10 best long-distance moving companies in Clinton, MI

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

Alleviate your issues by picking the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the best long-distance movers in Clinton to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often charge based on how long a job takes. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Clinton

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Clinton, we've put together some guidance below.

• 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. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Clinton. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other customers think about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Clinton also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medications.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

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

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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