10 best long-distance moving companies in La Mirada, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help alleviate your problems. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the leading long-distance movers in La Mirada.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their 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 city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Choosing 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 La Mirada

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in La Mirada.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in La Mirada several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several choices to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others say about certain long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Since La Mirada is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized 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 have certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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 bag with items such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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