10 best long-distance moving companies in Baldwin Park, CA

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. We've made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Baldwin Park so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly charge based on the time needed for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Baldwin Park movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. 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 Baldwin Park

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Baldwin Park, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Baldwin Park and request detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional 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. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several options to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous customers think about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Baldwin Park also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs 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 putting together a bag with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions 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 costs more, it provides better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually 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