8 best long-distance moving companies in Santa Maria, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help lessen your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Santa Maria to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings 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 many key differences to note. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Santa Maria movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 Santa Maria

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Santa Maria requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Santa Maria.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or other insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start requesting estimates several months ahead of your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Santa Maria and ask for detailed cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other clients have said about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for 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 Santa Maria, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers well before your move date is key when planning a long-distance move. We recommend booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done 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 a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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