10 best long-distance moving companies in Arlington, MA

There are a range of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right movers can help ease your worries. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Arlington.

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 note. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers more often charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Arlington

Picking the right long-distance mover in Arlington requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Below, we provide some guidance on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Arlington.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar insurance options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Arlington. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients say about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a mover. Arlington 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: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Legitimate moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling 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 keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Massachusetts DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration