10 best long-distance moving companies in Sunnyvale, CA

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in a variety of ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Sunnyvale so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

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 set fees based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Sunnyvale

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Sunnyvale.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers 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 regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Sunnyvale and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a moving company. Sunnyvale also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers well before your move date is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

We also suggest making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the California DMV.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically 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