10 best long-distance moving companies in Flint, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help lessen your issues. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Flint so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically 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 commonly charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's necessary to talk about 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 moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Flint

Finding the right long-distance mover in Flint requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Flint.

• 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. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Flint and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several options to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients say about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a mover. Flint also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reliable movers won't ask for the full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough ahead of time is key for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Michigan DMV of your new address.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

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

Sources

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