10 best long-distance moving companies in Foothill Farms, CA

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

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Foothill Farms.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several 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 often only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Foothill Farms

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some tips on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Foothill Farms.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Foothill Farms. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several options to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Foothill Farms also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve 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 specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also important to make 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 of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This option requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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