10 best long-distance moving companies in Union City, CA

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help lessen your challenges. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Union City.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in a few ways. Local movers often only offer services 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 movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Union City

Picking the right long-distance mover in Union City requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Union City, we've compiled 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other insurance options. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Request detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Union City. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you find 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 previous clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Union City, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the tasks 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 a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity, as 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 items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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