10 best long-distance moving companies in Lynwood, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalsignificant ways. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your worries. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Lynwood so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers generally offer 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 movers usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lynwood

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some advice on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Lynwood.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans 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 price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Lynwood several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help with expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a mover. Since Lynwood is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor 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

A valuable tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. To ensure an easy move, find your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must have 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 might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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