10 best movers in Fontana, California

The best moving company for relocating out of California is International Van Lines. For a local move around Fontana, use the filters below to find other movers that meet your needs.

Long-distance movers in Fontana

A long-distance move means moving more than 50 miles away or from one state to another. If you're moving across state lines, you must be especially cautious that the mover you choose has the proper federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers or the mover's name to confirm a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

The reliable long-distance moving services below have an active license. They can help get you and your belongings safely and efficiently to your new home.

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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 Fontana is higher than the national average, making itfairly expensive. This makes sense given that the cost of living in Fontana is above 95.0% of the country.

Many factors are involved when moving, so expenses add up quickly. Typical moving expenses include the following:

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

These additional factors can cause your final moving bill to climb even more:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move certain belongings, especially those that are valuable, breakable or particularly large. Some common items that can cost more to move include the following:

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

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

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they provide quality service. For long-distance moves, a standard tip is $20–$40 per mover per day. For local moves, tip $5–$10 per mover per hour.

Unexpected delays

Bad weather, limited supplies, transportation emergencies and traffic can all delay your move and add to the time and cost. You can't avoid delays, but you can prepare for them by being flexible with your schedule and allocating 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping these ways in mind can lower your moving expenses in Fontana.

Be communicative

Avoid unexpected charges the day of your move by communicating with your movers as much as possible. Tell them about additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory you gave the movers.

While small items can typically be accommodated without issue, larger pieces such as new furniture or appliances should be discussed ahead of time. Additional fees may apply for these items, and your movers won’t begin the move until you’ve agreed to the cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Moving during the week or in the off-season can lower the cost and ensure you book the movers you want.

Movers are the most booked between May and September. You may find less competition and lower moving rates if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move during slower periods.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you have difficulty finding a cheap moving company that works for you, there are several alternatives to consider.

While you can move on your own, weigh the amount of labor required and the following costs:

• Fuel
• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies

Your family, friends or neighbors may also need to help you move, especially if you have large or heavy items such as furniture. Hiring movers is beneficial if you lack the time or anyone who can help you move.

You can also find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr, which can be more affordable. However, these freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Fontana

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers manage the entire moving process for you. They provide packing supplies, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Standard moving services cost less than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. However, full-service moving can be a justifiable expense when you consider the time, labor and packing materials you'll save. Full-service moving may also provide more comprehensive insurance coverage. Self-packed items are generally only insured for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these items can be difficult to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Legitimate moving companies will show proof of registration on all sites, trucks and documents. Interstate moves require USDOT and MC numbers, so be sure to inspect their registration completely before hiring movers 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. All movers will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. However, you may want to ask about full-value protection, which most movers offer at an additional cost, if your belongings include high-worth items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The warmer months — May through September — are the best moving time in the U.S., which results in considerably increased demand and significantly higher rates across the country for moves of all types. With good reason, this may steer you away from a summer move due to the higher cost.

We recommend moving during the spring or early fall to experience the best possible weather and lower rates for service.

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

For peace of mind, move items like identification documents, financial records and photo albums in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any expensive electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving businesses limit insurance coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about irreplaceable and valuable items being lost or damaged, keep those belongings with you.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

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

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.