10 best long-distance moving companies in Prescott Valley, AZ

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be dealing with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your challenges. We've compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Prescott Valley so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to consider. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Prescott Valley moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Prescott Valley

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Prescott Valley requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance moving company in Prescott Valley.

• 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 look into these or other options. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Prescott Valley several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional 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. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several choices to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Reputable movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined 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 before of your move date. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

Arizona Department of Transportation U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration