10 best long-distance moving companies in Santa Cruz, CA

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

Picking the right movers can help lessen your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Santa Cruz to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Santa Cruz moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Santa Cruz

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance mover in Santa Cruz.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Santa Cruz several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers think about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Santa Cruz 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: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Creating 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.

Put together a bag with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full 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 belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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