10 best long-distance moving companies in Granite Bay, CA

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

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Granite Bay to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in many ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use 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 moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Granite Bay

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Granite Bay requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Granite Bay.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Granite Bay and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• 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 book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Granite Bay, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough in advance is key when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

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

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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