10 best long-distance moving companies in Gilroy, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've put together this list of the leading long-distance movers in Gilroy.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Using a long-distance mover 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Gilroy

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Gilroy requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Gilroy, we've put together some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. 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 movers in Gilroy several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates 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: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers have said about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also suggest 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.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

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. 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