10 best long-distance moving companies in Mountain House, CA

There are a variety of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves 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 moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Mountain House to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Mountain House

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your needs. See the list below for some guidance on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Mountain House.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: 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 options. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Mountain House several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Since Mountain House 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: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a 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 key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise starting a month in advance. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

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. It'll protect you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (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 better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has less protection. With this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

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