10 best long-distance moving companies in Lakewood, CO

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in significant ways. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. We've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Lakewood so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get 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 many key differences to note. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

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 how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lakewood

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for you. See the list below for some recommendations on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Lakewood.

• 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. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Lakewood several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Lakewood, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't demand the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest booking your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also a good idea to make 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.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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