10 best long-distance moving companies in Moorpark, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Ease your concerns by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Moorpark to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive 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 many key differences to keep in mind. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Moorpark moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, 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 proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Moorpark

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Moorpark, we've collected some recommendations below.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Moorpark several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Moorpark, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Additionally, reliable movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

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

The night before your big move, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

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 reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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