10 best long-distance moving companies in Oxford, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your problems. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Oxford.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with an interstate 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 less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Oxford

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance mover in Oxford.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail 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 mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Oxford several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a moving company. Since Oxford is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Additionally, reliable movers shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers far enough ahead of time is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also recommend 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.

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

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has less protection. 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. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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