10 best long-distance moving companies in Valinda, CA

There are a variety of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Alleviate your concerns by hiring the best movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Valinda.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often set fees based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Valinda moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Valinda

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Valinda, we've gathered some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Valinda several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Valinda, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

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

Make a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. With this option, 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 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