10 best long-distance moving companies in Dearborn, MI

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right movers for the job. We've made this overview of the best long-distance movers in Dearborn so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to keep in mind. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Dearborn movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Dearborn

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Below, we provide some advice on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Dearborn.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Dearborn several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. 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. We recommend looking into several loans to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific 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: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a mover. Dearborn 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: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reliable movers generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers well before your move date is extremely important when planning a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

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

Writing 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 a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over 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