10 best long-distance moving companies in Palm Springs, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right movers can help relieve your problems. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Palm Springs to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often 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.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Palm Springs

Finding the right long-distance mover in Palm Springs requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Palm Springs, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Palm Springs several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Palm Springs also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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