10 best long-distance moving companies in Twentynine Palms, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in significant ways. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. We've made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Twentynine Palms so you, your loved ones, and your possessions 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 some 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 work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers usually set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Twentynine Palms

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. Below, we offer some advice on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Twentynine Palms.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Twentynine Palms. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others think about particular long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable 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.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of bad 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

Hiring your moving company far enough in advance is essential for a successful long-distance move. We suggest planning your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. This plan requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually 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