10 best long-distance moving companies in Coralville, IA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Ease your worries by selecting the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Coralville to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While 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 between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Coralville

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Coralville.

• 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. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance plans 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 publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Coralville. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about specific long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Coralville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

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

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

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medications.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this insurance, your movers will pay 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 keep the same policy after you move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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