10 best long-distance moving companies in Merrillville, IN

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

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Merrillville.

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

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly charge based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. Selecting a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Merrillville

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Merrillville.

• 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. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Merrillville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• 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 get a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Merrillville, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company well before your move date is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise starting a month beforehand. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Write a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Indiana DMV.

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, 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 vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. With this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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