10 best long-distance moving companies in Summit, MI

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Summit to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Summit 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. Selecting a long-distance mover 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Summit

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. Below, we offer some guidance on how to find a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Summit.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Summit several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients have said about certain long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Summit, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, 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 partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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