10 best long-distance moving companies in Palmdale, CA

There are factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help lessen your issues. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Palmdale.

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 keep in mind. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper 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 Palmdale

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance mover in Palmdale.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Palmdale. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for 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 book a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete 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 outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to have certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over 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