10 best movers in Fairfield, California

The best interstate moving company for relocating out of California is International Van Lines. If you're planning to move around Fairfield, use the filters below to find other local movers.

Long-distance movers in Fairfield

A long-distance move is when you relocate more than 50 miles away or move to a different state. If you're moving across state boundaries, you need to be especially cautious that the moving company you use has the proper federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To verify a carrier's licensing status, you can input the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

The experienced and reputable long-distance movers below have an active license. They can help get your belongings safely and efficiently across state lines.

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

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3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

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Why is moving so expensive?

The average hourly moving rate for moving within or out of Fairfield is higher than the national average, making it a fairly expensive process. This makes sense given that the cost of living in Fairfield is higher than 97.4% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly based on what services you need. Here are some common moving costs:

• Storage
• Junk removal
• Packing
• Supplies
• Professional labor
• Fuel

Your total moving cost may also be impacted by these additional considerations:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring professional movers, you may have to pay extra for moving breakable, valuable or very bulky items. Some items that can be more expensive to move include these:

• Artwork and sculptures
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology
• Pianos
• Family heirlooms or antiques
• Safes

Ask potential movers if they move these items and charge additional fees for them.

Tipping your movers

While tipping movers isn’t required, it's customary to tip if they provide quality service. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

Traffic, limited supplies, transportation emergencies and bad weather can all delay your move and increase the time and cost. There’s no way to combat unexpected delays, but you can prepare for them by keeping a flexible schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to save money on moving in Fairfield.

Be communicative

Be communicative about any modifications to your schedule or inventory, especially when adding items after getting a quote from the movers.

For example, your movers can likely add small items to the truck without issue, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — need to be discussed beforehand. The movers may charge more for those items and won’t begin your move until you’ve agreed to the additional cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Since reliable and budget-friendly movers are highly sought after, consider moving during the week or in the off-season to keep costs down while still getting your preferred moving company.

Most people schedule moves between May and September. You may get lower moving rates and less competition if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move during slower periods.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find a cheap relocation service that works for you, there are several alternatives to consider.

Handling the move on your own is an option. Before choosing this route, consider the labor required and the following costs:

• Fuel
• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies

Getting help from friends, family or neighbors for moving large items such as furniture can make your move faster and easier. Movers are worth the cost if you don't have the time or anyone who can help you move.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr, which can cost less. However, these gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Fairfield

What’s full-service moving?

Hiring full-service movers means they will handle all aspects of the moving process, including providing packing supplies, packing your belongings, transporting them and unpacking them.

Full-service moving is pricier than standard moving services, which typically only include loading and moving your belongings. The cost can be justified, considering the time and labor packers spare you, as well as covering the cost of packing materials. Full-service moving may also provide more comprehensive insurance coverage. Self-packed items are generally only covered for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be difficult to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Any legitimate moving company will show their proof of registration on physical trucks and formal files. If you're making an out of state move, you should screen companies for legitimate USDOT and MC numbers beforehand by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in California are also required to have a license from the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services.

How does moving insurance work?

You should also look into a mover's insurance policies. Every moving company will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. A full-value protection policy may be sensible if your belongings are worth a lot, so ask to review all rates.

When is the best time of year to move?

The most favorable time to move falls between May and September, creating elevated demand and heightened rates for moves of all scopes. The lofty prices could deter you from making a move in the summer. Additionally, Fairfield's extreme summer heat might mean moving amid high temperatures, which can pose extra challenges.

We suggest scheduling your move in the spring or early fall months to take advantage of pleasant weather and lower costs for moving services.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

Load up your car with anything too important to lose, such as photos, financial records, identification documents and technology.

Many moving companies restrict insurance coverage for costly items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about potential loss or damage, keep those invaluable or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Perishable foods and produce
• Aerosols
• Plants
• Batteries
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Fuel sources
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Fertilizers

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.