10 best long-distance moving companies in West Carson, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in West Carson.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to consider. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in West Carson

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in West Carson.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start getting estimates several months ahead of your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in West Carson and ask for detailed cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others think about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, 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 moving company. Since West Carson is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a history of negative 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

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the California DMV of your new address.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. 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 might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. 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