7 best long-distance moving companies in Kalispell, MT

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart 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.

Picking the right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Kalispell.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Kalispell moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 Kalispell

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Kalispell.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other insurance options. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Kalispell several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• 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. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and loved ones 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reputable moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. We suggest hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have 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 Montana DMV of your new address.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings 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 items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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