10 best long-distance moving companies in Rancho Cordova, CA

There are a range of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your concerns. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Rancho Cordova.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. 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 Rancho Cordova

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Rancho Cordova.

• 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 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. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, 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 handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Rancho Cordova several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients have said about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Rancho Cordova 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 estimate is a red flag. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of bad 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 useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required 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. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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