10 best long-distance moving companies in Zionsville, IN

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. That’s why we’ve made this list of the top long-distance movers in Zionsville to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating 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 it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress 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 Zionsville

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Zionsville requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Zionsville, we've collected some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Zionsville. Make sure these estimates include costs 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, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous customers think about particular long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a moving company. Since Zionsville 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" estimates should make you suspicious. Additionally, legitimate movers won't request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Indiana DMV.

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

The night before your big move, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your possessions 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 reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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