10 best long-distance moving companies in Bay City, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Bay City to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it 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 note. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers often charge based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Bay City movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bay City

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Bay City.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Bay City several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company. Bay City also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers well before your move date is essential when getting ready for a long-distance move. We recommend scheduling 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 by yourself, we suggest starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Michigan DMV of your new address.

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

If you keep 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 checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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