10 best long-distance moving companies in Davis, CA

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help relieve your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Davis.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local movers generally provide 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 moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Davis moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Davis

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 Davis, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance options 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 reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Davis and get itemized quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers thought about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Since Davis is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We suggest planning your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both 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 extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

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 possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. This option requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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