10 best long-distance moving companies in Victorville, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that set them apart 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 put your mind at ease. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Victorville.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Victorville

Picking the right long-distance mover in Victorville requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Victorville.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start getting quotes several months ahead of your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Victorville. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients think about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Since Victorville is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you book your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually 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