10 best long-distance moving companies in Dinuba, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in Dinuba so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. 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 set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 Dinuba

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Dinuba.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds 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. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Dinuba several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous clients say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Dinuba, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but provides better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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