10 best long-distance moving companies in Lincoln, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help relieve your problems. That’s why we’ve made this list of the top long-distance movers in Lincoln to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in a few ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services 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 based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. 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 Lincoln

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Lincoln.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out quotes several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Lincoln and ask for itemized cost breakdowns. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to find 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 previous customers think about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a moving company. Since Lincoln is home to so many college students, June and August 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 cautious. Reliable movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers with an extensive history of negative 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 when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. We advise booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need more 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 possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both 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 bag with items such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. 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