10 best long-distance moving companies in Azusa, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in Azusa.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle 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. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Azusa

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Azusa.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months before your move. Get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Azusa. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about specific long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to get a mover. Azusa also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies 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 book your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, 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 bag with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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