10 best long-distance moving companies in Ridgecrest, CA

There are factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Ridgecrest.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in many ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Ridgecrest

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some advice on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Ridgecrest.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Ridgecrest several months before your move and get 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 have financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous clients say about particular long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, book your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

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 necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must 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 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your 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