10 best long-distance moving companies in Hammond, IN

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Hammond.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it 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 set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Hammond

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Hammond requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Hammond.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail 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 policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Hammond several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. 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 costlier to get a mover. Since Hammond is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Additionally, legitimate movers won't demand the full payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of bad 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

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Indiana DMV.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration