3 best long-distance moving companies in Pocatello, ID

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

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. We've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Pocatello so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Pocatello

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Pocatello, we've compiled some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months before your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Pocatello and ask for itemized cost breakdowns. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous customers say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Since Pocatello is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a 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

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you book your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Idaho DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

Lastly, 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 critical, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Idaho Transportation Department U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration