10 best long-distance moving companies in Simi Valley, CA

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

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Simi Valley.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to keep in mind. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Simi Valley moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Simi Valley

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Simi Valley.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Simi Valley several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others say about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for 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 for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Since Simi Valley is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative 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

Securing your movers far enough in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include things 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 suitcase with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medicine, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies 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 it will ultimately get you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will pay 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 keep the same policy. While this usually 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