10 best long-distance moving companies in Petaluma, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your issues. We've made this overview of the top long-distance movers in Petaluma so you, your family, and your possessions make it 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 be aware of. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often charge based on how long a job takes. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Petaluma moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. These companies 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 Petaluma

Picking the right long-distance mover in Petaluma requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Here are some tips for picking a reliable long-distance mover in Petaluma.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Petaluma. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help with cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you select 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 others say about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Petaluma, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reliable movers won't request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

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

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

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.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

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