10 best long-distance moving companies in East San Gabriel, CA

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help lessen your problems. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in East San Gabriel to help you, your family, 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 many key differences to note. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local East San Gabriel moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. 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 San Gabriel

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in East San Gabriel.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers 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 regulations, such as requiring movers to provide 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 East San Gabriel several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices 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 option to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a moving company. Since East San Gabriel is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of bad 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

Reserving your movers well before your move date is essential when getting ready for a long-distance move. We suggest booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to have certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse 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. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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