10 best long-distance moving companies in Bell, CA

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Bell.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. 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 Bell

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your move. Below, we have compiled some tips on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Bell.

• 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 customers: 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 options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Bell. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a mover. Bell also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Additionally, legitimate movers shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of bad 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 key tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a smooth move, find your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

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 belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. With this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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