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

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the top long-distance movers in West Covina to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local West Covina moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in West Covina

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in West Covina requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in West Covina, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out quotes several months before your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in West Covina and request itemized quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to select 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 have said about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in West Covina, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

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

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

Put together necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, toiletries, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires 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. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. This plan requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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