10 best long-distance moving companies in Elk Grove, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Picking the right movers can help lessen your challenges. We've created this overview of the best long-distance movers in Elk Grove so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Elk Grove moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Elk Grove

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Elk Grove, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months before your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Elk Grove and ask for itemized quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company. Elk Grove also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We suggest hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork 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 both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Pack a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before your big move, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from 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, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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