10 best long-distance moving companies in Folsom, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Folsom.

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 be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to 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 providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies 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. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Folsom

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Folsom requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Below, we provide some advice on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Folsom.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed overview 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 requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months before your move. Request itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Folsom. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients have said about particular long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Folsom also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you book your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

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

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged 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. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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