10 best long-distance moving companies in Alameda, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. We've created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Alameda so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Alameda

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. Below, we provide some tips on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Alameda.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other insurance options. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We recommend asking for quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Alameda. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a mover. Alameda also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Legitimate movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers well before your move date is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

State of California Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration