10 best long-distance moving companies in Allendale, MI

There are several factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your challenges. We've compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Allendale so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Allendale

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Allendale.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Allendale several months before your move and ask for 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: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about certain long-distance movers. Friends and relatives 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 hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Allendale, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Reliable movers generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. 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.

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

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

The night before your move, make sure you get a good 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 offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

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

Sources

Michigan Department of State U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration