2 best long-distance moving companies in North Platte, NE

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in North Platte so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often charge based on the time needed for your move. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in North Platte

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your move. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in North Platte, we've collected some advice below.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in North Platte several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what other clients think about particular long-distance movers. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Make 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.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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