10 best long-distance moving companies in Arden-Arcade, CA

There are importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Arden-Arcade.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

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

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves can't be beaten. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Arden-Arcade

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Arden-Arcade.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Arden-Arcade several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a mover. Arden-Arcade also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August 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" prices should make you cautious. Legitimate moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to have certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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