10 best long-distance moving companies in Los Banos, CA

There are a variety of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. We've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Los Banos so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically charge based on the length of time required for your move. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Los Banos moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Los Banos

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in Los Banos.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Ask for itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Los Banos. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest 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. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reputable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, find your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company 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. 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