3 best long-distance moving companies in Grand Island, NE

There are importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help ease your worries. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Grand Island to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

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 note. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Grand Island moving companies are generally 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 be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Grand Island

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Grand Island requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Grand Island, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Grand Island several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several loans to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers well before your move date is key when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, find your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

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

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration