10 best long-distance moving companies in St. Clair Shores, MI

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've made this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in St. Clair Shores so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to be aware of. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper 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 St. Clair Shores

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in St. Clair Shores.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: 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 better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in St. Clair Shores several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• 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 with cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company. St. Clair Shores also has a lot of college students living in the area, so 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" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive 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 secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to have certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings 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 it will ultimately get you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. With this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of 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