10 best long-distance moving companies in Cedar Falls, IA

There are a range of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Cedar Falls so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to keep in mind. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Cedar Falls moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Selecting a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Cedar Falls

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Cedar Falls requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Cedar Falls.

• 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 ask about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Cedar Falls several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other customers have said about particular long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends 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 more expensive to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers far enough in advance is key when preparing for a long-distance move. We suggest booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving 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 might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Iowa DMV of your new address.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This plan requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep 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