10 best long-distance moving companies in North Highlands, CA

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. We've put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in North Highlands so you, your loved ones, 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 note. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local North Highlands 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 moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in North Highlands

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your move. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in North Highlands, we've put together some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in North Highlands several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several options to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous clients say 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 movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since North Highlands 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: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes 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 find your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Write a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the California DMV.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

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 extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. This option requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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