10 best long-distance moving companies in Commerce, MI

There are many factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Commerce to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in many ways. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Commerce moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 Commerce

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Below, we offer some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Commerce.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Commerce and get itemized quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help with cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients think about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Commerce, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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