10 best long-distance moving companies in Downey, CA

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

Put your mind at ease by picking the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Downey to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to note. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Downey moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress 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 Downey

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance mover in Downey.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Downey. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help cover cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Downey, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have 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

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, find your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks 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.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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