10 best long-distance moving companies in Pacifica, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help lessen your challenges. We've created this overview of the best long-distance movers in Pacifica so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in several ways. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Pacifica

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your needs. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance mover in Pacifica.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Pacifica. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Pacifica, 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" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a smooth move, book your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. 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 gives less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse 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 carry over the same policy during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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