10 best long-distance moving companies in Quincy, MA

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help lessen your worries. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Quincy.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. 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 rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Using 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 Quincy

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Quincy.

• 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. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Quincy. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to book a moving company. Since Quincy is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We advise hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise getting started a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Massachusetts DMV.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings 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 movers. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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