10 best long-distance moving companies in Plainfield, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. 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.

Alleviate your problems by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Plainfield to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to keep in mind. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers typically set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Plainfield moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Plainfield

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. Below, we have compiled some recommendations on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Plainfield.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. 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: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Plainfield several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a mover. Since Plainfield 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. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. Avoid movers with 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

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. We advise scheduling your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specialized 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. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain items 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 it will ultimately get you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you 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