10 best long-distance moving companies in Citrus Heights, CA

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

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your issues. We've compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Citrus Heights so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in several ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers 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 Citrus Heights

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance mover in Citrus Heights.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for 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 look into these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified 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: We recommend asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Citrus Heights. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers think about specific long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Citrus Heights 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: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is essential when planning a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed 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 a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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