10 best long-distance moving companies in Grand Rapids, MI

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Lessen your problems by picking the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve made this list of the leading long-distance movers in Grand Rapids to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Grand Rapids

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Grand Rapids.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or other options is a good idea. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We recommend asking for quotes several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Grand Rapids and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. Since Grand Rapids is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year 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 estimate is a red flag. Reputable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of all the tasks that need 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 packing a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough 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 that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has reduced coverage. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you 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