10 best long-distance moving companies in East Los Angeles, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in East Los Angeles to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get 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 many key differences to be aware of. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local East Los Angeles movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in East Los Angeles

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in East Los Angeles, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the options provided by your mover. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start getting quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in East Los Angeles. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous clients have said about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers 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 East Los Angeles, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Legitimate moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a long 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 useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

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

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 belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you reduced coverage. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

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