10 Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Fresno, TX (2024)

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

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your challenges. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Fresno.

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 be aware of. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 Fresno

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate, reliable long-distance mover in Fresno.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Fresno. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get 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 others say about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Fresno, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of bad 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 key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend getting started a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because 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. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursem*nt for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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

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