10 best long-distance moving companies in Marion, IA

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Ease your concerns by selecting the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the best long-distance movers in Marion to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers often charge based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Marion moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. 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 Marion

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. Below, we provide some advice on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Marion.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar insurance options. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Get detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Marion. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others think about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable 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 more expensive to book a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reliable movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor 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

Finding your moving company far enough in advance is critical for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have 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 movers. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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