10 best long-distance moving companies in Seaside, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalsignificant ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Seaside so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in a few 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 a much higher rate to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies 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 quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Hiring a long-distance mover 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Seaside

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Seaside requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance mover in Seaside.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Seaside several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Seaside also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers well before your move date is essential when preparing for a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, reserve your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Making 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.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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