10 best long-distance moving companies in Huntington Beach, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. We've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Huntington Beach so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving between states. 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Huntington Beach

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Huntington Beach requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we have compiled some guidance on how to find a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Huntington Beach.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Huntington Beach. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several options to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers thought about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• 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 Huntington Beach, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Additionally, reliable movers won't request the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you plan your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

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

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

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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