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

There are a range of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your challenges. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've created this list of the top long-distance movers in West Hollywood.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers commonly set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local West Hollywood moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies 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 West Hollywood

Choosing the right long-distance mover in West Hollywood requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in West Hollywood.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in West Hollywood several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company. Since West Hollywood is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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