4 best long-distance moving companies in Atascadero, CA

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Atascadero so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it 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 charge based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

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 taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Atascadero

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Atascadero, we've put together some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies 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 taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Atascadero several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable 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 hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks 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 packing a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you less protection. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

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. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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