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

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalsignificant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by picking the right movers for the job. We've put together this list of the best long-distance movers in San Mateo so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local San Mateo moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. 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 Mateo

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your move. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in San Mateo.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months before your move. Request itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in San Mateo. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options 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 pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in San Mateo, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company far enough ahead of time is critical when planning a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Lastly, on 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 cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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