10 best long-distance moving companies in Palo Alto, CA

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help ease your issues. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Palo Alto.

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 be aware of. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers typically set fees based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate 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 location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Palo Alto

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Palo Alto, we've compiled some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Palo Alto several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and relatives 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 get a moving company. Palo Alto 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 give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. 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 a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has less protection. With this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. While this typically 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