10 best long-distance moving companies in Raytown, MO

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalimportant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Raytown to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. 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 significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Raytown moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Raytown

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Raytown.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Raytown several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous customers say about certain long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Raytown, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. Additionally, legitimate movers shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of bad 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

Booking your movers far enough ahead of time is key when getting ready for a long-distance move. We advise booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Missouri DMV of your new address.

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

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Missouri Department of Revenue U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration