10 best long-distance moving companies in Lemoore, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your concerns by choosing the right movers for the job. We've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Lemoore so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers usually charge based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Lemoore moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lemoore

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Lemoore, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Lemoore several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for 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.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

We also advise 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 putting together a bag with items such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medications.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. With this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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