10 best long-distance moving companies in San Bernardino, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in important ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Selecting the right movers can help relieve your worries. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in San Bernardino.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in several ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies typically charge based on the length of time required for your move. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

While local moving companies 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, particularly when moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in San Bernardino

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in San Bernardino.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in San Bernardino. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover. San Bernardino also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest starting a month beforehand. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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