10 best long-distance moving companies in Pico Rivera, CA

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. We've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Pico Rivera so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get 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 some key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Pico Rivera

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Pico Rivera.

• 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. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable 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: Start asking for estimates several months before your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Pico Rivera and get detailed cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others think about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Pico Rivera also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you schedule 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 more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as plants 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 all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings 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 typically 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