10 best long-distance moving companies in Ypsilanti, MI

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Ypsilanti.

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 moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Ypsilanti moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Ypsilanti

Finding the right long-distance mover in Ypsilanti requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Below, we provide some advice on how to find a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Ypsilanti.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Ypsilanti and request detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients think about particular long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to get a mover. Ypsilanti also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have 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

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough in advance. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings 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. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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