4 best long-distance moving companies in Bozeman, MT

There are many importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your challenges. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Bozeman.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers often set fees based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Bozeman moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bozeman

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Bozeman.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the options provided by your mover. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Bozeman and request detailed cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a history of negative 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

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. We advise 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.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise getting started a month in advance. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good 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 belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration