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

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in San Pablo 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 some key differences to be aware of. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers more often charge based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local San Pablo moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper 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 Pablo

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in San Pablo.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans 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 reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply 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 Pablo several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to book a mover. San Pablo also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Reliable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers that have a 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 find your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough 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 recommend getting started a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings 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 movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. This option requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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