10 best long-distance moving companies in Farmington Hills, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your worries. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Farmington Hills to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get 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 a few key differences to consider. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers usually set fees based on the time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Farmington Hills

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Farmington Hills.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion 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 mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Farmington Hills several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Make sure 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 offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers think about specific long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Since Farmington Hills is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with 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 good tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We advise booking your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include items 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 packing a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically 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