10 best long-distance moving companies in Sterling Heights, MI

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Sterling Heights.

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. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Sterling Heights movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Sterling Heights

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Sterling Heights.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Sterling Heights. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. 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 multiple choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other clients have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Sterling Heights also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor 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

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. We advise scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV.

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (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 more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

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