8 best long-distance moving companies in Burlington, IA

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 concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Alleviate your problems by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in Burlington to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant 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 Burlington

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for your move. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance moving company in Burlington.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months ahead of your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Burlington. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. 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 help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives 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 for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Reputable movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive 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 useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest planning your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Iowa DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. With this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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 usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

Iowa Department of Transportation U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration