we received a call from a Merit Moving Systems associate informing us that the truck scheduled to pick up our items had broken down in transit. Consequently, in order to make it to our required moving date, they needed to send a substitute truck. The movers from that truck hastily packed and labeled everything in the house. I distinctly remember having to stop them several times to keep them from taking boxes/ packages that weren't meant to be loaded on their truck - that didn't even have the moving stickers on them! These movers were so careless and irresponsible they left behind their company paperwork book plus a roll of numbered stickers for the moving boxes! When they finished they asked us to sign a form, consenting that everything was on board the now fully packed truck. Most of the items listed on the documents that we signed were labeled as some variant of "PBO - box" ranging from small, medium, and large. It was impossible to tell what a significant portion of the items were as everything was so vaguely described, but the house was completely empty, so we assumed that list included everything that was packed. That included a free dining set our neighbor gifted us as the movers were loading up the truck. Our things were then taken to Merit's warehouse in Thousand Palms, CA, where it was unloaded days later to the original moving truck. Our estimated delivery date was between November 4 and November 10. They, of course, arrived on the last day. When the Mayflower moving truck finally arrived, several items were without the numbered sticker and a notable missing item was the dining set. We called Merit and were informed that the original movers did not label the set, therefore it was not included in our inventory list. Evidently, they deemed it to be given to them and took it home. Although this was very frustrating, we gave them the benefit of the doubt and assumed it was just a miscommunication. The primary issue now was figuring out whether or not we had all the items that corresponded with the missing tracking stickers, which was difficult because, again, most of the missing items were labeled as PBO - box. A third of our boxes arrived at our new address ripped open, crushed, or damaged. To my horror, I watched as these movers would stack the crushed boxes at the bottom and lay heavy boxes on top of them. I'm surprised more of our stuff wasn't broken! Our flat screen tv was cracked (claimed and got reimbursed for it), despite it being in a brand new tv moving box. There was no respect for our stuff. One of the movers even advertised his own moving service as he had us sign the Mayflower forms! The movers wouldn't leave unless we signed the paper saying we had everything. There were multiple boxes unaccounted for and about a dozen boxes that didn't even have moving stickers on them. They ran around the house counting them and said they found them all so we trusted them and signed. Months go by and we are unpacked, then realize there are boxes missing. Our tv mount was missing and one of our video game collectables boxes (Super Nintendo and dozens of games). We filed a claim asking for Mayflower to locate our missing items. They eventually responded back that the trace came back with no results and they had lost these items. We were then asked to submit information about the value of these items such as receipts or links to online stores where they can be repurchased. A lot of these items were very precious sentimental items from my childhood that I definitely do not have receipts for as they're nearly 30 years old. So, I meticulously found every item online and sent them links to show the cost of replacing them, which came to a total of $2,858. After roughly four months of back and forth with Merit and Unigroup, the claims team denied our claim, because I had signed the release form when the truck driver left on November 10th. It's been a year long battle and Mayflower refuses to compensate us. We will obviously never use them again. In fact, we will probably never trust any moving company ever again. Our stuff did not just vanish into thin air. They either have it and misplaced it or their movers stole it like they did the table set. We just want our stuff back. We don't care about the tv mount, we just want the Super Nintendo returned to us. It is very sentimental and holds a lot of precious childhood memories. read more

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Professional, on-time, friendly, and respectful. They took great care in re-assembling furniture and did a thorough walk-through when finished to insure everything was completed to my satisfaction. The cost was less than what I expected. It was a pleasure working with them read more

Moving was made very easy with Merit Moving Systems. The workers were very professional and treated my items with respect. They were helpful with wrapping up my loose items and boxed up other items like my TV at their warehouse since I didn't have a box to pack it in. Overall, I would use them again. read more

Our move with Merit Moving Systems went perfectly smoothly. They were organized, clear and very communicative, timely delivery including packing, breakdown and setup of furniture for a reasonable price. Highly recommend! read more

We had a cross country move from LA to Chicago. Our experience with Merit Moving was excellent from beginning to end. They were professional, courteous, helpful, and responsive throughout the whole process. Joe Almeida was helpful in the sales process, responding very quickly to emails and calls. Alyson was organized with the coordination. The folks with Mayflower who moved our belongings were professional and so very quick even around the holidays, and finally Kevin and the folks who unloaded at our destination were excellent. I've moved several times, including a cross country move, and this is by far the best moving experience I've ever had. The final thing I'd say is that the move was expensive (it was a long distance) but they didn't nickel and dime you with shuttle service, stairs, etc, so even though it wasn't the cheapest quote I got, it was worth it because everything was included at the beginning, no surprise charges at the end. Would recommend to anyone! read more

They were very timely. They were very efficient. They were very fairly priced. It was a in-state move but a big move and they handled it with precision and the men who did the packing in the moving were professional and kind and well no move is without stress these fellows, and this company made it as stress-free as it can possibly can be. read more

We recently moved and hired Merit to move us from the home we had sold. The men who moved our possessions were extremely friendly, courteous and careful. They kept us apprised of the progress, and we are appreciative of all they did. I was especially concerned about the safety of our antique grandfather clock and they certainly took good care it...it arrive safe and sound!! Thank you for a damage free move!! read more

We chose United Van Lines to move us from La Quinta CA to Texas. Most of my interactions with their reps were positive, but we had one extremely unpleasant interaction with the Palm Desert branch estimator named Kevin Pruitt. Because of him I would Not recommend United or Merit. My husband emailed him questions about our upcoming move, and at first Kevin answered them. Apparently we asked one too many questions because Kevin responded in a snarky and unprofessional manner "you're not moving the White House! I've been doing this for years, trust me!" We were both shocked by his response: this was OUR FIRST OUT OF STATE MOVE and our stuff is important to us. Unfortunately that left such a bad impression we won't recommend them. I gave them 3 stars because Alyson the coordinator and the drivers and crew were great. read more

A great company! Alyson and Honey in the office are simply great! Jose Sr. and his moving team are efficient, clean, neat, quick and polite! I've moved twice with this company and they are just great! What more could you want? They're the best. read more

We used Merit Moving for two back-to-back moves. From Hawaii to the California and then from Palm Desert to Rancho Mirage. Moving is difficult and stressful but Merit Moving truly made it so much easier. They gave us a fair price and the service was EXCELLENT. Not only was the moving crew very professional, efficient and careful, but the customer service coordinator (Alyson) was incredible. She helped us coordinate both moves to a tee, which was super critical. No matter how many times I called her with changing dates/times she always came through and made everything work seamlessly. We will definitely use Merit for any future moves. read more

I could not have chosen a better moving company for my move from Los Angeles to Nashville. I got quotes from a few companies and while Merit was a tad more expensive, I felt like it was worth the cost. I'm so happy I went with my gut. The guys took such good care of our things and were in contact with us for the whole moving process. I have not stopped raving about them to everyone I talk to and will definitely be using them again for any future moves!!! read more

Merit Moving just completed our move to Arizona from Palm Deaert. My husband was in the hospital and they went and above and beyond to help me. Everything went exactly as planned. They were kind, efficient and helpful. I would definitely recommend them. They were very careful with our possessions and gave me peace of mind. read more

Everything happened as they said it would. Movers got there two days before the move and packed up all of our belongings. Then they arrived on move day on time and were done in 3 hours. The truck arrived at our new home in a new state sooner than expected, which made us very happy. The entire crew at both ends were punctual and professional. They went out of their way to make sure we were happy. Thank you...Diana & Terry Walton read more

I want to say that this company is the BEST of the best. From start to finish everyone was on time, they were polite and nothing was lost or broken during our move from the desert to Santa Barbara. read more

Efficient, friendly and knowledgeable. Merit is easy to work with through its flexibility and effective communication. Merit also provided free boxes prior to the move date. I would use them again. read more

We were absolutely delighted by the kindness and gracious good service we received from the staff and crew at Merit Moving Systems, Inc. We hadn't done an interstate move in years, and they were just great support every step of the way. Alyson in the office and Honey in the field made sure we stayed on schedule. Best of all, the packing crew they sent were completely professional and supportive. They watched what they were packing and made certain that we had enough linens, kitchen stuff, and lamps for our less-than-whole-house move. Of course we packed too many of the wrong clothes, but that was our own doing! If you need to make a long distance move, call Merit, they're agents for Mayflower and we can't speak highly enough of them. When we're ready to finish the move, we'll be on the phone to Honey, first thing! read more

This is in response to Merit's message. As you will see in Merit's response to my original Yelp post, they are claiming it took 1 hour and 30 min to travel back to their office and it was my misunderstanding. Even with travel time to three different locations, the movers were there at 8:00 and done my 12:20 (see original post and pics) but I was charged 5 hours and 45 min. This was AFTER I called the office to question it. Originally I was charged for 6 hours, so you'll see I was given a "savings" of 15 min. Buyer beware, whatever they quote you is exactly what they'll charge you. read more

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Merit was recommended by my company so I felt confident hiring them. I was very happy with the crew and the way my move was handled. They arrived earlier than promised and no one does that! They carefully moved my furniture and baby grand piano. No scratches, no dents, no damage. The head guy even pointed out existing damage on some pieces just to make sure I was aware. Mine was a local move so I was with them the whole time. Very happy with their service and the price was fair. I will definitely use them again in the future. read more

Just completed a move from La Quinta, CA to Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. The company is a Desert representative for United Van lines whom we have used in the past. From start to finish, they were professional and courteous. Would recommend them to anyone looking for a professional moving company. read more

I just completed my third move with Merit Movers. They are the most professional, on time movers you will find. Allison, the office manager, is always available to answer any questions you may have. I have referred them many times. I highly recommend them. Shep N. read more

My dad found this moving company while he was searching for local movers in the area. He was very satisfied with the reviews he had read and had a better feeling after he spoke to a lady by the name of Honey. She was super helpful and answered all of his questions and advised him he could call her anytime with questions he may have about any aspect of the move. My father called several times and each time she had an answer for him and my father said she is very sweet. The day of the move I had to work in the morning but when I got home the movers greeted me and asked me if I had any questions not to hesitate to ask. They advised me of how they were going to wrap my furniture as all the pieces of furniture I have are about 80% made of glass. They took extra time and really wrapped my furniture well and then very carefully took each piece down 16 steps. When they got to the truck they put padding in between the furniture to protect them from scratching if they came in contact with another piece or with the inside of the truck. They would check with me from time to time while they were packing up bedroom if there was anything in particular I wanted to pack myself and if so they would make me a box and bring me paper to use to pack and they they would say when I was done they would come and seal the box. They were really friendly, courteous and professional. It was my 1st time ever being involved in a major move and it was pretty stress free and I was made to be at peace as several things about the move and how things were done were clearly explained. My furniture arrived in great shape, nothing broken, scratched or torn. They really take Pride in what they do. I would definitely recommend them to anyone and assure them they would have nothing to worry about!! read more