10 best long-distance moving companies in Torrance, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving company can help relieve your problems. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Torrance to help you, your family, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in a few ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Torrance moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Torrance

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Torrance requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Torrance, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Torrance. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might 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 take out a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Torrance also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Writing 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

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 damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (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 more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

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