10 best long-distance moving companies in Santa Monica, 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 have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve made this list of the best long-distance movers in Santa Monica to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Santa Monica moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Santa Monica

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Santa Monica, we've compiled some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Santa Monica several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover. Santa Monica also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. We advise booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, 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 bag with items such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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