10 best long-distance moving companies in Brookline, MA

There are several importantfactors that distinguish 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 challenges like how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help lessen your worries. That’s why we’ve made this list of the best long-distance movers in Brookline to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Brookline moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Brookline

Finding the right long-distance mover in Brookline requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Brookline.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Ask for detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Brookline. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and family 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 to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Since Brookline is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters 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” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We suggest hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Writing 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.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

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

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

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