10 best long-distance moving companies in Clovis, CA

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

Hiring the right movers can help alleviate your challenges. We've made this list of the leading long-distance movers in Clovis so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Clovis

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

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Clovis several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other clients thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers that have an extensive 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

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done 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 extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have 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. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. This option requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually 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