6 best long-distance moving companies in Redding, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your problems. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Redding.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Redding

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Redding requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Redding.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Redding several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several loans to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable 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 for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Since Redding is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative 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

Hiring your movers far enough ahead of time is critical for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep 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 a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

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