10 best long-distance moving companies in Byron, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the best long-distance movers in Byron.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Byron moving companies are generally 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. Using a long-distance moving company 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Byron

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Byron.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Byron and request detailed cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several loans 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 similar online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Byron is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company well before your move date is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (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 is offered for free, it gives you less protection. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy 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