10 best long-distance moving companies in Willowbrook, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your problems by picking the right movers for the job. We've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Willowbrook so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. 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.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Willowbrook moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. 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 Willowbrook

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some recommendations on how to choose a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Willowbrook.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Willowbrook several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients think about certain long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• 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. Willowbrook also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a 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

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We advise planning your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need unique 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 keep certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, toiletries, 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 essential for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. 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 movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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