10 best long-distance moving companies in Boulder, CO

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help alleviate your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the leading long-distance movers in Boulder to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Boulder moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Boulder

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for you. See the list below for some recommendations on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Boulder.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Boulder several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive 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

Scheduling your movers far enough ahead of time is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, reserve your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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 Colorado DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. With this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration