Rollover options for smaller portfolios - which Gold IRA companies did you use?

• •Okay, so I'm thinking about rolling over a chunk of an old 401k into a Gold IRA.
• •I'm a military retiree out here in San Diego, and frankly, after years of service, financial security is my top priority.
• •My rollover amount isn't enormous, probably in the $250k range, maybe a little more if I decide to really lean into it.

Okay, so I'm thinking about rolling over a chunk of an old 401k into a Gold IRA. I'm a military retiree out here in San Diego, and frankly, after years of service, financial security is my top priority. I've been watching the market swings and the dollar's value lately, and having some physical assets just feels like a smart move for genuine diversification.

My rollover amount isn't enormous, probably in the $250k range, maybe a little more if I decide to really lean into it. I know some of the big-name gold IRA companies cater more to the millionaire crowd, and I'm just wondering if anyone else here has gone through this process with a similar-sized portfolio? Which companies were actually good to deal with for a "smaller" investor like me? I don't want to get hit with crazy fees or minimums that eat into everything, and frankly, I don't want to feel like a second-class citizen just because I'm not bringing a million to the table.

I'm particularly interested in hearing about anyone's experience with the actual rollover process – was it smooth? Any surprises with custodial fees or storage costs? I'm looking for a company that's straightforward and transparent. Also, how was the customer service when you had questions or needed to make a move? That's a big one for me; I like to be able to talk to a knowledgeable person without jumping through hoops.

Any insights or recommendations, especially from folks who completed a rollover and are happy with their choice, would be super helpful. Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences!