10 best long-distance moving companies in Detroit, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalsignificant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, 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 list of the top long-distance movers in Detroit to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

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 note. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. 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 Detroit

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Detroit, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Detroit. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• 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 cover cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what other clients have said about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Detroit, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to have certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Michigan DMV of your new address.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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