10 best long-distance moving companies in Apple Valley, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Lessen your worries by hiring the right movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Apple Valley.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Apple Valley moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Apple Valley

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Apple Valley.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Apple Valley several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several loans to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a moving company. Apple Valley also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. This option requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. While this typically 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