10 best long-distance moving companies in White Lake, MI

There are factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. 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.

The right moving company can help ease your issues. We've made this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in White Lake so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

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 usually only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

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

Local White Lake moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Hiring 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 White Lake

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your move. See the list below for some advice on finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in White Lake.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: 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 better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in White Lake several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• 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 more expensive to hire a mover. White Lake also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Reliable movers generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers far enough ahead of time is key for a successful long-distance move. We recommend booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV.

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

The night before your big move, remember to 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.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. This plan requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you 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