10 best long-distance moving companies in Eastpointe, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best movers for the job. We've made this list of the best long-distance movers in Eastpointe so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in a few ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Eastpointe movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Eastpointe

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Eastpointe requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Eastpointe, we've put together some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Eastpointe. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several loans to pick 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 others say about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and family 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 book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Eastpointe also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters 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 won't demand the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of negative 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

Hiring your movers far enough ahead of time is essential for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. With this option, your moving company will pay 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. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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