10 best long-distance moving companies in South Whittier, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. We've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in South Whittier so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

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

Local South Whittier moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in South Whittier

Finding the right long-distance mover in South Whittier requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in South Whittier.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in South Whittier several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy 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. You should compare several loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients have said about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. 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 hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. South Whittier also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad 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

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when 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