10 best long-distance moving companies in Waterloo, IA

There are many factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. We've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Waterloo so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Waterloo

Finding the right long-distance mover in Waterloo 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 reliable long-distance mover in Waterloo.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail 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 qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Waterloo several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others think about particular long-distance movers. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Reliable movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers far enough in advance is critical for a successful long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, 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 necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. With this option, your movers will reimburse 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 when you move. While this typically 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