10 best long-distance moving companies in Glendale, CA

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your problems by choosing the right movers for the job. We've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Glendale so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. 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 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 mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance 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 handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant 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 Glendale

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Glendale.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Glendale and request itemized quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Glendale also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Reliable moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers with 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 key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks 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 medications.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings 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