10 best long-distance moving companies in Napa, CA

There are a variety of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Napa to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in a few ways. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Napa

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Napa.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: 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. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Napa and request detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others have said about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Napa, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers far enough in advance is essential for a successful long-distance move. We recommend hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving 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. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of 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