10 best long-distance moving companies in Plymouth, MI

There are many importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your issues. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Plymouth.

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 be aware of. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often charge based on the time needed for your move. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Plymouth moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. 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 Plymouth

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Plymouth.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Plymouth several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Plymouth also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally won't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when planning a long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Michigan DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. 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 it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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