10 best long-distance moving companies in Parker, CO

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in a variety of ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Parker.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers generally provide 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 set fees based on time. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Parker

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Parker, we've compiled some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar options. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for 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. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start getting estimates several months before your move. Request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Parker. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• 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 hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Reputable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor 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

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Colorado DMV of your new address.

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers 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. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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