10 best long-distance moving companies in Birmingham, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help relieve your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Birmingham to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. 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 Birmingham

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Birmingham, we've gathered some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Birmingham. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients have said about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a moving company. Birmingham also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, 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

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital, as 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 repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, 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 during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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