10 best long-distance moving companies in Yuba City, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help lessen your issues. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Yuba City to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers 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. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Yuba City moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Yuba City

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Yuba City requires research to make sure 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 Yuba City.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, 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. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Ask for detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Yuba City. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients think about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medications.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

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 settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

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. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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