10 best long-distance moving companies in Antioch, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help alleviate your challenges. We've put together this list of the best long-distance movers in Antioch so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in a few ways. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Antioch movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Antioch

Finding the right long-distance mover in Antioch requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Antioch, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Antioch several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. Antioch also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We advise planning your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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