10 best long-distance moving companies in Waukee, IA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. We've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Waukee so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Waukee

Picking the right long-distance mover in Waukee requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Waukee.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Waukee several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help with cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about particular long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Waukee also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. Legitimate moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company far enough ahead of time is key for a successful long-distance move. We suggest hiring 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.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. This option requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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