10 best long-distance moving companies in Orion, MI

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

Put your mind at ease by picking the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Orion.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to note. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Orion movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers 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 Orion

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Orion.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Orion several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• 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 costlier to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Orion, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Legitimate movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical because 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. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement 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 moving companies. 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 for free, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay 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 carry over the same policy when you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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