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

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your problems by choosing the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Los Gatos.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to consider. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to 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 moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although 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 highly valuable, especially when moving between states. These companies are more likely to have the right 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 Los Gatos

Picking the right long-distance mover in Los Gatos requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance mover in Los Gatos.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of 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 similar insurance options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Los Gatos several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers have said about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Los Gatos also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest scheduling your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

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

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you 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 settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this option, your moving company 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 keep the same policy when you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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