7 best long-distance moving companies in Butte, MT

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

The right movers can help ease your concerns. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Butte.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to keep in mind. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. 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 Butte moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant 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 Butte

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Butte.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Butte several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't ask for the full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough ahead of time is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Montana DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings 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 money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings 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 when you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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