10 best long-distance moving companies in Windsor, CA

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

Ease your issues by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Windsor.

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 be aware of. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. 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.

Local Windsor moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Windsor

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Windsor.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Windsor and ask for detailed cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Windsor also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days 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.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This plan requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

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