10 best long-distance moving companies in Saratoga, CA

There are a variety of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Saratoga.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Saratoga

Picking the right long-distance mover in Saratoga requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Saratoga, we've put together some guidance below.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation 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 reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Saratoga several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a mover. Since Saratoga is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you plenty of 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 yourself, we recommend starting a month ahead of time. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

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

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

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.

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

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