10 best long-distance moving companies in Novi, MI

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help lessen your concerns. That’s why we’ve created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Novi to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper 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 Novi

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Novi requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance mover in Novi.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Novi several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others have said about particular long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Novi is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reputable movers won't request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough in advance is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both 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 suitcase with items such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital, 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 replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

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