4 best long-distance moving companies in San Luis Obispo, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've created this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in San Luis Obispo.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. 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 usually set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often charge based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in San Luis Obispo

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in San Luis Obispo, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, asking about these or other options is a good idea. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in San Luis Obispo several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of 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 cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous clients think about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Reputable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of bad 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 before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. With this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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