10 best long-distance moving companies in Rohnert Park, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Lessen your problems by hiring the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Rohnert Park to help you, your family, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers often charge based on the time required for your move. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

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 city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Rohnert Park

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your needs. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to choose a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Rohnert Park.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start requesting estimates several months ahead of your move. Request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Rohnert Park. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for 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 more expensive to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Rohnert Park, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of poor 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 schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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.

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

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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