10 best long-distance moving companies in Turlock, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. We've put together this list of the best long-distance movers in Turlock so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to keep in mind. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Turlock moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. 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 Turlock

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for you. See the list below for some advice on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Turlock.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail 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 reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting estimates several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Turlock. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous customers have said about certain long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a mover. Turlock 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 suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks 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 essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This plan requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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