3 best long-distance moving companies in Hastings, NE

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Hastings to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive 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 consider. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Hiring a long-distance moving company 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Hastings

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for you. Below, we offer some advice on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Hastings.

• 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. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Hastings several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company 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 lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough in advance is essential for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Nebraska DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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