10 best long-distance moving companies in Vacaville, CA

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've created this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Vacaville so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in a few ways. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Vacaville moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Vacaville

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for you. Below, we offer some guidance on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Vacaville.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Vacaville several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several choices to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company. Since Vacaville is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the California DMV.

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

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers 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. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover 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