10 best long-distance moving companies in Royal Oak, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in important ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help relieve your challenges. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Royal Oak to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Royal Oak movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the right 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 Royal Oak

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. See the list below for some advice on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Royal Oak.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Royal Oak and ask for detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to 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 several options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients think about particular long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Royal Oak is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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 couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. This typically 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