10 best long-distance moving companies in Montebello, CA

There are several importantfactors that distinguish 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 like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. We've made this overview of the top long-distance movers in Montebello so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

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 keep in mind. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Montebello movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Montebello

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Montebello requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Montebello.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Montebello. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several loans to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers have said about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Montebello is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough in advance is critical when planning a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than three months ahead of 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 might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental 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 things that need to be done both 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medications.

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. This typically 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