10 best long-distance moving companies in Madera, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help ease your concerns. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Madera to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it 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 set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Using a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Madera

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Madera.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Get in touch with multiple long-distance moving providers in Madera and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long 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

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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