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

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in a variety of ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the top long-distance movers in San Carlos to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to note. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance 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 area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Selecting a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in San Carlos

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in San Carlos.

• 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. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices carried 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 choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. 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 policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in San Carlos several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company. Since San Carlos is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Trustworthy movers generally won't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough 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 on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed 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.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good 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.

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 reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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