10 best long-distance moving companies in Belmont, MA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Belmont to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

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 keep in mind. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies usually charge based on the time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Belmont moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Selecting a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Belmont

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Belmont, we've collected some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Get itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Belmont. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Belmont, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a smooth move, find your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to have certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually 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